Effect of cybercrime risk on undergraduate behavioral intention in the federal universities in southwest, Nigeria

Cybercrime has become one of the most pervasive threats to digital engagement globally, and undergraduates remain particularly vulnerable due to their extensive use of online platforms for financial transactions, academic activities, and social networking. In Nigeria, despite the establishment of cybercrime laws and consumer protection frameworks, weak enforcement and limited awareness continue to heighten students’ exposure to online risks, thereby influencing their behavioral intentions toward digital participation. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of cybercrime risk on undergraduate behavioral intention in South-West Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was employed, and the study population comprised undergraduates of federal universities in in the study area. Out of 900 questionnaires distributed, 653 were duly completed and returned, representing a response rate of 72.6 percent. The instrument was validated by experts in the field, while reliability was confirmed through Cronbach’s alpha values above the 0.70 benchmark. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential techniques, particularly regression analysis. The results revealed that cybercrime risk had a significant positive effect on undergraduate behavioral intention, with regression results showing β = 0.401, R² = 0.177, and p < 0.001. The study concluded that cybercrime risk strongly influences students’ behavioral intention, either discouraging or shaping their adoption of online transactions depending on perceived levels of threat. It was recommended that cybersecurity awareness be integrated into undergraduate curricula, while universities, regulatory agencies, and financial institutions should strengthen digital literacy programs and implement effective consumer protection and redress mechanisms for students who fall victim to cybercrime.