Digital social services and their role in reducing cybercrime: A field study in the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs

Abstract

In our current era, digital social services represent a qualitative leap in the field of social support provision. Technology enables faster and more efficient access to beneficiaries. With the proliferation of cybercrimes, these services have become a vital tool for mitigating this phenomenon through a range of strategies focused on awareness and prevention.

Awareness campaigns include organizing lectures and workshops aimed at raising awareness of the importance of digital security and teaching individuals how to protect themselves from digital risks. These efforts contribute to building a preventative culture that helps reduce the rate of cybercrimes. Furthermore, psychological and social support plays a pivotal role in helping individuals overcome the psychological effects of these crimes, thus strengthening society's resilience and ability to confront digital challenges.

The study findings indicate that digital awareness is considered one of the most important preventive measures for reducing cybercrime. This includes organizing lectures and workshops aimed at raising awareness about the importance of digital security and educating individuals on methods of protecting their data and personal information from cyber threats and risks. These efforts also contribute to building a preventive culture that enhances society’s ability to limit the spread of cybercrimes and reduce their negative impacts. In addition, psychological and social support plays a central role in helping individuals overcome the psychological and social effects resulting from such crimes, thereby strengthening society’s resilience and ability to confront rapidly evolving digital challenges.

The findings further confirm that digital transformation is not merely a technological advancement, but rather a social and institutional process that requires professional and organizational preparedness to address the accompanying challenges and risks. The study revealed that cybercrimes have become a significant phenomenon affecting the work environment within the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs, and that the level of awareness regarding these risks varies among employees. This highlights the need to continuously and systematically strengthen awareness and prevention programs. The study also demonstrated that digital social work can play a pivotal role in mitigating these risks through awareness, guidance, and professional as well as social support.