SMART CTZEN: A DIGITAL STORYTELLING APP TO EMPOWER YOUTH’S AWARENESS IN CYBER SAFETY AND SECURITY

Abstract

The impact of the COVID-19 epidemic on Malaysian educational institutions highlights the rise in cybercrime cases among students. Studies indicate that university students are the top users of the Internet with high daily internet usage, yet, this group of users are not only the victims but also the perpetrators of cyber threats and crimes. Despite being the top Internet users, youth aged 18-25 have been found to have limited understanding of cyber threats, making them more susceptible to such threats, or to become an accidental outlaw. Therefore, this study aims to uncover the types of threats that are prevalent among university students and ways to address these threats. This study found that majority of undergraduate students experienced cyberbullying, gaming addiction, depression and anxiety due to cyber threats, online sexual harassment and online financial scams. In order to address this contemporary phenomenon, this study proposes a digital storytelling application which aims to educate youth about strategies to recognize cyber threats, respond to these threats appropriately, and make informed decisions about their cyber behaviour. It also proposes that being vigilant about these strategies are in line with Islamic teachings and principles. This will equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to protect themselves, their finances, and their safety, security and privacy in the cyber space, so that they are able to contribute to a safer digital community.