Cybercrime Awareness and Its Impacts on High School Students

Abstract

This study investigated the level of cybercrime awareness and its multi-dimensional impacts on high school students at Kalinga Colleges of Science and Technology Incorporated. Utilizing a mixed-methods research design, the study gathered quantitative and qualitative data from Grade 11 and Grade 12 students to evaluate their understanding of digital safety practices and assess their exposure to online threats. The demographic profile of the respondents consisted of 55% female and 45% male students. The findings revealed that while students are generally aware of cybercrime—with cyberbullying emerging as the area of highest awareness, followed by phishing scams, online privacy, and password security—they remain highly vulnerable to online victimization. Cyberbullying was identified as the most frequent cybercrime incident experienced, followed by phishing messages, fake social media accounts, and online scams, whereas hacking attempts were the least common. Statistical analysis established a significant relationship between cybercrime awareness and actual exposure, demonstrating that awareness alone is insufficient to prevent victimization when continuous internet exposure and unsafe online habits persist. The study documented severe impacts on students, notably heightened emotional distress like stress and anxiety, alongside academic disruption characterized by reduced focus and loss of concentration. Consequently, the study highlights an urgent need for robust, school-based cybersecurity education and support systems. It is recommended that students practice strict digital hygiene, teachers integrate online safety into curricula, administrations launch targeted security campaigns, parents actively monitor internet habits, and guidance counselors provide structured emotional interventions for victims.