Digital Fraud and Psychological Blackmail Strategies: An Analysis of Scammers' Communications toward the Elderly via Social Media and Instant Messaging Apps

Abstract

Online fraud targeting the elderly is one of the many types of cybercrimes that have emerged as a result of the expansion of digital media, which has also created a large communication area. This study examines the psychological blackmail and communication strategies employed by scammers in fraudulent activities involving phony lottery schemes through Facebook and the instant messaging software WhatsApp. To instill fear, trust, and cooperation in their victims, scammers use images of popular personalities or celebrities, stories of large lottery winnings, and threats of police involvement. This study employs a case study methodology and qualitative techniques, including data from interviews with senior victims and screenshots of online interactions. To find trends in message manipulation, the use of authority symbols, and fear-based persuasion strategies (fear appeals), data analysis is done through communication discourse analysis. The findings reveal that scammers employ a sequential communication strategy consisting of trust building, emotional engagement, authority construction, fear appeal, and psychological blackmail to manipulate older adult victims. These strategies are reinforced through Facebook and WhatsApp interactions, enabling scammers to create perceived legitimacy and urgency. The urgency and credibility of messages are reinforced by digital media. Understanding the communication weaknesses of older adults and the significance of digital literacy techniques in thwarting online fraud are two areas in which this research advances communication science and digital media studies.