Paper Number
ICIS2025-1018
Paper Type
Short
Abstract
This study examines how Dark Web (DW) forums enable pathways to “lawless spaces,” particularly in the context of online Child Sexual Abuse (CSA). While DW forums offer anonymity and access to illicit materials, limited research has explored their spatial characteristics and role in enabling criminal engagement. Drawing on a pilot study in collaboration with the Swedish Police, this research analyzes forum data and expert interviews to identify four key themes through which DW forums enable pathways to lawless spaces: Incentivizing Engagement, Creating Proximity and Distance, Normalizing CSA, and Empowering Users. By applying a spatial perspective, the study advances Information Systems research on digital deviance and lawless spaces while underscoring the need for interdisciplinary collaboration between academia and law enforcement. The findings offer insights into how DW forums function as enablers pathways to CSA and highlight potential strategies for prevention and intervention.
Recommended Citation
Haj-Bolouri, Amir and Gregor, Shirley, "Exploring How Dark Web Forums Enable Pathways to “Lawless Spaces”: The Case of Online Child Sexual Abuse" (2025). ICIS 2025 Proceedings. 1.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/icis2025/is_good/is_good/1
Exploring How Dark Web Forums Enable Pathways to “Lawless Spaces”: The Case of Online Child Sexual Abuse
This study examines how Dark Web (DW) forums enable pathways to “lawless spaces,” particularly in the context of online Child Sexual Abuse (CSA). While DW forums offer anonymity and access to illicit materials, limited research has explored their spatial characteristics and role in enabling criminal engagement. Drawing on a pilot study in collaboration with the Swedish Police, this research analyzes forum data and expert interviews to identify four key themes through which DW forums enable pathways to lawless spaces: Incentivizing Engagement, Creating Proximity and Distance, Normalizing CSA, and Empowering Users. By applying a spatial perspective, the study advances Information Systems research on digital deviance and lawless spaces while underscoring the need for interdisciplinary collaboration between academia and law enforcement. The findings offer insights into how DW forums function as enablers pathways to CSA and highlight potential strategies for prevention and intervention.
When commenting on articles, please be friendly, welcoming, respectful and abide by the AIS eLibrary Discussion Thread Code of Conduct posted here.
Comments
06-SocialGood