By Modupe Gbadeyanka
The Information Security Society of Africa – Nigeria (ISSAN) has stressed the need for closer collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to safeguard cyberspace for a more effective fight against internet fraud and other financial crimes in Nigeria.
“Now, every business is conducted in digital space and as businesses are in cyberspace, criminals are chasing them online.
“One important thing we have come to realise is that the EFCC, being a crime fighter, has done so much in this aspect of crime, especially fighting crime in the digital space and we are happy about it.
“We are also happy to fight this crime and to let you know that there should be synergy between our organisation and the EFCC,” the Vice President of ISSAN, Mr Martin Ikpehai, said when he led a three-man delegation on a courtesy visit to the EFCC’s headquarters.
He praised the anti-money laundering agency for its great work to stop cybercrimes, calling for a more sustainable approach towards taking over cyberspace from internet fraudsters.
Mr Ikpehai expressed surprise at the prevalence of “yahoo schools” across the country, pointing out that such an anomaly demanded enhanced cooperation with ISSAN.
“EFCC is discovering yahoo schools in Nigeria and it surprises us that there are schools created to teach people to learn cybercrimes, that is why we have come to let you know that you should collaborate with us so that we can work hand in hand,” he stated.
The cyber security expert said security officers of key institutions are working closely with ISSAN, commending the EFCC on its Eagle Eye app, describing it as an excellent device in achieving success in the fight against internet fraud.
In his remarks, the Chairman of EFCC, Mr Ola Olukoyede, thanked the association for its focus and mandate, saying the commission greatly valued efforts geared towards cyber security.
“We have a lot to do on cybercrime and security as it were and that is what we do. We must engage all stakeholders and ensure that we take drastic measures to stop criminals in cyberspace.
“The more we come together, the better for the country to prosecute the war on cybercrime and security”, he stated, assuring that the EFCC would always be ahead of cyber criminals, maintaining that “if a crime is technology-driven, the approach to fight it should also be technology-driven”.