“Attackers effectively use the method of social engineering, which is based on manipulative psychological techniques. It is worth paying attention to the fact that some studies show qualities that can hypothetically predetermine victimization, or the tendency to become a victim of such a crime,” the expert explained.
People who take cyber threats more seriously are more likely to behave in a “defensive manner,” he said.
“For example, use strong passwords or avoid suspicious emails. Such citizens are more cautious and less trusting, especially when interacting with complex technological systems. Another important trait is self-efficacy, which refers to a person's belief in their ability to successfully complete a given task. People with higher self-efficacy for cybersecurity challenges are more likely to engage in defensive behavior,” Deulin explained.
In addition, according to the expert, personality traits such as neuroticism and conscientiousness, as well as demographic factors such as age and education level, can influence knowledge and experience with technology.
“The high level of such knowledge and experience makes it more likely to avoid unpleasant stories related to the theft of personal data via the Internet through blackmail, theft and fraudulent transactions,” said RT’s interlocutor.
At the same time, too high a trust index can lead to a victimized behavior pattern, warned the candidate of psychological sciences.
“We should not forget that social engineering is being improved, new and more complex algorithms for the psychological processing of citizens are being developed, including using artificial intelligence technologies (creating deepfakes or generating a substitute voice). Aggressive suggestion cannot be ruled out - a psychological impact on a person’s consciousness, in which an uncritical perception of his beliefs and attitudes occurs,” Deulin emphasized.
It is even possible to use technology for the remote use of “combat hypnosis,” which allows and forces the interlocutor to accept the idea or thought that the attackers need, he said.
“In order to prevent the use of social engineering methods, it is necessary to increase efforts in the field of information and psychological education, increasing computer literacy, developing critical thinking, increasing awareness and meaningfulness of digital communication,” the expert advised.
Previously, financial expert Maxim Glazkov told RT how to protect yourself from loans if personal data gets into the hands of fraudsters.