Pathways to Cyber Deviance: Motivations, Behaviors, and Radicalization in Digital Spaces

Session Submission Type: Pre-arranged Panel

Abstract

As digital spaces become increasingly influential in shaping ideological, political, and criminal behaviors, understanding the motivations and mechanisms behind cyber deviance is crucial. This panel brings together research exploring various dimensions of cyber deviance, from hacktivism and cybercrime to online radicalization.
One study examines the political motivations of malicious hacktivists, analyzing how ideological beliefs shape target selection and justify cyberattacks. Another study advances Routine Activity Theory in cybercrime by integrating behavioral data with offender insights to identify systemic vulnerabilities exploited by hackers. Additionally, research on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) among active malicious hackers uncovers psychosocial pathways into cybercrime, offering insights for early intervention. Lastly, an analysis of online extremist communities investigates how digital platforms facilitate radicalization, highlighting the ideological frameworks and behavioral patterns of extremist groups.
Together, these studies provide a better and more comprehensive understanding of cyber deviance, bridging criminology, cybersecurity, and digital extremism. By examining offender decision-making, structural vulnerabilities, and pathways to radicalization, this panel offers valuable insights for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners working to counter cyber threats and digital extremism.

Subtopic

• Topic 2: Types of Offending / Cybercrime (Cybercrime WG)

Chair

• Katelyn Smith, University of South Florida

Individual Presentations

• Advancing Routine Activity Theory in Cybercrime: Integrating Behavioral Data and Hacker Insights - Christian Jordan Howell, University of South Florida; Mubashshira Haque Rithee, University of South Florida

• Digital Dissent: The Political Motivations of Malicious Hacktivists - Zacharias Pieri, University of South Florida

• Exploring adverse childhood experiences among active malicious hackers - Caitlyn Muniz, University of Texas at El Paso; Kaylee Eckelman, University of South Florida

• Mapping Extremism: Ideological Structures and Online Offending in Hacker Communities - Katelyn Smith, University of South Florida