The Impact Of Social Media On Criminal Behavior And Investigation.

THE PROS OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN THE LEGAL system.

In Today’s era, social media has become an integral part of our lives, it modify the way we communicate, share information and interact with both the known and unknown. Social media’s impact on legal proceedings in undeniable because it has the power to shape public opinion, provide evidence and pose ethical challenges.

However, one of the most significant developments in the recent years is the rise of social media as a tool for law enforcement. The use of social media in criminal investigations can be a game charger because it must properly collected, preserved and presented in order to be admissible.

Years ago, Supreme Court  of Nigeria pass a judgement relating to this. The case of JAMES IGBINOVIA Vs STATE (1981) LPELR. SC. 43. 1979. In the course of investigations the police planted Edward Istibor 5th PW…… one of the police to disguise as a criminal suspects in the midst of the suspects to get information from them, so that they could identify those who perpetrated the crime.

Later the first accused then confess to him (The disguise police) that he took part in the killing of the deceased was killed on 7/4/75 along textile road about 9;00 pm.

  My Lords in Supreme Court held that the confessional statement is admissible. According to my lords they said;

  “In this era of the world where crimes of violence are on the increase and means of investigations are on their rudimentary stage………….”.

  These was the decision of Supreme Court in 1975 admitting confession made a result of promise of secrecy is admissible. So we don’t see any reason why social media evidence shouldn’t be admissible. Officers monitor public post for potential criminal activity useing geotagging feature to determine a suspect location or even create under cover profiles to infiltrate criminal networks.

  In our humble opinion, We don’t see any reason why social media evidence should be denial, in as much it is properly collected preserved and presented in order to be admissible.

Social media has really help in cybercrime because cybercrime use social media platforms to spread malware, conduct attack and carry out scams. These crimes can result in significant financial loss for victims and are often difficult to trace and prosecute.

Social media platforms have become valuable tools for evidence gathering and investigation in legal cases. Post, messages, images and videos shared on any platforms can serve as a crucial evidence in criminal and civil cases.

Conclusion.

  In our humble submission, it is clear and obvious that social media will continue to play a significant in crime prevention to the challenges it presents for law enforcement and legal system, understanding the evolving landscape is crucial.