…warn against spreading false information
By Gloria Ikibah
Access Bank Plc has dismissed as false and misleading a viral message circulating on social media and WhatsApp claiming that the bank has shut down operations, assuring customers and stakeholders that it remains financially strong and fully operational. 
In a disclaimer issued on Friday, the bank said the message, which falsely impersonates its official communication channels, was deliberately designed to mislead the public and create unnecessary panic.
The bank reassured customers that all its branches and subsidiaries remain open for business, with banking services continuing without disruption.
“A message impersonating Access Bank’s official handle is currently circulating on social media and WhatsApp. It is false and misleading.
“We wish to reassure our customers, partners, stakeholders, and the public that Access Bank is safe, financially strong, and fully operational across all our subsidiaries. Our services continue to run seamlessly, and we remain committed to serving our customers with the highest standards of excellence”, the statement read.
The management said it had commenced efforts with security and regulatory agencies to trace those behind the false publication, warning that those responsible would face legal consequences.
“We are working closely with the relevant regulatory and law enforcement authorities to identify those responsible for creating and spreading this false information to cause panic and business disruption. Appropriate legal action will be taken in accordance with applicable laws and regulations”, it stated.
Access Bank also reminded the public that the deliberate creation and dissemination of false information capable of causing public alarm or undermining confidence in institutions is a criminal offence under Nigeria’s cybercrime laws.
“We also remind members of the public that creating, publishing, and disseminating false information capable of causing public alarm, damaging reputations, or undermining confidence in institutions constitutes an offence under Section 24 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024”, it added.
The bank urged customers and the general public to disregard the viral message and avoid forwarding unverified information, advising them to rely only on updates issued through its official and verified communication channels.
The management expressed appreciation to customers, partners and other stakeholders for their continued confidence in the institution.
“If you receive a false and misleading message, please do not share or forward it. Instead, disregard it and rely only on information communicated through Access Bank’s official and verified channels.
“We thank our customers, partners, and stakeholders for their continued trust and confidence in Access Bank”, the statement further read.
