Citation

Cik Ibrahim, Nur Sharina and Mokhter, Siti Hajar and Ahmad, Mokhtarrudin and Balakrishnan, Kavitha (2026) Case Study on Digital Deception: Analysing Psychological Warfare and Manipulation Tactics in Online Scams. In: Intelligent Governance in the Big Data Era. Springer Nature Link, pp. 119-129. ISBN 978-3-032-14697-7, 978-3-032-14698-4

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Abstract

In the digital age, online scams have evolved into highly sophisticated psychological operations that mirror strategies found in psychological and information warfare. Scammers manipulate cognitive biases and emotional vulnerabilities using techniques such as authority bias, urgency, and emotional manipulation to deceive victims. This case study explores the communication and psychological tactics employed by online scammers, drawing parallels between scam operations and traditional propaganda and disinformation campaigns. Using qualitative research methods, this case study involves semi-structured interviews with eight scam victims and one cybersecurity expert. Key themes identified include emotional appeals, the language of authority, relational grooming, and urgency cues. The findings demonstrate how scammers exploit emotional triggers and social bonding to manipulate victims, often leading to significant financial losses and psychological harm. The case study underscores online scammers’ communication and psychological tactics, the need for integrating psychological insights into cybersecurity education and policymaking. It proposes enhancing scam prevention strategies, implementing psychological profiling in anti-scam legislation, and focusing on media literacy to build resilience against the growing threat of online scams. This study supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16 by promoting stronger institutions through enhanced cybersecurity education and policies. It contributes to SDG 4 by advocating for improved media literacy to prevent online scams.

Item Type:	Book Section
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Online scams, Psychological manipulation, Psychological warfare
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HV Social pathology. Social and public welfare. Criminology > HV7231-9960 Criminal justice administration
Divisions:	Faculty of Applied Communication (FAC)
Depositing User:	Ms Suzilawati Abu Samah
Date Deposited:	05 Jun 2026 00:04
Last Modified:	08 Jun 2026 08:15
URII:	http://shdl.mmu.edu.my/id/eprint/15948

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