There are various challenges with online data collection, from participant recruitment to ensuring
the integrity and representativeness of the results; and when the data is being collected from hacking
communities who value privacy the challenges become far more interesting. This study was carried out as part
of an ongoing PhD project into online communities involved with hacking. This paper will discuss the resources used in designing and implementing internet-based data collection, especially with hard-to-engage
participants. Data discussed has been collected via quantitative online surveys. Risks include becoming the
target of a cyber-attack. Previous studies have found that research of this type is not universally welcomed in such private communities with reactions ranging from wary to hostile. The findings of this paper offer
examples and areas of improvement for online research methodologies as well as reinforcing the importance
of social psychological research and human factors within cyber security. The results are beneficial to those wanting to conduct their own online research in challenging areas, as well as those interested in online
behaviour and hacking related topics
