The Psychological Toll of Internet Scams on Mental Well-Being

Recent research from Griffith University highlights the profound emotional and psychological impacts of internet scams on individuals' mental health. While financial loss is often emphasized, the study reveals that scam victims frequently endure heightened levels of anxiety, depression, trauma, shame, and social withdrawal. Dr. Luke Balcombe from Griffith's School of Applied Psychology emphasizes that these emotional repercussions can be as debilitating as monetary damages, yet they often remain unnoticed or underestimated.

In 2023, global losses due to internet scams exceeded USD 1 trillion, with only a small fraction of cases reported. This underreporting can mask the severity of the psychological distress experienced by victims. Dr. Balcombe advocates for integrating mental health strategies into recovery plans, emphasizing the importance of social support, resilience-building, and access to digital mental health resources such as AI chatbots for emotional support and practical coping strategies.

He also underscores the role of traditional mental health care, encouraging victims to seek help from GPs or mental health professionals. Additionally, educational resources that inform about scam tactics and recovery pathways can empower individuals and foster prevention.

The research advocates for innovative solutions like emotionally intelligent AI companions and coordinated prevention strategies to mitigate the emotional and psychological toll of scams. Enhancing awareness, digital tools, and support systems is vital for promoting long-term recovery and protecting mental well-being in the digital age.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-internet-scams-impact-health.html