The introduction of the
four-digit security number for network protection in Nigeria by the MTN could be a proof that their is the possibility of controlling e-communications in Nigeria. The State Security Agency should find a way of exploiting such a technological advancement to fight the use of phones and The Internet, in scamming, stealing and Kidnapping operations that has rendered Nigerian image unworthy of a giant that she should have been. Here is the presentation of the
four-digit security number for network protection.
TELECOMMUNICATIONS
firm, MTN Nigeria, has provided its over 43 million subscribers a
four-digit security number for network protection.The four digit
security number, according to MTN is aimed at significantly improving
customer experience on the MTN network by empowering customers to
resolve most of their issues using a number of avenues, including
telephone and the internet.Beside, the security number will also protect subscribers on the network against mobile fraud.Speaking
in Lagos yesterday at a press conference to intimate the public about
the initiative, the General Manager, Corporate Communication, MTN
Nigeria, Funmi Omogbenigun, stressed that the security number is an
existing initiative, associated with phone lines, launched during the
customer week to demonstrate that MTN subscribers are important.Giving
more insight into the initiative, MTN Nigeria Customer Relations
Executive, Akin Braithwaite, said the number offers security and
protection from mobile fraud while providing a distinctive identity on
the network.Braithwaite declared that over the years, the
telecommunications company has got cases of identity theft, where
fraudulent act are being carried out with a customer’s MTN SIM, “for
this reason MTN came up with the security number strategy.“The
security number is simple and difficult. It is simple in the sense that
is made up of the Customer ID of 12 digits and the secret number of four
digits. It is difficult because you must have the combination of both
to break into my phone.”He explained that the numbers are very
important, hence, “subscribers must not disclosed it to anyone as MTN
would not be held responsible for any loss resulting from the disclosure
of the security number” he stated.Braithwaite said that MTN
would send the security number via short message service (SMS) and
electronic mail (email), where email is available to all registered
subscribers.The introduction of the number, Braithwaite said, was
another first by MTN in the industry, adding that although the service
was conceived a while ago, the process and system needed time to be
designed, developed and tested to be error-proof to ensure a smooth
implementation.The security number according to him “is very
important and customers must protect it, keep it private and not
disclose it to anyone. MTN Nigeria he added will not be held liable for
any loss or damage resulting from the disclosure of the number to third
parties.”The MTN Customer Relation Executive advised registered
subscribers who have not received the security number to visit the
Walk-in centres, web services or call customer care line on 180.
Source: The Guardian
”The truth might be hard to say, painful to bear or even drastic for the truth sayer but still needed to be said”. ALISON.
