Ethical Implications of the Techno-Social Dilemma in Contemporary Cyber-Security Phenomenon in Africa

Abstract

This article examines the cyber security dimension of the global information Infrastructure which has resulted in the attainment of remarkable milestones and unlimited opportunities. However, these benefits notwithstanding, the cyberspace is increasingly under attack by cybercriminals, and the cost and damages from such attacks are increasing alarming. This article therefore, sets out to examine the ethical implications of cybersecurity phenomenon. Relying upon an extensive contemporary literature on cyber security, this study examines the phenomenon using the protection motivation theory. The article employs qualitative analysis of the current cybersecurity landscape in Nigeria. With an insight provided into understanding the independent layers of cyber security in Nigeria, a criterion on what should constitute appropriate procedure for cyber security is thus supplied. Findings posit that with the vulnerability of cyberspace, cyber security phenomenon in Africa, mirrors the existing social inequalities and widens the social division that is more apparent with the expansion of the ICTs.