Digital literacy and sextortion deterrence : librarians’ intervention for navigating online risks

The paper investigated the impact of digital literacy on sextortion among students, with a focus on the role of librarians in mitigating the same. The quantitative research method was used for the study, while the descriptive survey research design was deployed for it, and data was collected through an online questionnaire. The study population comprised 376 students at the University of Ibadan across strata of both undergraduate and postgraduate students. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were deployed in the data analyses. Findings from the study revealed a high level of awareness of sextortion among students, which is largely driven by social media. However, a notable gap in understanding the associated risks and preventive measures was discovered. Also, the findings revealed that sextortion experiences are significantly associated with age, as participants aged 22 and below are most vulnerable. Although most participants acknowledge the roles of librarians in educating them about sextortion, just a few have the knowledge on how to prevent it. This study recommends that librarians should adopt multi-faceted strategies by combining digital safety training, counselling, support services, awareness campaigns and collaborating with professionals to enhance students’ digital resilience and reduce the risk of sextortion.<br>

本研究探讨了数字素养对学生性勒索（sextortion）的影响，并重点关注图书馆员在缓解该问题方面的作用。本研究采用定量研究方法，以描述性调查研究设计为框架，通过在线问卷收集研究数据。研究对象为伊巴丹大学（University of Ibadan）的376名学生，涵盖本科生与研究生两个群体。数据分析环节同时采用描述性统计与推断性统计方法。研究结果显示，学生对性勒索的认知水平普遍较高，该现象主要由社交媒体驱动。但研究同时发现，学生在相关风险认知与防范措施理解方面存在显著缺口。此外，研究结果表明，性勒索经历与年龄存在显著关联，22岁及以下的参与者最易受到侵害。尽管多数参与者认可图书馆员在性勒索相关教育方面的作用，但仅有少数学生了解性勒索的防范方法。本研究建议，图书馆员应采用多维度策略，整合数字安全培训、心理咨询、支持服务、宣传活动，并与专业人士开展合作，以提升学生的数字韧性，降低性勒索风险。