MTN tackles identity fraud with new security number

Ben Uzor Jr

Mobile network operator, MTN has dealt a massive blow to identity fraud in Nigeria with the introduction of customer security number for the convenience of its over 42 million subscribers. The security number, according to the telecoms firm 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. Besides, Identity theft is when your personal details are stolen and identity fraud is when those details are used to commit fraud. Speaking at a media parley in Lagos recently, Akin Braithwaite, customer relations executive, MTN Nigeria, said that the MTN Security Number would open the door to a world of convenience and Do It Yourself (DIY) for MTN customers.

According to him, the newly introduced MTN Security Number would give customers full access to the firm’s entire service channels like Walk-in centres, Customer Care Help line 180, Web SelfService and My IVR-181, adding that it also affords customers security and protection from mobile fraud. It offers uniform authentication and unique identity on the MTN network. Braithwaite pointed out that the Security Number, which consists of 12 digits Identification number and 4 digits Security Key, totally unique and personal to each customer was already being forwarded to subscribers via SMS. He called on customers who have registered their SIMs but have not received notification of their MTN Security Number, to visit any MTN Walk-in Centre closest to them or call customer care toll free line – 180.

Braithwaite further added that upon verification of ownership of the customer’s SIM, the security number will be sent to the customer. The introduction of the number, he 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 “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. “We advise that customers change the last 4 digits or Security Key of their security number immediately they receive it by simply logging on to www.mtnonline.com to access the Web Self Service or visiting any MTN Walk in Centre closest to them.

Speaking in the same vein, Akinwale Goodluck, corporate services executive, MTN Nigeria, said it would attest to MTN’s commitment to leading innovation and customer satisfaction in the industry. “MTN will continue to invest and innovate in order to deliver world class information and communications technology services to Nigerians,” Goodluck said. He enjoined all MTN customers who were yet to register their SIMs to quickly do so to partake in the exciting benefits of the newly introduced MTN Security Number.