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Online safety awareness and human factors: An application of the theory of human ecology

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  • Mohammad, Taufik
  • Mohamed Hussin, Nur Atikah
  • Husin, Mohd Heikal

Abstract

Efforts have been made on large and small scales to reduce cybersecurity threats around the world, including in Malaysia. However, scholars have argued that, in spite of the technological preparations countries can take to shield themselves from attack, human factors may be the key reason behind increasing breaches in cybersafety in recent years. In this review, developed in a social sciences context, we argue that intra- and interpersonal human factors, such as biological, psychological, and cultural factors, must be considered holistically to effectively increase awareness of the importance of online safety. We also argue that these personal and psychological factors can be framed using Urie Bronfenbrenner's theory of human ecology, which, along with previous studies, points to the importance of examining the various layers of environmental factors that affect human behavior. Lastly, this paper also considers what types of education and training can effectively utilize the knowledge of human factors to increase online safety awareness.

Suggested Citation

  • Mohammad, Taufik & Mohamed Hussin, Nur Atikah & Husin, Mohd Heikal, 2022. "Online safety awareness and human factors: An application of the theory of human ecology," Technology in Society, Elsevier, vol. 68(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:teinso:v:68:y:2022:i:c:s0160791x21002980
    DOI: 10.1016/j.techsoc.2021.101823
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Saleem, Sumera & Khan, Naurin Farooq & Zafar, Saad, 2021. "Prevalence of cyberbullying victimization among Pakistani Youth," Technology in Society, Elsevier, vol. 65(C).
    2. Fox, Stephen & Griffy-Brown, Charla & Dabic, Marina, 2020. "From socio-technical systems to biosocial technical systems: New themes and new guidance for the field of technology in society," Technology in Society, Elsevier, vol. 62(C).
    3. Dong, Chuanmei & Cao, Simin & Li, Hui, 2020. "Young children’s online learning during COVID-19 pandemic: Chinese parents’ beliefs and attitudes," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 118(C).
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    Cited by:

    1. Zhong, Xi & She, Jianquan & Wu, Xiaojie, 2024. "Tech for social good: Artificial intelligence and workplace safety," Technology in Society, Elsevier, vol. 79(C).
    2. Lazarus Obed Livingstone Banda & Chigonjetso Victoria Banda & Jane Thokozani Banda, 2025. "Challenges and realities of early childhood development centers in Malawi: A critical examination," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 20(2), pages 1-22, February.

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