| Popis: |
Socio-economic development has been acknowledged globally as a key driver to sustainable livelihood for people in all nations of the world. Yet, socio-economic development is often constrained by numerous social problems particularly internet frau among youths. However, there seems to be different perceptions about the effects of youths’ involvement in internet fraud on the socio-economic development. This present study therefore investigated the socio-economic determinants of internet fraud involvement among youths in Southeast Nigeria. The study adopted the mixed methods research design, using a sample size five hundred and fifty (550) respondents, selected through the multi stage sampling procedure. Data for the study were collected through questionnaire distribution and In-depth Interview (IDI). Quantitative data were descriptively while the qualitative data were analysed using theme-based method of content analysis. Result of the study revealed that there were variations in the perception of the public regarding the effects of youths’ involvement in internet fraud and socio-economic development of Southeast Nigeria, with some people perceiving it as having some benefits for socio-economic development, while the majority of people perceive it as having negative effects on socio-economic development at the long-run. The study therefore recommended the need for the government to establish a special taskforce against internet fraud in each State of the Federation, which should be equipped with internet security experts who would be charged with the responsibility of tracking fraudulent activities in the internet, as well as detecting fraudulent websites and malwares used in conducting internet fraud activities. |
