Self-Efficacy, Innovativeness, and Their Influence on Cybersecurity Compliance Intentions Among Public-Sector Employees in Sierra Leone

This study investigates cybersecurity compliance in Sierra Leone’s public sector, exploring factors such as self-efficacy, innovativeness, perceived security (PS), trust, and cybersecurity awareness (CSA). The research uses structural equation modeling (SEM) to analyze survey data from 492 public-sector employees from five ministries and one agency. Reliable measurement models confirm these constructs’ validity. Analysis shows that self-efficacy and innovativeness positively impact cybersecurity compliance, with perceived trust (PT) mediating these relationships. However, the PS’s mediating role is less significant. CSA notably moderates these relationships, enhancing compliance intention. The study offers significant insights for enhancing cybersecurity strategies, particularly in developing countries, and underscores the importance of individual factors in cybersecurity compliance.