The geographical dispersion of cybercriminal youth groups: A social network analysis approach

• In Event: Cybercrime Offenders & Victims I

Abstract

This study examines the local embeddedness of cybercriminal youth groups using Dutch police data. Social network and geographical analyses were conducted on 109 suspects, resulting in 352 edges connecting a network across 26 components. Four levels of local embeddedness were identified, ranging from fully locally embedded—where co-offenders reside in close proximity to each other—to entirely disembedded—where co-offenders live far apart. Regression analysis revealed age and group size as significant predictors of geographic dispersion. In conclusion, while most groups exhibited some degree of local embeddedness, fully disembedded co-offenders were not uncommon. The findings highlight the continued relevance of offline ties for the origin and growth of cybercriminal groups, while acknowledging the growing role of online platforms as offender convergence settings. Implications for theory, practice, and future research are discussed.

Authors

• Joeri Loggen, The Hague University of Applied Sciences

• Asier Moneva, Netherlands Institute for the Study of Crime and Law Enforcement (NSCR); The Hague University of Applied Sciences

• Arjan Blokland, NSCR

• Rutger Leukfeldt, NSCR