CYBERCRIME AND PARENTAL INFLUENCE: INVESTIGATING THE ROLE OF PARENTS IN SUPPORTING OR ENABLING THEIR CHILDREN'S INVOLVEMENT IN CYBER OFFENCES

CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background of the Study The internet has created a platform that allows for the repeated and long-term victimisation of children, often continuing unnoticed by the victims themselves. The physical location of a child is of little importance to cybercriminals operating online. In many instances, individuals involved in internet crimes travel across different states or even international borders to engage in illicit sexual activities with minors they initially contacted online (U.S. Department of Justice, 2021). Many victims of such internet-related crimes may not even realise they’ve been targeted, and some may choose to remain silent about their experiences. Undeniably, internet access and mobile technology have become deeply embedded in daily life, especially for young people (UNICEF, 2016). Technological integration today includes tools like the internet, mobile phones, computer-based manufacturing systems, and other electronic technologies (Katalinic, 2010). A 2012 study reported that 62% of upper primary pupils and 84% of secondary school students had been exposed to online threats (Popadic & Kuzmanovic, 2013). Clearly, the internet can be a risky environment for children. Online dangers for minors are becoming increasingly diverse and widespread around the globe (Ljubojev et al., 2017). Ljubojev and colleagues (2017) also stressed the important role that parents play in shaping their children's understanding and use of the internet. It is essential that parents remain alert to their children’s online habits to ensure their digital engagement is safe and beneficial. A crucial factor in understanding why young people get involved in cybercrime lies in the influence of parents within the family setting. During early development and teenage years, the family serves as the primary agent of socialisation, shaping beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours (Agnew, 2006). Researchers in criminology and sociology have long acknowledged the impact of family dynamics on youth misconduct, such as theft and vandalism (Hirschi, 1969). However, as our society becomes more digitised, there is growing recognition of the need to examine how family-related factors influence youths' participation in cybercrime. Research has shown that parental involvement—through supervision, monitoring, and emotional support—plays a key role in guiding children’s online behaviour and preventing exposure to cyber risks (Livingstone et al., 2017). Yet, relatively few studies have looked at the opposite side of the coin: how parents might—either knowingly or unknowingly—enable or support their children's involvement in cybercrime. While anecdotal reports and occasional media stories suggest that some parents are complicit in their children's cybercriminal activities, there is limited comprehensive research on this topic. Moreover, the rapid pace of technological advancement poses unique challenges for many parents, who often struggle to keep up with evolving digital tools, platforms, and threats (Patchin & Hinduja, 2018). Adding to the complexity is the widespread availability of digital devices and the increasing independence granted to children in their online exploration, which makes it harder for parents to maintain control (Rideout & Robb, 2019). In light of these concerns, this study seeks to explore the phenomenon of cybercrime, specifically investigating the role of parents in facilitating or enabling their children's involvement, using Ijebu-Ode in Ogun State as a case study. 1.2 Statement of the Problem Cybercrime has become alarmingly common among students, particularly in Nigeria’s south-south region. This trend is often associated with underlying social issues like poverty (Rideout & Robb, 2019). Not only does the rise in cybercrime tarnish Nigeria's international image, but it also poses serious risks to the nation’s economic and national security. An increasing number of students are resorting to fraudulent practices targeting both public and private institutions, as well as their fellow students, which undermines their academic objectives. If this situation continues unchecked, schools may begin to serve as breeding grounds for individuals who misuse institutional systems and deceive society. The growing involvement of youths in cybercrime has become a major concern for law enforcement, educators, and policymakers around the world (Rideout & Robb, 2019). Although multiple factors contribute to youths engaging in cybercrime, the specific role of parents—whether as enablers or deterrents—is still not well understood. Despite the wealth of research exploring how family life affects adolescent behaviour, there remains a significant gap in literature regarding how parents may actively or passively support their children’s involvement in cybercrime. This gap necessitates further study. Therefore, this research aims to examine the role of parents in aiding or abetting their children’s participation in cybercrime, focusing on the community of Ijebu-Ode in Ogun State. 1.3 Objective of the Study The overarching goal of this study is to examine cybercrime with a focus on the role parents play in supporting or enabling their children's participation. The specific objectives include: i. To investigate how prevalent juvenile cybercrime is in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State. ii. To examine how aware parents are of their children's online behaviours in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State. iii. To assess the extent to which parents play a role in encouraging or enabling their children's involvement in cybercrime. 1.4 Research Questions To guide this research, the following questions have been formulated: i. How prevalent is cybercrime among juveniles in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State? ii. To what extent are parents in Ijebu-Ode aware of their children's online activities? iii. What role do parents play in aiding or abetting their children’s engagement in cybercrime? 1.5 Significance of the Study For Parental Guidance Initiatives: This study will be especially valuable to parents. Understanding the factors that cause some parents to inadvertently or deliberately aid juvenile cybercrime will help in creating effective parental education programs. These findings can reveal gaps in parents’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices around online safety. Consequently, these insights can shape targeted interventions that equip parents with the skills and tools necessary to monitor their children’s digital lives more effectively. For Digital Literacy Promotion: The research will also inform digital literacy programs aimed at both parents and children. By highlighting the risks associated with cybercrime and providing recommendations on safe digital practices, the study can support initiatives that help families better navigate the digital world and reduce the chances of children becoming cybercriminals. For Academia: This study will contribute meaningfully to academic literature, especially in the area of cybercrime and youth behaviour. It will serve as a useful reference for scholars, educators, and policy developers interested in family dynamics and digital risk. 1.6 Scope of the Study This research focuses on cybercrime and the involvement of parents in either encouraging or enabling their children's engagement in such acts. The study specifically investigates this issue in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State. It will explore how common juvenile cybercrime is in the area, how much parents know about their children’s online activities, and whether their actions or lack thereof play a part in their children’s involvement in cybercrime. The geographical focus is strictly limited to Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State. 1.7 Limitations of the Study As with most research projects, this study encountered a few limitations: Time Constraints: The researcher had to manage limited time while balancing academic responsibilities such as attending lectures and meeting school deadlines, which affected the depth and pace of the research process. Financial Constraints: There were considerable expenses involved in executing the study, including the cost of printing, typing, gathering materials, and conducting field data collection. Limited Access to Materials: Finding relevant literature posed a challenge due to the limited availability of research on this specific topic, which constrained the review process. 1.8 Definition of Terms Cyber Crime: Illegal acts conducted using digital technologies or the internet, such as hacking, phishing, identity theft, online fraud, cyberbullying, and distribution of harmful content. Juvenile: In this context, a young person who is under the legal age of adulthood—usually under 18 years old. Parents: Refers to biological or legal guardians responsible for the upbringing, care, and supervision of children. Aiding and Abetting: Refers to behaviours or actions by parents that either directly or indirectly enable, encourage, or tolerate their children’s participation in cybercrime. Digital Literacy: The capability to access, interpret, and use digital technologies responsibly. It includes understanding online safety, privacy rights, and ethical digital usage. Parental Supervision: The level to which parents monitor and regulate their children’s activities, including their online engagements. Parental Control Tools: Technological solutions used by parents to manage their children’s access to digital content, which may include filtering, time limits, and activity tracking.