Data Thieves in Action
Examining the International Market for Stolen Personal Information

Authors: Thomas J. Holt, Olga Smirnova, Yi-Ting Chua



Presents in-depth analyses of international marketplaces selling personal information

Utilizes social network and sociological analyses to provide insights into this growing area of crime

Addresses both issues relevant for sociologists, criminologists and computer scientists

This book examines the practices of cybercriminals who steal and sell personal information acquired through various means, including mass data breaches, to engage in cybercrime and fraud. Using data from multiple English and Russian language web forums, the authors identify the range of products sold in these active on-line marketplaces and the prospective profits earned by these actors.

The social organization of these markets is analysed using sociological theory to understand the sophistication of the markets. Social network analyses of the relational networks of participants are also utilised to examine their sophistication and structure. In doing so, this work will contribute to the development of cybercrime studies, and will appeal to both social and computer scientists alike with an interest in the human aspects of cybercrime.

Table of contents

Front Matter

Introduction

The Marketing and Sales of Stolen Data

The Economic Impact of Stolen Data Markets

The Social Organization of Actors in Stolen Data Markets

Visualizing the Networks of Economic Transactions and Ads in Stolen Data Markets

Implications and Conclusions

Back Matter