Factors Influencing the Cybersecurity Awareness of State University Undergraduates of Sri Lanka: Evidence from Management Undergraduates of University of Kelaniya

Abstract

With the improvement of technology and the ease of access to the internet, cybercrimes are increasing daily. Therefore, the knowledge, practice, and usage of cybersecurity measures are increasingly important in today’s lifestyle and business environment. This dissertation paper examines the present level of cybersecurity awareness among state university undergraduates of Sri Lanka and has been created to assist the undergraduates in becoming more informed about the cybercrime threats. The main contribution of this research is an evaluation of cybersecurity awareness among university undergraduates based on three factors: password security, browser security, and social media activities. A questionnaire was designed and distributed to the selected sample to evaluate their level of awareness. The survey received 217 responses and various statistical analyses were applied to analyze the data gathered, including the reliability and validity test, feasibility test of a variable, correlation test, multicollinearity test, multiple regression, and hypothesis testing, carried out using SPSS. The results of the partial hypothesis testing showed that the password security variable significantly affects cybersecurity awareness and the regression coefficient of the password security variable in the multiple linear regression model was found to have a beta value of 0.147. In addition, the browser security variable significantly affects awareness, and the regression coefficient of the browser security variable had a beta value of 0.188. The social media activities variable significantly affects cybersecurity awareness, and the regression coefficient of the social media activities variable had a beta value of 0.241. Based on the research conducted, it can be concluded that knowledge of password security, browser security, and social media activities significantly influences cybersecurity awareness in undergraduates. Overall, the undergraduates are in the position of understanding the importance of cybersecurity awareness.