Abstract:
Internet has countless benefits to the world, however, it has also been an easy
platform for criminals to commit fraud. This research investigates the forms and
prevalence of Internet fraud in Ghana specifically in Agona Swedru and examines
its socio-economic implications on the peace and development of the town. Using
qualitative research approach and snowball sampling technique, 10 Internet
fraudsters were interviewed in Agona Swedru. Security Personnel and other key
informants were also interviewed to share experiences on the implications of
Internet fraud on the town. Police reports were also solicited to identify reported
cases on Internet fraud in Agona Swedru. The study reveals that the practice of
Internet fraud has effects on human resources, causes fear and panic, increase
social vices and stigmatisation which has implications on the peace and
development of the town. Findings from this research showed that although
Internet fraud has negative implications, it also has some positive implication on
the socio-economic development of the town. The research showed that Internet
fraud has promoted investment, created some employment opportunities,
expanded some markets and provided vast infrastructural changes contributing to
the peace and development of the town. The limitation of the research was
identifying reliable statistical information on Internet fraud though the practice is
rampant in Ghana.
