Threats, Effects, and Awareness of Cybercrime: A Survey

The emergence of the digital age has ushered in unprecedented connectivity and convenience, but it has also brought about a surge in cybercrimes, posing significant challenges to security. Criminals exploit vulnerabilities in cyberspace to access sensitive information, perpetrate fraudulent activities, and undermine trust in online interactions. Despite the pervasive impact of cyber threats on various facets of society, awareness levels among the general populace remain a critical concern. This paper presents findings from a comprehensive survey aimed at assessing public awareness of cybercrimes and cybersecurity measures. The survey, conducted through a structured questionnaire, solicited responses from a diverse demographic sample, encompassing individuals’ background information and their perceptions of cyber threats. Participants were queried on their familiarity with prevalent cyber scams, including phishing, email spoofing, lottery scams, credit card frauds, investment scams, vishing frauds, and gaming frauds. Key findings reveal gaps in awareness and understanding of cyber risks, underscoring the need for enhanced education and vigilance. Furthermore, insights into participants’ responses regarding their experiences with cybercrimes, including measures taken to address incidents and financial losses incurred, shed light on the real-world impact of cyber threats. In conclusion, this paper emphasizes the importance of proactive measures to safeguard against cybercrimes and offers recommendations for bolstering cybersecurity awareness and resilience in the digital age.