Security in Social Networking Services: A Value-Focused Thinking Exploration in Understanding Users’ Privacy and Security Concerns

The continued growth of Social Networking Services (SNS) has significant implications for computer and cybercrime management. In exploring the human side of security, studies have shown that any security response requires more than technical solutions. This is even more so as users are often seen as the main point of vulnerabilities for computer systems including SNS. This study seeks to probe the important values in understanding how to maximize end-user security and privacy concerns in SNS. The study applies the Value-focused Thinking methodology to uncover the SNS users’ values in the form of their fundamental objectives/wishes, with an initial focus on developing economies in the Caribbean. The study found that privacy and integrity of SNS, security controls, corporate social responsibility and personal responsibility are fundamental in maximizing user security and privacy.