OPay, a major Nigerian fintech firm, has launched two security tools, Emergency Lock and Safety PIN, to provide users with direct control over their assets during emergencies. These additions are part of the company’s efforts to mitigate risks related to phone theft, unauthorized access, and forced financial transactions.
The Emergency Lock function lets users instantly freeze their accounts with one tap. Once activated, the account remains restricted for 24 hours, blocking all outgoing payments, transfers, and card transactions. This freeze is absolute and cannot be reversed by the user or customer support until the time expires, ensuring funds remain secure.
The Safety PIN feature offers a more discreet layer of protection. If a user is coerced into making a transaction, they can input this specific PIN to trigger an automatic 24-hour account freeze. This silent mechanism allows individuals to secure their finances without escalating dangerous encounters.
Dotun Adekunle, COO and CTO of OPay, noted that these tools were built to solve practical safety issues faced by Nigerians. He emphasized that financial services must prioritize user confidence and security as digital payments become more widespread.
Customers can activate these features via the Security Centre within the OPay application. Since its 2018 inception, OPay has operated as a CBN-licensed institution, providing various digital payment services while maintaining NDIC insurance coverage.
