Why Nigerian Businesses Are the Next Big Target for Cybercriminals

Man watching the screen - Cybercriminals

“Who Go Hack Me?” Think Again.

Most Nigerian business owners still believe that cyberattacks are something that only happens to “big companies abroad.” You know, banks in America, tech bros in Europe, or global oil corporations. But here’s the hard truth: Nigerian businesses are now prime targets for cybercriminals, and the threat is growing fast.

In 2023 alone, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) reported millions of attempted cyberattacks during election periods. But it’s not just politics. From e-commerce stores and law firms to hospitals and logistics companies, no sector is safe.

And if you think you’re too small to be noticed, you’re exactly who they’re after.

Hacker with laptop - Cybercriminals

Cybercrime in Nigeria Is Skyrocketing

You don’t need to be a data scientist to know something’s off. Just look around:

  • Increased social media scams? Check.

  • Fake payment links targeting customers? Check.

  • Emails from your “bank” asking for your login? Double check.

Cybercrime is evolving, and Nigeria is a ripe playing field for three major reasons:

1. Digital Expansion, No Digital Defence

More Nigerian businesses are going online, launching websites, using mobile apps, and adopting remote work tools. But many are skipping the security part. That’s like building a glasshouse in Ajegunle and hoping nobody throws stones.

2. Lack of Cybersecurity Awareness

Many business owners and even staff don’t know what phishing looks like or how to create strong passwords. They reuse login credentials, click on shady links, and download attachments from “HR.”

3. Low Enforcement Equals High Opportunity

The legal and enforcement system around cybersecurity in Nigeria is still catching up. Cybercriminals know it. It’s easier to run a scam targeting a business here than in most Western countries with stricter laws and faster penalties.

Why Are Nigerian Businesses the New Sweet Spot?

Think like a cybercriminal for a second (just for this blog, we won’t judge).

Would you go after a multi-billion-dollar U.S. corporation with an in-house IT army, threat detection tools, and round-the-clock surveillance?

Or would you prefer a growing Nigerian fashion startup that:

  • Uses a free Gmail for business email

  • Stores customer data on unencrypted spreadsheets

  • Has no clue what 2FA means

Exactly.

They target Nigerian businesses because:

  • They’re often unprepared

  • They’re collecting more customer data than ever

  • And once breached, it’s easy to cover tracks

Common Cyber Threats Nigerian Businesses Face

Here are the four major traps cybercriminals are setting for your business and probably have already tried on you:

1. Phishing Attacks

These are deceptive emails or messages that trick your employees into revealing sensitive data like passwords or account details.

Example: You get an email that looks like it’s from “GTBank” saying, “Your account has been suspended. Click here to reactivate.” One click, and they’re in.

2. Ransomware

This one’s nasty. Ransomware locks your systems and demands payment to unlock them. Imagine waking up one morning to find all your sales, payroll, and inventory files encrypted. The only way to get them back is to “pay in Bitcoin.”

3. Insider Threats

Sometimes, the attack doesn’t come from outside. It could be a disgruntled employee, an ex-staff member with old credentials, or someone unknowingly leaking data.

4. Data Breaches

Unprotected websites, poor password hygiene, or cloud systems with no firewall are an open invitation to hackers.

What’s the Solution? Adler Technology

At Adler Technology, we’ve made it our mission to help Nigerian businesses protect their digital assets. You don’t need to be a tech guru or spend millions. You just need the right partner.

Here’s how we keep you protected:

1. Endpoint Protection That Works

We deploy cutting-edge antivirus and malware detection systems that protect all your devices, including laptops, phones, and tablets, against known and unknown threats.

No more relying on “that free antivirus” you installed five years ago.

2. Phishing Prevention and Email Security

Our email filtering systems detect and block phishing attempts before they even reach your inbox. Plus, we train your staff to spot fake messages and bad links early.

3. Cloud Backup and Disaster Recovery

Even if an attack happens, your business doesn’t have to crash. We ensure daily, automated backups of your data to encrypted cloud storage. So even if ransomware strikes, you don’t lose a thing.

4. Cybersecurity Awareness Training

Think of this as “Digital Street Smart 101” for your team. We teach your staff how to stay alert online, avoid scams, and report threats early. Humans are your first line of defense, and we make sure they’re ready.

5. Firewall and Network Protection

We set up firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion detection systems that guard your business like a tech bouncer. No shady characters allowed in.

Close up laptop with lock and chain - Cybercriminals

Can You Afford NOT to Protect Your Business?

Let’s do the math.

  • Average cost of a ransomware attack globally: $133,000

  • Average time to recover from a breach without help: 3 to 6 months

  • Reputation damage: Priceless, and not in a good way

Compare that to Adler’s solutions, which cost a fraction and offer peace of mind, business continuity, and customer trust.

Where Do You Start?

You don’t need to figure it out alone. Our team at Adler offers free risk assessments for businesses ready to take cybersecurity seriously.

Whether you’re a startup, an NGO, or a growing enterprise, we’ll review your systems, spot the gaps, and design a protection plan that suits your budget and operations.

Don’t Wait for a Cyber Wake-Up Call

Cybercriminals are already planning their next move. The question is, will your business be on the list or off-limits?

Let Adler Technology help you secure your digital environment before it’s too late.

Protect your business before it’s too late.
Book your free cybersecurity risk assessment with Adler Technology today.
Email: info@adlertechnology.com.ng
Website: www.adlertechnology.com.ng

FAQs

Q1: Can small businesses really be targeted by cybercriminals?
Absolutely. In fact, they’re often targeted more because they have weaker defences and limited budgets.

Q2: What’s the most common cyberattack in Nigeria?
Phishing emails and fake websites are currently the most widespread, especially during financial or political seasons.

Q3: Does Adler offer staff training for cybersecurity?
Yes, we provide employee awareness sessions and continuous training to build a culture of cyber vigilance.

Q4: What if I’ve already been attacked?
Don’t panic. Adler provides incident response and recovery services to help you get back online quickly and securely.

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