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The Conversation
The Conversation
Rennie Naidoo, Professor, University of the Witwatersrand

Catching online scammers: our model combines data and behavioural science to map the psychological games cybercriminals play

Modern cybersecurity teams and users must stay vigilant and proactive to outmanoeuvre cybercriminals. treety

When fiction’s most famous detective, Sherlock Holmes, needed to solve a crime, he turned to his sharp observational skills and deep understanding of human nature. He used this combination more than once when facing off against his arch-nemesis, Dr James Moriarty, a villain adept at exploiting human weaknesses for his gain.

This classic battle mirrors today’s ongoing fight against cybercrime. Like Moriarty, cybercriminals use cunning strategies to exploit their victims’ psychological vulnerabilities. They send deceptive emails or messages that appear to be from trusted sources such as banks, employers, or friends. These messages often contain urgent requests or alarming information to provoke an immediate response.

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