There has been a significant rise in cyber-related offences in Nigeria particularly Nasarawa State indicating that cybercrime has become a major economic issue in Lafia metropolis. To understand the economic factors that contribute to cybercrime among youths in Lafia metropolis, the study uses primary and secondary data sources. According to strain and routine activity, and social learning theories, cybercrime is a reaction to economic pressures and deliberate actions taken for financial benefit. The results show that widespread financial difficulties among youth, which are typified by youth unemployment and restricted access to good chances, are the main cause of cyber fraud. Inadequate digital literacy and extensive internet accessible without appropriate safeguards allow cybercrimes to proliferate among youths, while get-rich-quick syndrome and adolescent subcultures further normalise and sustain cybercriminal activity. Institutional flaws that fail to discourage criminals or address underlying economic grievances, such as corruption, bad governance and law enforcement shortcomings, make the issue worse. The finding also reveals how cybercrime negatively affects the local economy, particularly small enterprises and customer confidence in online platforms. It was equally discovered that social media sites serve as glamorising illegal money and offering forums for the sharing of cybercriminals' information. In conclusion, economic hardship, particularly extreme poverty and high youth unemployment, serves as the primary catalyst driving Nigerian youths into cybercrime. Driven by systemic financial strain and the "get-rich-quick" syndrome, many young people view internet fraud (“Yahoo Yahoo”) as a necessary survival strategy and a way to achieve rapid financial independence. The study recommends that there is need for extensive initiatives to tackle the underlying causes of cybercrime are necessary to combat it in Lafia metropolis. The report suggests community-based peer mentorship programs, improved digital literacy campaigns, targeted youth employment programs that emphasise digital skills, governance reforms, and social media content control.

Keywords: Cybercrime, Factors, Economic, Lafia Metropolis, Youth, Internet Fraud