…NITDA also warned that the malware is designed to steal saved passwords, personal data.
ABUJA, NIGERIA – The iNews Times| The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has issued a warning over an active AI-powered malware known as “DeepLoad,” describing it as a major cybersecurity threat targeting government agencies, financial institutions, businesses, and individuals across Nigeria.
In a post shared on its verified X handle, the agency disclosed that the malicious software silently installs itself once executed and is capable of harvesting stored user credentials and sensitive information from web browsers while bypassing conventional antivirus systems through the use of artificial intelligence.
According to NITDA, infection by the malware could lead to unauthorised access to bank accounts, mobile money platforms, payment cards, and other digital financial services.
The agency also warned that the malware is designed to steal saved passwords, personal data, and confidential documents, exposing victims to identity theft and financial fraud.
NITDA explained that cybercriminals could exploit the stolen information to impersonate victims for financial gain, disrupt the operations of public and private organisations through document theft, and even compromise classified government networks, posing a serious threat to national security.
The agency stated that DeepLoad specifically targets public and private institutions, banks and other financial organisations, critical infrastructure operators, as well as individual citizens who use online banking and email services.
As part of its advisory, NITDA cautioned Nigerians against copying or pasting suspicious links and commands from untrusted websites into their phones or computer browsers, stressing that legitimate websites do not request such actions from users.
The agency urged individuals and organisations to remain vigilant, strengthen cybersecurity practices, and avoid interacting with unknown online prompts that could expose their systems to malware attacks.
