Psychosocial Impact of Digital Identity Theft-based Victimization: a Qualitative Analysis
As digital platforms increasingly permeate daily life, the risk and impact of identity theft have become significant concerns. This qualitative study investigates the psychosocial impact of identity theft on victims of digital platforms. Using a thematic analysis framework and through in-depth, semi...
| Authors: | ; ; |
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| Format: | Electronic Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
2024
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| In: |
Indian journal of criminology
Year: 2024, Volume: 52, Issue: 2, Pages: 57-69 |
| Online Access: |
Volltext (kostenfrei) |
| Check availability: | HBZ Gateway |
| Keywords: |
| Summary: | As digital platforms increasingly permeate daily life, the risk and impact of identity theft have become significant concerns. This qualitative study investigates the psychosocial impact of identity theft on victims of digital platforms. Using a thematic analysis framework and through in-depth, semi-structured interviews, data were gathered from ten participants who had experienced online identity theft. The study identified four key themes: transgression, loss of control, emotional distress, and stigmatization. The study also explored the factors influencing victim's decisions to report the crime, finding that while some were motivated by a sense of responsibility and trust in law enforcement, others were deterred by fear of retaliation, embarrassment, and doubts about the effectiveness of reporting mechanisms. Future research should explore quantitative approaches to measure the psychosocial impact more broadly and investigate the effectiveness of various coping strategies. Additionally, enhancing public awareness and promoting preventive measures can help mitigate the impact of identity theft on digital platforms. |
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