Online loan offer: warning signs and what to do
What to do
Do not pay any "processing", "file" or "stamp" fee to receive a loan. Licensed lenders deduct charges from the loan; scammers ask you to pay first. Do not send photos of your NID or give access to your contacts.
Warning signs
- Offers a loan.
- Loan against only an NID, with no collateral.
- Promises a loan within minutes or hours.
- Asks for a fee before paying out (processing, file, stamp, insurance or registration).
- Threatens to message your contacts or spread edited photos, or asks for access to your contact list.
How this scam has played out
Loan apps that harass borrowers and their contacts
Nigeria's consumer protection commission issued digital-lending rules in 2025 after complaints of harassment, defamation and data-privacy violations by loan apps that message a borrower's contacts. Apps that ask for access to your contact list can do the same.
Source: FCCPC Nigeria (Sep 2025)
Where to check
- MRA licensed microfinance institutions
- Bangladesh Bank: banks and finance companies
- IDRA licensed insurers
Received a message or offer like this? Check it before you pay.
Check it nowHelp and helplines
- National emergency 999
- Police Cyber Support for Women 01320-000888
- Visa check for Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia (Ami Probashi, paid) 16768
This guide is a warning about a pattern; it does not accuse any particular person or organisation.