Examining the Influence of Cybersecurity Awareness on Online Behavior

Abstract

Internet access is now a must for many companies; much like electricity, it is a basic necessity that cannot be done without it. However, protecting sensitive data is crucial in both personal and professional contexts. Information security cannot be ensured by technology alone, according to experts. The actions of users are crucial to take into account in this field. The Internet is a massive system where data breaches are highly probable. Users, whether malicious or careless, pose a significant danger to information security because they can compromise its confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Mistakes include using the same password for many accounts, downloading software from the internet, writing passwords on sticky paper, and utilising personal information such as a social security number. Most security incidents are caused by user error, whether accidental or malicious, or by their unwillingness to cooperate due to laziness or indifference. The provided model aims to mitigate the risk associated with the poor information security behaviour of users, which is the key issue in this space. Structural equation modelling (SEM) analyses revealed a positive correlation between user behaviour and several factors related to information security, including: awareness; organisation policy; experience and involvement; attitude towards information security; subjective norms; threat appraisal; and self-efficacy.