FCCPC to Block Loan Apps That Harass Customers

 The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has announced plans to block loan apps that harass their customers.

 This move comes after numerous complaints from Nigerians who have been subjected to harassment by these loan apps, often referred to as "loan sharks."

According to the FCCPC's acting chairman, Adamu Abdullahi, the agency has started taking action to address the issue. 

"The days of online platforms, known as loan sharks, where Nigerians access quick money to solve urgent issues, will soon be history," Abdullahi stated in an interview with the BBC.

This development follows the Nigeria Data Protection Commission's (NDPC) investigation into over 400 cases of privacy breaches involving online loan apps in March. 

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The NDPC found that loan apps are "overly intrusive" and violate data protection and privacy principles by accessing customers' contacts, pictures, messages, and other personal information.

 The commission is seeking a ban or restriction on mobile numbers used by lenders to breach customer privacy.

The FCCPC's move aims to protect Nigerians from the harassment and privacy violations perpetrated by these loan apps.

 By blocking these apps, the commission hopes to create a safer and more secure environment for consumers.