“Despite my security settings…”: online behaviour and perceptions of white-collar crime

Rose, Kathrine B. (2014) “Despite my security settings…”: online behaviour and perceptions of white-collar crime. Memorial University of Newfoundland. (Unpublished)

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Abstract

Previous research suggests a discrepancy between perceptions of online security and the level of privacy actually achieved. For example, the information made publically available on Facebook profiles can be used to answer popular security questions. This poses a risk for white-collar crime, whereby someone in a position of power manipulates others for financial gain. Examining whether individuals recognize the risk for white-collar crime is therefore an important step towards internet security. Active Facebook users (n = 501, Mage = 26.12 years) completed an online survey assessing online behaviour. Approximately half of participants had an experience where their privacy was compromised online. Despite these experiences, white-collar crimes were perceived as less serious than other online threats and participants failed to recognize the risk of providing information online. Education about safe online practices may be needed to raise awareness and to reduce the risk for online crime due to online disclosure.

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