Who falls prey? Uncovering the core characteristics of vulnerability to fraud among older adults from a network perspective

Older adults are disproportionately affected by fraud. While prior research has focused on the constructs and severity of vulnerability to fraud (VTF), no study has yet examined its network structure. This study used network analysis to conceptualize VTF as a system of interacting characteristics among 579 older adults (M = 68.29 years). Core characteristics included purchasing dubious investment products, listening to sales pitches, expecting to talk to strangers, and being persuaded to purchase unnecessary items. The network demonstrated stability and accuracy. Notably, these core characteristics and their inter-relationships did not vary by gender. These findings suggest that interventions targeting these core characteristics may inform the development of more effective strategies to protect older adults from fraud.