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Cybersecurity in Nigeria Banking System
Cybersecurity in Nigeria Banking System
Cybersecurity in Nigeria Banking System
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CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
The banking sector in Nigeria has undergone remarkable growth and transformation in
recent years, propelled by technological advancements and the rising demand for digital banking
services. As customers increasingly turn to online platforms for their banking needs, the sector
has become more vulnerable to cyber threats. According to Musk (2021), cybercrime refers to
criminal activities carried out using computers, networks, or other digital technologies as tools,
targets, or both. These crimes can involve unauthorized access to computer systems, data theft,
identity theft, financial fraud, spreading malware or viruses, hacking, and other malicious
activities aimed at causing harm, disruption, or financial gain. Cybercrime poses a significant
risk to the security and integrity of the Nigerian banking system (Ogunlesi & Itegboje, 2018).
Nigeria's financial industry plays a vital role in the country's economy, with a diverse range of
banks offering services such as deposit-taking, lending, electronic transfers, and mobile banking.
The integration of banking services with mobile and online platforms has brought convenience
and accessibility to customers, but it has also exposed the sector to cybersecurity risks (Ogunlesi
The frequency and sophistication of cyber-attacks in the banking industry have raised
concerns about the security of customer data, financial transactions, and the overall stability of
network infrastructure, inadequate security protocols, human error, and social engineering
techniques. Successful cyber-attacks can result in financial losses, reputational damage, legal
implications, and erosion of customer trust (Ogunlesi & Itegboje, 2018). A notable cyber-attack
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in Nigeria's banking sector occurred in 2016 when hackers targeted the Society for Worldwide
millions of dollars from Nigerian banks (The Guardian, 2016). This incident underscored the
urgent need for Nigerian banks to bolster their cybersecurity measures and protect their systems
and customer information from sophisticated cyber threats (Ogunlesi & Itegboje, 2018).
Empirical studies have shown that Nigerian banks face significant cybersecurity
challenges. Ogunlesi and Itegboje (2018) highlight that the banking sector in Nigeria has
compromised customer trust. These attacks have necessitated the adoption of robust
Furthermore, a study by Afolabi, Ilo, and Aransiola (2019) conducted interviews with key
stakeholders in the Nigerian banking sector, including cybersecurity experts, bank executives,
and regulatory officials. The study revealed that Nigerian banks face various cybersecurity
In response to the escalating cyber risks, regulatory bodies such as the Central Bank of
Nigeria (CBN) have implemented guidelines and regulations to enhance cybersecurity in the
banking sector. The CBN has directed banks to implement robust security measures, conduct
regular security audits, and establish incident response mechanisms. However, the effectiveness
and sufficiency of these measures in safeguarding the banking system against evolving cyber
threats remain subject to scrutiny (Ogunlesi & Itegboje, 2018). While individual banks have
implemented various security measures to protect their systems and customers, there is a dearth
of comprehensive research assessing and comparing the effectiveness of these measures across
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the Nigerian banking industry. Such a study is critical for identifying best practices,
understanding gaps and vulnerabilities, and developing strategies to enhance the overall
Therefore, this study aims to conduct a comparative analysis of the security measures
employed by Nigerian banks to address cyber threats. By examining the current state of
cybersecurity in the Nigerian banking system, this research seeks to identify the challenges faced
by banks in the threat landscape and evaluate the effectiveness of existing security measures. The
findings will contribute to the development of recommendations and guidelines to enhance the
security posture of Nigerian banks, protect customer data, and promote a secure banking
environment.
impacting not only the affected banks but also the overall financial stability of the country.
Nigeria has not been immune to these threats, with several reported incidents of cyber-attacks on
banks, including the infamous 2016 attack on the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial
Telecommunication (SWIFT) payment system, which resulted in the loss of millions of dollars
(The Guardian, 2016). These incidents highlight the urgent need for Nigerian banks to strengthen
access.
One of the primary issues faced by Nigerian banks is the escalating frequency and
vulnerabilities, banks must constantly adapt security measures to mitigate evolving threats. The
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online platforms, has expanded the attack surface for cybercriminals, making it more challenging
for banks to safeguard networks and customer data (Ogunlesi & Itegboje, 2018).
Banks and its regulatory bodies have put several measures in place to mitigate against
cyber-crime attacks. Effectiveness and efficiency of these measures remain crucial to understand
the specific types of cyber threats that defy these measures. Therefore this study is conducting a
The aim of this study is to conduct a comparative analysis of the cyber security measures
employed by Nigerian banks to address cyber threats in the banking sector. The specific
i. Identify the types and frequency of cyber threats faced by Nigerian banks.
ii. Identify the key security practices employed in the Nigerian banking industry.
iii. Identify the challenges faced by Nigerian banks in maintaining robust cybersecurity.
iv. Assess the level of collaboration and information sharing among Nigerian banks.
i. What are the types and frequency of cyber threats faced by Nigerian banks?
ii. What are the key security practices employed in the Nigerian banking industry?
iv. To what extent do Nigerian banks engage in collaboration and information sharing to
The scope of this study focuses on information technology security experts in banking
sector and managers within Nigerian banks. The study aims to gain a comprehensive
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understanding of the security measures implemented by Nigerian banks and their effectiveness in
mitigating cyber threats. Specifically, it centers on the individuals responsible for managing and
implementing cybersecurity measures within the banking sector. To achieve its objectives, the
study will involve the participation of IT security experts and managers from various Nigerian
banks. These participants will be selected based on their expertise and experience in the field of
cybersecurity. By including a diverse range of participants, the study aims to capture different
perspectives and insights regarding the security practices employed by Nigerian banks.
The significance of this study lies in its potential impact on various stakeholders within
the Nigerian banking industry and the broader cybersecurity community. The findings of this
study have both academic and practical implications, contributing to knowledge enhancement
and offering actionable insights for improving cybersecurity practices in Nigerian banks. The
Firstly, this study holds great importance in enhancing cybersecurity within Nigerian
banks. By gaining insights into the current state of cybersecurity measures employed by these
banks, the study can identify areas for improvement and help banks adopt more effective
strategies to strengthen their cybersecurity infrastructure. This, in turn, will enable banks to
better protect customer data, reduce the risk of cyber-attacks, and maintain the integrity of the
financial system.
Secondly, the findings of this study can inform policy and regulation in the Nigerian
banking sector. Policymakers and regulatory bodies can utilize the insights gained from this
study to develop and revise policies and regulations related to cybersecurity. By understanding
the specific challenges faced by banks and the effectiveness of security measures, policymakers
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can design more targeted and effective regulations to ensure the resilience of the banking system.
This can lead to the establishment of standardized cybersecurity frameworks and guidelines
tailored to the Nigerian banking industry, ultimately strengthening the overall security posture of
banks.
Lastly, the study's findings are significant in protecting customer trust and reputation. As
cyber threats continue to evolve, customers place great importance on the security of their
based on the study's insights, banks can instill greater confidence in their customers. This, in
turn, can help protect the reputation of banks and the broader banking industry, leading to
and data from digital threats, such as cyber-attacks, unauthorized access, and data breaches. It
Cyber Threats: Cyber threats are malicious activities or events that target computer systems,
networks, or data with the intent of causing harm, disruption, or unauthorized access. These
threats can include hacking, malware, phishing, ransomware, and other forms of cyber-attacks.
Security Measures: Security measures refer to the strategies, protocols, technologies, and
practices implemented to protect computer systems, networks, and data from unauthorized
access, misuse, and cyber threats. These measures can include firewalls, encryption, access
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Hacking: Hacking refers to unauthorized access to computer systems or networks with the intent
to gain unauthorized control, steal sensitive information, or disrupt normal operations. Hackers
exploit vulnerabilities in systems to bypass security measures and gain unauthorized access.
Identity Theft: Identity theft is the fraudulent acquisition and use of another person's personal
information, such as their name, Social Security number, or financial details, without their
consent. Cybercriminals often engage in identity theft to commit financial fraud or gain
Phishing: Phishing is a form of cyber-attack where attackers attempt to deceive individuals into
revealing sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords, or credit card details, by posing
Malware: Malware, short for malicious software, is any software designed to infiltrate, damage,
or gain unauthorized access to computer systems or networks. This can include viruses, worms,
Trojans, ransomware, and spyware. Malware is often distributed through infected websites, email
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CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Introduction
The literature review section of this study provides an in-depth examination of existing
scholarly research and publications related to cybersecurity in the Nigerian banking sector. It
serves as a critical foundation for understanding the current state of knowledge, identifying
research gaps, and establishing the theoretical framework for the comparative analysis of
Worms, viruses, Trojan horses, spyware, and malware were not even mentioned in the
common information technology (IT) vernacular seventy years ago. The development of viruses
was the catalyst for the creation of cyber security. But how did we end up here in the first place?
Jon Von Neumann's "The Theory of Self-Reproducing Automata" was published in 1949.
Cybercriminals employ this notion (Vida, 2019). to create self-replicating software, such as
viruses. In 1969, UCLA professor Leonard Kleinrock and student Charley Kline sent the first
electronic communication from the UCLA SDS Sigma 7 Host computer to Stanford Research
Institute programmer Bill Duvall. This is a well-known narrative and a pivotal milestone in the
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digital world’s history. The UCLA sent a message with the term "login” in it. After typing the
The first computer “worm” was built in the 1970s by Robert Thomas, a researcher for
BBN Technologies in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The Creeper was the name of the creature.
“I'M THE CREEPER: CATCH ME IF YOU CAN”, said the Creeper, who attacked computers by
bouncing from system to system. The first antivirus software was built by Ray Tomlinson, the
inventor of email, who created a replicating programme called The Reaper, which would track
down Creeper and delete it. Cyber-crime grew more powerful after Creeper and Reaper. As
computer software and hardware improves, so do security breaches. With each new
measures. The Russians were the first to use cyber power as a weapon, in 1986. Marcus Hess, a
German citizen, gained access to 400 military systems, including Pentagon CPUs. He intended to
sell secrets to the KGB, but an American astronomer, Clifford Stoll, caught him before that could
happen. In 1988, a man named Robert Morris had an idea: he wanted to test the size of the
internet. To do this, he wrote a program that went through networks, invaded UNIX terminals,
and copied itself. The Morris worm was extremely aggressive, slowing systems to the point
where they were unusable. He subsequently became the first person to be convicted under
The Melissa virus was released in late 1999. This was a macro-virus that was specifically
designed to infect email accounts. The virus would get access to these emails with the goal of
sending out mass emails. The author was one of the first to be found guilty of creating malware.
He was given a five-year term after being accused of causing $80 million in damages. In 2013
and 2014, Yahoo was the target of one of the most serious cyber-attacks (Albert, 2018). Yahoo
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accounts belonging to nearly 3 billion people were compromised as a result of the assaults. The
attacks took advantage of vulnerabilities that had not yet been addressed. The hackers installed
malware on Yahoo's systems using spear phishing techniques, giving them unrestricted backdoor
access. They gained access to Yahoo's backup databases and stole sensitive data such as names,
emails, passwords, and password recovery questions and answers (Albert, 2018).
Viruses were becoming more lethal, invasive, and difficult to regulate. We've already
seen big cyber-attacks, and the year isn't even halfway through yet. These are only a few
examples, but they demonstrate that cyber security is a must-have for both enterprises and small
businesses. As shown in the timeline above, cyber security is a never-ending cat and mouse
game. Attackers are gaining new talents and employing new methods and techniques as the
internet evolves. Defenders, on the other hand, react by playing catch-up. According to Gartner
Inc.'s projection, global cyber security spending would reach $133.7 billion by 2022 (Vida,
2019). Cyber-attacks are becoming more sophisticated, prompting businesses to invest more in
The banking industry employs various types of cybersecurity measures to protect against
cyber threats and ensure the security and integrity of their systems and data. Some of the key
Network security plays a crucial role in safeguarding the banking industry against cyber
threats and ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive data and services.
Banks employ a range of network security measures to protect their computer networks from
unauthorized access, data breaches, and other network-based attacks. One fundamental network
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security measure utilized by banks is the implementation of firewalls. Firewalls act as a barrier
between internal network systems and external networks, such as the Internet, filtering incoming
and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules (Whitman & Mattord, 2020).
By examining network packets and applying access control policies, firewalls help prevent
unauthorized access and protect against various types of cyber-attacks, such as network
In the banking industry, firewalls are essential network security devices that play a crucial
role in protecting sensitive financial information and ensuring the integrity of banking systems.
The working procedure of a firewall, as utilized by the banking industry, involves several key
steps. Firstly, the firewall performs traffic analysis by inspecting network packets as they enter or
exit the banking network. It examines various packet attributes, such as source and destination IP
addresses, port numbers, and protocols, to gain an understanding of the nature and origin of the
network traffic. Next, the firewall applies a set of predefined security rules or policies specific to
the banking industry (Whitman & Mattord, 2020). These rules determine which types of traffic
are allowed or denied based on specific criteria. For example, the firewall may be configured to
block incoming traffic from certain suspicious IP addresses or restrict access to sensitive banking
systems to authorized users only. The firewall then engages in packet filtering, where it evaluates
individual packets of network data based on the defined rules. It compares the characteristics of
the packets, such as their source and destination addresses and port numbers, against the filtering
rules. If a packet matches a rule that specifies blocking or allowing certain traffic, the firewall
takes the appropriate action, either dropping or forwarding the packet accordingly (Whitman &
Mattord, 2020).
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In the banking industry, firewalls often employ stateful inspection, a more advanced
technique that goes beyond basic packet filtering (John, 2020). Stateful inspection involves
monitoring the state of network connections, allowing the firewall to track the entire
communication session rather than just individual packets. This enables the firewall to detect and
prevent potential attacks that may exploit vulnerabilities in network protocols or engage in
suspicious behavior during a session. Furthermore, firewalls utilized in the banking industry
often include application layer filtering capabilities. This means they analyze the content and
characteristics of network traffic at the application layer of the network protocol stack (John,
2020). For instance, the firewall can identify and block specific file types known to be associated
with malware or restrict access to certain websites or applications that pose security risks.
Network Address Translation (NAT) is another feature commonly employed by firewalls in the
banking industry. NAT allows multiple devices within the bank's internal network to share a
single public IP address when communicating with external networks. This provides an
additional layer of security by obfuscating the internal network details, making it more
challenging for potential attackers to directly target individual devices within the bank's network.
Firewalls utilized in the banking industry also facilitate logging and reporting functionalities.
They maintain logs that capture information about the network traffic they process, including
details such as source and destination addresses, ports, and the actions taken by the firewall.
These logs are crucial for monitoring network activity, identifying potential security incidents,
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Figure 1: Firewall
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# Allow DNS requests by default
print(f"Allowing DNS request for {query_name} from {source_ip} to {dest_ip}")
The code provided is a simple example of how a firewall server can intercept and handle
DNS (Domain Name System) packets using the Python “scapy” library. The purpose of the code
code starts by importing the necessary modules, including “scapy,” which is a powerful packet
argument. This function is responsible for processing DNS packets and applying firewall rules
Within the “handle_dns_packet” function, the code checks if the packet has a DNS layer. If it
does, it proceeds to examine the packet further. It specifically focuses on DNS query packets
The code then extracts relevant information from the DNS query packet, such as the source IP
address, destination IP address, and the query name. The query name represents the domain
Following the extraction of information, the code applies firewall rules based on the predefined
criteria. In the provided example, there are two simple rules demonstrated:
1. Blocking a specific website: If the query name matches the string "blocked-website.com",
the code prints a message indicating that the DNS request for that specific website is
blocked.
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2. Blocking DNS requests from a specific source IP address: If the source IP address
matches "192.168.1.100", the code prints a message indicating that the DNS request from
For any other DNS requests that do not match the above rules, the code defaults to allowing the
DNS request and prints a message stating that the DNS request is allowed.
The code utilizes the sniff function from the “scapy” library to capture DNS packets. It filters the
captured packets to only include UDP packets on port 53, which is the standard port for DNS.
The “prn” parameter is set to the “handle_dns_packet” function, which is called for each
Overall, this code provides a starting point for implementing a DNS firewall server. However, it
is important to note that real-world firewall systems are more complex and involve additional
layers of security and customization. The code can be extended and modified based on specific
requirements, such as integrating with existing firewall infrastructure and applying more
Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS) are another critical component of
network security in banks. It plays a crucial role in enhancing network security within the
banking industry. These systems are designed to monitor network activities, analyze network
traffic, and promptly respond to potential security breaches in real-time. By employing various
analysis, IDPS aim to identify and alert security personnel about suspicious activities that may
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One of the primary functions of IDPS is to detect intrusions by comparing network traffic
against a database of known attack signatures. This signature-based detection approach involves
matching network patterns and behaviors against a set of predefined signatures, which are
indicative of known attack patterns. When a match is found, the IDPS generates an alert to notify
security personnel about the potential intrusion. Furthermore, IDPS also employ anomaly
detection techniques to identify deviations from normal network behavior. This approach
network traffic for any abnormal activities. By leveraging statistical models and machine
learning algorithms, IDPS can detect patterns that deviate from the norm, suggesting potential
threats (John, 2020). It involves analyzing the behavior of users, applications, and systems within
the network to detect any suspicious or abnormal actions. By establishing profiles of typical
behavior, IDPS can identify deviations that may indicate unauthorized access or malicious intent.
Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) are an advanced version of IDPS that not only detect but also
actively respond to potential security threats. IPS take a proactive approach by automatically
blocking or mitigating attacks to prevent potential harm to the network. This is achieved through
various means, such as altering firewall rules, implementing access controls, or terminating
suspicious network connections (Whitman & Mattord, 2020). By combining the capabilities of
IDPS and IPS, banks can establish a robust defense mechanism against a wide range of network
security threats. These systems provide real-time monitoring and rapid response capabilities,
allowing security personnel to detect and mitigate potential breaches promptly. The proactive
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nature of IPS enables banks to take immediate action, reducing the impact and potential damage
protect sensitive information from unauthorized access and ensure confidentiality. Encryption
involves the process of converting plaintext data into ciphertext, making it unintelligible to
anyone without the proper decryption key (Vacca, 2019). This technique provides a strong layer
of protection for data in transit and at rest, mitigating the risk of data breaches and unauthorized
disclosures.
One of the key applications of data encryption in the banking sector is the protection of
customer information during online transactions. When customers engage in online banking
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activities, such as accessing their accounts or making financial transactions, encryption protocols
are utilized to secure the communication channels. Secure Socket Layer (SSL) and Transport
Layer Security (TLS) protocols are commonly used to establish encrypted connections between
clients and banking servers (Karyda, 2018). These protocols employ asymmetric encryption
algorithms, such as RSA, to facilitate secure key exchange and symmetric encryption algorithms,
such as AES, to encrypt the actual data transmitted over the network (Whitman & Mattord,
2020).
By encrypting the data during transmission, banking organizations can ensure that
sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords, and financial details, remains protected
against eavesdropping and interception by malicious entities (Karyda, 2018). The use of
encryption in online banking not only safeguards customer privacy but also helps to build trust
and confidence among users, thereby encouraging the adoption of digital banking services. Data
encryption is also crucial for securing data at rest, which refers to information stored in
databases, file systems, or backup media. Banks store vast amounts of sensitive customer data,
including account details, transaction history, and personally identifiable information (PII).
Encrypting this data helps to prevent unauthorized access in the event of physical theft or data
keys. Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) is a widely adopted symmetric encryption algorithm
for securing data at rest (Whitman & Mattord, 2020). The data is encrypted before being stored
in databases or file systems, and decryption is only possible with the proper encryption keys.
This ensures that even if an unauthorized party gains access to the storage media, the encrypted
data remains unreadable and protected. In addition to securing customer data, encryption is also
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vital for protecting internal communications and sensitive information within the banking
infrastructure. This includes encrypting data exchanged between different banking systems,
encrypting data backups, and securing communications between bank branches or remote
offices. Encryption protocols, algorithms, and key management practices are implemented to
establish secure channels and safeguard the confidentiality and integrity of the information
was estimated in December 2020 that more than 60% of its population now uses the internet.
This is almost 100 million individuals (Internet World Stats, 2020), making it the 8th largest
globally with the highest number of Internet users. This development of information technologies
has also accelerated the growth of the Nigerian economy. For example, during the same period,
its GDP increased from 369 billion USD to 405 billion USD between 2010 and 2020 (World
Bank, 2020), while its Internet penetration increased from 11.5% to 25.7% (Statistica, 2020).
Internet banking was first introduced to Nigeria in 2003 (Oni and Ayo, 2011). The event
was marked by the introduction of Guidelines on Electronic Banking in Nigeria (CBN, 2019) by
the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). A recapitalization of the Nigerian banking industry took
place soon afterwards, with only 25 banks out of the previous 89 banks in Nigeria surviving this
recapitalization. Those that survived were known to have engaged in the use of internet
technologies for effective and efficient delivery of banking services (Akanbi, 2019). The term
‘internet banking’ tends to be used interchangeably with online banking. They refer to a range of
banking services via a range of technical platforms and electronic devices, such as the internet,
computers, mobile phones, and bank cards (Akanbi, 2019). The range of banking services
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include i) Automated Teller Machines (ATMs); ii) Point of Sale terminals (POS terminals) that
handle cheque verification, credit authorization, cash deposit and withdrawal, and cash payment;
iii) Personal Computer (PC) and mobile phone banking that primarily uses personal computers
and mobile phones as banking devices; iv) card systems that use plastic smart cards with
In the last few years, customers’ appetite in Nigeria for internet banking has grown
rapidly. Internet banking services have also developed rapidly with banks expanding their
delivery channels online, providing almost all offline banking services via the Internet (Akanbi,
2019). Despite these benefits, however, its adoption still remains remarkably low in Nigeria, with
just over 40% of customers having used online banking platforms for one or more banking
activities (KPMG, 2017). The main barriers to a greater acceptance of internet banking in
Nigeria have proved to be the lack of security and trust, limited privacy, and an inadequate
telecommunications infrastructure; along with a low literacy level, and an unreliable electricity
supply (Agboola, 2020). Yet of all these factors, security emerged as the most significant factor
in Auta’s (2019) research, which used an exploratory ‘principle component factor analysis’ to
identify the underlying factors determining the success of internet banking in Nigeria.
The revolutionary service changes in the Nigeria banking industry have, in fact, brought
about a new wave of security problems (Agboola, 2020). Cyber security breaches have become a
key phenomenon affecting the Nigerian banking industry (both the banks and their customers)
(Agboola, 2020). While there is not a standard method to measure the financial cost of these
breaches (figures in different reports tend to vary significantly), the degree of financial damage
experienced by them is reported to be very high and increasing rapidly (Agboola, 2020).
According the report in 2019 of the Nigerian Inter-Bank Settlements Systems (NIBSS Plc),
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Nigerian banks lost 159 billion Nigerian Naira between 2015 and the first quarter of 2020 to
cyber security breaches (Agboola, 2020). Moreover, more than half of the loss occurred in 2017
when the internet became a popular banking tool (Ojeka, 2017). Nigeria had, more generally, lost
around 500 billion Nigerian Naira between 2018 and 2019 on reported and unreported cases of
online fraud/cybercrime across major sectors of the economy, which included both the banking
and telecommunications sectors (Ojeka, 2017). Besides financial loss, reputational loss brought
about by security breaches, while not quantifiable, may be even harder for banks to recover. The
biggest cost of a data breach is indeed reputation in terms of the erosion of brand value (Ojeka,
2017). Reputational loss of a bank may, in fact, reverberate through the whole banking system by
The most prominent types of cyber security breach in the global banking sector would
include Phishing; cyber terrorism; malware attacks; Bank Verification Number (BVN) scams;
fraudidentity theft; password sniffing; and theft of bank cards (Pennathur, 2020). Interestingly,
for Wada and Odulaja (2019), Phishing, cyber terrorism, electronic spam mails, cyber-stalking,
and fake copy-cat websites, constitute the most prominent types of cyber security breach in the
Nigerian banking industry. Omodunbi (2020) suggest that Bank Verification Number (BVN)
Scams, Phishing, Theft of Bank Cards, Cyber-theft/Banking Fraud are the most prominent types
institutions, with the intention to encourage them to enter their information, such as username
and password to access their account, usually into electronic forms in fake copy-cat websites
(Pennathur, 2020). These fake copy-cat websites take advantage of consumers who are not
familiar with the exact web addresses and interfaces of their banks. The perpetrators are then
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asked to access online bank accounts of customers without their knowledge. The phishing scam
is now perceived as a very common type of cyber security threat and is becoming one of the
fastest growing threats affecting the financial sector in Nigeria (Pennathur, 2020).
access or distort information stored in their computer systems (Nhan and Bachmann, 2019).
Cyber extortion through Distributed Denial of Services attacks (DDOS) could be a possible
method. It involves putting computer systems under DDOS attacks and demanding ransoms to
restore services.
Cyber extortionists have, in recent years, increasingly attacked institutions’ websites and
networks, thus hampering their ability to function. Malware is a term used to refer to viruses,
worms, Trojans and other malicious software that enter a computer without the knowledge of the
owner (Nhan and Bachmann, 2019). In the financial sector, Trojan horse has emerged as one of
the most common techniques used to create an automated attack on computer systems. This is
known as a salami attack, in which small amounts of resources are stolen, a slice at a time, from
Bank Verification Number (BVN) scam is another form of cyber security threat,
particularly in Nigeria that affects the banking industry (Nhan and Bachmann, 2019). A BVN is a
biometric identification system that uses an 11-digit number as a universal identifier across all
banks in the country. The primary reason for the introduction of this system, by the central bank
of Nigeria, has been to link all the bank accounts of an individual in order to minimize fraudulent
activities (Nhan and Bachmann, 2019). Its implementation, however, also provided fraudsters
with an opportunity through which to carry out fraudulent activities on a much larger scale.
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Identity theft refers to the legitimate use of an account to retrieve crucial information
relating to the account. In Nigeria, fake online banking web pages have increasingly been used
by fraudsters to retrieve valuable information from users’ accounts, such as pin numbers and
usernames (Olasanmi, 2019). Generally, the use of false ‘copy-cat’ websites has emerged as one
of the latest trends in online deception. These take advantage of internet users, who are
unaccustomed to the internet and/or do not know the exact web address/interface of the
Password sniffing has also emerged as a foremost cyber secuirty threat affecting the
banking sector. The threat involves the use of programs that are specifically designed to monitor
all traffic in an organisation’s network. When a user types in his/her username and password as
requested by the system, the sniffing program collects all that information. Additional programs
are then used to filter the information gathered, pulling out some important details, while
covering up the existence of password sniffers. Evidence suggests that a significant number of
financial institutions across the globe are now affected by attacks linked to password sniffing
(Olasanmi, 2019).
A further but now common cyber security threat remains the theft of bank cards. This has,
however, evolved from physically stealing a card to stealing the card numbers online (Olasanmi,
2019). Now, perpetrators do not have to be in the same location as the victims in order to steal
their identities. For example, hidden cameras can be used by perpetrators to record customers’
ATM card pins. Perpetrators can also use ATM skimming, which involves putting an electric
device on an ATM to record the information from the magnetic strip of a bank card whenever an
individual inserts the card (FBI, 2019). Information obtained from this process could be used to
perform a range of criminal activities, e.g., internet order fraud (Asokhia, 2019).
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2.5 Theoretical Review
One theoretical perspective that can be applied to the study of cybersecurity in the
banking industry is the Technology Adoption Model (TAM) proposed by Davis (1989). TAM
focuses on individuals' acceptance and use of technology and has been widely applied to various
domains, including the adoption of cybersecurity measures. According to TAM, the perceived
usefulness and ease of use of a technology are critical factors influencing its adoption. In the
context of cybersecurity, TAM help explain the adoption of security measures by banks. Banks
may implement various cybersecurity technologies and practices, such as firewalls, intrusion
detection systems, and encryption, based on the perceived usefulness of these measures in
protecting sensitive data and maintaining the integrity of their systems. The perceived usefulness
of these technologies lies in their ability to mitigate cyber threats, protect against unauthorized
access, and safeguard critical financial information (Venkatesh & Bala, 2018). Banks that
perceive these technologies as effective in preventing cyber threats are more likely to adopt
them.
However, resistance to technology adoption can also occur within organizations, posing
this resistance. One of the key barriers is the lack of knowledge and awareness about
cybersecurity risks and the available protective measures (Kreutz, de Oliveira, & Tashima,
2019). Limited understanding of the potential consequences of cyber-attacks and the benefits of
adopting security measures can hinder banks' willingness to invest in cybersecurity. To address
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this, awareness campaigns, training programs, and knowledge-sharing initiatives can be
employed to educate bank employees about the importance of cybersecurity and the potential
Cost considerations also play a significant role in technology adoption and resistance.
particularly smaller institutions with limited resources (Chang & Hu, 2019). The cost associated
with acquiring and maintaining security technologies, conducting regular security audits, and
employing skilled personnel can act as a deterrent to adoption. It is crucial to strike a balance
between the cost of implementing security measures and the potential losses that may occur in
the event of a cybersecurity breach. Governments and regulatory bodies can support banks by
providing incentives, grants, or tax benefits to promote the adoption of cybersecurity measures.
technology adoption. Banks may have established routines, processes, and systems that are
resistant to change (Kreutz, 2019). Implementing new security measures may require
Resistance to change can arise from concerns about disruptions in daily operations, employee
resistance to learning new technologies, or resistance from middle management who may
perceive security measures as unnecessary burdens (Venkatesh & Bala, 2018). Overcoming this
resistance requires effective change management strategies, involving stakeholders at all levels,
dynamics of cybersecurity practices in the banking industry. This theory emphasizes the
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influence of external institutional pressures on organizations' behavior, norms, and practices
(Scott, 1995). Organizations conform to these pressures to gain legitimacy and maintain their
social standing within their institutional environment. In the context of cybersecurity, regulatory
pressures on banks to implement robust security measures. Regulatory bodies, such as the
Central Bank of Nigeria, establish guidelines and regulations that banks must adhere to regarding
cybersecurity practices (CBN, 2020). Compliance with these regulations is essential for banks to
Industry-wide norms and standards also shape the cybersecurity practices of banks. The
banking sector may develop collective norms and practices through industry associations,
collaboration among institutions, and knowledge-sharing platforms. These norms help establish
consistent security measures across the industry, ensuring a baseline level of cybersecurity and
fostering customer trust. Furthermore, customer expectations play a vital role in shaping the
cybersecurity practices of banks. Customers increasingly demand secure online banking services
and expect their financial institutions to safeguard their personal and financial information
(Akhtar, 2018). Banks that fail to meet these expectations may face reputational damage and loss
of customer trust. Therefore, banks are motivated to adopt robust security measures to align
themselves with customer expectations and maintain their legitimacy in the industry.
Institutional pressures can also drive banks to engage in symbolic compliance, where
they adopt security measures to create an image of conformity without truly implementing
effective safeguards (Suchman, 1995). Symbolic compliance can occur when banks prioritize
appearing compliant over actual security enhancement. This may happen if banks perceive the
costs associated with implementing robust security measures to outweigh the benefits. Therefore,
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it is crucial to examine not only the adoption of security measures but also their actual
Moreover, the diffusion of cybersecurity practices within the banking industry can be
influenced by mimetic, normative, and coercive isomorphic forces (DiMaggio & Powell, 2013).
uncertainty and reduce risks. Banks may observe the cybersecurity practices of other successful
institutions and imitate them to gain legitimacy and competitive advantage. Normative
isomorphism refers to the adoption of practices due to professionalization and peer pressure. In
the banking industry, peer institutions can exert normative pressure on banks to adopt
when organizations comply with external pressures due to fear of penalties or sanctions.
Regulatory bodies can use coercive forces to enforce compliance with cybersecurity regulations,
This section provides an overview of the key measures employed by some banks in
Nigeria and their significance in mitigating risks and safeguarding customer data.
authentication (MFA). MFA requires users to provide multiple forms of identification, such as
(Chen & Zhao, 2016). By implementing MFA, this enhances the security of customer accounts,
significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access and protecting against identity theft and
fraudulent transactions.
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To secure online transactions and protect customer data during transmission, this method
utilizes Secure Socket Layer (SSL) encryption. SSL establishes an encrypted connection between
the user's device and the bank's server, ensuring that sensitive information, such as login
credentials and financial transactions, remains confidential and protected from interception
(Rescorla, 2000). By implementing SSL encryption, banks maintains the integrity of customer
barrier between bank's internal network and external networks, monitoring and filtering network
traffic based on predefined security rules (Sullivan & Liu, 2011). This safeguards against
unauthorized access and protects against various cyber threats, including hacking attempts,
malware attacks, and DDoS attacks. By implementing robust firewalls, banks fortifies its
systems, reducing the risk of data breaches and ensuring the confidentiality and availability of
customer information.
Bank also utilizes intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDPS) to proactively
monitor network traffic and identify potential security breaches. IDPS employs various detection
identify suspicious activities in real-time (Ji, 2019). This allows bank's security personnel to
promptly respond to potential threats, minimizing the impact and potential damage caused by
proactive security posture and safeguarding its systems and customer data. Furthermore, banks
places significant emphasis on employee cybersecurity awareness and training. Recognizing that
employees play a crucial role in maintaining a secure environment, the bank provides regular
29
training programs to educate its staff about emerging cyber threats, phishing scams, and best
awareness, banks enhances its overall security posture and reduces the likelihood of human error
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CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
The quantitative approach is a research method that focuses on the collection and analysis
of numerical data to uncover patterns, relationships, and trends in a systematic and objective
manner (Creswell & Creswell, 2017). In this study, the quantitative approach is suitable for
investigating the security measures employed by Nigerian banks and evaluating their
effectiveness in mitigating cyber threats. The quantitative approach is appropriate for this study
for several reasons. Firstly, it allows for the measurement and analysis of variables related to
through a structured survey questionnaire, the study can gather comprehensive information on
the types and frequency of cyber threats faced by banks, the key security practices employed, the
challenges faced, and the level of collaboration among banks. This approach enables the study to
provide a quantitative assessment of the current state of cybersecurity in the Nigerian banking
industry. Secondly, the quantitative approach facilitates statistical analysis, which allows for the
such as chi-square tests and correlation analysis, the study can explore the associations between
different security measures and their effectiveness in addressing cyber threats. This statistical
analysis provides objective evidence and allows for generalizations to be made about the larger
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In the context of this study, the quantitative approach is particularly suitable due to its
ability to provide numerical evidence and statistical insights into the effectiveness of
cybersecurity measures. The study aims to generate objective data that can inform decision-
making and guide improvements in the security practices of Nigerian banks. By quantifying the
frequency of cyber threats, identifying the prevalence of specific security measures, and
The population of this study consists of Information Technology (IT) security experts,
bank managers and directors within ten (ten) banks located in Ilorin metropolis. Ilorin, the capital
city of Kwara State in Nigeria, is home to several banks operating within its jurisdiction. The
selection of this population is based on their expertise and roles in ensuring the cybersecurity of
banks in the region. The IT security experts are professionals who specialize in implementing
and managing the security measures within the banking sector. They possess knowledge and
vulnerability management, and incident response. These experts are responsible for designing
and implementing robust security frameworks to safeguard banks' digital assets and sensitive
customer information. The managers within banks, on the other hand, hold key decision-making
positions and play a crucial role in overseeing and coordinating the implementation of
cybersecurity measures. They are responsible for setting security policies, allocating resources,
32
3.3 Sampling technique and Sample size
The sampling technique employed for this study will be a combination of stratified
random sampling and convenience sampling. In stratified random sampling, the population is
divided into different subgroups or strata based on specific characteristics. In this case, the
subgroups will be bank managers and directors, as well as IT security experts. Stratified random
sampling ensures that each subgroup is adequately represented in the sample, allowing for a
more accurate representation of the population. Within each stratum, a random selection of
participants will be made. For example, within the bank managers and directors stratum, a
random sample of 39 individuals will be selected. Similarly, within the IT security experts
stratum, a random sample of 53 individuals will be selected making a total sample size of 92.
The specific individuals to be included in the sample will be identified using convenience
sampling. This means that participants will be selected based on their availability and willingness
to participate in the study. The researchers will reach out to potential participants within the
target population, explain the purpose of the study, and request their voluntary participation.
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6 Keystone Bank 4 5
7 Access Bank 3 5
8 Ecobank Nigeria 4 5
9 Zenith Bank 5 4
10 Polaris Bank 4 5
Total 39 53
The research instrument for this study will be an online questionnaire administered to the
selected participants. The online questionnaire is a structured data collection tool that allows for
the efficient gathering of information from a large number of participants in a convenient and
standardized manner. The questionnaire will be designed to collect data on various aspects
related to cybersecurity measures employed by banks in Nigeria. It will include both closed-
ended and open-ended questions to gather quantitative and qualitative data, respectively. Closed-
ended questions will provide respondents with pre-determined response options, while open-
ended questions will allow participants to provide detailed explanations and insights.
The validity of the research instrument refers to the extent to which the instrument
measures what it intends to measure. In the context of this study, the validity of the online
questionnaire used to collect data on the cybersecurity measures employed by banks in Nigeria is
of utmost importance. Content validity will be use to ensure the validity of the research
instrument. Content validity refers to the extent to which the items in the questionnaire represent
the full range of concepts or dimensions that the study aims to measure. In other words, it
assesses whether the questionnaire includes relevant and comprehensive items that capture the
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Reliability is an essential aspect of ensuring the quality and consistency of the research
instrument used in this study. Reliability refers to the extent to which the instrument produces
consistent and stable results over time. In this study, test-retest method will be adopted to ensure
summarizing, and interpreting the collected data. In this study, the data collected through the
online questionnaire will be analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences
35
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