Hackers breach Zenith Bank database, customer contact details exposed
Zenith Bank has confirmed that hackers breached part of its database, exposing limited customer information in a cyberattack.
In an email sent to customers on Tuesday, the bank said the attackers gained access to some customer details, including email addresses and phone numbers, as part of a wider global cyberattack targeting organisations across different sectors.
The bank, however, assured customers that its core banking systems and digital services were not compromised.
According to Zenith Bank, the breach affected only limited customer information, while its banking operations, mobile app and other digital channels remain secure and fully functional.
The bank said it immediately activated its cybersecurity and incident response procedures after detecting the breach and has begun investigating the incident.
As a precaution, Zenith Bank advised customers to be alert for phishing emails, text messages and phone calls from fraudsters attempting to exploit the situation.
It reminded customers never to share sensitive information such as passwords, PINs, One-Time Passwords (OTPs) or other security credentials with anyone.
The bank reaffirmed its commitment to protecting customer information and thanked customers for their continued confidence, adding that investigations into the cyberattack are still ongoing.
The incident comes nearly two years after Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) experienced a cyberattack in August 2024. At the time, the bank said hackers attempted to compromise its website domain but insisted that customers’ funds and data were not affected.
It also follows repeated warnings from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) about cybercriminals circulating fake emails and messages designed to trick Nigerians into revealing personal and banking information. The apex bank had cautioned the public against clicking suspicious links or responding to fraudulent messages falsely claiming to be from the CBN.
