Impact of Digital Literacy and Online Privacy Concerns on Cybersecurity Behaviour: The Moderating Role of Cybersecurity Awareness

Abstract

Purpose: This study investigates the impact of digital literacy, citizenship, curation practices, connectedness, and online privacy concerns on cybersecurity behaviour. It specifically examines the moderating role of cybersecurity awareness in these factors. The objective is to examine the relationship between these elements and individuals' cybersecurity behaviours, offering valuable insights to guide training programmes and interventions. Methodology: A survey was conducted on a sample of 235 individuals living in different cities in Saudi Arabia to collect data. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to assess the measuring scales, while regression analysis was employed to analyse the relationships between the variables under investigation. Additionally, a moderation test was performed to evaluate the influence of cybersecurity awareness on the associations between predictor variables and cybersecurity behaviour. Findings: The regression analysis reveals significant correlations between digital literacy (specifically copyright, citizenship, curation, and connectedness), online privacy concerns, and cybersecurity behaviour. The understanding of cybersecurity significantly influenced the level and trajectory of these relationships. A deeper comprehension of cybersecurity enhances the positive effects of digital literacy, including copyright awareness, responsible citizenship, content curation, and connectedness, on cybersecurity behaviour. Implications: This study highlights the importance of tailored educational efforts that consider individuals' levels of expertise and specific concerns. Organisations and governments can utilise these findings to create customised cybersecurity training programmes, improve digital literacy, and tackle issues related to online privacy. The report highlights the significance of integrating cybersecurity knowledge into wider digital literacy initiatives. Originality/Novelty: To the best of the researcher's knowledge, previous studies have not examined the relationship between these variables. This study contributes to current knowledge by investigating the combined influence of digital literacy, citizenship, curation practices, connectedness, and online privacy concerns on cybersecurity behaviour. Furthermore, this study examines the potential moderating impact of cybersecurity awareness.