Cybercrime among Delta State University Students, Abraka, Nigeria, from 2015 to 2024

Abstract

The study examined the effect of cybercrime on Delta State University, Abraka (DELSU) between 2015 and 2024. The study adopts a historical qualitative study with interview to gather data for the study. Relying on secondary data from academic literature, government reports, oral interviews and institutional records to access the prevalence, impacts, and responses to cybercrime within the university. Those interviewed are victims, ICT staffs, student union leaders, and some students who are involved in cybercrime. The findings revealed that cybercrime was widespread among students and staff, with phishing, hacking, financial fraud, identity theft, and social media scams being the most common forms. These activities compromised academic integrity by enabling grade manipulation, disrupting administrative processes such as admissions and record-keeping, and threatened research security. The socio-economic effects were equally significant. Students and staff frequently experienced financial losses, emotional stress, and reputational damage, while the visibility of student involvement in internet fraud (“Yahoo Yahoo”) tarnished the university’s public image and undermined graduates’ employability. The university implemented measures including ICT upgrades, awareness campaigns, and disciplinary sanctions. However, these strategies were often reactive, inconsistent, and underfunded, leaving the institution vulnerable to persistent and evolving threats. The study concluded that effective mitigation required a more proactive and holistic approach, combining robust cybersecurity infrastructure, digital ethics education, legal enforcement, and collaborative partnerships. Without coordinated action, DELSU and similar institutions remained at risk of significant academic, administrative, and socio-economic harm.