Journal article
Exploring potential gender differences in information security and privacy
Information & Computer Security, Vol.29(5), pp.850-865
2021
Abstract
Purpose
Information technology users often fail to adopt necessary security and privacy measures, leading to increased risk of cybercrimes. There has been limited research on how demographic differences influence information security behaviour and understanding this could be important in identifying users who may be more likely to have poor information security behaviour. This study aims to investigate whether there are any gender differences in security and privacy behaviours and perceptions, to identify potential differences that may have implications for protecting users’ privacy and securing their devices, software and data.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper addresses this research gap by investigating security behaviours and perceptions in the following two studies: one focussing on information security and one on information privacy. Data was collected in both studies using anonymous online surveys.
Findings
This study finds significant differences between men and women in over 40% of the security and privacy behaviours considered, suggesting that overall levels of both are significantly lower for women than for men, with behaviours that require more technical skill being adopted less by female users. Furthermore, individual perceptions exhibited some gender differences.
Originality/value
This research suggests that potential gender differences in some security and privacy behaviours and perceptions should be taken into account when designing information security education, training and awareness initiatives for both organisations and the broader community. This study also provides a strong foundation to explore information security individual differences more deeply.
Details
- Title
- Exploring potential gender differences in information security and privacy
- Authors/Creators
- T. McGill (Author/Creator) - Murdoch UniversityN. Thompson (Author/Creator) - Curtin University
- Publication Details
- Information & Computer Security, Vol.29(5), pp.850-865
- Publisher
- Emerald Publishing Limited
- Identifiers
- 991005539987007891
- Copyright
- © 2021, Emerald Publishing Limited
- Murdoch Affiliation
- School of Information Technology
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Journal article
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