Human Elements in Phishing Susceptibility: An Assessment within the Kingdom of Bahrain

The rapid integration of technology into daily life has significantly enhanced efficiency but has also amplified cyber threats, with phishing emerging as one of the most pervasive and impactful attack vectors. Phishing exploits the human element, the weakest link in security protocols, leveraging social engineering techniques to manipulate individuals into disclosing sensitive information. This study investigates the human factors contributing to phishing susceptibility within the Kingdom of Bahrain, a nation undergoing rapid digital transformation. By integrating Cialdini's six principles of persuasion, the OCEAN Big Five personality traits, and the DISC behavioral model, this research develops a comprehensive framework to assess individual vulnerabilities to phishing attacks. This study aims to evaluate the preparedness and awareness of Bahraini citizens, identify influential human factors affecting phishing susceptibility, and relate these findings to demographical variables. Results from this research offer insights into how social influence, personality traits, and behavioral tendencies interact to shape phishing vulnerabilities in the context of Kingdom of Bahrain. Findings from this study will serve as a guidance to enhance the resilience against phishing threats and bolster Bahrain's cybersecurity preparedness.