A Study of Guidelines for Preventing Cybercrime Victimization in the Case of Online Purchases

Abstract

The objectives of this research were to study (1) the patterns of cybercrime victimization in the case of online shopping, (2) the contributing factors to victimization of cybercrime in such cases, and (3) the preventive guidelines against cybercrime victimization in the context of online purchasing. This research employed a qualitative research methodology using semi-structured in-depth interviews. The key informants consisted of 20 participants, including 15 victims of online shopping fraud and 5 government officers responsible for the prevention and suppression of cybercrime. The findings revealed that the patterns of victimization could be categorized into two types: (1) purchasing goods without receiving them, and (2) receiving products that did not match the advertisements. The contributing factors included a lack of skills in detecting fraud and verifying information, hasty purchasing decisions, familiarity with online shopping practices, the complexity of deceptive tactics used by offenders, and limitations in legal proceedings, such as delays, and high costs incurred during the justice process. The preventive guidelines suggested by the study included promoting digital literacy and cyber-risk awareness among the public, developing more secure online shopping systems, establishing identity verification standards for online transactions, and improving access to justice in a manner that does not create undue burdens. This study emphasized the importance of analyzing victim behavior from the perspective of victimology and understanding the structural conditions of the online environment that facilitate criminal activities. The results can be used as a foundation for establishing systematic and sustainable public policies and cybercrime prevention measures.