CYBERSECURITY IN CONDITIONS OF DIGITAL INEQUALITY: DEFINING THE SOCIOLOGICAL PROBLEM

The article deals with theoretical and empirical aspects of the sociological study of behaviour in the field of cybersecurity. One of the relevant sociological approaches to the study of this phenomenon is the theory of three levels of digital inequality. The main hypothesis of the presented research is: a secure model of digital behaviour largely depends on the Internet user’s position in the hierarchical distribution of various social, cultural, and digital resources, on individual’s place in the overall system of social inequality. Among the factors that contribute to more responsible and secure behaviour of Internet users, the experience of using ICT (frequency and content of activities), the level of knowledge about potential risks and threats, and personal experience of cybercrime play an important role. Those Internet users who have longer, more intensive, and more varied experiences of using the Internet with different purposes tend to exhibit more prudent guidance and a securer pattern of Internet behaviour. Better knowledge and experiences of the victim of crime make users more vigilant and help prevent abuse and threats in the future. Age, education level, place of residence and occupation influence people's perception of threats and level of safety on the Internet, as well as their online behaviour. The research confirms that Internet users are changing their behaviour in various ways due to security concerns.