Cybersecurity Awareness, Cyber Human Values and Cyberbullying Among University Students in Selangor, Malaysia

Abstract

The way that people use information technology is significantly influenced by how they view and feel about information security and computer ethics. A quantitative study was conducted through an online survey method to identify the relationships between cybersecurity awareness and cyber human values on cyberbullying among university students in Selangor, Malaysia. A total of 162 university students from two public universities in Selangor have participated in the study. The result of the study shows that cybersecurity awareness, cyber human values and cyberbullying were scored low by most of the respondents. Three aspects of cybersecurity awareness (password security awareness, social media use awareness and cyberbully awareness) were significantly correlated with cyberbullying (r=0.972, p<0.00; r=0.166, p<0.34, and r=-0.170, p<0.03). In addition, cyber human values were also significantly correlated with cyberbullying (r=-0.192, p<0.014). Besides, there was a significant difference in password security awareness (t=2.48, p<0.014) and cyberbullying (t=1.99, p<0.049) among male and female respondents. Finally, the overall regression model was statistically significant and password security awareness was found to be the most unique predictors of cyberbullying among the respondents (β= 0.968, p=0.000). This study noted that while respondents' knowledge of information technologies is greater, their understanding of cyber ethics is equally weaker. Hence, this study recommends that in order to lessen the context of cyberbullying, particularly among our youth, people must strike a balance between cybersecurity awareness and cyber human values. To increase awareness of cybersecurity and develop cybersecurity competence at all levels, ongoing education and advocacy efforts are crucial.