Africa’s first female Professor of Computer Science, Adenike Osofisan, has advised Nigerians on multiple authentications to prevent them from falling victim to cyberattacks.
Osofisan gave the piece of advice in Ibadan on Tuesday at the maiden lecture of the Faculty of Science, Dominican University (DU), Ibadan.
Speaking on the topic, “The Monstrous Menace of Cyber Insecurity: Any Remedy for the Society”, she said cybersecurity was everyone’s responsibility.
The implications of cyberattacks, she said, were not only financial but inclusive of emotional trauma that could lead to serious health and mental conditions for victims.
According to her, Nigerians should avoid leaving behind digital footprints as they give out too much information on the internet to their detriment.
She noted the need for continuous education on cybersecurity as perpetrators won’t stop inventing new ways of defrauding people, including the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The don decried the attitude of greed and overambition, adding that the public should be circumspect when using emails and social media.
“You are vulnerable when you don’t use licensed software, and when you connect to free internet in public places.
“Do step two on WhatsApp because when you are attacked, you put other people at risk and make them vulnerable,” Osofisan said.
She urged organisations and individuals to engage in cybersecurity education and take proactive steps to minimise cyberattacks.
The Vice-Chancellor (VC) of the university, Prof. Dokun Oyeshola, represented by Adjunct Professor, Department of Management, DU, Prof. Nyifor Shenge, appreciated the organisers.
Oyeshola says the choice of the guest lecturer with the topic is apt, considering how cyber insecurity has been affecting Nigerians.
“It is a serious issue that can do more harm if we do not take proactive measures,” the VC said.
Earlier, the university’s acting Dean, Faculty of Science, Dr Shenge, underscored the importance of cybersecurity education to safeguarding individuals and organisations from incessant cyberattacks.
