How to Report a Scammer to the Police in Nigeria (Full Process)

Online scams and fraud are on the rise in Nigeria, causing financial losses and emotional distress to countless individuals. Knowing how to Report a Scammer to the Police is essential for seeking justice and preventing future victims.

This guide provides a step-by-step process for reporting scammers to Nigerian authorities, the required documentation, and what to expect after filing a report.

Report Scammer to Police. Stop Fraud and Protect Yourself.

Scams in Nigeria come in various forms, from the infamous “419” advance-fee fraud to sophisticated schemes like investment scams, romance scams, and identity theft. According to the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS), Nigerians lost over ₦15 billion to electronic fraud in 2024, a 20% increase from 2023.

Common Types of Scams in Nigeria:

• Advance-fee fraud (419 scams)
• Business email compromise (BEC)
• Investment scams
• Romance and dating scams
• Banking and credit card fraud
• Ponzi schemes
• Real estate fraud
• Employment scams

When to Report a Scammer to the Police

You should Report a Scammer to the Police as soon as you:

1. Confirm you’ve been defrauded of money or assets.
2. Receive threatening communications.
3. Discover your personal information has been compromised.
4. Identify a suspected scam operation, even if you haven’t been victimized.
5. Notice unauthorized transactions on your bank accounts or credit cards.

Early reporting increases the chances of recovering stolen funds and stopping scammers from targeting others.

Gathering Evidence Before Reporting

Before you Report a Scammer to the Police, gather and organize all relevant evidence:

• Screenshots of communications (emails, texts, social media messages).
• Transaction records (bank statements, receipts, money transfer confirmations).
• Contact details of the scammer (phone numbers, email addresses, social media profiles).
• Witness statements from anyone who observed the scam.
• Timeline of events detailing your interactions with the scammer.
• Any additional information that could help identify the perpetrator (business names, website details, physical addresses).

How to Report a Scammer to the Police in Nigeria

Option 1: Nigerian Police Force

The most direct way to Report a Scammer to the Police is by visiting your local police station. The Nigerian Police Force has specialized units for fraud cases:

• Special Fraud Unit (SFU): Focuses on financial crimes.
• Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID): Handles major criminal investigations.

Option 2: Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)

The EFCC is Nigeria’s leading agency for financial crimes. They handle:

• Significant monetary losses.
• Cross-border scams.
• Organized crime networks.
• Banking and investment fraud.

Visit the EFCC website to report online or find the nearest office.

Option 3: Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU)

For cases involving money laundering or terrorism financing, contact the NFIU.

Option 4: Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)

For banking fraud, report to the CBN’s Consumer Protection Department.

Option 5: Cybercrime Units

For online scams, contact the Cybercrime Unit of the Nigerian Police through the NPF website.

ALSO READ: How to Apply for Nigeria Police Recruitment in 2025

Step-by-Step Guide to Report a Scammer to the Police

Step 1: Write a Formal Petition

Include:

• Your personal information (name, address, phone number).
• A detailed account of the scam.
• A timeline of events.
• Description of the scammer.
• Amount lost (if applicable).
• Evidence collected.
• Request for investigation.

Step 2: Visit Your Local Police Station

• Approach the front desk and explain your situation.
• Present your written petition and evidence.
• Request an acknowledgment copy of your report.
• Obtain the name and contact information of the investigating officer.

Step 3: Obtain a Police Extract

This official document includes:

• Case number.
• Brief description of the incident.
• Date of reporting.
• Officer in charge.

Step 4: Follow Up Regularly

• Check on your case status weekly.
• Provide additional information if requested.
• Maintain communication with the assigned officer.

Reporting to the EFCC

To Report a Scammer to the Police through the EFCC:

1. Visit an EFCC office.
2. Submit a written petition with all details and evidence.
3. Use the EFCC’s online reporting platform.
4. Email your petition to info@efcc.gov.ng.
5. Call the EFCC hotline: 0800-CALL-EFCC (0800-2255-3322).

Special Considerations for Cyber Scams

For online scams, additional reporting channels include:

• Nigeria Computer Emergency Response Team (ngCERT): Report cybersecurity incidents through their website.
• Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA): For major cyber threats.
• Internet Service Providers: Report phishing sites or malicious content.
• Social Media Platforms: Report fraudulent accounts directly.

What to Expect After Filing a Report

After you Report a Scammer to the Police, the investigation process typically involves:

1. Case Assignment: Your case is assigned to an investigating officer.
2. Preliminary Investigation: Review of evidence and initial assessment.
3. Interviews: You may be called for additional questioning.
4. Financial Tracking: Authorities may trace fund transfers.
5. Suspect Identification: If possible, suspects will be identified.
6. Arrest and Prosecution: If sufficient evidence is found, arrests and legal proceedings may follow.

Challenges in Scam Investigations

Be aware of potential challenges:

• Limited resources for cybercrime investigations.
• Technical complexity of digital evidence collection.
• Jurisdictional issues with international scams.
• Anonymity techniques used by scammers.
• Delays in reporting affecting evidence quality.

Tips for Effective Reporting

1. Be Prompt: Report immediately after discovering the scam.
2. Be Thorough: Provide all available information and evidence.
3. Be Persistent: Follow up regularly on your case.
4. Be Cooperative: Respond promptly to requests for additional information.
5. Be Patient: Understand that investigations take time.

Prevention Measures

While knowing how to Report a Scammer to the Police is crucial, prevention is the best strategy:

• Verify the legitimacy of businesses and investments.
• Research unfamiliar companies through the Corporate Affairs Commission.
• Never share sensitive personal or banking details online.
• Use secure, multi-factor authentication for financial accounts.
• Be wary of offers that seem too good to be true.

Legal Framework Against Scams in Nigeria

Nigeria has several laws addressing fraud:

• Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act 2006.
• Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015.
• Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Act 2004.
• Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act 2011.
• Criminal Code Act.

These laws provide the legal basis for prosecuting scammers, with penalties including imprisonment and fines.

Resources for Scam Victims

Beyond reporting, victims may need additional support:

• Legal Aid Council of Nigeria: Provides legal assistance.
• NGOs and Consumer Protection Organizations: Offer guidance and advocacy.
• Financial Institutions: Many banks have fraud departments to assist with fund recovery.
• Counseling Services: For emotional distress after being scammed.

Conclusion

Knowing how to Report a Scammer to the Police is vital for seeking justice and protecting others from fraud. By following this guide, you contribute to the fight against scams in Nigeria. While recovery of funds isn’t guaranteed, proper reporting increases the chances of successful investigation and prosecution.

The fight against scammers requires vigilance, awareness, and prompt action. By reporting scams diligently and spreading awareness, we can create a safer environment for all Nigerians.