Weaponization of Conscience in Cybercrime and Online Fraud: A Novel Systems Theory

Abstract

This article introduces the concept of weaponization of conscience as a complex system and tactic employed by fraudsters to camouflage their activity, coerce others, or to deceive their victims. This study adopts a conceptual approach, drawing from the theoretical underpinnings of military propaganda and psychological operations doctrines and adapting them to serve as a lens through which to understand and defend against weaponization of conscience.

Updated to include more recent literature, added note that diagrams are author's own work, added two additional diagrams illustrating the examples, expanded the explanation of the concept and its applicability for practitioners