Recovering money lost to online fraud: Knowledge and needs of (potential) victims of online fraud

• In Event: Cybercrime Offenders & Victims I

Abstract

Background. The criminal justice system at present seems insufficiently equipped to provide an outcome that meets the needs of victims of online fraud. In addition to criminal law, victims of online fraud also can initiate a civil procedure to recover the financial damage from the alleged fraudster. However, to date, it is unknown to what extent (potential) victims are willing to start a civil procedure, what considerations they make, and their needs in this regard. Furthermore, it is unclear to what extent a civil procedure aligns with victims’ needs, which can be derived from theoretical perspectives such as procedural justice theory and restorative justice theory.
Methods. Based on an online questionnaire administered to members of the Dutch Consumers’ Association (Consumentenbond, N=8.144), this study illustrates to what extent (potential) victims of online fraud are familiar with the possibility of initiating a civil procedure following online fraud, their willingness to start such a procedure, the reasons for their willingness or reluctance, what barriers they encounter, and the information and support needs they have.
Results. The majority of respondents were not familiar with the procedure. Recovering the financial damage is the most frequently mentioned reason for starting a procedure, although it is not the only motivation. Additionally, respondents experience various obstacles, with the expected success rate being the most commonly mentioned. Results regarding expectations and needs also show that respondents do not always know what the procedure entails and/or have unrealistic expectations.
Discussion. This research provides insight into expectations and perceived barriers that could be addressed in practice, for example by improving the information available to victims. It also offers suggestions for follow-up research on the extent to which the procedure meets the needs of victims of online fraud.

Authors

• Merel van Leuken, The Hague University of Applied Sciences

• Susanne van 't Hoff-de Goede, The Hague University of Applied Sciences