Document Type : Original Article

Author

• Damilola John Akinsanya

Nigerian Bar Association, University of Ibadan

Abstract

The increasing reliance on technology and the volatility of cyberspace have greatly aided the prevalence of internet fraud worldwide. In Nigeria, cybercrime—particularly internet fraud—has become one of the most popular forms of deviance among young people, which continues to pose a significant challenge to law enforcement agencies. While there have been various law enforcement reforms and initiatives to combat the menace, internet fraud continues to thrive. This research article investigates the perceived conviviality of law enforcement personnel with internet fraudsters and how it has contributed to a laxity of law enforcement authorities towards internet fraud. Study findings reveal that there is indeed a laxity of law enforcement actions towards internet fraud due to a plethora of institutional and sociological factors. This study also suggests how security agencies can better approach the internet fraud menace.

Keywords

• Internet fraud
• Laxity
• Cybercrime
• Law Enforcement Authorities
• Nigeria

Main Subjects

• Criminal Law