Trends, Patterns and Consequences of Cybercrime in Nigeria

Abstract

Advancement in information and communication technology (ICT) has created room for the emergence of cybercrime. Access to computers, the internet and security vulnerabilities in cyberspace have made the perpetration of cyber-related crimes more pervasive. The advent of mobile phones and other computer devices in Nigeria and the provision of internet services by accredited Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) providers has endeared the internet to many Nigerians. Unfortunately, several functionalities of web browsers are vulnerable to cyber[1]attacks, thereby exposing internet users to cybercrime victimization. While several crimes are daily committed through the internet, many Africans and indeed, Nigerians, are yet to develop adequate technical capacity and knowledge to mitigate cyber criminality. Cybercrimes in Nigeria are executed through identity theft, hacking, phishing, software piracy, etc. This paper examined the trends, patterns and consequences of cybercrime in Nigeria. Relying on secondary data sources, the paper noted that successive Nigerian governments have attempted to combat cybercrime through the promulgation and deployment of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015. The Nigerian police and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have waged continuous war against cybercriminals by arresting and prosecuting many suspects. However, despite government’s efforts, consistent tactic updates and changes in strategies have frustrated the apprehension of many cybercriminals. The paper recommends constant training and retraining of law enforcement agents to tackle the menace. Internet users should secure their computer system by enabling firewalls, guarding against revealing personal details, and ignoring emails requesting them to verify their information or confirm username ID or password.