4. Electronic Theses and Dissertations (ETDs) - Faculties submissions

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    An investigation of cybersecurity implementation challenges among South African SMEs
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Fakir, Jeeten
    In today's technologically driven world, cybersecurity implementation among Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) is of paramount importance, particularly in developing nations like South Africa, where cybercrime is prevalent. Due to inadequate cybersecurity practices, weak policy execution, and low public awareness, cybercriminals are targeting South Africa. Furthermore, local SMEs have limited budget, skills and resources dedicated to cybersecurity, which enhances the problem in the current South African context. Drawing upon a literature review encompassing global perspectives on cybersecurity and SMEs, this study focuses on the South African context to provide insights tailored to the local SME landscape. This research investigates the cybersecurity implementation challenges faced by SMEs, by exploring the influence that subjective norms, attitude, perceived behavioural control, perceived ease of use, and perceived usefulness has on the intention to implement cybersecurity among South African SMEs. This quantitative study employed a survey which was distributed on social media to SMEs across the country to answer the research objectives. Key findings highlight the significant gaps in cybersecurity awareness and resources among South African SMEs, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity education and support. The investigation indicates that subjective norms, attitude, perceived behavioural control, perceived ease of use, and perceived usefulness contribute significantly to influencing cybersecurity implementation among South African SMEs. The identified factors provide a foundation for addressing the research objectives by emphasising the importance of subjective norms, attitudes, control perceptions, ease of use, and usefulness perceptions in the context of cybersecurity implementation. Ultimately, this research underscores the imperative for collaborative efforts between government, academia, and industry to address cybersecurity challenges faced by South African SMEs and foster a more resilient digital ecosystem.
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    Gamification to educate consumers about cybercrime in South Africa
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Maselo, Kehilwe Venacia; Lee, Gregory
    This study examines the impact of gamification on South African consumers attitudes and understanding of cybercrime. Given the increasing reliance on the Internet activities such as social media, digital banking, and e-commerce, there is a critical need for consumers to adopt basic security measures to protect themselves against threats such as privacy breaches, identity theft, cyberbullying, and exposure to harmful content. However, many individuals lack the necessary knowledge and expertise to ensure their online security. The research explores the challenges associated with enhancing security awareness and assesses the potential of gamification techniques to overcome these obstacles. By integrating game mechanics and elements into online security awareness activities, the study aims to make learning about cybersecurity engaging and enjoyable, leading to better understanding and adoption of safe online practices. The findings indicate that gamification significantly enhances consumer engagement, knowledge retention, and proactive cybersecurity behaviours. Additionally, the research contributes to the theoretical framework of Self-Determination Theory (SDT) and behavioural science by providing empirical evidence that intrinsic motivation, fostered through gamification, enhances learning outcomes and behaviour change in cybercrime education. These insights offer valuable implications for businesses and organisations seeking to improve their cybersecurity training and consumer awareness campaigns. Ultimately, this research highlights gamification’s potential to transform cybersecurity education and to promote a more cyber-aware and proactive consumer base in South Africa