Steer away from internet fraud, EFCC boss charges youths

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has charged youths across the country to tread the path of integrity for a secure future.

The EFCC boss gave the advice in Port Harcourt, while addressing the youth and teenagers during a conference organised by the Organisation of African Instituted Churches, Rivers State Chapter.

A statement by the EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, on Thursday in Abuja, said Olukoyede, spoke through James Hosea, Deputy Superintendent, EFCC, on Tuesday on the topic: “Internet Fraud Dangers, Consequences and Godly Alternative.”

He described internet fraud as the use of internet, computers, mobile phones or social media to deceive people for financial gains.

Olukoyede exposed the inherent dangers and their consequences on the future of the youthful fraudsters, noting that righteous alternatives to internet fraud were available to young persons.

He said internet crimes include; fake online investments, romance scams, identity theft, social media impersonation, online shopping scams, cryptocurrency scams, fake giveaways and fraudulent job offers.

The dangers, he said, include, arrest, prosecution, conviction, imprisonment and possibly asset forfeiture.

“All you have laboured for will be taken away,” Olukoyede stated.

He also noted that peer pressure and the desire to get rich quickly were the strongest motivations of youths in their involvement in internet fraud.

“Many young people want quick results without process. They want a car before career; comfortable lifestyle before they labour. They want rewards before work.

“Unfortunately, life does not work that way. Success without process rarely lasts. Peer pressure also leads some into committing internet crimes,” he said.

The EFCC boss called on the youth as followers of Christ to stand apart and demonstrate integrity in all they do.

“God created every young person with unique gifts, talents and a purpose. He did not create us to live by deception or dishonesty, but to be lights in our generation.

“Instead of using technology to scam people, use it to create value and be responsible citizens by learning useful skills and contributing meaningfully to the growth of the economy,” he said.

Olukoyede further urged the youth “to choose their friends wisely, avoid get-rich-quick schemes, develop marketable skills, and seek mentors that have integrity.”