Cybercrime: EFCC Launches Rapid Response Service

In a bid to disrupt criminal networks and mitigate the impact of internet fraud nationwide, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) launched a 24-hour Cybercrime Rapid Response Desk on Tuesday, 22 October 2024.

The launch, held at the Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, Abuja, was officiated by the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. It aims to facilitate rapid digital information exchange on internet fraud and ensure an immediate response from the Commission.

Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Ola Olukoyede observed that “the menace of cybercrimes, like most economic and financial crimes, is a burning challenge that we cannot deny, ignore or wish away.” The national discourse on cybercrime, the EFCC boss said, was necessitated by “the… pic.twitter.com/K4AEOdLSaF

— EFCC Nigeria (@officialEFCC) October 22, 2024

The service provides local and international phone numbers, enabling the public to reach the EFCC at any time with cybercrime-related concerns, both within Nigeria and globally.

The unveiling was a key highlight of the National Cybercrime Summit, organised by the EFCC in collaboration with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme, the European Union, and International IDEA.

The Summit, themed “Alternatives to Cybercrime: Optimising Cyber Skills for National Development,” included panel discussions on frameworks to shield youths from cybercrimes, the presentation of awards to winners of the EFCC 2024 Essay Competition, with cash prizes ranging from N350,000 to N800,000, and a documentary on the Commission’s achievements during Mr. Ola Olukoyede’s leadership from October 2023 to September 2024.

The documentary highlighted the EFCC’s achievements over the past year, including 3,455 convictions and the recovery of N248,750,049,365.52 (Naira), $105,423,190.39 (USD), £53,133.64 (GBP), €172,547.10 (Euro), ₹1,300 (Indian Rupees), CAD $3,400 (Canadian Dollars), ¥74,859 (Chinese Yuan), AUS $740 (Australian Dollars), 170 UAE Dirhams, 73,000 Korean Won, CFA 7,821,375 (West African CFA), and R50 (South African Rand).

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In her keynote address, Mrs Tinubu emphasised the relevance of the summit’s theme, highlighting the global challenge of cybercrime. She stated, “Cybercrime is not just a crime against individuals and businesses; it is an assault on our collective integrity, economic stability, and the future of our youth.” She praised the EFCC for its continued efforts to find solutions to this growing menace.

Mrs Tinubu further noted that Nigeria faces new dangers and vulnerabilities brought on by the digital age. “It is crucial that we tackle these challenges head-on and not only address the harmful effects of cybercrimes but also explore sustainable alternatives that can steer our youths towards productive and positive endeavours. With young people making up over 60 per cent of our population, their involvement in cybercrime is a serious threat to the nation’s economic stability,” she added.