AN APPRAISAL OF THE NATURE AND TYPES OF SANCTIONS UNDER THE CYBERCRIME ACT 2015

Abstract

Cybercrime has been described as the crimes committed over the internet or computer network using a computer device as a tool for the commission of the offence. This has become more worrisome owing to the advancement in technology orchestrated by the increasing rate of telecommunication infrastructure deployment in every nook and crannies of Nigeria thereby providing access to internet. Cybercriminals have now deployed new methods provided by emerging technologies to commit cybercrime thereby making the punitive and deterrent effect of the Cybercrime Act, 2015 seemingly ineffective. By adopting the doctrinal research methodology, this paper analysed the history, categories and types of cybercrime with relevant provisions of the Act which prohibits the offences. Despite the various offences and its sanctions, the crime has continued to grow exponentially thereby suggesting the ineffectiveness of the extant laws.  The work concludes by providing recommending that sanctions would only be effective if fully implemented by all stake holders in the criminal justice system.