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Accept Cookies: A Threat to Online Safety
By Zulaiha Danjuma
Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) ensures online safety by promoting digital literacy, governance, and security. But what about “Accept Cookies”?
2024 internet usage statistics in Nigeria
We’ve all been there – scrolling through our favorite website or app, only to be interrupted by a seemingly innocuous pop-up: “Accept Cookies?”
Most of us mindlessly click “Accept” to access the content we want. But have you ever stopped to think about what you’re really accepting?
KANO FOCUS reports, cookies are small files that websites store on your device, tracking your online activities, from the websites you visit to your search queries.
But that’s not all – these files can also store your personal data, leaving you vulnerable to targeted advertising, data breaches, and even identity theft.
Types an Uses of cookies
In today’s digital landscape, the internet is filled with users seeking information, entertainment, and connection. Meanwhile, companies and individuals are increasingly tracking and analyzing the online activities of these users, gathering valuable data and insights.
Virtually every online platform, from banking and financial apps to social media, news websites, gaming sites, and e-commerce platforms, rely on cookies to function.
As a result, it’s almost impossible for internet users to browse the web without encountering the ubiquitous ‘Accept Cookies’ pop-ups.
While cookies offer several benefits, such as enhanced user experience and personalized content, they also raise significant concerns regarding user privacy and security. These concerns have sparked intense debate and scrutiny.
Data Breaches in Nigeria (2022-2023)
Despite their widespread presence, many online users underestimate the impact of “Cookies” on user privacy.
Several individuals shared their perspectives
“I always accept ‘Cookies’ without really thinking about it,” says Hadiza Musa Yusuf. “If I don’t accept them, I can’t access the sites I want.”
Sa’adatu Auwal admitted to routinely accepting cookies without much thought: “It never crossed my mind. I just see them as a means to access the webpage I need.”
Abduljabar AbdulSalam Ibrahim views cookies as mutual agreements between users and websites: “I accept them, but not always. It’s an agreement between a user and the site visited.”
Aishatu Abdullahi Muhammad acknowledges potential risks: “Accepting cookies can be dangerous. Some websites aren’t legitimate.”
Adam Ismail exercises caution: “I only accept cookies on trusted sites.”
Hussaini Ibrahim Sulaiman said he rarely accepts cookies.
These diverse perspectives highlight varying levels of awareness and concern regarding cookies and online privacy.
Cookie Usage Statistics
Expert Insight
KANO FOCUS reached out to Nigeria’s Country Representative for West Africa ICT Action Network, Ms. Amina Ibrahim Idris, a professional in data protection and cybersecurity. She explained that automatically accepting cookies undermines user data, privacy, and digital security.
Understanding the hidden dangers to online tracking
“Some risks include tracking and profiling, cookies tracking users’ activities online, creating profiles used for targeted advertising,” she said.
Ms. Amina added that data breaches can occur from accepting cookies indiscriminately: “By clicking ‘Accept Cookies,’ some sites might save login credentials and data, compromising user data in case of a breach.”
NDPC figures on data breaches in Nigeria
According to Ms. Amina, cookies can collect specific user data, including:
IP addresses, revealing geographic locations, frequently visited websites indicating interests, Real names, physical addresses, contact information, Browser types and operating system details Geo-location data and GPS coordinates.
Malicious cookies can target vulnerable devices, injecting malware and viruses, and facilitate phishing attacks.
:Prevalence of Cyber Attack in Nigeria
The Cambridge Analytica scandal exposed how third-party cookies harvested Facebook users’ data without consent, influencing the 2016 US presidential election. This breach affected 87 million users.
Google faced a $170 million settlement for violating cookie tracking regulations. The search giant allowed advertisers to track users’ browsing habits despite opting out.
These incidents are not secluded to big tech giants. In Nigeria, MoMo Payment Service Bank had a data breach incident in 2022 resulting in losses worth $53 million. While, Patricia a fintech company suffered a cyber attack also in 2022, resulting in losses worth $2 million.
MoMo and Patricia data breach losses
Users’ Inability to Read Cookie Policies
Ms. Amina notes: “Cookie Policies are usually tiny and long. Users quickly accept cookies without knowing what they entail.”
To address this, Digital Public Infrastructure initiatives promote:
Digital literacy programs educating users about online safety. Regulatory frameworks like General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) and California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), ensures companies protect user data Security guidelines for safe browsing practices
Protect Yourself:
1. Read cookie policies carefully to understand data collection.
2. Utilize browser extensions like u-Block-Origin, Ghostary, and Cookie Auto-Delete to block tracking cookies.
3. Adopt alternative authentication methods, such as Token-based authentication like JSON Web tokens, Smart cards and Biometric authentication.
In the words of Ms. Amina; Companies should align policies with GDPR and CCPA, providing transparent control over user data.
By understanding cookies and DPI, you can make informed decisions.
This story is produced under the Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) Fellowship of the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) and Co-Develop in partnership with Kano Focus online Newspaper.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The management of Bayero University, Kano (BUK) has commenced a preliminary investigation into allegations linking a person reportedly identified as one of its students to acts of online impersonation and financial misconduct circulating on social media.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs, Lamara Garba, on behalf of the Registrar, the university said it had taken note of the claims being discussed in public commentary and across various online platforms.
The statement noted that BUK maintains strict standards of conduct, discipline, and character for all students throughout the duration of their studies, adding that any behaviour capable of bringing the name and reputation of the institution into disrepute is treated with the utmost seriousness.
According to the university, the alleged actions of an individual student should not be seen as a reflection of the values or character of Bayero University Kano as an institution.
“In view of the allegations, the University has commenced a preliminary inquiry to ascertain the facts surrounding the matter. The appropriate University authorities are reviewing the issue in line with the institution’s established rules and disciplinary procedures governing students’ conduct,” the statement said.
The management also commended the public-spirited efforts of Professor Farooq Kperogi and other individuals who provide financial assistance to students in need, particularly by supporting registration fees and other educational expenses.
The university noted that such acts of generosity continue to play an important role in expanding access to education and supporting deserving students.
BUK assured members of the public that if the allegations are substantiated, appropriate disciplinary measures will be taken in accordance with the university’s regulations and relevant laws.
The institution also urged the public to allow the investigative process to run its course and to refrain from speculation or the spread of unverified information.
Ibrahim Khalil
The Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has relieved the State Head of Service, Alhaji Abdullahi Musa, of his appointment with immediate effect.
KANO FOCUS reports that the development was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday evening by the Director-General, Media and Publicity, Government House Kano, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.
According to the statement, the decision forms part of the ongoing efforts of the current administration to reposition the state civil service for greater efficiency, discipline, and improved service delivery across government institutions.
Governor Yusuf expressed appreciation to the outgoing Head of Service for his contributions and dedication to the service of Kano State during his tenure.
“We wish him the best in his future endeavours and pray for his continued success in all aspects of life,” the governor said.
The governor also directed that Hajiya Bilkisu Shehu Maimota, Permanent Secretary, Administration and General Services at the Cabinet Office, should serve as Acting Head of Service pending the appointment of a substantive replacement.
The statement further directed the outgoing Head of Service to hand over the affairs of the office to the acting Head of Service no later than Wednesday, March 11, 2026.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The Board Chairman of Belraados Limited and Kano State Chairman of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Dr. Goni Faruk Umar, on Saturday met with the former President of Brazil, Mr. Michel Temer, during the opening dinner of the 26th Expodireto Cotrijal in Brazil.
KANO FOCUS reports that Dr. Umar was seen exchanging a handshake with the former Brazilian leader at the event held in Não-Me-Toque, a city in the southern part of Brazil hosting the annual international agribusiness exhibition.
The Expodireto Cotrijal is one of the largest agricultural trade fairs in Latin America, attracting policymakers, agribusiness investors, researchers and stakeholders from across the globe to discuss innovations and opportunities in the agricultural sector.
Participants at the event are expected to explore partnerships and share ideas aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and strengthening international cooperation in agribusiness.
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