Artificial intelligence is transforming scams in Africa, particularly in Nigeria, where AI-powered fraud is causing massive financial losses in 2025.
Criminals use AI to create convincing fake websites, deepfake videos, voice clones, and even AI-generated job offers to trick people. Below is a detailed look at notable examples and practical advice on protecting yourself from these scammers.
Nigerian AI scams grow with digital economy
Nigeria’s digital market is booming, with internet users and e-commerce adoption climbing rapidly.
However, this growth comes alongside a surge in AI-enabled cybercrime, which is reshaping the criminal landscape.
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Microsoft Nigeria’s Managing Director, Ola Williams, said, “AI technology is giving cybercriminals the tools to create incredibly deceptive scams.”
Fraudsters employ AI to generate fake product reviews, deepfake videos, and even automated chatbots that imitate genuine sellers to deceive consumers.
A recent real case involves a French broadcaster who lost her life savings of €830,000 to a Nigerian scammer impersonating American actor Brad Pitt using AI-produced photos and videos.
INTERPOL’s 2025 Cyberthreat Report reveals Nigeria as a significant origin point for AI scams like romance fraud, business email compromise, and sextortion based on AI-generated images.
Law enforcement in Nigeria struggles to keep pace due to limited AI-specific laws and training, leaving many victims without justice.
AI job and e-commerce scams on the rise
AI is used to create fake job listings and profiles, including automated AI interviews that seem real but are scams.
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has issued warnings as victims prey on these offers.
E-commerce fraud escalates as cybercriminals set up AI-generated fake online stores within minutes.
These sites look genuine with realistic product descriptions, images, and customer reviews created by AI.
AI chatbots prolong interactions to avoid refunds while manipulating complaints with scripted excuses.
Experts warn that AI deepfakes add new layers of danger. Fraudsters clone voices or create fake video calls, convincing victims to transfer funds urgently, often posing as family members or business executives. This level of sophistication challenges even vigilant individuals.
Simple strategies to avoid AI scams
- Verify suspicious requests directly with the person through trusted means like calling a known phone number.
- Inspect sender emails and website URLs for subtle spelling mistakes or irregularities.
- Don’t click on unsolicited links or download unknown attachments.
- Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication everywhere possible.
- Be wary of urgent money requests or offers that sound too good.
- Stay informed about new AI scam tactics via trusted news and government advisories.
Africa is witnessing a sharp rise in AI-fueled scams that exploit trust and digital growth. By understanding these risks and adopting vigilant habits, individuals and businesses can protect their money, identities, and digital lives from AI-generated fraud. Being cautious today is the best defence against falling victim to these increasingly realistic AI-powered scams.