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As online fraud continues to rise, finding effective ways to educate people about e-commerce scams has never been more crucial. A recent pilot study from Lancaster University has highlighted the potential of game-based learning (GBL) to teach adults how to identify and avoid online fraud—a method that could be incredibly helpful for cybersecurity education.
The research explored the effectiveness of a unique game called the Smart E-Shopper Challenge. Designed to simulate real-world online shopping scams, the game puts players in a workplace scenario where they must purchase items for a company party while avoiding common fraud pitfalls.
The game relies on immersive, role-playing mechanics to engage participants. Players use interactive cards, such as “threat,” “shield,” and “tutorial” to navigate challenges, while secret missions reward them for exploring defensive strategies, according to TechXplore. This dynamic approach turns learning into an interactive experience, which is not only more engaging but also more effective at instilling long-term knowledge.
In the study, 46 adults aged 18 to 54 took part, with some completing a basic quiz on fraud prevention and others playing the game. The results were striking: participants who played the game scored 86.7% on a follow-up test, compared to 79.2% for the quiz group. More importantly, those who engaged with the game showed a higher likelihood of adopting safer online shopping behaviors, suggesting that game-based education could be a powerful tool in cybersecurity awareness.
This approach taps into a growing interest in GBL as a way to teach complex topics. Game mechanics like incentive systems, immediate feedback, and time-based challenges help users not only learn but retain vital information. As regulatory bodies push for more active consumer involvement in fraud prevention, this study points to a promising alternative to traditional awareness campaigns, which often struggle to capture public interest.
