Protect your startup from legal trouble. Learn the top Nigerian cybercrime laws affecting tech companies, under the Cybercrimes Act 2015 and NDPR.
Cybercrime Risks in Nigeria: What Startups Must Watch Out For
As startups scale through digital tools—mobile apps, APIs, cloud platforms—they also become prime targets for cybercrime or even accidental perpetrators. Understanding the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 and related laws is crucial for legal survival.
Here’s what every Nigerian tech entrepreneur must know.
Key Provisions of the Cybercrimes Act 2015
- System Interference
- Unlawful access or tampering with another person’s system is punishable.
- Data Interference
- Deletion, alteration, or blocking of data without authorization is criminal.
- Identity Theft and Phishing
- Impersonation, fake online profiles, or social engineering tactics carry legal penalties.
- Cyberstalking
- Sending harmful messages or repeated unwanted communication online is criminalized.
- Fraudulent Electronic Payments
- Misuse of payment gateways or manipulation of transactions is illegal.
Penalties Under the Act
- Fines up to ₦7 million
- Imprisonment up to 10 years
- For corporations: shutdown, license withdrawal, and director liability
Startups and Legal Responsibility
Even if you don’t commit cybercrime, your platform users might. This creates vicarious liability if your startup:
- Fails to implement adequate safeguards
- Allows fraudulent activities to go unchecked
- Does not respond to takedown notices
Tips to Stay Compliant
- Include cybercrime disclaimers in your T&Cs
- Educate staff and users
- Report suspicious activity to the Nigerian Cybercrime Unit
- Consult legal experts to vet your platform design and data security measures
