LEGAL CLINIC AND DIGITAL LITERACY: EFFORTS TO PREVENT CYBERCRIME AMONG ADOLESCENTS

Abstract

The rapid advancement of digital technology has significantly transformed patterns of social interaction, particularly among adolescents who constitute the most active users of digital platforms. Despite its positive contributions, this development has also increased the risk of cybercrime due to low levels of digital literacy and limited understanding of cyber law among young people. Adolescents often engage in digital activities without adequate awareness of legal consequences, ethical standards, and data security, which makes them vulnerable to becoming either victims or perpetrators of cybercrime. This study aims to examine the role of legal clinics and digital literacy education as preventive mechanisms against cybercrime among adolescents. The research employs a qualitative descriptive approach using a library research method by analyzing academic books, peer-reviewed journal articles, statutory regulations, and official reports related to cybercrime, digital literacy, and legal education. The findings indicate that legal clinics play a strategic role in enhancing legal awareness, ethical digital behavior, and critical thinking skills through legal counseling, advocacy, and educational outreach programs. Furthermore, the integration of legal clinic activities with digital literacy initiatives contributes to the development of responsible and law abiding digital citizenship among adolescents. Strengthening collaboration between higher education institutions, government agencies, and community stakeholders is essential to create an effective and sustainable framework for cybercrime prevention in the digital era.