A Systematic Literature Review on Online Scams: Insights into Digital Literacy, Technological Innovations, and Victimology

The rapid proliferation of digital technologies has ushered in a new era of connectivity while simultaneously exposing users to an increasingly complex landscape of online scams. This systematic literature review synthesizes findings from over 40 recent studies to explore the multifaceted dimensions of online fraud. Framed by three research questions, the review examines the role of digital literacy in mitigating scam vulnerability, evaluates advanced technological methodologies for fraud detection, and investigates the socio-demographic and psychological factors influencing victim recovery. Methodologically, the study employs the PRISMA framework, a widely used guideline for systematic reviews, to ensure rigor in the identification, screening, and selection of peer-reviewed articles published between 2020 and 2024. Key findings highlight the critical role of digital literacy and financial education in empowering individuals against online fraud, with nuanced challenges posed by overconfidence and limited awareness campaigns. Technological advancements, particularly in machine learning and artificial intelligence, demonstrate transformative potential in fraud detection, achieving accuracy rates exceeding 90% in various applications. Additionally, victimology research underscores the emotional and psychological toll of scams, emphasizing the need for tailored support mechanisms and community-driven awareness initiatives. The review identifies significant implications for policy, practice, and future research, advocating for interdisciplinary collaboration to enhance digital resilience. By integrating education, technology, and regulatory measures, this study provides a comprehensive roadmap for addressing the evolving threat of online scams, ensuring a safer digital ecosystem for individuals and institutions alike. Keywords: Online scams, digital literacy, fraud detection, cybersecurity, victimology.