Cybercrime Threats Demand Global Collaboration, Study Reveals

By Innocent Eneta,

…The Battle Against Cybercrime: Lessons from Nigeria’s Experience

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, cybercrime poses a formidable threat to economies, industries, and individuals. Dr. Chiji Longinus Ezeji, in his groundbreaking research “Disruptive Technology on the Cyberspace: The Contestation Between Criminal Justice System and Cybercriminals,” sheds light on Nigeria’s cybercrime challenges and their global implications.

Published in the Caleb International Journal of Development Studies, the study highlights Nigeria’s vulnerabilities while offering strategies that resonate universally. Ranked third globally in cybercrime prevalence, Nigeria reflects the shared risks facing both developing and developed nations. Techniques like phishing scams, ransomware, and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks underscore the urgency of bolstering cybersecurity worldwide.

A Wake-Up Call for the Digital Era

According to Dr. Ezeji’s findings, cybercrime is projected to cost the global economy $10.5 trillion annually by 2025. Nigeria’s own experiences with cyber fraud—costing its commercial banks ₦3.5 billion in three months in 2020—mirror the challenges facing global industries.

“Digital connectivity has revolutionised commerce, communication, and governance but also created opportunities for cybercriminals,” the study notes. In response, Dr. Ezeji advocates for proactive global collaboration, continuous legislative updates, and specialised training for law enforcement agencies.

The Socioeconomic Angle

Unemployment and economic hardships drive many Nigerian youths to cybercrime, popularly known as “Yahoo Yahoo.” This aligns with global patterns where socio-economic factors fuel digital fraud. “Combatting cybercrime means addressing its root causes by creating jobs and empowering youth with digital skills,” Dr. Ezeji argues.

The Human Factor and Awareness

The study also emphasises public awareness campaigns as vital to countering cyber threats. Educating individuals on safe online practices, such as avoiding suspicious links and using two-factor authentication, can mitigate risks. Stronger partnerships between governments and the private sector are crucial to building resilient digital ecosystems.

A Global Mandate

Dr. Ezeji’s research underscores that Nigeria’s battle against cybercrime holds lessons for the global community. From advanced forensic capabilities to international intelligence-sharing, collective action is critical. “The fight against cybercrime is a shared responsibility,” he concludes.

As cyber threats evolve with emerging technologies like AI and blockchain, nations must act decisively. Nigeria’s experience serves as a blueprint, urging the global community to invest in cybersecurity, foster innovation, and collaborate across borders to safeguard a digitally connected future.