A socio-technological analysis of cybercrime and cyber security in Nigeria

The Global Information Infrastructure creates unlimited opportunities for commercial, social and other
human activities. However, it is increasingly under attack by cybercriminals; as the number, cost, and
sophistication of attacks are increasing at an alarming rate. This study sets out to examine the
sociological and technological factors that impact cybercrime and cybersecurity and thereby articulates
the relevant circumstances and threats of cybercrime in Nigeria. The study approached the issue of
cybercrime from theoretical and investigative points of views. Structured interviews with law
enforcement agencies and governmental institution for cyber security were also conducted. Data
obtained through these research instruments were subjected to descriptive analysis and frequency
counts in order to explain the activities of Nigerian cybercriminals based on existing theories of crime,
and to understand their intents, purposes and methods. Four theories of crime, namely, Structural
Functionalism Theory, Marxian Theory, Routine Activity Theory and Technology Enabled Crime Theory
were all found to be relevant to Nigerian cybercrime. At the level of existing laws, the study established
that there are no existing laws in the Nigerian statues that directly address cybercrime.