VICTIMIZATION IN CYBERSPACE: AN APPLICATION OF ROUTINE ACTIVITY AND LIFESTYLE EXPOSURE THEORIES
Behzat Yucedal · OhioLink ETD Center (Ohio Library and Information Network) · 2010
Since cybercrime and cybercrime victims are increasing, it becomes necessary to study cybercrime and assess the factors that impact the victimization in cyberspace. Once we fully understand how people are victimized, we can create better policies to prevent the crime before it occurs. In striving to contribute to studies on this particular issue, the aim of this study is to examine victimization in cyberspace by applying the theoretical framework of routine activities and lifestyle exposure theories. This study also aims to examine how individuals respond to cybercrime victimization in terms of risk perception and constrained behavior Study results show that personal use of computer and engaging in leisure online activities such as playing online games, downloading games, programs, and video or music files increases the victimization risk in cyberspace. On the other hand, contrary to discussions regarding the role of guardianships in preventing victimization, study results indicate that individuals, who use firewall and anti-virus program, are more likely to report spyware and adware infection. Study results also show that individuals, who has better knowledge about cyber threats, Internet and computer related terms, are more likely to report spyware and adware infection whereas they are less likely to have computer problems. Although, the positive effect of digital guardianships (firewall and anti-virus) and individuals’ knowledge can be attributed to detection provided by the digital guardianships and knowledge (individuals, who use firewall and antivirus and who have better knowledge, might detect malicious software and might be more likely to report spyware and adware victimization), it requires further evaluation. Moreover, findings suggest that individuals who reported being victim of adware and experienced more computer problems, are more likely have higher risk perception and more likely to change their online behavior in order to avoid future victimization.