Scam Victims’ Vulnerability And Device Screen Time 2024
Scam Victims’ Vulnerability And Device Screen Time
The Psychology of Scams
Authors:
• Vianey Gonzalez B.Sc(Psych) – Psychologist, Certified Deception Professional, Psychology Advisory Panel & Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
• Tim McGuinness, Ph.D. – Anthropologist, Scientist, Director of the Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
Article Abstract
Excessive screen time, particularly on social media, triggers a dopamine-driven addiction loop, impacting individuals psychologically and heightening vulnerability to becoming scam victims.
The constant pursuit of online rewards impairs judgment and decision-making, making users susceptible to scams promising immediate gratification.
Emotional dependencies created by dopamine release expose individuals to scams exploiting feelings of loneliness or fear. Scammers capitalize on the desire for quick rewards and blur the lines between genuine opportunities and deceptive schemes.