EXPLORING CYBERCRIME AWARENESS AMONG SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS: IMPLICATIONS FOR PREVENTION EFFORTS

Cybercrime poses a growing threat in today's digital world, and young people are particularly vulnerable. This study delved deeper into the awareness of cybercrime among senior high school students and its connection to preventive behaviors online. This study aimed to determine the demographic profile of the respondents in terms of age, sex and strand. It also sought to determine the most prevalent crime committed using ICT. This paper measured the level of awareness of the senior high school students to cybercrime. Lastly, this study assessed the relevance of the students’ awareness to cybercrime prevention. The findings revealed that the majority of Senior High School students were aged 19, male and female enrolled under the Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) strand. It is found that identity theft is perceived to be the most common crime committed using ICT. This study also revealed that Senior High School students were aware of the cybercrime. The respondents also believed that their awareness is relevant to cybercrime prevention as majority strongly agreed that being aware of cybercrime means protecting themselves against it. Through evaluating students' awareness and knowledge of cybercrime, this study aimed to pinpoint knowledge gaps and areas in need of development. The results helped guide plans for improving digital literacy and safety instruction in addition to highlighting the present level of student knowledge.