Understanding the human element in scams: a multidisciplinary approach

Scams are a widespread and persistent issue that have existed for thousands of years, evolving into a significant problem in modern society with the advancement of new media and communication technologies. This editorial attempts to provide a comprehensive understanding of the social and psychological mechanisms in scams through a multidisciplinary lens, drawing insights from communication studies, information systems, psychology, sociology, and economics. We aim to not only provide a robust framework for future scientific research, but also to map potential directions for developing effective scam prevention and intervention strategies in the future. © 2024 The Author(s). Published with license by Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.