Cybersecurity awareness among accounting students at a South African public university

Abstract

Background: Cybersecurity awareness at universities is increasingly becoming a critical concern, as educational institutions are prime targets for cyberattacks. that is pertinent globally but specifically in South Africa, where universities have experienced a notable rise in cybersecurity threats and attacks.

Objectives: This study aims to understand how accounting students handle cybersecurity challenges and identify areas where education can be enhanced to better equip students for the digital age.

Method: A mixed-methods approach was employed to assess the current state of cybersecurity awareness among accounting students, utilising questionnaires with both open- and close-ended questions.

Results: The findings indicate that accounting students exhibit different levels of cybersecurity awareness, with some demonstrating strong knowledge of cyber risks and protective measures, while others show significant gaps in understanding and practice. While there is a clear understanding of common phishing signs and good cyber hygiene practices, awareness of advanced threats and social engineering tactics still needs to be improved. The variability in students’ ability to identify fake phishing invoices and suspicious LinkedIn requests highlights areas in need of increased cybersecurity awareness.

Conclusion: The results of this study underscore the necessity for enhanced and focused cybersecurity awareness education and training programmes within university curricula to better prepare students for the evolving cyber threat landscape.

Contribution: Cybersecurity awareness education fosters cybersecurity consciousness among the accounting workforce, which is essential for navigating the digital economy and preparing accounting students for this transition. This transition contributes to curriculum development in cybersecurity awareness education in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) era.