Віктимологічна характеристика жертв кримінального правопорушення, передбаченого ст. 361 ККУ

The article explores the issue of the victimological profile of individuals who have suffered from cybercrimes stipulated under Article 361 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (unauthorised interference with the operation of information (automated), electronic communications, information and communication systems, and electronic communications networks). The relevance of this study is driven by the rapid increase in cybercrime amid the digital transformation of society and the limited research on the victim as an object of criminal encroachment. The purpose of this article is to identify the main socio- demographic, psychological, and behavioural characteristics of individuals who become victims of unauthorised interference with the functioning of electronic computing systems. A comprehensive methodological approach has been applied in the course of the study, combining elements of systematic, comparative legal, statistical, and logical-legal analysis. The article examines current Ukrainian criminal legislation, statistical data from law enforcement agencies, judicial practice, and case studies of investigations conducted under Article 361 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. It has been established that the majority of victims are individuals aged between 21 and 45, possessing either secondary or higher education, and actively using the Internet, particularly social networks and online banking platforms. A typical feature among these victims is a lack of awareness regarding information security fundamentals, a careless attitude towards the protection of confidential data, and poor digital hygiene practices. Special attention is devoted to the psychological characteristics of cybercrime victims. The study identifies a differentiation between active and passive victims. Each type is characterised by a specific set of psychological traits. Active victims are typically extroverted, emotionally excitable, susceptible to external influences, prone to risk-taking, and often display overconfidence. Conversely, passive victims are usually introverted, emotionally rigid, highly anxious, lacking in self-confidence, inclined towards isolation, and tend to avoid conflict. When coupled with low levels of digital literacy, these traits contribute to their vulnerability and victimisation due to careless use of information technologies. The findings of this study may serve as a foundation for the development of new preventive measures aimed at reducing the level of victimisation among the population.