What to do if a loan app harasses you
Loan apps promise quick money but sometimes go too far. If a lender threatens you, shames you online, or shares your data, this short guide shows what to do now, who to report to, and what evidence helps your case.
At a glance
Quick answer: Report harassment to FCCPC and, if there are threats, to the police.
Key rights: Your data and privacy are protected under the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023.
Deadlines: Report as soon as possible and keep records. Prompt reporting improves outcomes.
Who to call: FCCPC — Consumer protection and digital lender oversight.
Step-by-step
1. Stay calm and document everything
Save screenshots of messages, call logs, emails, social media posts, and any app pages that show the harassment. Note numbers, dates, and times. Do not delete material even if it is upsetting.
2. Report the app to FCCPC
File a complaint with the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission. Include screenshots, the app name, the store link, and any bank details or transaction references. The FCCPC has powers to investigate and order takedowns.
3. Tell your bank and the app store
Contact your bank if the app debits your account, or if it accessed your bank details without consent. Ask about freezing or reversing authorisations. Report the app on Google Play or the Apple App Store for privacy violations and harassment.
4. Go to the police for threats, blackmail, or public shaming
If the app threatens you, publishes your photo, or tries to extort you, take your evidence to a cybercrime unit. Ask for a written incident or complaint number to include in later reports or legal action.
5. Get legal help if you need orders or compensation
A lawyer can seek a court order for the app to stop, ask for damages for defamation or breach of data protection law, and coordinate with FCCPC and NITDA for faster action.
If it escalates
- The loan company publishes your photos or messages online.
- You receive repeated threats of arrest or personal harm.
- Your bank account is debited without consent or you face threats of forced repayment.
If any of these happen, preserve evidence and contact both the police and a lawyer immediately.
Evidence and documents to collect
- Screenshots of messages, app pages, and social posts with timestamps.
- Call logs and phone numbers used by the lender.
- Bank statements showing unauthorised debits.
- Store page link on Google Play or Apple App Store.
- Any police or FCCPC complaint reference numbers.
Agencies and contacts
- FCCPC — Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission. Consumer complaints about illegal digital lenders and unfair practices.
- NITDA — National Information Technology Development Agency. Reports of data breach and privacy abuse.
- NPF Cybercrime Centre — For threats, blackmail, and cyber extortion. Visit your state command or the Abuja cyber unit.
Suggested contact text for WhatsApp or email:
“Hello 1st Attorneys, I need help. A loan app is harassing me and sharing my data. I have screenshots and bank statements.”
Common mistakes to avoid
- Paying under pressure just to make harassment stop. This does not prevent further abuse.
- Deleting messages or screenshots that later become your strongest evidence.
- Granting new permissions to the app or sharing more contacts.
- Posting heated replies publicly. Let the authorities handle it.
When to call a lawyer
- Your image or private messages are published or circulated.
- The app continues harassment after official reports.
- You want to seek damages or a court order to stop the app.
Quick checklist
- Save screenshots and call logs.
- Report to the FCCPC and NITDA.
- Notify your bank and report the app store listing.
- File a police complaint if there are threats or public shaming.
- Contact a lawyer for orders or compensation.