Hackers have breached the database of Zenith Bank, exposing limited customer information in what the bank described as part of a broader global cyberattack targeting organisations across multiple sectors.
The lender disclosed the breach in an email to customers on Tuesday, saying the attackers gained access to limited customer data, including email addresses and phone numbers.
Zenith Bank, however, said no sensitive banking information was compromised, assuring customers that its banking services, digital channels and core banking systems remain secure and fully operational.
According to the bank, it immediately activated its incident response protocols and other cybersecurity measures after detecting the attack, while investigations continue to determine the full scope of the breach.
“As a precaution, we encourage our customers to remain vigilant against phishing emails, text messages or phone calls, and to never disclose their password, PIN, One-Time Password (OTP), or other security credentials to anyone,” the bank said.
The lender said it remained committed to protecting customers’ information and thanked them for their continued trust as investigations into the incident continue.
Why customers should be alert
Although Zenith said sensitive banking information was not accessed, the exposure of customers’ email addresses and phone numbers could potentially increase their vulnerability to targeted phishing attempts and impersonation scams.
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Cybercriminals could use such information to send convincing messages or make fraudulent calls designed to trick customers into voluntarily revealing passwords, PINs, OTPs or other banking credentials.
The bank has therefore urged customers to treat unsolicited communications with caution and never disclose confidential banking information, even when a caller or message appears to come from the bank.
The incident comes amid growing cybersecurity threats facing Nigeria’s financial sector as banks expand their digital services and millions of customers increasingly rely on online and mobile banking.
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) had also warned Nigerians about increasing attempts by fraudsters to obtain personal and financial information through deceptive emails and messages.
The apex bank said cybercriminals had been circulating fake communications purportedly originating from the CBN, often directing recipients to click malicious links or provide personal information.
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The latest incident involving Zenith Bank highlights the growing challenge facing financial institutions as cyberattacks become increasingly sophisticated and organised across borders.
While the bank maintains that its core systems and sensitive banking information remain secure, the breach serves as another reminder that customer data can become a target even when financial accounts themselves are not directly compromised.
Zenith said it would continue to investigate the incident and take appropriate measures to safeguard customer information and protect its systems.
