Security Organization Research Articles

Challenges and Lessons Learned from Counter Terrorism Strategies in Kenya

The changing nature of terrorism activities both in the developed and developing countries makes it imperative to fully tackle this problem. Fears of advancement in weapons by terrorists to chemical, biological and nuclear weapons continue to be on the rise. As such, despite formulation of numerous strategies, the states and regions remain vulnerable to future terrorist attacks. The objective of this study to explore the challenges encountered in counter terrorism strategies employed in Kenya. The study employed a desktop review and thematic analysis to provide a multi-dimensional exploration of the challenges confronting Kenya's efforts to counter terrorism. This approach not only contextualized the current state of counter-terrorism within the nation but also contributed to a more holistic comprehension of the intricate dynamics involved. The study revealed that the respondents encounter challenges in the fight against terrorism in Kenya. The study also found that the most faced challenge was inadequate training and inadequate funding in the security organizations. These tend to act as a limit barrier in not only acquiring but also utilizing modern terrorism equipment. However, unclear definition of law was the least experienced challenge showing that there were no legal barriers in the implementation of the counter terrorism strategies. The study recommends that the security agents should put measures to ensure increased public participation in countering terrorism. Additionally, the study recommends audit and scrutiny of the security agencies so as to ensure that they are well capable and trained for their respective positions.

A systematic literature review on advanced persistent threat behaviors and its detection strategy

Abstract Advanced persistent threats (APTs) pose significant security-related challenges to organizations owing to their sophisticated and persistent nature, and are inimical to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of organizational information and services. This study systematically reviews the literature on methods of detecting APTs by comprehensively surveying research in the area, identifying gaps in the relevant studies, and proposing directions for future work. The authors provide a detailed analysis of current methods of APT detection that are based on multi-stage attack-related behaviors. We adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and conducted an extensive search of a variety of databases. A total of 45 studies, encompassing sources from both academia and the industry, were considered in the final analysis. The findings reveal that APTs have the capability to laterally propagate and achieve their objectives by identifying and exploiting existing systemic vulnerabilities. By identifying shortcomings in prevalent methods of APT detection, we propose integrating the multi-stage attack-related behaviors of APTs with the assessment of the presence of vulnerabilities in the network and their susceptibility to being exploited in order to improve the accuracy of their identification. Such an improved approach uses vulnerability scores and probability metrics to determine the probable sequence of targeted nodes, and visualizes the path of APT attacks. This technique of advanced detection enables the early identification of the most likely targets, which, in turn, allows for the implementation of proactive measures to prevent the network from being further compromised. The research here contributes to the literature by highlighting the importance of integrating multi-stage attack-related behaviors, vulnerability assessment, and techniques of visualization for APT detection to enhance the overall security of organizations.

СПЕЦІАЛЬНІ МІСІЇ МІЖНАРОДНИХ МІЖУРЯДОВИХ ОРГАНІЗАЦІЙ: ТЕОРЕТИЧНІ ТА ПРАКТИЧНІ АСПЕКТИ ФУНКЦІОНУВАННЯ

The article is devoted to the theoretical and practical aspects of the functioning of special missions of international intergovernmental organizations at the present stage. It is noted that diversification of international relations contributes to the expansion of interactions between subjects of international law in various forms. It is actualized that international intergovernmental organizations, in exercising the right of foreign relations, are increasingly using ad hoc diplomacy or special missions. The author emphasizes that the trend in the development of the institution of special missions is the practice of their implementation by international intergovernmental organizations on various issues at different levels. At the same time, the author underlines that there is no regulatory framework for all aspects of their functioning. Particular attention is paid to the activities of individual special missions of international intergovernmental organizations in Ukraine. It is established that the diplomatic temporary missions of the UN, OSCE, EU and in the context of the Russian-Ukrainian war are carried out in accordance with the provisions of the 1969 Convention on Special Missions, customary law and are additionally regulated by relevant agreements and memorandums. Considering the long existence of the institution of special missions, the practice shows and in the context of the Russian-Ukrainian war, the form of diplomatic activity of the IMO not only occupies an important place in the process of international communication, but also dynamically develops and improves, which in the future will require additional international legal regulation. Key words: ad hoc diplomacy; customary international law; European Union; human rights protection; international law; international intergovernmental organizations; law of external relations; Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe; Russian-Ukrainian war; special missions; United Nations

Manager's Practical Toolkit to Improve Password Security in Organizations

Manager's Practical Toolkit to Improve Password Security in Organizations

Usaglašenost stilova rukovođenja sa informacionom bezbednošću u organizacijama

This paper investigates the significance of the alignment of leadership styles with information security in organizations. The focus is on the analysis of transactional and transformational leadership and their contribution to the implementation of security policies and practices. Transactional leadership, focused on setting clear goals and rewarding, provides structure and accountability, while transformational leadership, which inspires and encourages change, encourages engagement, adaptability and innovation. Through the integration of these leadership styles, organizations can build a holistic approach that supports a safety culture and effectively responds to dynamic safety challenges. It is critical that leaders recognize the importance of information security and adapt their leadership styles to support the integrity, confidentiality and availability of information, key components of a secure organization in the digital age.

Manager's Practical Toolkit to Improve Password Security in Organizations

Manager's Practical Toolkit to Improve Password Security in Organizations

Managing organizations in the context of digital transformation

In the context of dynamic digital transformation, there is a need to reconsider traditional approaches to organizational management, as information insecurity poses a threat to the security of domestic organizations and leads to the loss of their competitive positions, along with the inevitable loss of previously achieved financial, operational, and investment advantages. The practical value of the obtained results lies in the development of methodological recommendations for conducting cluster analysis of organizations based on a group of indicators for assessing the level of information authentication, as well as the level of utilization of specialized software tools and information protection instruments, which will allow for evaluation and ranking of the information security of organizations. It is concluded that the most successful organizations are financial institutions and organizations in the information technology sector, as they have been able to transform into leading technological companies by revising the content of their core business processes in the context of digitalization. Many of them have formed a comprehensive ecosystem, which has enabled them to quickly adapt to changing conditions, which would not have been possible without the implementation of digital transformation processes.

INTERNATIONAL SECURITY ORGANIZATIONS IN THE FACE OF TRANSFORMATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SECURITY SYSTEM

This paper examines the activities of international security organisations such as NATO and the OSCE, as well as the cooperation within the EU and NATO to ensure security in Europe. Also, the authors analyse the Strategic Concepts of NATO's 2010 and 2022, and reviews changes in the main objectives of security institutions that have been reflected since Russia's large-scale invasion in Ukraine. The review of the activities of international security organizations demonstrates that the issue of their adaptation to current challenges and threats is crucial for the further preserving of the democratic order in the world. Simultaneously, the article emphasizes that due to the increasing number of military threats, there is a need to develop effective mechanisms for reforming security organizations to further preserve the international security system in general.

The Moderation Analysis of Coping Strategies in the Relationship between Anxiety and Aggression among Security Personnel

The intricate interplay between emotions and behavior among security personnel is a critical yet underexplored area, particularly given the challenges posed by recent violent incidents in the Philippines. This study delves into the relationships among anxiety, coping strategies, and aggression within this occupational context. Despite the pivotal role played by security professionals, their mental well-being often remains overlooked. This study aims to fill a research gap by investigating how coping strategies moderate the relationship between anxiety and aggression. Data were gathered from a sample of 387 security personnel using self-report measures. Correlation analyses were conducted to assess the connections between anxiety, coping strategies, and aggression. Furthermore, hierarchical multiple regression was employed to examine how coping strategies moderate the link between anxiety and aggression. Results indicate that although anxiety alone may not strongly predict aggression, the interaction with coping strategies notably impacts aggressive behavior. Particularly, problem-focused coping is linked to reduced levels of anxiety and aggression, indicating its protective function in this context. Conversely, avoidant coping exacerbates the anxiety-aggression relationship. Emotion-focused coping yields mixed results. These findings underscore the necessity of tailored interventions to support the psychological well-being of security personnel. Understanding these dynamics is imperative for enhancing the resilience and performance of security teams, ultimately contributing to safer communities. This research advocates for targeted interventions addressing anxiety and promoting effective coping strategies within security organizations.

Advancements of SMS Spam Detection: A Comprehensive Survey of NLP and ML Techniques

In the digital age, the ubiquity of text messaging has unfortunately paved the way for SMS phishing, or 'smishing,' a deceptive practice where fraudsters dispatch fraudulent messages to extract sensitive information from unsuspecting recipients. This issue is not trivial. It represents a significant threat to both personal privacy and organizational security, leading to potential data breaches and financial repercussions. Against this backdrop, the imperative for advanced detection strategies is undeniable. This survey leverages a systematic review methodology to assess the effectiveness of Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Machine Learning (ML) techniques in the detection of SMS phishing, also known as smishing. By methodically analyzing research spanning various detection strategies, the study illuminates the evolution from basic rule-based frameworks to sophisticated ML algorithms, enriched with NLP for deep analysis. The findings underscore the superior efficacy of combining ML classifiers with NLP, particularly through the deployment of advanced deep learning models like Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) and Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs), which offer unprecedented accuracy in identifying and thwarting complex smishing attacks.The value of this study lies in its comprehensive synthesis of current methodologies and its contribution to the ongoing enhancement of cybersecurity defenses. It serves as a crucial guide for future research directions, emphasizing the necessity of adopting and innovating cutting-edge NLP and ML techniques to stay ahead of evolving digital threats.

COVID-19 Publications : Summary of Abstracts

As we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, it is necessary to critically reflect on and review the phenomenon that took millions of lives worldwide, overwhelmed medical capabilities, and devastated communities. The negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic include an economic downturn, disruption of societal functioning, and degradation of operational readiness. We can see that the destabilizing effects of pandemics pose threats to regional, multinational, and organizational security. Fortunately, pandemics are historically infrequent but with time, memories and clarity fade. We recognize that without a concerted, deliberate effort to preserve the knowledge we have gained, it will be lost. Looking forward, many of the lessons learned from this pandemic might be applied not only in future pandemics but also in combat operations and military operations other than war. To capture key lessons from the pandemic relevant to NATO, the NATO Centre of Excellence for Military Medicine (MILMED COE) organized the COVID-19 Lessons Learned Workshop in Budapest, Hungary from 23 to 25 May 2023. The workshop was attended by 60 participants from 17 nations and multiple national and international organizations. The participants of the workshop were predominately from the military medical community, and as such, the scope through which the pandemic was viewed had a decidedly military-medical lens. The following are some of the abstracts from the plenary session of the workshop.

Machine-Learning Techniques Classify, Quantify Cuttings Lithology

_ This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper IPTC 22867, “Automatic Lithology Classification of Cuttings With Deep Learning,” by Takashi Nanjo, Akira Ebitani, and Kazuaki Ishikawa, Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security, et al. The paper has not been peer reviewed. Copyright 2023 International Petroleum Technology Conference. Reproduced by permission. _ Wellsite geologists spend approximately 70% of their time on cuttings descriptions. In addition, two or three wellsite geologists generally are assigned to a drilling campaign, to be replaced at the end of a shift. Machine-learning (ML) and artificial-intelligence (AI) techniques have the potential to solve these issues because of their advantages in prediction speed, objectivity, and consistency. The authors’ aim is to automate the task of cuttings descriptions with these techniques. A trained model for cuttings description has the potential to realize quantitative, high-speed cuttings description. Methods and Materials Six wells were selected for this study (Poseidon-1, Ichthys2A ST-1, Ichthys2A ST-2, Dinichthys north1, Ichthys north1, and Ichthys north1 ST1). The wells were drilled in the Browse Basin through various lithologies. The authors focused on four lithologies (carbonate, sandstone, mudstone, and volcanic) and collected the cuttings from these lithologies. The total number of cuttings was 160 (21 carbonate, 58 sandstone, 52 mudstone, and 29 volcanic). The cuttings were used in their original dry condition. Each cutting was transported to a Petri plate in a random and sparse layout using tweezers. A stereomicroscope and a digital camera were prepared. Magnification was 6.3X, and picture size was 1,600 pixels in width and 1,200 pixels in height. Pictures were taken randomly, with approximately 20 photographs for each sample. The annotation was conducted by geologists using annotation software. Five label classes were used (sandstone, mudstone, carbonate, volcanic, and background). The total number of annotation data was 1,978. The annotated data were split as training label data, validation label data, and test label data. The pictures were also split as training data, validation data, and test data. The picture and label data were paired. In this study, 1,496 pictures and label data were used as training data sets, 320 pictures and label data were used as validation data, and 162 pictures and label data were used as test data. Four architectures of semantic segmentation were created (PSPNet, Unet, FPN, and Linknet), including two different networks (ResNet152 and EfficientNetB7), and training models were created. The total number of trained models was eight. As a result, the combination of PSPNet and EfficientNetB7 showed the best performance. The combination of PSPNet and EfficientNetB7 was chosen as the architecture of this project. Hyperparameters were chosen in the best practice case. Mean intersection over union (IOU) was used as the model evaluation index.

Information Security Maturity Model for Healthcare Organizations in the United States

This article provides a maturity model for information security for healthcare organizations in the United States. Healthcare organizations are faced with increasing threats to the security of their information systems. The maturity model identifies specific performance metrics, with relative importance measures, that can be used to enhance information security at healthcare organizations allowing them to focus scarce resources on mitigating the most important information security threat vectors. This generalizable, hierarchical decision model uses both qualitative and quantitative metrics based on objective goals. This model may be used as a baseline by which to measure individual organizational performance, to measure performance against other organizations, or to monitor changes in the information security environment over time.

КОНЦЕПТУАЛІЗАЦІЯ ЦИФРОВОЇ ТРАНСФОРМАЦІЇ У МІЖНАРОДНОМУ БІЗНЕСІ

Digital technologies fundamentally change business strategies, the mechanism of business organization both at the national and international level. Thanks to the automation of business processes, companies optimize costs, generate new types of products, transform their own business models, expanding their global presence. Based on the analysis of the existing scientometric base of the digital transformation of international business, the methodological foundations of its conceptualization were determined and a conceptual model consisting of a cognitive core, social environment, and technological superstructure was developed. It is substantiated that the methodological foundations of the conceptualization of digital transformation are long-term goal setting, digitalization, effective strategy, the principle of "empowerment", bimodal IT architecture, investment in artificial intelligence and digital competences. It was revealed that the concept of digital transformation of business lies in the plane of partnership, human-centered, knowledge, information technology, strategic dimensions and digitalization dimension. The article considers the conceptualization of digital transformation in international business. Digital transformation is a key factor in the modernization and development of modern companies operating on a global scale. The authors analyze the main trends, technologies and approaches that contribute to the introduction of digital innovations in international business, including artificial intelligence, big data, the Internet of Things, blockchain and cloud computing. Special attention is paid to the analysis of the impact of digital transformation on the competitiveness of companies in the international arena, optimization of business processes, improvement of supply chains and improvement of the quality of customer service. In addition, challenges related to the implementation of the latest technologies are considered, in particular, issues of cyber security, legal regulation and change management in organizations. The article emphasizes the importance of strategic planning and the development of digital competencies for successful adaptation to the new conditions of the business environment. Ultimately, the article highlights the importance of digital transformation for international business development, particularly as a tool.

Індустріальні парки Львівської агломерації: стан, досвід, перспективи

The article is devoted to the study of the status and prospects for the development of industrial parks in the Lviv agglomeration, as well as the analysis of foreign experience in the functioning of industrial parks in agglomerations. The relevance of measures to implement the State Strategy for Regional Development for 2021–2027 regarding the support of territories such as agglomerations is argued, this is evidenced by the institutional arrangement of the Lviv agglomeration even in times of war. It is noted that when creating a modern model of reindustrialization in Ukraine with a focus on exports and in general an innovative ecosystem of agglomerations, the creation and development of industrial parks as modern concentrators of the industrial, investment and research potential of the agglomeration will be of paramount importance. Emphasis is placed on the advantages of the functioning of industrial parks within the agglomeration, in particular through: achieving synergy for the growth of economic development of the agglomeration; direct impact on the provision of humanitarian, environmental, security and spatial organization of the agglomeration; creation of the effect of increasing returns due to the effective combination of production and infrastructure, high technologies, research and development sphere. It is proved that the industrial parks of the Lviv agglomeration today are the least developed form of the innovation ecosystem of the agglomeration, the potential of which, unlike clusters or export enterprises of the agglomeration, has not yet been used at all. It is concluded that the institutional component of the development of industrial parks in Ukraine, and in particular within the Lviv agglomeration, should become a priority in the implementation of the State regional policy and strategies for the development of individual territorial communities in the near future. After all, foreign experience proves the close interweaving of urban agglomeration and its industrial parks, whose activities in Ukraine, even with the current institutional design, open up a promising environmentally oriented direction for them.

Cyber Security Threats and Countermeasures in Digital Age

Due to the quick development of technology, the digital age has brought with it ad-vantages never before seen, but it has also opened the door to a flood of new cyber security concerns. This study offers detailed analysis of the cyber threat environment in the digital era along with suggestions for doable protective measures. The report outlines a number of cyber threats, including malware, phishing scams, ransomware, and insider threats. It looks at the continually evolving tactics employed by cyber-criminals, such as social engineering, zero-day flaws, and sophisticated persistent threats. The growing hazards associated with cutting-edge technology, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, and artificial intelligence, are also exam-ined. The importance of a multi-layered security strategy to counter these attacks is emphasized in the article. Among the important preventative measures that are presented are robust network security, secure coding methodologies, user awareness training, encryption, access controls, and incident response planning. It also high-lights how crucial it is for people, businesses, and governments to collaborate in or-der to confront cyber risks. By using the recommended solutions and promoting a culture of cyber security awareness, people and organizations may navigate the dig-ital age with confidence and protect themselves from the continuously evolving environment of cyber risks.

SECURITY OF PAYMENT TRANSACTIONS: OVERVIEW AND CHARACTERISTICS OF KEY CHANGES IN THE NEW EDITION OF THE PCI DSS STANDARD

This article is devoted to the study of the current state of development of cyber threats in the world and the identification of key areas of ensuring the security of organizations in accordance with the latest practices in the field of cybersecurity. The article highlights the importance of constantly updating and improving cybersecurity strategies in accordance with the latest trends and requirements of today’s digital environment. The main challenges faced by organizations in the field of cybersecurity are investigated, and effective approaches to their resolution are proposed. This approach allows not only to adapt to the constantly changing landscape of cyber threats but also increases the level of protection and reduces risks for organizational systems. The article emphasizes the importance of implementing and using cybersecurity frameworks as an effective tool for ensuring the stability and reliability of systems’ security. The use of such frameworks allows organizations to create a systematic approach to information security management, taking into account modern requirements and industry best practices. This approach helps to ensure the completeness of security measures, which is essential for successfully combating cyber threats in today’s digital environment. The article focuses on the importance of the protection of cardholder data and compliance with the PCI DSS standard. The storage and processing of such data requires a high level of security, as their unauthorized leakage or breach of integrity can lead to serious financial losses for organizations and loss of user trust. The PCI DSS standard establishes requirements for protecting payment information, including defining controls and procedures to prevent unauthorized access to cardholder data. The updated version of the standard, PCI DSS v.4.0, is an important step in the direction of improving security measures and countering modern cyber threats in this area. Its detailed analysis will allow organizations to maintain compliance with new requirements and ensure the security of cardholder card data at a high level.

Determination of four amide synthetic cannabinoid isomers by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry

Isomerization commonly occurs in synthetic cannabinoids (SCs). Owing to the few differences in their structure and properties, it is difficult to simultaneously separate and identify them. Thus, the identification of synthetic cannabinoids is challenging, posing a threat to public security. This study aims to separate and identify four SCs, which are 2-[1-(5-fluoropentyl)-1H-indole-3-formylamino]-3,3-dimethylbutyrate methyl ester (5F-MDMB-PICA), 2-[1-(5-fluoropentyl)-1H-indole-3-formylamino]-3-methylbutyrate ethyl ester (5F-EMB-PICA), N-(1-amino-2,2-dimethyl-1-oxobutyl-2-yl)-1-butyl-1H-indazole-3-formamide (ADB-BINACA), N-(1-carbamoyl-2-methylpropyl)-1-pentyl indazole-3-formamide (AB-PINACA).Supercritical fluid chromatography-mass spectroscopy (SFC-MS) can realize the effective separation of some cannabinoid isomers. However, most laboratories are not equipped with SFC-MS systems. Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectroscopy (UHPLC-HRMS) effectively combines the excellent efficient separation characteristics of liquid chromatography and the powerful qualitative ability of mass spectrometry. It is a commonly used technical method for the detection of amide synthetic cannabinoids and their metabolites in vivo and in vitro because of its advantages of high accuracy and efficiency. Liquid chromatography allows the separation of tested components by exploiting the difference in the partition coefficients between the mobile and stationary phases. When the two phases are in relative motion, the tested components are divided between the two phases, facilitating the separation and analysis of each component. Although the difference in the polarities of the tested amide synthetic cannabinoid isomeric substances is extremely small, liquid chromatography can induce a strong separation effect. The advantages of UHPLC-HRMS include high resolution imparted by mass spectrometry and high sensitivity, allowing its application in the qualitative analysis of various substances. Through UHPLC-HRMS, trace analytes at the nanogram scale as well as pure drugs and their metabolites in biosamples can be detected. This study proposed a method for the determination of two pairs of amide synthetic cannabinoid isomers-5F-EMB-PICA and 5F-MDMB-PICA, ADB-BINACA and AB-PINACA-through UHPLC-HRMS. A Hypersil GOLD C18 column (100 mm×2.1 mm, 1.9 μm) was selected for separation via liquid chromatography, and gradient elution was performed with methanol containing 0.1% formic acid and a 0.1% formic acid aqueous solution containing 10 mmol/L ammonium formate. Full scan/data-dependent secondary mass spectrometry (Full MS/dd-MS2) was conducted in the positive ion mode for detection. The results indicated that the four synthetic cannabinoid isomers could be accurately detected under the abovementioned conditions. The resolution between 5F-EMB-PICA and 5F-MDMB-PICA was 2.06, while that between ADB-BINACA and AB-PINACA was 1.22, indicating the effective separation and detection of both pairs. Furthermore, method validation was conducted to ensure the accuracy of the proposed method. The relationship of the four amide synthetic cannabinoid isomers exhibited excellent linearity. The correlation coefficients (R2) were >0.99. Moreover, the matrix effects of the four SCs in hair samples were between 88.67% and 111.76% and the recoveries were 96.23%-105.11%. The intra-day and inter-day precisions (RSDs) were <10%. The proposed method was used to identify the case materials. AB-PINACA was detected in a hair sample at a content of 0.73 μg/g. 5F-MDMB-PICA was detected in a tobacco sample at a content of 11.3 mg/g. The results indicate that the proposed method can be used for the examination of practical samples conducted by public security organizations. This study provides a reference method for the identification of synthetic cannabinoid isomers.

Designing an Efficient Administrative System Model with a Jihadi Management and Organizational Justice Approach (Case Study: Social Security Organization)

The Social Security Organization, as one of the largest institutions providing social and insurance services in Iran, plays a significant role in ensuring the social and economic security of various segments of society. The objective of this research is to present a model of an efficient administrative system based on justice-oriented and jihadi management principles. This research follows an interpretive philosophy, an inductive approach, a qualitative method, and a grounded theory strategy with an emergent approach. The study population consists of the Social Security Organization, where the qualitative sample includes individuals with at least 10 years of work experience who possess theoretical and practical knowledge related to the research topic and understand the efficient processes of the administrative system within the Social Security Organization. Out of these individuals, 21 were selected as the sample through purposive sampling. To assess the validity of the research, the four criteria of Lincoln and Guba (1987) were used. The findings revealed that 548 initial codes were extracted, categorized into 104 categories and 31 components. For theoretical coding, Glaser's "6 Cs" family was utilized. In this context, the causal components include environmental and structural conditions, participatory management, interaction with insurance parties, jihadi management, training and empowerment, initiative, human resource management, process simplification, and behavioral factors. The correlational factors include supportive policies, organizational innovation, and service compensation. The contingencies involve Islamic and human values, jihadi culture, and time management. The mediating conditions consist of justice-oriented principles, utilization of modern technologies, a supportive political and economic environment, and social capital. The outcomes encompass improved productivity, enhanced justice, increased motivation and commitment, economic and social improvement, better performance, employee satisfaction and motivation, and increased customer and societal satisfaction. Finally, the environmental context includes government support for workers' rights, low government support for employers, public unawareness of laws, the existence of general laws, and unfavorable general-economic conditions.

Testing the Model for Enhancing Administrative Transparency in Interaction with E-Government Development Programs in the Social Security Organization

Objective: The aim of this research is to examine and test the model for enhancing administrative transparency in interaction with e-government development programs in the Social Security Organization. Methodology: This research is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-survey in terms of data collection method. Data were collected using a standardized researcher-made questionnaire. The statistical population in the quantitative section includes all employees of the Social Security Organization. The sampling method for the present study, considering the target population, is stratified sampling. Approximately 65,000 individuals are in the population, and based on Cochran's formula, a sample of 385 individuals was selected. Subsequently, the composite reliability and the reliability of each research component were calculated, with the results indicating the reliability of the measurement tool. Additionally, the divergent and convergent validity of the questionnaire suggests the validity of the instrument. For data analysis, structural equation modeling was employed using the Smart PLS4 software. Findings: The results indicate that e-government has a significant impact on the growth and development of the Social Security Organization. Administrative structure and processes significantly influence managerial oversight, public oversight, and public accountability. Environmental factors also significantly impact managerial oversight, public oversight, and public accountability. Furthermore, managerial factors have a significant effect on managerial oversight, public oversight, and public accountability. Organizational culture and atmosphere significantly affect managerial oversight, public oversight, and public accountability. Finally, managerial oversight, public oversight, and public accountability have a significant impact on e-government. Conclusion: The model for enhancing administrative transparency in interaction with e-government development programs in the Social Security Organization can be proposed as a comprehensive and practical package for all managers of executive agencies in general and for the Social Security Organization in particular.