NITDA Issues Warning About Grandoreiro Banking Malware Threat

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has alerted the public about a dangerous banking malware known as Grandoreiro, which poses a significant cybersecurity threat through advanced phishing campaigns. In an advisory issued on December 9, the agency's Computer Emergency Readiness and Response Team described the malware as a severe risk that utilizes sophisticated techniques, including screen overlay attacks and remote device control, to steal sensitive information such as banking credentials and personal data.

Grandoreiro primarily spreads through phishing emails and fraudulent websites that trick users into downloading malicious software disguised as legitimate updates or documents. Once installed, the malware can bypass security protocols, granting unauthorized access to victims' devices and potentially leading to severe financial losses and identity theft.

NITDA has called for heightened vigilance among Nigerians and urged them to implement robust security measures to protect against such threats. The agency emphasized the need to avoid suspicious links and emails, download software only from credible sources, enable multifactor authentication for financial accounts, and keep antivirus software up to date.

Additionally, NITDA advised against conducting financial transactions over public Wi-Fi and recommended regular monitoring of bank accounts to identify any unauthorized activities.