Samenvatting

Based on different criminological theories in combination with the unique characteristics of the Internet, it is assumed that there are significant differences between cyber criminals and traditional criminals. This article compares the characteristics of fraudsters who use the Internet to execute their scams (e-fraudsters) and fraudsters who do not use the Internet (classic fraudsters). The personal characteristics, social economical background and criminal careers are compared. The main conclusion is that e-fraudsters are not ‘new’ criminals that only commit crimes because of the perceived benefits of the Internet. But the use of the Internet does make the perceived consequences of committing a fraud offense less severe, so offenders who use the Internet will commit fraud offenses earlier in life. Internet provides the opportunity for fraudsters to commit frauds at a younger age.