SOCIOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION OF FACTORS DRIVING CYBERCRIME AMONG UNDERGRADUATES WITH SEVERE IMPLICATION IN THE EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM IN NIGERIA

 

Falusi W. Peace¹*, Matthew E. Egharevba², Tayo O. George³

¹Mr., Department of Sociology, Covenant University, NIGERIA, wunmi.falusipgs@stu.cu.edu.ng

²Prof., Department of Sociology, Covenant University, NIGERIA, matthew.egharevba@covenantuniversity.edu.ng

³Prof., Department of Sociology, Covenant University, NIGERIA, tayo.george@covenantuniversity.edu.ng

*Corresponding Author

 

 

Abstract

The trend in crime participation in recent times revolves around the use of information communication technology (ICT) for its perpetuation. This development has resulted in different types of vices, including cyber-crime. The problem of cyber-crime today in Nigeria has taken root and has become pervasive among undergraduates with severe implication in the Educational System in Nigeria. The theory used for this study is Neutralization theory. The study adopted a survey design and data gathered was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tools. The findings of this study identified the idea of get rich quick, bad parenting, peer influence, dishonesty, poor moral values, and family pressure as major factors driving undergraduates’ involvement in cybercrime. Furthermore, it was also discovered that cybercrime has a negative impact on the nation’s image and educational system in Nigeria. The study recommended that there should be increased internet security to help protect data, proper awareness about cybercrime should be implemented and also, government should put in place strict penalties on offenders as this would help curb the desire for undergraduate involvement in cyber-crime.

Keywords:  Cybercrime, youths, involvement, undergraduates, perception, education.