Online grooming: Risk factors and modus operandi of Spanish court sentences

Abstract

Online grooming has increased along with the development of new technologies. To prevent it, we need to know the characteristics of offenders and victims, and the modus operandi. To do so, we analysed 20 Spanish court sentences (2017-2020 period). The sample is made up of 20 offenders (men, mean age = 35 years old) and 65 victims (46% girls, mean age = 14 years old). Although there was no homogeneous profile, in line with previous investigations, offenders were mostly unknown young men with no criminal records with a higher average age. The persuasion strategies that were found were similar with those of the literature but different by sex (deception and coercion girls, corruption boys). An offline meeting was suggested in 90% of the cases, being more accepted if the offender was known. Disability in the victims worked as a risk factor. In the discussion section we debunk myths, hoping to contribute with evidence-based material for further prevention programs.