Determining cybersecurity awareness and human-cyber behaviour in Bangladeshi women: Addressing factors, risks and overcoming knowledge disparities

Abstract

In the era of advancement where technology is widespread, cybersecurity has an indispensable impact on its ongoing advancement. The cybersecurity practices of women in Bangladesh and its consequences are critically vulnerable. Cybersecurity awareness uncovers emerging threats in responding to changing circumstances. In this research, we comprehend cybersecurity awareness knowledge across different demographics of Bangladeshi women. By identifying human cyber behaviour and situational factor, practice and prospective risks this study addresses women’s perceptions, knowledge and response strategies regarding cybersecurity awareness. Investigating through qualitative and quantitative approaches, this research analyzes three groups of women (High School students, University students and Working women). Through quantitative analysis, a large-scale survey (n=1,202) is conducted to analyze the awareness of women. Then we conducted a semi-structured interview (n=30) with all three groups to gather the in-depth study of women’s human behaviour and situational factors that lead to risky cyber decisions and cyber threats. This study investigates prevalent cybersecurity risk and threat encountered by women. The research findings reveal that women’s exposure to cyber threats is not merely a consequence of inadequate knowledge but also influenced by behavioural pattern and situational vulnerabilities. Our research unveils the substantial barriers that leave women digitally insecure. Finally, this research proposes a framework and practical suggestions to improve women’s cybersecurity awareness knowledge and provide a roadmap for safe digital usage.