Gender-based pilot analysis of cybersecurity awareness in a digitizing Indian society
摘要
This study assesses the cybersecurity awareness in India, focusing on gender-based differences and the effectiveness of knowledge dissemination regarding online security practices. A pilot survey was conducted among 3483 respondents across different demographics, assessing their understanding of various cybersecurity threats and practices. Using chi-square test, the data revealed significant variations in cybersecurity knowledge between male and female participants. The research found that males display slightly stronger conceptual recognition and security-indicator awareness, whereas females demonstrate greater prudence in privacy-sensitive behaviours. The results underline the need for targeted cybersecurity training and educational awareness programs tailored to address the specific needs and behaviors of different demographic groups. The findings provide valuable insights for policy-makers, educational institutions, and organizations to enhance the cybersecurity knowledge of the Indian population, mitigating risks associated with the increasing digital landscape.