Negative Consequences Top Motivator for Cyber Decisions Among APAC Educators, Says Kaspersky

Kaspersky’s latest white paper has revealed that negative impacts are the most motivating factor behind APAC educators’ cyber decisions.

Kaspersky’s new white paper, created in partnership with Associate Professor Jiow Hee Jhee of the Singapore Institute of Technology, explores the motivational drivers influencing individuals’ cybersecurity behaviors. 

The survey was conducted among educators in India, Singapore, and the Philippines. It outlines actionable insights for cybersafe practices that educators in Asia can adopt. 

“Coping appraisal” is the most vital determinant of the respondents’ motivation to connect to secure Wi-Fi, open unknown links, and adopt strong passwords. It refers to assessing the efficacy, difficulty, and cost of responding to a threat.

Coping appraisal involves considering whether a recommended behavior can prevent harm (response efficacy) and if the person can successfully do it (self-efficacy).

Perceived response efficacy is the belief that secure Wi-Fi networks prevent cyber intrusions. At the same time, self-efficacy is dealing with suspicious emails and avoiding unknown links or attachments. 

Statistically, 80% of people connect to secure Wi-Fi when aware of risks, and 75% believe secure Wi-Fi prevents cyber intrusions.

In other cybersecurity practices, 90% of respondents agreed that opening links or attachments from unknown sources could introduce malware into their devices. Meanwhile, 85% stated they could prevent cyber intrusions by not opening links or attachments from suspicious sources.

“Our study shows that it is important for users of the cyber world to be educated on the severity of the consequences as well as the vulnerability of being victims,” explained Associate Professor Jiow Hee Jhee of the Singapore Institute of Technology.

To keep yourself safe online, ensure good cyber hygiene:

• Develop regular routines and habits. Build a routine to ensure you are practicing cyber hygiene regularly. Set reminders for routine housekeeping, such as updating your devices and software, scanning for viruses, and updating your passwords. 
• Consider using the right tools to protect yourself. A comprehensive cyber security solution or VPN solution can protect you against several cyberattacks.
• Think before you do. Remember, what we do and post online is often irreversible.  

To read the full white paper, visit here.