ASSESSMENT OF PUBLIC PERCEPTION OF INTERNET FRAUD AMONG RESIDENTS OF DELTA STATE, NIGERIA
Samson Akpovie Godwin, Abdullahi N. Liman, PhD and Usman David
Volume 5 Issue 2
Abstract
This study investigates public perceptions of internet fraud among residents of Delta State, Nigeria, contextualizing it within socio-economic, cultural, and national security frameworks. Utilizing interdisciplinary perspectives, the research explores how societal attitudes, structural inequities, and systemic failures sustain internet fraud, locally termed “Yahoo Yahoo.” The findings reveal that socio-economic hardship, cultural normalization of fraud, and weak enforcement mechanisms contribute significantly to the prevalence of cybercrime. Furthermore, public perceptions, shaped by individual and communal experiences, mediate societal responses and policy effectiveness. The study concludes that internet fraud poses not only economic risks but also profound socio-cultural and security challenges, eroding trust, societal values, and Nigeria’s global reputation. Recommendations emphasize strengthening cybersecurity frameworks, fostering economic empowerment, enhancing community engagement, and international collaboration to mitigate the menace. This holistic approach addresses the socio-technical ecosystem sustaining cybercrime, offering pathways for sustainable intervention. Keywords: Internet Fraud, Cybercrime, Public Perception, Socio-Economic Inequality, Cybersecurity.
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