University of Twente Student Theses
Influence of victims during ransomware negotiations and its outcomes
Bayerlen, A. (2025) Influence of victims during ransomware negotiations and its outcomes.
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| Abstract: | This exploratory study aimed to investigate the tonal influence of victims and their counteroffer strategy during ransomware negotiations and its impact on outcomes. As victim behavior during negotiations remains under-researched, identifying correlations can offer valuable guidance for future victims. Using a mixed-method, exploratory approach, 134 transcripts were coded, analyzed and categorized into three distinct tonal groups – aggressive, calm and pleading. The calm tone was linked with the lowest likelihood of payment, while the emotional tone showed the highest likelihood of payment. Additionally, the number of counteroffers made by victims emerged as a statistically significant predictor of payment success – more counteroffers increased the likelihood of payment. These findings suggest that a victim’s persistence, as reflected by the number of counteroffers made, may play a more critical role in negotiation outcomes than the tonal approach they use. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Bachelor) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 77 psychology |
| Programme: | Psychology BSc (56604) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/106726 |
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