Cybersecurity awareness among school students: Exploring influencing factors, legal implications, and knowledge gaps

In recent times, the widespread use of the Internet by various social groups has led to an increase in cyber risks and threats. Consequently, it has become crucial to educate these groups, particularly younger age groups, on the importance of cybersecurity to prevent them from falling victim to these risks. The study will focus on the comprehension of factors affecting cybersecurity among school students and the prevention of cyber threats and risks targeting the younger generation. A cross-sectional survey was conducted on students from middle school in Jordan, using a standardized questionnaire with 37 questions distributed under three categories: demographic data, cybersecurity awareness, and influencing factors. For this particular research study, the responses gathered from the open-ended questionnaire were analyzed, where multiple regression analysis was conducted, and five major research hypotheses were proposed and verified. The results indicate that it can be deduced that the level of knowledge about passwords, social networking sites, and legal aspects influences the level of cybersecurity awareness among the students. Other significant correlates of awareness were self-perceived awareness and education in cybersecurity; the model accounted for 67.5% of the variance in levels of awareness. The study also establishes that awareness of cybersecurity issues must be based on knowledge and should incorporate an educational process that targets young people. Critical sections to be covered by the specialized programs are password protection and appropriate use of the Internet. It is recommended that within the institutions delivering education, there should be constant cybersecurity training sessions with an emphasis on activities such as simulations and workshops conducted by experts to improve their awareness and subsequent action among learners.