Fraud among young adults is a highly prevalent issue, yet there has been limited research in this context. This study aims to investigate the behavioural factors influencing online fraud victimisation among young adults.
Grounded in temporal discounting theory, the study analyses how behavioural traits such as self-control, sensation-seeking and premeditation mediate the effects of age and time spent online on fraud vulnerability. Using a sample of 515 participants aged 15–30 years from the Delhi Metropolitan Region, India, we analysed how their age and online habits influence, or are influenced by, their behaviours: self-control, sensation-seeking and premeditation.
Results of our study suggested that a multi-faceted and complex pathway to victimisation exists, wherein the victim is aware of their actions yet still falls prey to fraud due to poor self-regulation. Self-control emerged as a consistent mediator across all age groups, whereas sensation-seeking did not. Premeditation decreased with age, but did not mediate fraud occurrence. Those falling in the 21–30 years age group experienced a greater impact of time spent online on fraud victimisation.
This study emphasises the importance of fostering behavioural control and creating protective measures and interventions targeted to each age group. We introduce the novel concept of conscious vulnerability – a condition where individuals knowingly engage with fraudulent content despite being aware of potential risks.
