The sherman principle in the digital society: Emerging risks of destabilization of digital citizenship

Esquiagola-Aranda E.A.; Nagamine-Miyashiro M.M.; Díaz-Mujica J.Y.; Soria-Pérez Y.F. · Encuentros (Maracaibo) (2026) · DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.20940590

Resumen

Sherman’s criminological principle demonstrates that common crime acts asymmetrically: small groups of people can destabilize large systems. This negative symmetry exploits citizen trust in interaction systems, which often lasts until attacks reveal their vulnerabilities. In this vein, we propose measuring citizen practices in the field of cybersecurity in Peru, in order to reveal the importance of strengthening Digital Citizenship, in contrast to the widespread lack of awareness of complex operations, where computer crimes can nest. The study sample consisted of 500 adults from Lima and surrounding provinces, men and women aged 20 and older. The instrument used was the Digital Citizenship Scale for Adults. 72.8% of social groups display ethical behavior, in contrast to the literacy problem at critical points of vulnerability to crime. The paradox between high digital literacy and ignorance of complex systemic processes in Peru makes Sherman’s principle relevant regarding the need to prevent crimes and strengthen digital citizenship to address the risks of asymmetric attacks.

Instituciones: Universidad César Vallejo