LAWS ON CYBERCRIMES IN NIGERIA: THE NEED FOR REFORM

Cybercrimes are emerging crimes that are facilitated by evolving algorithms in the cyber-physical systems, which cause virtual disruption. These cyber-physical systems involve existing and new technological devices, that can be utilized to perpetrate crimes through cyber-physical connections. Cybercrimes are complex universal problems that have revealed a lacuna between law and technology. These necessitate the creation of effective legal, and technological solutions for the prevention of cybercrimes and related virtual disruption in Nigeria. Hence, the Book examined the legal framework on emerging cybercrimes and virtual disruption in Nigeria. This study adopted doctrinal analysis. The study concluded that the extant legislation on cybercrimes in Nigeria is ineffective in regulating emerging cybercrimes. The study recommended that Nigeria should accede to the various Conventions on cybercrimes to align existing laws to meet global expectations. The legislators in collaboration with relevant stakeholders should stipulate appropriate safeguards to preserve computer evidence in consideration of quantum computers. The punitive measures under various legislation should be reviewed.