A Nigerian lawyer, Confidence Aribibia, has alerted the public about the potential dangers of sharing bank account numbers for giveaways on social media platforms. She emphasized that not all money is safe and urged caution before participating in such online activities.
Why Sharing Bank Details Can Be Dangerous
In a Facebook post, Aribibia explained that criminals, including bandits and internet fraudsters, often use live streams to conduct fake giveaways. People rush to comment with their account numbers, hoping to receive money. However, the funds may originate from illegal activities such as terrorism financing, kidnapping proceeds, money laundering, or cybercrime.
She warned that when security agencies investigate these crimes, they trace the money trail. If suspicious funds pass through an individual's account, that person could become part of the investigation. Even if they are innocent, they may face stress, questioning, and scrutiny. Moreover, such transactions could later affect visa applications, travel abroad, or important financial dealings.
Public Reactions
Many social media users agreed with the lawyer's advice. Ogechukwu Prisca Ojukwu commented, calling such money "blood money" from ransom payments. Elizabeth Akpan thanked the lawyer for the lesson, while Umaru Zuma Shaw noted the explanation was clear for those with conscience.
This warning comes as online giveaways become increasingly popular in Nigeria. The lawyer advises everyone to think twice before dropping their account numbers, asking: "If security agencies invite me tomorrow and ask how I received this money, will I be comfortable explaining it?"
