Cybercrime and informal Economies: legal challenges, economic disruptions, and Social work interventions

Abstract

Cybercrime increasingly threatens informal economic activities in developing regions, undermining livelihoods, income stability, and social equity. Informal workers—such as traders, artisans, and small-scale entrepreneurs—operate with limited legal recognition and face high exposure to digital fraud, identity theft, and mobile payment scams. This study employs a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative analysis of income disruption and regression modeling with qualitative interviews and legal-policy review, to examine the impact of cybercrime on informal economies. Findings reveal significant economic disruption, disproportionate vulnerability of low-digital-literacy actors, and systemic gaps in legal and institutional protections. The study highlights the pivotal role of social work interventions, including digital literacy programs, advocacy, and community resilience-building, in mitigating risks and supporting recovery. Policy recommendations focus on inclusive cybersecurity laws, enhanced reporting mechanisms, financial inclusion with built-in safeguards, targeted support for vulnerable groups, and multi-layered public-private partnerships. By integrating legal, economic, and social dimensions, the study contributes to understanding cybercrime’s multidimensional effects and presents actionable strategies for sustainable protection and development.