Smart home cybersecurity awareness and behavioral incentives

Abstract

Purpose Smart-home security involves multilayered security challenges related to smart-home devices, networks, mobile applications, cloud servers and users. However, very few studies focus on smart-home users. This paper aims to fill this gap by investigating the potential interests of adult smart-home users in cybersecurity awareness training and nonfinancial rewards that may encourage them to adopt sound cybersecurity practices. Design/methodology/approach A total of 423 smart-home users between the ages of 25 and 64 completed a survey questionnaire for this study, with 224 participants from Japan and 199 from the UK. Findings Cultural factors considerably influence adult smart-home users’ attitudes toward cybersecurity. Specifically, cultural differences impact their willingness to participate in cybersecurity awareness training, their views on the importance of cybersecurity training for children and senior citizens and their preference for nonfinancial rewards as an incentive for good cybersecurity behavior. These results highlight the need to consider cultural differences and their potential impact when developing and implementing cybersecurity programs that target smart-home users. Practical implications This research has two main implications. First, it provides insights for information security professionals on the importance of designing cost-effective and time-efficient cybersecurity awareness training programs for smart-home users. Second, the findings may assist governments in establishing nonfinancial incentives to encourage greater uptake of cybersecurity practices among smart-home users. Originality/value The paper investigates whether adult smart-home users are willing to spend time and money to engage in cybersecurity awareness training and to encourage their children and elderly parents to participate in training, as well. In addition, the paper examines incentives, especially nonfinancial rewards, that may motivate adult smart-home users to adopt cybersecurity behaviors at home. Furthermore, the paper analyses demographic differences among smart-home users in Japan and the UK.

Cybersecurity Awareness among Special Needs Students: The Role of Parental Control

“…The importance of cybersecurity awareness has also been the topic of several previous studies [25], [26], [27], [28]. For example, first, [28] found that internet users in Israel, Slovenia, Poland, and Turkey have adequate cybersecurity awareness but apply minimal protective measures.…”

“…This suggests that tailored training programs are necessary due to country-specific differences impacting the relationships among awareness, knowledge, and behavior. Third, [25] studied 423 adult smart home users in Japan and the UK and found that cultural factors significantly influence attitudes toward cybersecurity, impacting willingness to engage in training and preferences for nonfinancial incentives. While these and other studies, such as [13], [12], and [10], provide valuable insights into cybersecurity awareness and behavior among various populations, including university students and adult smart home users, there is a notable absence of research focusing specifically on special needs students.…”

The Usage of Smart Lighting in Smart Home

“…Residents can tailor the brightness and color temperature of lights to suit different activities, moods, or time of day. Whether it's creating a warm and cozy ambiance for a relaxed evening or a bright, invigorating atmosphere for focused work, the adaptability of smart lighting ensures that the lighting environment aligns with the occupants' specific needs and preferences (Douha et al, 2023). Energy efficiency is a crucial consideration in the design and implementation of smart lighting systems.…”