Stanbic IBTC Warns Public About Fake WhatsApp Investment Ads Featuring CEO Image
By Aboki Forex —
Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc has disowned social media advertisements that ask the public to join WhatsApp groups for investment opportunities with “guaranteed returns” in “high-quality stocks.”
The financial services group said in a regulatory filing on Wednesday that the ads are fraudulent, false and unauthorised.
The announcement came after fake posts circulated online featuring the image of Busola Jejelowo, the CEO of Stanbic IBTC Asset Management Limited, alongside the Stanbic IBTC Stockbrokers logo.
“They do not originate from Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC or any of its subsidiaries, and they have not been approved, endorsed, or issued by the group in any form,” the company stated.
“The use of our name, logo, brand identity, and the images of our executives in these materials is fraudulent and intended to deceive unsuspecting individuals,” it added.
SEC notified, victims urged to contact police
Stanbic IBTC disclosed that it has already reported the fraudulent activity to the Securities and Exchange Commission of Nigeria.
It advised anyone who has fallen victim, made payments, or shared personal or financial information to report the matter immediately to the nearest law enforcement agency.
The company urged the public to be cautious of unauthorised communications from people claiming to be associated with Stanbic IBTC, especially those involving investments and promises of financial returns.
“Such messages should be treated as suspicious unless independently verified through our official channels,” Stanbic IBTC Holdings stated.
“For authentic and verified information about Stanbic IBTC and its products and services, please rely only on our official communication platforms, including @StanbicIBTC on Facebook, LinkedIn, X (Twitter), Instagram, and YouTube.”
Stanbic IBTC reaffirmed its commitment to taking all appropriate steps to protect its brand and customers from fraudulent and deceptive activities.