ABSTRACT

According to the National Crime Agency data, close to 3.5 million incidents took place in 2016–2017; however, it also suggests that this number represents only the tip of the iceberg, as it is estimated that less than 20% of incidences are being reported. The high prevalence of fraud also translates into enormous financial losses. Unlike many other crimes, potential victims play an important and active role in the fraud process, such as providing personal information, transferring funds, clicking on links, and maintaining secrecy. While demographic variables are of clear importance, researchers have also focused on how individual differences might help explain differences in fraud solicitation response. Understating the role of demographic and individual differences measures is central to solving one key puzzle.