Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The rapid growth of social media platforms has provided new avenues for communication, networking, and information sharing. However, alongside these benefits, there has been a rise in fraudulent activities on social media that specifically target students. This research project aims to investigate the extent of students' participation in social media fraud and the underlying factors that contribute to their involvement in fraudulent schemes. Through a mixed-methods approach, including surveys and interviews with students, the study seeks to identify the types of fraudulent activities students are engaging in, their motivations for participating in such activities, and the impact of social media fraud on their academic and personal lives. By examining the psychological factors, social influences, and environmental contexts that shape students' decisions to engage in fraudulent behavior on social media, this research aims to provide insights into effective prevention and intervention strategies to combat social media fraud among students. The findings of this study are expected to contribute to the existing literature on cyber fraud and social media ethics by shedding light on the specific vulnerabilities of students in the online environment. By understanding the unique challenges that students face in navigating the digital landscape, educators, policymakers, and other stakeholders can develop targeted educational programs and policies to raise awareness about the risks of social media fraud and promote ethical online behavior among students. Furthermore, this research project has practical implications for student support services, law enforcement agencies, and social media platforms in terms of enhancing their ability to detect and prevent fraudulent activities targeting students. By collaborating with key stakeholders and leveraging technology-based solutions, it is possible to create a safer online environment for students and reduce the prevalence of social media fraud in educational settings. In conclusion, this research project addresses an important gap in the literature by focusing on students' participation in social media fraud and the factors that influence their engagement in fraudulent activities. By exploring the motivations and consequences of social media fraud among students, this study aims to inform evidence-based strategies for preventing and addressing this growing problem in the digital age.

Thesis Overview