Explaining Online Fraud Victimization of Older Adults via Cyber Routines and Lifestyles
Abstract The paper compares victim group characteristics: the differences between individuals under 55 and 55 and older, victimized by online fraud committed by a stranger. We test Cyber-Routine Activities Theory (cyber-RAT; Choi, 2008). In addition to active online lifestyle and computer familiarity, we include in the analysis independent variables such as living arrangements, occupation, and the willingness to report and ask for help. A representative sample of US citizens 18 or older was collected using a Dynata research panel in October 2020. We utilized one-way ANOVA on ranks for testing whether older and younger victims’ characteristics can be derived from the same independent variables. We find that older victims differ in characteristics from younger victims. Those who live alone or in a marriage with no children, and retired are significantly less victimized by online fraud than those who live with a partner and children and having full-time jobs. Besides, they are less likely to report their victimization, and their online activities and computer familiarity make them more vulnerable to online fraud than younger adults. Our findings suggest that older victims need prevention and intervention solutions designed especially for them. In an aging society, individuals will be increasingly active online and in the job market. Employers must provide internet security training for employees on manipulative online scams. Crime prevention programs must include awareness-raising on the role of reporting and how to ask for help. Relatives, friends, and caretakers need to be trained in preventing and early recognizing online fraud impacting older adults.