Economic cybercrime in the diaspora: case of Ghanaian nationals in the USA
| Date | 13 June 2024 |
| Pages | 15-29 |
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.1108/JMLC-03-2024-0047 |
| Published date | 13 June 2024 |
| Author | Yushawu Abubakari,Awurafua Amponsaa Amponsah |
Economic cybercrime in the
diaspora: case of Ghanaian
nationals in the USA
Yushawu Abubakari and Awurafua Amponsaa Amponsah
Department of Social Sciences, University of Wroclaw, Wroclaw, Poland
Abstract
Purpose –This study aims to delve into economiccybercrime within the African diaspora, with a specific
focus on Ghanaian nationalsresiding in the USA. It aims to shed light on the nuanced and unique approaches
that diasporicactors adopt to execute economic cybercrimes,especially online frauds.
Design/methodology/approach –Drawing on press releasesand official indictments collected from the
U.S. Department of Justice,the study adopted content analysis. Through this approach, the study outlinesits
findings
Findings –The analysis reveals patternsin economic cybercrimes among Ghanaians abroad. Notably,the
findings suggest thatdiasporic individuals often work with local accomplicesto perpetrate various economic
cybercrimes, with money laundering being particularly prevalent among those living outside their home
country. This underscores the profound influence of geographical location on the choice of cybercriminal
activities. Moreover, the research reveals that diasporic actors use several tactics, including adopting false
identities to interact with victims and thecreation of sham companies for laundering money. Additionally,
demographic characteristics such as age and gender seem to significantly influence the involvement of
diasporicindividuals in economic cybercrimes.
Research limitations/implications –The research was primarily based on pressreleases and official
indictments within the USA. Although these sources offer substantial insight into the rise of cybercrime
among Ghanaian diaspora members, their focus on specific data types and geographical regions might
constrainour comprehension of the nuances of this phenomenon, particularlyacross various diasporic groups
and regions. Hence,future research could enhance our understandingby conducting fieldwork, not just in the
USA but also in other areas using primary data to delve deeper into the issue of cybercrime within the
diaspora.
Practical implications –The study’sfindings have implications for individuals, organizations and
policymakers alike. By understanding the strategies of economic cybercrime offenders, as demonstrated in
this research, individuals can be better equipped to navigate digital technologies for both personal and
business purposes. Moreover, policymakers and government agencies can use these insights to develop
policiesaimed at mitigating the spread of economic cybercrimes,particularly within diasporic communities.
Originality/value –The paper stands outfor its innovative approach and scope. While numerousstudies
have exploredcybercrime activities, the prevalence among diasporicactors remains underexamined. Through
its methodology and scope,this paper opens avenues for further research into the phenomenon of cybercrime
within diasporiccommunities.
Keywords Cybercrime, Diaspora, Ghanaians, USA, Money laundering, U.S. Department of Justice
Paper type Research paper
Introduction
In the current study, we examine how Ghanaian nationals in the USA partner with their
cohort in Ghana to engage in cybercrime activities. While advancements in technology
have facilitated diasporic actors’involvement in development interventions in both
The authors declare no conflict of interest.
Economic
cybercrime in
the diaspora
15
Journalof Money Laundering
Control
Vol.28 No. 1, 2025
pp. 15-29
© Emerald Publishing Limited
1368-5201
DOI 10.1108/JMLC-03-2024-0047
The current issue and full text archive of this journal is available on Emerald Insight at:
https://www.emerald.com/insight/1368-5201.htm
Get this document and AI-powered insights with a free trial of vLex and Vincent AI
Get Started for FreeStart Your Free Trial of vLex and Vincent AI, Your Precision-Engineered Legal Assistant
-
Access comprehensive legal content with no limitations across vLex's unparalleled global legal database
-
Build stronger arguments with verified citations and CERT citator that tracks case history and precedential strength
-
Transform your legal research from hours to minutes with Vincent AI's intelligent search and analysis capabilities
-
Elevate your practice by focusing your expertise where it matters most while Vincent handles the heavy lifting
Start Your Free Trial of vLex and Vincent AI, Your Precision-Engineered Legal Assistant
-
Access comprehensive legal content with no limitations across vLex's unparalleled global legal database
-
Build stronger arguments with verified citations and CERT citator that tracks case history and precedential strength
-
Transform your legal research from hours to minutes with Vincent AI's intelligent search and analysis capabilities
-
Elevate your practice by focusing your expertise where it matters most while Vincent handles the heavy lifting
Start Your Free Trial of vLex and Vincent AI, Your Precision-Engineered Legal Assistant
-
Access comprehensive legal content with no limitations across vLex's unparalleled global legal database
-
Build stronger arguments with verified citations and CERT citator that tracks case history and precedential strength
-
Transform your legal research from hours to minutes with Vincent AI's intelligent search and analysis capabilities
-
Elevate your practice by focusing your expertise where it matters most while Vincent handles the heavy lifting
Start Your Free Trial of vLex and Vincent AI, Your Precision-Engineered Legal Assistant
-
Access comprehensive legal content with no limitations across vLex's unparalleled global legal database
-
Build stronger arguments with verified citations and CERT citator that tracks case history and precedential strength
-
Transform your legal research from hours to minutes with Vincent AI's intelligent search and analysis capabilities
-
Elevate your practice by focusing your expertise where it matters most while Vincent handles the heavy lifting
Start Your Free Trial of vLex and Vincent AI, Your Precision-Engineered Legal Assistant
-
Access comprehensive legal content with no limitations across vLex's unparalleled global legal database
-
Build stronger arguments with verified citations and CERT citator that tracks case history and precedential strength
-
Transform your legal research from hours to minutes with Vincent AI's intelligent search and analysis capabilities
-
Elevate your practice by focusing your expertise where it matters most while Vincent handles the heavy lifting