A routine activity perspective on online victimisation: Results from the Canadian General Social Survey
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to test a comprehensive routine activity framework on three types of online victimization. Prior research has utilized routine activity theory to explain varied online forms of victimization, but most have focused on its person-based forms. The present study, therefore, expands upon this research to examine the effects of online exposure, online target suitability and online guardianship upon phishing, hacking and malware infection victimization.
Design/methodology/approach
Secondary data from the 23rd Cycle of the Canadian GSS were used to address the study’s research questions using binary logistic regression analyses.
Findings
Particular online behaviors were consistently and positively related to all three types of online victimization, including booking/making reservations, social networking and having one’s information posted online. Other online routines exhibited unique effects on online victimization risk.
Originality/value
In support of the theory, the results suggest that online exposure and target suitability increase risks for phishing, hacking and malware victimization. Online guardianship was also positively related to victimization, a finding that runs counter to theoretical expectations.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This analysis is based on the Statistics Canada General Social Survey, Cycle 23, Victimization, 2009. All computations, use and interpretation of these data are entirely those of the author.
Citation
Reyns, B.W. (2015), "A routine activity perspective on online victimisation: Results from the Canadian General Social Survey", Journal of Financial Crime, Vol. 22 No. 4, pp. 396-411. https://doi.org/10.1108/JFC-06-2014-0030
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2015, Emerald Group Publishing Limited