Exploring Multiple-offending Patterns: Sexual Offending Behaviors Among Hackers

• In Event: Digital Shadows: Exploring Mental Health, Criminal Offending, and Group Membership in the Hacker Community

Abstract

Although there exists literature discussing the potential involvement of hackers in aiding sexual offenders or publicly disclosing pornographic websites, there is a notable absence of data regarding the extent to which hackers engage in sexual offending behaviors themselves. Despite the limited information available on co-offending within hacker communities, this research utilizes survey data collected from active hackers to examine the role of personality traits, previous victimization experiences, and mental health issues in predicting sexual offending behaviors.
The findings from this study contribute to a better understanding of the psychological and situational factors influencing sexual offending behaviors among hackers, including co-offending dynamics. This understanding is crucial for developing targeted risk assessment tools and intervention strategies to prevent and address cyber-related crimes, especially those involving sexual exploitation and co-offending within hacker communities. The implications of this research extend to cybersecurity professionals, law enforcement agencies, and mental health practitioners involved in combating cybercrimes and safeguarding individuals from sexual exploitation and co-offending incidents.

Authors

• Eden Kamar, Georgia State University

• Christian Jordan Howell, University of South Florida

• Mubashshira Haque Rithee, University of South Florida