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Using scammers’ data to estimate the impact and importance of preventing repeat mail fraud victimization
Langton, L., DeLiema, M., Brannock, M. D., & Preble, E. A. (2024). Using scammers’ data to estimate the impact and importance of preventing repeat mail fraud victimization. British Journal of Criminology, Article azae033. https://doi.org/10.1093/bjc/azae033
This study examines the frequency and cost of repeat mail fraud victimization in the United States using longitudinal data from a unique source: records from four scam enterprises that operated over a nearly 20-year period. Findings show that most mail fraud victims experience repeat victimization and a small percentage account for most of the losses. Sixty-two per cent of victims responded to more than one mail solicitation. Chronic victims, who responded more than 20 times, comprised 8.8 per cent of the sample and lost $1,771, on average. Findings suggest the need for early intervention to prevent repeat and chronic victimization, thereby reducing the harm for victims. Limitations and implications for future research are discussed.
