Mental Resilience and Psychological Vulnerability: Examining Protective Factors Against Cyber Scams

Abstract

Online fraud keeps growing, and so does the damage it leaves behind. The financial side of that damage gets counted; the psychological side usually does not. In this paper we look at two constructs that pull in opposite directions when a person encounters a scam. The first is psychological vulnerability, a mix of traits such as poor self-worth, impulsive decision-making and earlier mental health difficulties, which raises the chance of being deceived and worsens what follows. The second is mental resilience, the capacity to absorb the shock, steady oneself and act to limit further harm. Drawing on recent studies of scam victims, we bring together what is known about the factors that protect people: emotional intelligence, self-control, self-esteem, supportive relationships and digital literacy. We also weigh the formal responses available, from cognitive restructuring and trauma counselling to newer digital mental health services built around artificial intelligence. Our reading of the evidence is that no single measure works on its own. Prevention has to run through individuals, communities and institutions at the same time, backed by mental health education, accessible victim support, early screening and cooperation across sectors. The paper closes with a research agenda, arguing that longitudinal work and proper evaluation of interventions are the two steps most needed if the emotional cost of cyber fraud is to be brought under control.