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Guarding against online threats: why entrepreneurs take protective measures

Author

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  • Jurjen Jansen
  • Sander Veenstra
  • Renske Zuurveen
  • Wouter Stol

Abstract

Information technology is becoming increasingly important for entrepreneurs. Protecting their technical infrastructure and stored data is, therefore, also becoming more vital. Nevertheless, research into the safety and security of entrepreneurs in general, and online threats targeted at entrepreneurs in particular, is still limited. This study investigates to what extent self-employed entrepreneurs protect themselves against online threats, and what motivates them to do so. Based on secondary analyses on data collected from 1622 Dutch entrepreneurs, we observe that the majority implement technical and personal coping measures. By adopting protection motivation theory as a theoretical basis for our study, we found that coping appraisal explains the adoption of protective measures. Entrepreneurs are likely to implement protective measures when they believe a measure is effective, when they are capable of using internet technology, when their attitude towards online protection is positive and when they believe they are responsible for their own online security. Although the secondary analysis provides some limitations, this study offers new insights into the usage of protective measures and the motivation for taking them. These insights can help to improve information security campaigns.

Suggested Citation

  • Jurjen Jansen & Sander Veenstra & Renske Zuurveen & Wouter Stol, 2016. "Guarding against online threats: why entrepreneurs take protective measures," Behaviour and Information Technology, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 35(5), pages 368-379, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:tbitxx:v:35:y:2016:i:5:p:368-379
    DOI: 10.1080/0144929X.2016.1160287
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    Cited by:

    1. Tepede Dipo & Akpa Michael Onyedikachi, 2024. "Developing a Biblical Solution Model for Mitigating Phishing Risks Among Internet Banking Users in Nigeria: The Initial Investigation," International Journal of Latest Technology in Engineering, Management & Applied Science, International Journal of Latest Technology in Engineering, Management & Applied Science (IJLTEMAS), vol. 13(4), pages 61-75, April.

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