Applying Routine Activity Theory to Cybercrime: A Theoretical and Empirical Analysis |
| |
| Authors: | Eric Rutger Leukfeldt Majid Yar |
| |
| Affiliation: | 1. Open University of the Netherlands, Heerlen, the Netherlands, NHL University of Applied Sciences, Leeuwarden, the Netherlands, Dutch Police Academy, Apeldoorn, the Netherlands;2. University of Hull, Hull, Yorkshire, UK |
| |
| Abstract: | The central question of this article is whether routine activity theory (RAT) can be used as an analytical framework to study cybercrimes. Both a theoretical analysis and an analysis of empirical studies have thus far failed to provide a clear answer. The multivariate analysis presented in this article tries to avoid some of the limitations of other RAT-based studies. Based on a large sample (N = 9,161), the effects of value, visibility, accessibility, and guardianship on victimization of six cybercrimes have been studied. Analysis shows some RAT elements are more applicable than others. Visibility clearly plays a role within cybercrime victimization. Accessibility and personal capable guardianship show varying results. Value and technical capable guardianship show almost no effects on cybercrime victimization. |
| |
| Keywords: | |
|
|
