EFFECT OF DATA PROTECTION FRAMEWORKS AGAINST CYBERCRIMES ON CYBER SECURITY IN NIGERIA

Abstract

The paper Effect of Data Security Frameworks against Cybercrimes and Cyber Security in Nigeria critically examines the various data protection frameworks in Nigeria and how these are impacting curtailing cybercrimes in the country. The paper examined the institutions responsible for data security and how they carry it out. The work utilized both the secondary and primary sources of data collection. Key Informant Interview (KII) and the observation method were deployed to collect primary data for the study. Information on data protection was also collected from (NDPC) and other relevant agencies. Information from reports from the internet, scholarly articles in journals, and information from websites and books were used in the paper. The paper utilised the Social Strain Theory (SST) as the theoretical framework for the study. The paper observed that data protection regulations in Nigeria make it mandatory for all Public Institutions (PIs) in Nigeria to have a comprehensive cyber security framework, which is to protect against unauthorized access. Several factors are responsible for data insecurity and the attendant increase in cybercrimes in the country. These include, among others: i. Lack of knowledge on the part of most officers of the penalty for data breach allowed by them. ii. Poor dissemination of the content of the NDPA. iii. The poor economic condition of the country makes many officers to seek means of getting extra money, this also includes their volunteering information that they should not disclose in the first place. The paper observed that though cyber security in Nigeria is not within the mandate of the EFCC, the Commission plays very important role in dealing with the threat of cybercrimes in Nigeria. Records shows that of the 12,394 convictions of the EFCC from inception till 31st December 2023. Over 80% of them are on cybercrime and related offences. The paper concluded that inspire of the efforts of the EFCC and other agencies in tackling cybercrimes in Nigeria, the failure of the data protection frameworks in the country in ensuring confidentiality, integrity and security of the data at their disposal is the reason for the spiralling of cybercrimes in the country. The paper recommends that the Nigerian government adopt the best practice policies and regulations, promote awareness, and continuously update cyber security practices, which is germane to enhancing data protection in the country.