The Impact of Cybercrime Related Offences on E-Commerce Transactions in Cameroon

Electronic commerce (e-commerce) transactions have gained global significance and widely used nowadays to conduct businesses in cyberspace. The introduction of e-commerce in Cameroon and electronic payment methods have several advantages in completing commercial transactions. Despite the advantages, cybercrimes pose high risks and threats to its existence. Cybercrimes in e-commerce related transactions have caused socio-legal and economic problems in Cameroon. The article adopts the qualitative research methodology with the use of the doctrinal method where a survey was carried out. It is based on the utilitarian, transaction cost and the rational choice theories. The research is conducted at a time that cybercrimes are on a rise and adversely affecting e-commerce transactions in Cameroon. The major finding shows that cybercrimes have caused loss of trust and confidence in e-commerce transactions within Cameroon and abroad. The findings also reveal that there is a declining rate at which people are willing to carry out e-commerce transactions in Cameroon because of cybercrimes. It has also been found out that more than 60% of persons between the ages of 16 and 35 in some major Cameroonian cities are either involved in e-commerce related cybercrimes or have been involved in the past. The conclusion drawn is that cybercrimes have adversely affected e-commerce transactions in Cameroon. The article recommends some measures like the institution of a proper home address system, the assignment of social security numbers to Cameroonians and strict procedural rules should be enacted to improve the situation. The research is beneficial to the education community, the judiciary, the government, and foreigners willing to carry out their businesses in Cameroon through e-commerce.