Understand the Bonanza Scam in Nigeria

With the widespread prevalence of internet scams across global countries, Nigeria is not an exception. Scammers have been particularly crafty when targeting elderly individuals, often exploiting their lack of technology literacy and trust. The term Bonanza Scam in Nigeria encompasses a variety of fraudulent activities designed to deceive unsuspecting senior citizens. This article aims to provide an overview of these scams, explore their prevalence, and offer practical tips for elderly citizens and their families to protect themselves.

The Scope of the Problem

According to the Nigeria Economic Social and Environmental Rights Action (NESARC), an estimated 30-40% of the elderly population in Nigeria are victims of online scams annually. These scams are not just limited to Nigerian borders but have spread to international locations, including countries like the United States, where some of my family members were once victims. The impact is profound, with seniors often losing both financial assets and trust in technology and strangers alike.

Understanding the Scam

The bonanza scam typically involves a series of orchestrated steps designed to establish trust and then exploit it for financial gain. Here's a breakdown of how these scams often operate:

Build a Relationship: Initially, the scammer contacts the elderly person through email, phone, or social media. They often pose as a relative, a friend, or even a foreign official seeking their help with a variety of problems, from getting visas to transferring funds.

Establish Trust: The scammer uses personal details, such as information shared through social media, to build a sense of familiarity and establish credibility. They may even pretend to have legal or financial expertise.

Introduce the Problem: Once trust is established, the scammer introduces a fantasy scenario, such as a legal case or a financial opportunity that requires the senior to pay a fee or provide personal details.

Demand Payment: The senior is then asked to send money or provide bank details to assist with the issue. This is usually accompanied by urgent and persuasive language to ensure compliance.

Request More Information: After receiving the initial payment, the scammer may request additional payment or personal information to "facilitate" the process further, often leaving the victim feeling trapped or guilt-ridden.

Protecting Senior Citizens from Bonanza Scams

Given the perilous nature of these scams, it's crucial to employ several strategies to protect oneself and loved ones from falling victim to bonanza scams. Here are some effective measures:

Stay Informed: Awareness is key. Seniors and their families should stay updated on common scam techniques and be wary of unsolicited communications.

Check Before Providing Information: Before sharing any personal details or financial information, it's essential to verify the authenticity of the communication. Seniors should never feel pressured to act quickly.

Verify Credentials: Suspend communications that ask for money or personal information over the phone or through email. Always directly contact the supposed institution or organization in question, using verified contact information.

Use Two-Factor Authentication: Enable two-factor authentication for all online accounts to add an extra layer of security.

Report Suspicious Activity: If unsure, contact local law enforcement or the Nigerian Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to report any suspicious activity.

The Role of Families and Communities

The bonanza scam does not only affect the direct victims. It also taints the relationships within families and communities. It's important to support and educate seniors to recognize and avoid such scams:

Encourage Regular Check-Ins: Regular conversations with elderly family members can help identify any potentially concerning situations early on.

Organize Information Workshops: Local community centers and health clinics can organize workshops to educate the elderly about online safety and the dangers of scams.

Foster a Supportive Environment: Creating a supportive environment where seniors feel comfortable discussing their concerns and experiences can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim.

Conclusion

The bonanza scam in Nigeria is a pressing issue that requires a multifaceted approach to tackle. Through awareness, education, and community support, we can empower seniors and their families to stay safe from these fraudulent activities. As a society, it's our responsibility to ensure that the elderly are not left vulnerable and that trust between individuals remains intact.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of a bonanza scam, it's crucial to report it to the relevant authorities immediately. By staying vigilant and working together, we can mitigate the risks and protect the integrity of trusted relationships in our communities.