Migration stress, risky Internet uses, and scam victimization: An empirical study among Chinese migrant workers

Abstract

In China, Internet scams against migrant workers have grown increasingly prevalent. This study uses routine activity theory and uses and gratifications theory to investigate how migration stress affects susceptibility to risky internet use and scam-related outcomes among Chinese migrant workers. The present study utilized a survey of 543 migrant workers. Findings revealed that migration stress was a significant predictor of engaging in risky online leisure activities, risky online shopping, privacy disclosure, and a lack of protective measures. The failure to adopt protective behaviors and engagement in risky online leisure activities, online loaning, and privacy disclosure were also found to increase migrant workers’ exposure to scam information and victimization. Study results sheds light on the impact of migration stress on the online behavior of migrant workers in China and provides insights into protecting them from Internet scams. Our findings may inform the development of interventions aimed at preventing online scams against migrant workers and promoting safer Internet use.