A Comparative Study on Public Awareness of Cyber-Crime in Urban and Rural Areas

The rapid expansion of digital technologies, internet connectivity, and online financial services has significantly transformed the way individuals communicate, conduct transactions, and access information. While these advancements have created numerous opportunities for economic growth and social development, they have also increased the vulnerability of individuals to various forms of cyber-crime. Cyber-crime includes activities such as online fraud, identity theft, phishing, hacking, cyber stalking, and misuse of personal information. As digital platforms become more widely used in both urban and rural areas, understanding the level of public awareness regarding cyber-crime has become increasingly important. This study focuses on a comparative analysis of public awareness of cyber-crime in urban and rural areas. The objective of this research is to examine the differences in knowledge, perception, and awareness of cyber-crime among people living in urban and rural settings. The research also aims to identify the common types of cyber threats experienced by individuals, the level of understanding of preventive measures, and the role of education, media exposure, and digital literacy in shaping awareness. Urban populations are generally exposed to higher levels of digital technology and internet usage, which may lead to greater familiarity with cyber risks and security practices. In contrast, rural populations may face challenges such as limited access to digital education, inadequate awareness campaigns, and lower exposure to cyber security information.