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NCC Alerts Nigerians on “Flubot” Malware, Lists Measures to Guard against Attack

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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on Friday alerted Nigerians of the existence of new, high-risk and extremely-damaging, Malware called “ Flubot”.

This is contained in a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs (DPA), NCC, Dr Ikechukwu Adinde, on Friday in Abuja.

Adinde explained that a malware is a generic word used to describe a virus or software, designed specially to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorised access to a computer system.

According to him, the information received on Thursday from the Nigeria Computer Emergency Response Team (ngCERT), Flubot “targets Androids with fake security updates and App installations.

“The ngCERT affirmed that Flubot impersonates Android mobile banking applications to draw fake web view on targeted applications and its goal transcends stealing personal data and essentially targets stealing of credit card details or online banking credentials.

“Flubot is circulated through Short Message Service (SMS) and can snoop on incoming notifications, initiate calls, read or write SMSes, and transmit the victim’s contact list to its control centre.

“This malware attacks Android devices by pretending to be “FedEx, DHL, Correos, and Chrome applications and compels unsuspecting users to alter the accessibility configurations on their devices in order to maintain continuous presence on devices.”

The NCC noted that the new malware undermines the security of devices by copying fake login screens of prominent banks and moment the users enter their login details on the fake pages, their data would be harvested and transmitted.

The DPA further explained that the data would be transmitted to the malware operators’ control point from where the data was exploited by intercepting banking-related One Time Passwords (OTPs) and replacing the default SMS app on the targeted Android device.

“Consequently, it secures admittance into the device through SMS and proceeds to transmit similar messages to other contacts that may be on the device it has attacked enticing them into downloading the fake app.

It suffices to say that, when Flubot infects a device, it can result in incalculable financial losses.

“Additionally, the malware creates a backdoor which grants access to the user’s device, thus enabling the invader or attacker to perform other criminal actions, including launching other variants of malware.

In view of this discovery and understanding the process by which this malware operates, in order to protect millions of telecom consumers and prevent criminal forces, irrespective of location, the NCC reiterated the advisory of ngCERT as follows:

“Do not click on the link if you receive a suspicious text message, and do not install any app or security update the page asks you to install. Use updated antivirus software that detects and prevents malware infections.

“Apply critical patches to the system and application. Use strong passwords and enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) over logins.

“Back-up your data regularly. If you have been affected by this campaign, you should reset your device to factory mode as soon as possible. This will delete any data on your phone, including personal data.

“Do not restore from backups created after installing the app. You may contact ngCERT on incident@cert.gov.ng for technical assistance. You will also need to change the passwords to all of your online accounts, with urgency, around your online bank accounts.

“If you have concerns that your accounts may have been accessed by unauthorised people, contact your bank immediately,” he said.

Adinde said that as the Commission intensifies efforts in ensuring increased broadband access, enabling telecoms consumers to carry out their legitimate activities more efficiently and effectively online, it also restates its commitment to empowering consumers.

He noted that consumers would be empowered through useful information and education to protect them from falling victims of all kinds of cyber-attack while online.

“This explains the rationale for the launch of telecom sector’s Centre for Computer Security Incident Response by NCC on Sept. 30, 2021,” Adinde explained. (NAN)

Science & Tech

Nigeria, Meta launch AI accelerator programme

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 The Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy has partnered with Meta to launch the Llama Impact Accelerator, promoting impactful AI development in Nigeria.

The Minister, Dr Bosun Tijani, confirmed this in a statement released on Tuesday by Ms Sade Dada, Head of Public Policy for Anglophone West Africa at Meta.

Tijani described the partnership as a significant step in Nigeria’s mission to nurture a thriving AI ecosystem and drive national development through innovation.

He said the government views AI as a key tool for addressing national challenges. The programme will equip innovators with vital tools and expert guidance.

“This initiative forms part of Meta’s broader effort to democratise responsible AI and foster local innovation across Nigeria’s growing technology landscape,” the minister noted.

Tijani added that collaboration with government, academia and civil society will help cultivate a more inclusive, forward-looking AI community in the country.

Dada stated that Meta also partnered with the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR) and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).

She explained that the eight-month programme targets early-stage startups using open-source Llama models to tackle national and regional challenges in four key areas.

The priority sectors include agriculture, security and safety, healthcare, and a ‘wild card’ category for high-impact innovations in any other field.

“The wild card category encourages bold and creative AI applications that could bring substantial impact to underserved sectors,” Dada said.

She added that the programme starts with a six-week incubation phase, offering technical training and mentorship from industry leaders and AI professionals.

This is followed by six months of extended support, including access to further technical resources and relevant opportunities for growth and scaling.

Dada said Meta was thrilled to collaborate with FMCIDE on this initiative, recognising Nigeria’s strong innovation ecosystem and growing pool of AI talent.

She added that Meta aims to empower communities through open-source AI, tailored to address Nigeria’s unique development challenges.

“The accelerator offers local talent the infrastructure, tools and mentorship needed to build responsible solutions using open-source models like Meta’s Llama,” she said. (NAN) 

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Science & Tech

NCC Donates Digital ICT Park to University of Ibadan

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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), on Tuesday inaugurated an ultra-modern digital ICT park donated by the commission to the University of Ibadan(UI).

NCC’s Executive Vice-Chairman, Dr Aminu Maida, in his remarks at the inauguration and handover ceremony in Ibadan, said that the park was an integral part of NCC’s broader agenda to foster innovation.

Maida noted that the park was one out of six NCC flagship digital infrastructure projects, strategically established in selected institutions to strengthen research capacity.

Represented by the NCC’s Executive Commissioner, Technical Services, Mr Abraham Oshadami, Maida noted that the park would also accelerate development of Nigeria’s digital economy.

“In today’s world, technology stands as one of the most powerful drivers of economic and social transformation. For Nigeria’s evolving economy, it represents our greatest opportunity for inclusive growth.

“The ICT Park concept is a manifestation of our vision to cultivate innovation and digital entrepreneurship, while supporting research and development that translates ideas into commercially viable, real-world solutions.

“This is why our ICT Parks—aptly named “One Roof, All Possibilities” are purpose-built as multidisciplinary innovation hubs.

“Each park brings together cutting-edge infrastructure under one roof, including high-capacity computer laboratories, simulation rooms, intelligent networking systems, collaborative workspaces, and multipurpose halls.

“Their establishment aligns directly with the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy, as well as the Strategic Vision of the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani,”he said.

Speaking, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Prof. Kayode Adebowale, said that the park stood as a testament to NCC’s dedication to bridging digital divide and fostering a knowledge-based economy.

He noted that the world was currently undergoing fourth industrial revolution, driven by digital technologies.

Adebowale further said that nations that would thrive in current revolution remained those that invest strategically in digital infrastructure, nurture digital skills and foster innovations.

“The University of Ibadan, as Nigeria’s premier university, recognises its critical role in preparing the next generation of leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers equipped to navigate and shape this digital future.

“The NCC Digital ICT Park arrived at a pivotal moment, perfectly aligning with our strategic vision to become a world-class institution for research, innovation, and digital excellence, “he said.

The ICT Park featured a 100-seat main hall, five dedicated ICT hub halls, a 24-seater lounge with eight dual-computer workstations, multiple shared workspaces, and administrative offices.(NAN) 

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General News

Davidson Amedu: A Trailblazer in the Blockchain Space

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By David Torough, Abuja

One of the few individuals, who has made a profound impact in the Digital space is Dr. Talle Davidson Amedu, affectionately known as Dr. Talle.

As the CEO of Upportune International, a certified life coach, Amazon published Author, and a blockchain project consultant, Dr.

Talle has emerged as a leading figure in promoting blockchain adoption across Africa.
His journey is not just a proof of his expertise but also an inspiration for the younger generation to dream big and pursue their passions.

Dr. Talle holds an MBA in Business Administration from the prestigious Ascencia Business School in Paris. His educational foundation has equipped him with the strategic mindset necessary to navigate the complexities of blockchain technology and its applications in various sectors.

One of Dr. Talle’s significant achievements is his role as the co-founder of Nurika, a gamified fitness app that integrates artificial intelligence and blockchain technology with a Move-to-Earn system.

Launched in December 2023, Nurika aims to promote wellness by incentivizing physical activities among digital nomads in Africa.

In his announcement about the app, Dr. Talle expressed his excitement, saying,

“The moment we’ve all been waiting for has finally arrived! We are thrilled to announce that the Nurika app is now live on the App Store for iOS/iPhone users.

“Whether you’re a new user or a “waiting user”, Nurika is now here as your AI-powered wellness companion to reward every step you take.

Get ready to embark on a journey to a healthier, happier you. With Nurika, every step pays!”

In addition to his entrepreneurial ventures, Dr. Talle is the founder of the Blockchain Elites Hub, a global network of blockchain educators, project managers, and advisors dedicated to promoting blockchain education and adoption in over ten African countries also reaching Africans in diaspora.

His commitment to education is further exemplified by his participation in various high-profile events, including being one of the 70 outstanding young Nigerian leaders invited by the presidency to Aso Rock Presidential Villa for the Youth Civic Engagement Strategy Design in 2015. He also served as a tech expert and moderator for the Nigerian Diaspora Investment Summit in 2021, representing Nigerian youths and advocating for technological advancement.

Dr. Talle’s influence extends beyond his professional achievements as he’s also a mentor to many aspiring professionals through his books, CSR interventions, mentorship classes and strategic program blocks.

A Blockchain Educator, Ayegorme Dzoboku Mawulolo Heartwill, a certified Blockchain Compliance Specialist and Crypto Forensics Expert, who has been privileged to be under Davidson’s mentorship for years described him as an astute and outstanding leader of great impact.

“It has been 7 years since encountering Talle Davidson Amedu who is fondly called Dr Talle and I must say he is a master of his field in aiding multi-potentials discover and maximize their potentials. He is skilled to lead result oriented teams and a down to earth leader who pays attention to everyone’s opinion to see to it that the corporate objective of the team is achieved”.

“I highly recommend him as I have had the privilege of being under his mentorship over the years and a great beneficiary of his expertise,” ADM Heartwill stated.

Also, a Project Manager, Helen Joshua, said Dr. Talle is a visionary leader worthy of emulation.

“Davidson Amedu is a rare gem, I was privileged to work under him and I must confess that his skills and expertise at what he does is worthy of emulation.

He is a profound Web3 project Analyst and a great leader and I strongly recommend him,” Joshua affirmed.

In addition to his work in blockchain, Dr. Talle is the author of the book “Making ROOM: Unleashing Your Multi-Talent Mastery for Success in Business, Career, and Life.”

Discussing his book, he stated, “Discover the transformative power of multi-talent mastery with ‘Making ROOM.’ This comprehensive book is your ultimate guide to developing and excelling in multiple areas.”

His insights encourage individuals to harness their diverse talents to achieve success in various aspects of life.

Dr. Talle’s journey has proven that with dedication and vision, one can make a significant impact in their field regardless of location. He embodies the spirit of innovation and resilience, inspiring the younger generation to embrace technology and pursue their dreams. He stands as a beacon of hope for aspiring technologists and entrepreneurs across Africa.

In his own words, Dr. Talle summarized his mission: “I am poised to help individuals and organizations maximize their innate potentials for greater impact and income.”

No doubt, Dr. Talle Davidson Amedu is a name to watch out for in the near future as his contributions to the blockchain space and Personal Development space is already paving and will undoubtedly keep paving the way for a new era of growth and opportunity in Africa and beyond in no small measure.

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