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Conscious vulnerability: understanding the behavioural correlates of fraud in young adults through temporal discounting

Rashmika Puri Kagathara et al.

Journal of Financial Crime2026https://doi.org/10.1108/jfc-07-2025-0243article
ABDC B
Weight
0.50

Abstract

Purpose Fraud among young adults is a highly prevalent issue, yet there has been limited research in this context. This study aims to investigate the behavioural factors influencing online fraud victimisation among young adults. Design/methodology/approach Grounded in temporal discounting theory, the study analyses how behavioural traits such as self-control, sensation-seeking and premeditation mediate the effects of age and time spent online on fraud vulnerability. Using a sample of 515 participants aged 15–30 years from the Delhi Metropolitan Region, India, we analysed how their age and online habits influence, or are influenced by, their behaviours: self-control, sensation-seeking and premeditation. Findings Results of our study suggested that a multi-faceted and complex pathway to victimisation exists, wherein the victim is aware of their actions yet still falls prey to fraud due to poor self-regulation. Self-control emerged as a consistent mediator across all age groups, whereas sensation-seeking did not. Premeditation decreased with age, but did not mediate fraud occurrence. Those falling in the 21–30 years age group experienced a greater impact of time spent online on fraud victimisation. Originality/value This study emphasises the importance of fostering behavioural control and creating protective measures and interventions targeted to each age group. We introduce the novel concept of conscious vulnerability – a condition where individuals knowingly engage with fraudulent content despite being aware of potential risks.

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https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1108/jfc-07-2025-0243

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@article{rashmika2026,
  title        = {{Conscious vulnerability: understanding the behavioural correlates of fraud in young adults through temporal discounting}},
  author       = {Rashmika Puri Kagathara et al.},
  journal      = {Journal of Financial Crime},
  year         = {2026},
  doi          = {https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1108/jfc-07-2025-0243},
}

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Conscious vulnerability: understanding the behavioural correlates of fraud in young adults through temporal discounting

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Evidence weight

0.50

Balanced mode · F 0.40 / M 0.15 / V 0.05 / R 0.40

F · citation impact0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20
M · momentum0.50 × 0.15 = 0.07
V · venue signal0.50 × 0.05 = 0.03
R · text relevance †0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20

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