In this episode of Crossing the Firewall, we are joined by special guest Dr. Jack Whittaker to discuss non-delivery fraud. Dr. Whittaker discusses his research findings surrounding Pet Scams. Fraudsters are actually having fake websites created and are marketing themselves as Dog Breeders to lure potential customers. Once a down payment is placed, the victims become emotionally attached to the idea of their future pet. The problem is that the pet never actually existed.

Dr. Whittaker discusses his interactions with these fraudsters and what he learned about how money, culture, black magic, social status, and geographic borders all play an important role in these scams.

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Dr. Jack Whittaker is a lecturer at the University of Surrey. Learn more: https://www.surrey.ac.uk/people/jack-whittaker-0

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Interested in learning more about the MSU Center for Cybercrime Investigation & Training? Visit our website: www.cybertraining.msu.edu

Advance your career with a Masters Degree in Cybercrime and Digital Investigation from the MSU School of Criminal Justice: https://online.cj.msu.edu/ms-masters-cybercrime-digital-investigation

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Crossing the Firewall is hosted by Dr. Tom Holt, Dr. Rachel McNealey, and Dr. Taylor Fisher. Edited by JJ Thomas.

All views and opinions expressed are the views of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of their home institutions or places of work. All information provided in this podcast should not be taken as business, personal, financial, or legal advice.