Researchers at the University of Lincoln are seeking the views of the public in a new survey about online crime.

A team from Lincoln’s School of Psychology are studying people’s understanding of what is and is not legal activity on the Internet. They have launched an online survey and are asking members of the public to take part.

It is hoped the study, which is the first step in a broader research project, will help to identify gaps in legislation designed to protect people from online crime.

The survey, which takes about 15 minutes to fill in, covers topics like file sharing, credit card fraud and the legality of different types of pornography. People taking part will not be exposed to obscene material and all responses are anonymous.

Lead researcher Hannah Merdian, from the School of Psychology at the University of Lincoln, said: “The Internet has revolutionised the way we live our lives, but laws designed to protect us from its misuses are still evolving.
“Although there have been some high-profile campaigns, like closing down illegal file-sharing sites or prosecuting people who use the web to distribute child pornography, there are still many aspects of online crime which are not widely recognised or understood.
“This survey is an important first step in a major new piece of research which we hope will identify gaps in current legislation and, ultimately, help better protect people from online crime.”

The survey is online now. To take part, visit:
https://lincolnpsych.eu.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_eDLMCm9OU0kTGw4

— Story Credits —

 Ian Richards – Communications Officer – Press & Media

 E-mail: irichards@lincoln.ac.uk

 Telephone: 01522 886042