Virtual item trade scams: A typology of young victims

This study examined behavioral differences across groups of children and young people who have been victims of virtual item trade scams to explore the potential for grouping this type of victims into meaningful clusters. Using data from a representative survey among Danish children and young people...

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Bibliographic Details
Authors: Kristiansen, Søren 1971- (Author) ; Jensen, Aksel Vassard (Author) ; Nimgaard, Mathias (Author) ; Ludvigsen, Emil (Author)
Format: Electronic Article
Language:English
Published: 2025
In: International review of victimology
Year: 2025, Volume: 31, Issue: 2, Pages: 203-220
Online Access: Volltext (lizenzpflichtig)
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Keywords:
Youth
virtual items
trading scams
gaming
Cluster Analysis
Description
Summary:This study examined behavioral differences across groups of children and young people who have been victims of virtual item trade scams to explore the potential for grouping this type of victims into meaningful clusters. Using data from a representative survey among Danish children and young people (n = 1,026), three clusters of trade scam victims that showed significant internal homogeneity as well as cross-cluster differences were identified. Based on their modal behavior, these clusters were labeled Moderately Engaged Gamers, Diverse Active Gamers, and Highly Engaged Gamers. The typology represents a first step toward a better understanding of different types of virtual item trade scam victims and their behavioral patterns. Implications for policy and preventive measures on game design, personal, and parental levels are discussed.
ISSN:2047-9433
DOI:10.1177/02697580241258786