The Slippery Slope: Exploring the Parallels Between Game Cheating and Cybercrime Through Routine Activity Theory

Law enforcement agencies have expressed concerns about the potential connection between video game cheating and engagement in cybercriminal activities among young users. This study conducts a preliminary investigation into this topic by examining the parallels between game cheating and cyber-crime, using Routine Activity Theory (RAT) from the field of criminology. Through a systematic analysis of previous empirical studies and an extensive review of relevant literature, the findings uncover previously overlooked themes between the two domains: a drive for victory, exploiting user and system integrity, attack-defence dynamic, social immersion and domain familiarisation, and anonymity. The study then provides a discussion on steering users towards pro-social practices in the cyber security industry, while also addressing the potential unintended exposure of users to cybercrime. The outcomes of this research underscore the need for continued enquiry by researchers and policymakers to gain a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of the potential link between game cheating and cybercrime. The study concludes by offering reflections on its limitations and the applicability of RAT beyond its traditional context.