TITLE:
Unveiling the Unseen Wounds—A Qualitative Exploration of the Psychological Impact and Effects of Cyber Scams in Singapore
AUTHORS:
Johan H. M. Buse, Jonathan Ee, Shilpi Tripathi
KEYWORDS:
Cyber Scams, Digital Cheating, Scam Victims, Psychological Exploitation, Multicultural
JOURNAL NAME:
Psychology,
Vol.14 No.11,
November
30,
2023
ABSTRACT: Introduction: In a world where the virtual realm is integral to daily life,
facilitating communication, commerce, and social interactions, the rise of the
digital landscape has brought both unprecedented opportunities and new
challenges. Among these challenges, cyber scams have emerged as a modern
affliction that transcends geographical boundaries, targeting individuals with
precision and cunning. Objective: A Qualitative Exploration: The essence of this study lies in its
commitment to unveiling the unseen wounds inflicted by cyber scams. Unlike
quantitative studies prioritizing statistical generalizability, our qualitative
research embraces the richness of individual narratives, emphasizing diverse
responses and the uniqueness of each victim’s journey. Methodology: Mapping Emotional Labyrinths: Drawing on in-depth interviews, personal
accounts, and narrative analysis, we aim to map the intricate labyrinth of
emotions that unfold when trust is betrayed, security is shattered, and one’s
digital reality transforms into a nightmare. Conclusion: This study seeks to transcend the limitations of numbers, offering
insights into the profound realms of human emotion, perception, and
meaning-making in the aftermath of cyber scams. Resilience, Healing, Empowerment:
By walking hand in hand with our participants, we aim to illuminate the path
toward resilience, healing, and empowerment. The ultimate goal is to foster a
more secure and psychologically robust digital society.