In a troubling development, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has confirmed that its official website was compromised by hackers. The breach, revealed on the Bureau’s social media platforms, has sparked concerns regarding the integrity of crucial data when accurate national statistics are essential.
The NBS, the primary source for Nigeria’s economic, social, and developmental data, swiftly addressed the matter, assuring the public that efforts were underway to restore the website. The Bureau’s statement, shared via its official social media accounts, urged citizens to ignore any information posted on the site until its full recovery.
“This is to inform the public that the NBS Website has been hacked, and we are working to recover it. Please disregard any message or report posted until the website is fully restored. Thank you,” the statement read.
Potential Risks and Concerns
This breach has raised alarms over the security of vital national data, which forms the foundation of policy decisions and public governance. The NBS is responsible for collecting and publishing statistical data that informs government planning and public services, making any potential misuse of this information highly concerning.
The timing of the attack is particularly sensitive, as the NBS has been gearing up to launch its Labour Force Survey report, which is crucial for understanding the state of Nigeria’s economy. With the website down, there is a risk of false information circulating under the guise of official data, further eroding public trust.
Cybersecurity Experts Weigh In
Cybersecurity experts are voicing concerns over the vulnerability of Nigerian government institutions to such cyber threats. According to Adebola Akande, a cybersecurity consultant, this incident highlights a critical need for improved digital security measures. “This attack shows the importance of proactive measures such as continuous monitoring, regular security audits, and employee training on recognizing phishing and other cyber threats,” Akande explained.
The incident is part of a growing trend of cyberattacks targeting Nigerian government institutions, highlighting the country’s cybersecurity deficiencies. With more public services migrating to digital platforms, experts are urging a national overhaul of cybersecurity strategies to protect sensitive government data better.
What Comes Next for NBS and Nigeria’s Data Security?
At the time of writing, the NBS has not provided an exact timeline for the website’s recovery. However, they have assured the public that updates will be posted on their verified social media pages. In the interim, Nigerians are advised to rely on official announcements and refrain from trusting unverified reports that may have been tampered with.