Mechanisms of affinity fraud victimization

Purpose This study aims to investigate the relationship between religiosity, belief in a just world (BJW), trust and affinity fraud. Design/methodology/approach Using an online panel vendor, this study collected survey data from 1,030 participants. Participants are balanced based on US Census data. Findings This study finds evidence that religiosity and, to a lesser extent, trust were correlated with choosing an affinity investor but not BJW. Overall, this study adds to the literature on fraud by examining the potential processes of tricking a victim. Originality/value This study examines the complex decision-making around investing with fraudsters. This study disentangles the relationship between affinity fraud, decision-making, trust and religiosity. Furthermore, this consider the reasons why a shared affinity may increase trust through the lens of the decision-maker.