Explaining Cybercrime through the Lens of Differential Association Theory, Hadidi44-2.php PayPal Case Study

Abstract

Social learning theories, such as differential association theory, state that criminals develop deviant behaviors and learn the tools of their trade through close association with other deviants. This case study examines a group of 99 email addresses found to be using the same PayPal phishing kit. It uses Open Source Intelligence techniques to determine potential relationships between the holders of these email addresses. The results are then discussed in light of differential association theory to determine the extent to which this theory may aid in the understanding of cybercrime. (Abstract)

Exploring the Provision of Online Booter Services

“…There are many well-developed online communities that are used for learning and sharing information and ideologies, recruiting others to commit offenses, and trading tools (Holt 2007;Hutchings and Holt 2015;Levin et al 2012). The online social communities where differential association and learning takes place tend to be male-dominated and less accepting of those that identify as female (Hutchings 2013a).…”

“…Research indicates that high tech cybercrime offenders learn from each other and share information between themselves (Holt 2007;Hutchings 2014;Jordan and Taylor 1998;Levin et al 2012). There are many well-developed online communities that are used for learning and sharing information and ideologies, recruiting others to commit offenses, and trading tools (Holt 2007;Hutchings and Holt 2015;Levin et al 2012).…”