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This study explores the factors that predispose an individual to being a pig butchering scam victim using qualitative thematic analysis. The study develops a framework identifying two categories of constructs, namely victim vulnerabilities and scammer mechanisms.
The literature review integrates concepts from social engineering and psychology, culminating in a theoretical conceptual map. The key victim related constructs such as loneliness, dispositional trust, gullibility, and financial literacy represent individual level vulnerabilities that influence susceptibility to pig butchering scams. Furthermore, the study has revealed scammer related mechanisms such as affective manipulation, fear of missing out, psychological coercion and support which represent the strategic techniques used by the scammer to influence and exploit victims. The research uniquely examines the contributing factors on the victim’s side and how these can expose the victim to the scammer's manipulative tactics and techniques.
Research shows that by identifying individual vulnerable factors, will help prevent people from falling victim to these types of scams. The study identified recommendations to the respective authorities to prevent these types of sophisticated scams and protect individuals falling victim on these scams. Findings of the study contribute to understanding of pig butchering, as rapidly growing phenomenon with wide ranging socio-economic effects. The insights gained can provide a foundation for knowledge of preventive measures. |
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