Why do I take deviant disclosure behavior on internet platforms? An explanation based on the neutralization theory

Abstract Internet platforms increasingly rely on personal data to maintain user base and attract potential users. However, users might misrepresent their personal information in response to the requests when they expect their personal information to be used for unstated purposes. Misrepresenting of personal information (MPI), as a regular deviant behavior on online platforms, leads to data noises and service failures and needs further investigation. Drawing on the neutralization theory and online scenario survey, this study constructs a model to examine the factors of MPI. The results show that techniques of neutralization, such as denial of injury, defense of necessity, metaphor of the ledger, and avoidance of greater harm, are positively associated with users’ intention of MPI. In particular, avoidance of greater harm has a stronger effect on MPI intention than other neutralization techniques. Furthermore, we also explore the contingent role of personality traits. The results show that extraversion negatively moderates the relationships between denial of injury, avoidance of greater harm and MPI, whereas neuroticism plays a positive role in moderating the relationships between denial of injury, metaphor of the ledger, avoidance of greater harm and MPI. Moreover, post-hoc analysis results show that users do some differernces regarding justify their deviant disclosure behavior by using neutralization techniques between e-commerce platform and social networking site. Focusing on the dark side of disclosure behavior, this study enriches the current literature by applying neutralization theory and provides a new direction for academia and Internet practitioners to understand users’ deviant disclosure behavior.