The Internet Users and Cybercrime in Ghana: Evidence from Senior High School in Brong Ahafo Region

Authors

Kwaku Anhwere Barfi Mr., University of Cape CoastFollow
Paul Nyagorme Dr., University of Cape CoastFollow
Nash Yeboah Mr., Sunyani Senior High SchoolFollow

Date of this Version

2018

Document Type

Article

Citation

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Abstract

Cybercrime, an offence that is committed against individuals through the internet has bedeviled the global online industry. Cybercrime is also criminal activity using internet facilities such as virus infections, identity theft and hacking. There is high risk of becoming a victim especially young internet user. All efforts to combat it have not worked much. The study examined the awareness of Senior High School students towards cybercrime in order to suggest policies to deal with this menace. The study underpinned by social strain theory. The study employed descriptive survey design. Simple sampling technique was used to select 200 students from Sunyani Senior High School. Questionnaire was used in eliciting responses. The study revealed that the major forms of cybercrime were hacking, credit card fraud, software piracy and cyber identity theft. Again, the study indicated that the major consequences involved in engaging in cybercrime are inimical to the progress and development of a country and tarnishing the country reputation. Gender had no significant influence on the knowledge of students towards cybercrime. We recommended that cybercrime court should be established in Ghana to speed up prosecution of cybercriminals and encourage more judges and lawyers to specialize in cyber law.