EFFECTIVENESS OF ENFORCEMENT OF THE CYBERCRIME ACT IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Cybercrimes refers to crimes committed by individuals using computers and internet. The advent of this technology has made communication and economic transactions easier. This research examines the effectiveness of enforcement of the cybercrime act in Nigeria. It discusses the nature, causes, and effects of cybercrime in Nigeria. It shows that the nature of cybercrime in Nigeria is continually evolving with the emergence of new technologies. The prevalence of cybercrime has also created a bad image for Nigeria amongst the committee of nations as one of the most corrupt nations in the world. This tarnished national image affects the way Nigerians are treated abroad with suspicion and extreme caution as Nigerians are stereotyped to be fraudsters and hence not to be trusted. This research further discusses the various statutes and institutions regulating cybercrime in Nigeria, and its effectiveness. Aside the Cybercrime Act, the various statutes and institutions are not perfectly effective. However, the Cybercrime Act has been effective in combating particularly internet-related fraud in Nigeria. As a result of the enacted Cybercrime Act 2015, Nigeria asserts of a legislation that is in place for the purpose of combating cybercrimes. However, the research identifies some challenges with the Cybercrime Act. Therefore, the research recommends that legislation relating to cybercrime must be enacted with much precision in order to deal effectively with the acts of the cybercriminals. Legislations on data protection should also be enacted. Data protection laws �prohibit the disclosure or misuse of information about private individuals. �

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urn:uuid:8cd34c91-ecb0-42a2-b2ae-11fbd1c5aea4