Cybersecurity Awareness in Indonesia: Factors, Attitude, and Practical Implications

The increasing frequency of cyberattacks and smartphone usage highlights the need for greater cybersecurity awareness. This study identifies factors influencing cybersecurity awareness among Indonesian smartphone users, focusing on cybersecurity knowledge, password security, self-assessment of skills, email security, and software security. It also examines the role of cybersecurity attitude as a mediator connecting these elements to overall awareness. Using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM-PLS) with data from 393 participants, the study finds that improved cybersecurity knowledge, password practices, self-assessment, email, and software security contribute positively to awareness. Cybersecurity attitude is a key mediator influencing user’s cybersecurity awareness. The implications of the results are tailored training for different generations, practical workshops to improve self-assessment of skills, clearer communication regarding cybersecurity tools, and the incorporation of fundamental cybersecurity education into school curricula, all of which aim to cultivate a proactive cybersecurity culture among various demographics. Future research should increase diversity, incorporate longitudinal approaches to observe changes over time, and explore infrastructure and privacy issues to deepen understanding.