The United States government has apprehended six Nigerian nationals in connection with $6million cyber malpractice against its citizens.
US Secretary of State, Micheal Pompeo made this revelation in a statement available on the department of state’s website on Tuesday.
Pompeo noted that the financial malfeasance was perpetrated through the use of sensitive information and financial resources got through dubious means.
The six internet fraudsters are: Benson Orson, Kayode Abiola, Ogunshakin Alex, Okpoh Felix, Olorunyomi Micheal, Uzuh Richard.
Their names were also included in Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) specially designated nationals list, under the section of “cyber-related designation”.
The statement read in parts: “Technological advancements that provide greater interconnectivity also offer greater opportunity for exploitation by malicious actors who target at-risk Americans.
“ Today, in coordination with the US Department of Justice, the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control took action against six Nigerian nationals, pursuant to Executive Order 13694 as amended, for conducting an elaborate online scheme to steal more than $6 million from victims across the United States.”
According to the statement, the six Nigerians manipulated their victims to gain access to their sensitive information and financial resources.
He further revealed that the US will always frown at such gross misuse of technology.
“The U.S will use all of the tools at our disposal to defend the American citizens and businesses from malign actors that seek to target them, including cyber-enabled actors who prey on vulnerable Americans and businesses,” the statement added.
It would be recalled that Popular Nigerian “big boy” Raymond Igbalodely known as Hushpuppi was arrested in Dubai for allegedly hacking into the United States (US) unemployed database, defrauding citizens of millions meant to combat the Corona virus pandemic.
Interpol, while commenting on his arrest, said Hushpuppi case will be transferred to Nigeria to face alleged multiple fraud charges.