Date of Conferral

2021

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Management

Advisor

Branford J. McAllister

Abstract

The frequency of cyberattacks against governments has increased at an alarming rate and the lack of user awareness and knowledge of cybersecurity has been considered a contributing factor to the increase in cyberattacks and cyberthreats. The purpose of this quantitative experimental study was to explore the role and effectiveness of employee training focused on user awareness of cyberattacks and cybersecurity, with the intent to close the gap in understanding about the level of awareness of cybersecurity within the public sector of the Commonwealth of Dominica. The theoretical framework was Bandura’s social cognitive theory, following the idea that learning occurs in a social context with a reciprocal interaction of the person, environment, and behavior. Data were collected using a questionnaire modified to collect demographic information for a pretest and a posttest analysis. Data analysis using a t test and multiple linear regression was conducted to test the hypotheses related to factors affecting user awareness and knowledge of cybersecurity. Results indicated that participants who were part of the experimental group showed higher knowledge of cybersecurity after the posttest and that demographic factors were not significant predictors of cybersecurity awareness and knowledge. The findings may be used to empower employees with knowledge of cybersecurity and increase awareness within the public sector, and to protect the information systems from cybersecurity threats. The findings may lead to positive social change by encouraging other stakeholders to discuss how risks associated with cybersecurity can be mitigated to enhance service effectiveness.

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