Cybercrime and its Implications on the Economy of Nigeria

One of the tenets of globalization is the advancement of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) mainly achieved through computer interconnectivity enabled by the internet in a presumed market place known as cyber space where both buyers, sellers and users in the form of individuals, corporate bodies and government meet. These interconnectivity brought about economic opportunities and inclusion. One of the areas so developed is the e-commerce sector where communication and interactions in the form of transaction is hinged on instant exchange of information, goods and services but, as friendly as these interactions are, they are not without their consequences- Cybercrime is one which often comes with huge financial loss and economic impact. Nigeria in its quest to liberalize trade and digitalize its transactions adopted the use of emerging technologies and services to drive the change but the tools and methods used to enhance the transactions are oftentimes misused by cybercriminals to their benefit thereby causing huge financial losses for the victims and invariably impact negatively on the economy. This research reviewed some existing literature on the subject of cybercrime, and its manifestations within the financial sector while relying on the Social Learning Theory as the reason for the prevalence of cybercrime among youths. Data was drawn and questionnaires administered. Analysis was done using CHI square in the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The study, therefore, concluded that there is a significant relationship between Cybercrime and the Nigerian economy and that Cybercrime had impacted negatively on the growth and development of the digital economy, in particular, and the Nigerian economy at large. Finally, the study offers solutions on how the Internet can engage the various Internet-based platforms, particularly calling on institutions responsible for combating this crime to put every effort required to end this menace.