ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts covered in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book analyses the many facets of cyber fraud and scams which currently pose significant challenges to society. It presents the small but growing body of research that argues that effects of fraud on its victims can be as severe as on those who experience violent crime. The book also examines the negative stereotype that is commonly associated with cyber fraud and scams, asserting victims to be greedy, gullible, uneducated and somewhat deserving of their victimisation. It provides examination of current policing practices and responses to cyber fraud and scams, as well as a brief consideration of current sentencing and punishment practices for those convicted of cyber fraud. The book focuses on adaptation of situational crime prevention techniques to target cyber frauds and scams. It then uses the example of Project Sunbird to demonstrate the importance and impact that prevention efforts can achieve.
