Top Scams Nigerians Abroad Should Watch Out for in 2025
How to protect yourself from fraud when sending money home.
Scams in 2025 are more convincing than ever. From fake bank alerts to WhatsApp messages asking for money, fraudsters are using technology and psychology to trick people, especially Nigerians living abroad who send money back home.
If you're in Canada, the UK, or the US, and send money to Nigeria, you're a top target. Why? Because scammers know you care deeply about your family and they want to exploit that trust.
Here’s how to stay one step ahead in 2025.
1. Never Share Personal or Financial Information Over the Phone or Social Media
Scammers often pose as bank representatives or family members. They might say things like:
- “Your account has been flagged; We need to verify your PIN.”
- “This is your cousin’s friend — he asked me to collect the money on his behalf.”
- “There’s an issue with your transfer; Please send your card number.”
Don’t fall for it. No legitimate bank, money transfer service, or government body will ever ask for your details via WhatsApp, DMs, or random phone calls.
🔐 Tip: Hang up. Don’t engage. Contact the official support line directly.
2. Always Double-Check Phone Numbers and URLs
If someone messages you from an unfamiliar number claiming to be a friend, relative, or service provider, pause. Even if the message includes familiar names, photos, or details, always confirm through another channel.
Red flags to watch for:
- Slight spelling errors in names or emails
- Weird-looking links
- Urgent language like “Act now!” or “Final warning!”
🔗 Tip: Always type the website addresses directly into your browser instead of clicking suspicious links.
3. Watch Out for Fake Investment and Job Offers
2025 scams often come disguised as “opportunities” especially those promising quick returns or foreign job placements.
They may sound like:
- “Double your money in 24 hours.”
- “Work from home, earn $500/day, no experience needed.”
- “Pay a small fee to process your Canadian work permit.”
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
📌 Tip: Legitimate companies don’t ask you to pay upfront to get a job. And real investments come with risk, not guaranteed overnight profits.
4. Use Trusted Platforms for Sending Money
If you're sending money to Nigeria or helping out family back home, avoid going through unknown agents or informal channels. Many scammers pretend to offer better exchange rates or “faster” delivery only to disappear once they get your funds.
✅ Use regulated, secure platforms that are built with fraud protection, 2FA, and verified rates. Look for customer reviews, licenses, and active support teams.
💡 Tip: If a platform can’t explain how your money is protected, don’t use it.
5. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) On All Accounts
This one’s non-negotiable. If your login credentials get leaked, 2FA can be the final barrier between you and a scammer.
🔒 Enable 2FA on:
- Your email
- Your money transfer app
- Your online banking
📲 Tip: Use an authenticator app (like Google Authenticator) instead of SMS when possible — it’s harder for scammers to intercept.
6. Regularly Monitor Your Bank and App Activity
If you’re wondering:
- “How to know if I’ve been hacked?”
- “How do I check for unauthorized transactions?”
Here’s your answer: ✔️ Review your transaction history weekly ✔️ Set up real-time alerts for:
- New device logins
- Large transfers
- Password changes
📩 Tip: If If something feels off, report and freeze your account immediately.
7. Educate Your Family Back Home About Scam Awareness
Even if you stay vigilant, your family could still fall victim. Scammers might impersonate you or tell them you’re in trouble and need money.
💬 Tip: Create a shared codeword with close relatives — something only both of you would know. That way, if a scammer pretends to be you, they’ll get caught.
Stay Ready, Not Scared
Scams will always be part of the digital world, but they can’t win if you know their tricks. With awareness, caution, and the right tools, you can stay safe and continue supporting your loved ones back home with confidence.
📍 Sending money to Nigeria? Use a secure and trusted platform that puts your safety first. Your support should never come at the cost of your peace of mind.
👉🏾 Paper is the smart, secure way to send money home, with real-time rates, fraud protection, and peace of mind built in. Download and send-with-Paper.
✅ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the most common scams in 2025? Phishing, impersonation scams, fake investment schemes, job scams, and payment frauds are among the top scams this year, especially those targeting people sending money to Nigeria.
Q: How can I protect myself as a Nigerian in Canada, the UK, or the US? Use trusted transfer platforms, activate 2FA, avoid sharing personal info over calls or messages, and educate your family back home.
Q: Are money transfer apps safe to use in 2025? Yes — as long as you’re using secure, regulated services with verified security features and customer support.
Q: Can someone pretend to be my relative and scam me? Yes. Always verify identity using a shared codeword or by calling through a known, verified number.
