Tanta Innovative Urges Robust Data Protection as Cybersecurity Threats Rise in Nigeria
In an era of increasing digitalization, where personal information is consistently accessible online through mobile transactions, social connections, and online applications, safeguarding data has never been more critical. Tanta Innovative, a leading indigenous IT firm based in Lagos, underscores the urgency for individuals, public sectors, and corporate entities to adopt stringent measures to protect sensitive information in the wake of escalating cybersecurity threats.
The ubiquity of security breaches, including Ransomware, Password Guessing, Recording Keystrokes, Phishing messages, and Malware/Viruses, highlights the need for comprehensive data protection. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Nigeria has established the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), led by Dr. Vincent Olatunji, the National Commissioner, which is dedicated to regulating and monitoring data usage in the country.
Abraham Esandayinze Tanta, CEO of Tanta Innovative Nigeria Limited, emphasized the growing threat of data breaches in Nigeria, citing alarming statistics from the first quarter of 2023, where over 82,000 accounts were exposed. Tanta highlighted the devastating consequences of such breaches, including reputational damage and loss of consumer trust.
Addressing the regulatory landscape, Tanta acknowledged Nigeria’s efforts to align with global best practices, pointing to the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) of 2019 and the more recent Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) of 2023. He stressed the importance of compliance with these regulations, emphasizing that data protection is not just a legal obligation but a crucial element for building consumer confidence.
Tanta outlined fundamental principles and rights enshrined in Nigeria’s data protection laws, focusing on consent, data minimization, transparency, and data subject rights. He explained the significance of these principles in building trust and empowering individuals.
The CEO also provided practical steps for businesses to ensure compliance with data protection laws, including appointing a Data Protection Officer, conducting a data audit, crafting transparent privacy policies, implementing secure data handling procedures, and ensuring ongoing staff training and awareness.
In conclusion, Tanta emphasized that safeguarding data privacy is foundational to building customer trust and sustaining success in today’s digital economy. Disregarding regulations exposes businesses to legal and financial repercussions, jeopardizes their reputation, and erodes consumer confidence.