MTN Nigeria Partners with Whalebone to Deliver Network-Level Cybersecurity Protection to Millions of Subscribers
MTN Nigeria has partnered with cybersecurity company Whalebone to introduce Webguard, a network-level security solution designed to protect millions of subscribers from online threats including phishing websites, malicious links, and digital scams.
The partnership aims to strengthen cybersecurity protection for Nigerian mobile users by providing automatic security at the network level, eliminating the need for users to download additional applications or install security software on their devices.
Strengthening Digital Security in a Rapidly Growing Market
The collaboration comes as Nigeria and the wider Middle East and Africa (MEA) region experience rapid digital transformation.
Increasing smartphone adoption, wider mobile broadband coverage, and growing reliance on digital services such as mobile banking, e-commerce, and government platforms have created new opportunities for users while also increasing exposure to cyber threats.
According to Whalebone, the growth of online activity has been accompanied by more sophisticated cyber risks, including phishing campaigns, fraudulent websites, malicious domains, and online scams targeting mobile users.
The company said network-level cybersecurity provides an effective approach for markets where mobile networks serve as the main gateway to internet access.
How Webguard Protects MTN Nigeria Subscribers
Webguard operates through Domain Name System (DNS)-level protection, allowing threats to be detected and blocked before users access harmful websites.
The solution provides:
• Protection against phishing websites and malicious domains
• Blocking of known online scams and fraudulent platforms
• Automatic security without requiring app installation
• Protection across multiple devices connected to a subscriber’s plan
• Reduced impact on device storage and battery usage
Unlike traditional security tools that require users to download and configure applications, Webguard works directly through the telecom network, making cybersecurity protection easier and more accessible.
Addressing Cybersecurity Challenges for Mobile Users
Whalebone highlighted three major factors driving the need for network-based cybersecurity solutions in Africa.
Increasing Mobile-First Internet Usage
For many users across the region, mobile networks are the primary method of accessing the internet. Network-level protection allows telecom operators to provide security across a wide range of devices without requiring advanced technical knowledge from customers.
More Sophisticated Online Threats
Cybercriminals are increasingly developing localised scams and targeted attacks designed around regional trends and user behaviour. These threats can bypass traditional security approaches that focus only on individual devices.
Limited Adoption of Security Tools
Many users do not use dedicated cybersecurity applications because of cost, lack of awareness, or the complexity of installation. Network-level solutions help overcome these barriers by providing automatic protection.
A Long-Term Cybersecurity Partnership
MTN Nigeria and Whalebone described the collaboration as a long-term strategic initiative rather than a single product deployment.
Whalebone will support the service through:
• Technical deployment and onboarding
• Service optimisation
• Threat intelligence updates
• Customer engagement strategies
• Product bundling and growth initiatives
The goal is to make Webguard a sustainable part of MTN Nigeria’s digital service offering while helping customers browse the internet more safely.
Chioma Nwobu, Senior Manager, Rich Media Services at MTN, said the partnership supports the company’s commitment to creating a safer digital environment as more Nigerians depend on mobile connectivity for daily activities.
Expanding Cybersecurity Access Across Africa
Whalebone believes the MEA region has significant potential for network-level cybersecurity adoption due to increasing internet usage and growing cyber risks.
The partnership with MTN Nigeria represents a step toward expanding accessible cybersecurity solutions across Africa, helping telecom operators improve customer trust while enabling safer digital participation.
As online services continue to grow, telecom-led cybersecurity solutions are expected to become an important tool in protecting consumers and strengthening digital ecosystems.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Webguard by Whalebone?
Webguard is a network-level cybersecurity solution that protects users from malicious websites, phishing attempts, and online scams by blocking threats before they reach their devices.
2. Does Webguard require users to install an application?
No. Webguard works directly through the telecom network, meaning users do not need to download or install additional security software.
3. Who can benefit from MTN Nigeria’s Webguard service?
MTN Nigeria subscribers who use mobile internet services can benefit from the additional protection provided by Webguard.
4. How does network-level cybersecurity work?
Network-level cybersecurity analyses internet requests through the telecom network and blocks access to known malicious websites and harmful online destinations before users connect to them.
5. What types of online threats does Webguard protect against?
The service helps protect users from threats such as:
• Phishing websites
• Fake login pages
• Online scams
• Malicious domains
• Fraudulent websites
6. Will Webguard slow down internet speed?
Webguard is designed to provide security protection while maintaining normal internet usage performance through network-based threat detection.
7. Why is cybersecurity becoming more important in Nigeria?
As more Nigerians use mobile banking, online shopping, social media, and digital services, cybercriminals have more opportunities to target users, making stronger cybersecurity protection increasingly important.
8. How does Webguard benefit telecom operators?
For telecom operators, network-level cybersecurity helps improve customer trust, strengthen digital safety, differentiate services, and create opportunities for additional value-added offerings.
9. Why are telecom networks becoming important for cybersecurity?
Since many people access the internet primarily through mobile networks, telecom operators are well positioned to provide security protection at scale across millions of connected users.
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