NCC Warns Against Call Masking as Economic Sabotage

The Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC) has raised alarms regarding the resurgence of call masking in Nigeria, labeling it as economic sabotage that poses significant risks to the telecommunications ecosystem. Call masking involves concealing the true identity or originating number of calls, undermining legitimate operations and distorting industry revenues.

This warning was issued in a communiqué following the 110th meeting of the NCC Board, signed by the Commission’s Director of Public Affairs, Nnenna Ukoha. The NCC emphasized that the practice could adversely affect the national economy and stated its commitment to collaborating with security and law enforcement agencies to identify and eliminate call masking activities.

The NCC is also enhancing its regulatory technology infrastructure, with the Device Management System (DMS) now operational and the Telecommunications Identity Risk Management System (TIRMS) set to launch in October 2026. These initiatives aim to strengthen the management of telecommunications identities and devices, ensuring the sector's security and resilience in supporting Nigeria's digital economy.