Health Related Effects of Involvement in Internet Fraud (‘’Yahoo Yahoo’’) among Youths in Anyigba, Dekina Local Government Area, Kogi State, Nigeria

Abstract

The proliferation of internet access and digital technologies has significantly transformed socio-economic interactions globally. In Nigeria, however, this digital expansion has coincided with a marked rise in internet-based fraud, popularly known as “Yahoo-Yahoo.” While a growing body of literature has examined the criminological, economic, and security dimensions of internet fraud, limited attention has been given to the health related consequences experienced by youths involved in these activities. This study examined the health related effects of involvement in internet fraud among youths in Anyigba, Dekina Local Government Area (LGA), Kogi State, Nigeria. A mixed methods cross-sectional design was adopted. Quantitative data were collected from 420 youths aged 18-35 years using a structured questionnaire, while qualitative data were obtained through in-depth interviews. The findings revealed high levels of direct and indirect involvement in internet fraud and demonstrated significant associations with psychological stress, anxiety, sleep disturbance, substance use, physical health complaints, and social relationship strain. The study concludes that youth involvement in internet fraud constitutes not only a legal and economic challenge but also a public health and social wellbeing concern. Integrated interventions that combine cybercrime prevention with mental health support, youth employment initiatives, and community based social interventions are recommended.