ABSTRACT
This research examined the possible differences between those who had been victims of online identity theft and those who had not. In particular, it examined anxiety levels online, precautions and measures when shopping and banking online, and the amount of information that participants provided online. The research was divided into two studies: a content analysis of Facebook profiles and a survey of online security behaviours and anxiety levels. Results revealed a difference in anxiety levels of victims and non-victims, with victims experiencing higher levels of anxiety. The results showed that victims of online identity theft are less likely to use personal information as passwords than non-victims. However, there was little difference between the precautions and measures undertaken by victims and non-victims online. This study highlights the after-effects of being a victim of online identity theft.
