Experts in technology and innovation say Nigeria needs stronger enforcement and improved capacity within law enforcement to deal with internet fraud.

They stated this in an interview in Abuja.

Jide Awe, a science, technology and innovation policy advisor and founder of Jidaw.com, said this would help address the challenges in the sector.

Mr Awe said prosecuting criminals and recovering stolen money would assist in sending the right message.

He said there was a corresponding need to raise public awareness about the risks of internet fraud and take steps to bolster cyber security and secure data as digital adoption grows.

Mr Awe stated, “Many people still fall victim to internet scams because they are simply not aware of the risks of internet fraud. The poor level of public awareness is another factor.

“As digital adoption grows, there is a corresponding need to raise public awareness about the risks of internet fraud and to take steps to bolster cyber security and secure data.”

He added, “Public awareness and learning must be ongoing, as new threats continue to emerge and cybercriminals constantly develop new ways to commit fraud.”

Mr Awe explained that tough economic conditions could contribute to internet fraud, adding that when people struggle to make ends meet, they become more vulnerable to scams that promise easy money.

According to Mr Awe, increased internet access is a major contributor to internet fraud. 

“The dramatic rise in the number of people with internet access has consequently led to an increase in potential victims of internet fraudsters,” he stressed. “The COVID-19 pandemic also forced people to spend more time online, thereby making them more susceptible to scams. Closely related to this is the heightened use of online banking and payments, rendering people more vulnerable to fraudsters who can steal their personal and financial information.”

Mr Awe pointed out that as for internet fraudsters, “some of them turn to fraud as a way to make money due to the harsh economic climate, lack of job opportunities, and prevailing socio-economic inequalities.”

Tinuola Popoola, a system analyst and cyber safety advocate, said internet fraud was on the rise due to unfavourable economic policies that were not encouraging the growth of small businesses.

Mr Popoola said, “Poor economic state of the country, high rate of poverty among citizens, unemployment, lack of financial education and money management knowledge for youth can cause fraud.

“Greed and peer pressure effect (wanting to be like their mates) can also contribute to internet fraud among others.” 

(NAN)