The Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre, has called on journalists to exercise discipline and caution in their online interactions, particularly in their choice of words.
Its Acting Assistant Director, SP Abubakar Smart, made the plea at a cybercrime workshop organised by the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria, MARAN in Lagos.
Smart emphasised the importance of responsible online behavior for media professionals.
According to him, the pen can be sharper than the knife; therefore, journalists should ensure that whatever they push out online would not put them in trouble.
He explained that while many people associate cybercrime with internet fraud, the reality is much broader, and journalists must be aware of the full spectrum of cyber threats.
In his words, today, it has become a global threat due to the way we use digital technology, the nature of our work, and the way we interact online.
According to him, Journalists need to be well-informed about the Cybercrime Act of 2015, as amended, to be more educated about cybercrime so as not to fall victim.
Smart defined cybercrime as any criminal activities carried out in cyberspace, including on social media platforms.
He highlighted common forms of cybercrime, such as bullying, stalking, fraud, identity theft, and phishing.
Smart also reminded journalists of the potential consequences of engaging in or falling victim to cybercrime, including up to 10 years in prison, hefty fines, and asset forfeiture.
He said they should be aware of regulatory agencies responsible for ensuring the cyber space is free, saying some are the National Cybercrime Commission, Central Bank of Nigeria, and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
A Mass Communication lecturer at Lagos State Polytechnic, Dr. Layinka Adagun, also spoke at the event, cautioning journalists against becoming too eager for exclusive stories.
Adagun a former General Manager at Lagos Traffic Radio warned that the pressure to get information first or to confirm stories quickly could lead some journalists into dangerous situations, including cyberbullying.
According to him, the internet has become a global tool for everything, including a channel for freedom of expression, but sadly, the freedom that the internet depicts is now being attacked and users intimidated.
In his words, we all need to safeguard our access and activities on the electronic highway.
Adagun stressed that cybercrime could be mitigated through individual awareness, organisational measures, and technological solutions.
He advised journalists to educate themselves on cybercrime, use strong passwords, be cautious with links and attachments, keep their software updated, and implement robust cybersecurity policies.
The workshop highlighted the growing importance of cybersecurity awareness in journalism, urging media professionals to protect themselves and their online activities while staying informed about the laws governing cyberspace.