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Factors influencing employee compliance with information security policies: a systematic literature review of behavioral and technological aspects in cybersecurity

Author

Listed:
  • Alberto-Tomas Delso-Vicente

    (Rey Juan Carlos University)

  • Luis Diaz-Marcos

    (Nebrija University)

  • Oscar Aguado-Tevar

    (Nebrija University)

  • María García Blanes-Sebastián

    (Rey Juan Carlos University)

Abstract

This study investigates the factors influencing employee compliance with information security policies, with a specific focus on the interplay between behavioral and technological elements shaping employee behavior. Compliance with these policies is critical in safeguarding organizational assets in an increasingly digital and interconnected world. Addressing the gap in current literature, this research highlights the integration of behavioral theories into cybersecurity, offering a unique perspective that bridges the human and technological dimensions. Unlike prior studies that predominantly emphasize technical solutions, this work underscores the importance of organizational culture, individual attitudes, and leadership in fostering compliance. The study employs a systematic literature review following the PRISMA methodology, analyzing 2001–2023 publications from leading databases such as ACM Digital Library, IEEE Xplore, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science. This rigorous approach ensures the inclusion of high-quality studies, facilitating a comprehensive analysis of the factors influencing compliance. The findings reveal that perceived effectiveness of security measures, top management support, and organizational culture are pivotal in shaping compliance behaviors. Strategies that combine intrinsic motivators, such as personal responsibility, with extrinsic incentives, like rewards and enforcement, are identified as the most effective. These results have significant implications for practice, particularly in designing cybersecurity awareness programs tailored to individual and contextual differences. Such initiatives can be instrumental for organizations and governments in strengthening security postures across diverse sectors. By addressing both technological vulnerabilities and human behavior, this study contributes to the development of more holistic and sustainable cybersecurity strategies.

Suggested Citation

  • Alberto-Tomas Delso-Vicente & Luis Diaz-Marcos & Oscar Aguado-Tevar & María García Blanes-Sebastián, 2025. "Factors influencing employee compliance with information security policies: a systematic literature review of behavioral and technological aspects in cybersecurity," Future Business Journal, Springer, vol. 11(1), pages 1-16, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:futbus:v:11:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1186_s43093-025-00452-7
    DOI: 10.1186/s43093-025-00452-7
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Ajzen, Icek, 1991. "The theory of planned behavior," Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, Elsevier, vol. 50(2), pages 179-211, December.
    2. Soomro, Zahoor Ahmed & Shah, Mahmood Hussain & Ahmed, Javed, 2016. "Information security management needs more holistic approach: A literature review," International Journal of Information Management, Elsevier, vol. 36(2), pages 215-225.
    3. David Moher & Alessandro Liberati & Jennifer Tetzlaff & Douglas G Altman & The PRISMA Group, 2009. "Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses: The PRISMA Statement," PLOS Medicine, Public Library of Science, vol. 6(7), pages 1-6, July.
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