Cybersecurity Awareness and Cyber Hygiene Practices Among Internet Users in Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK)

This independent research study evaluates cybersecurity awareness and cyber hygiene practices among internet users across different districts of Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK). The research was conducted to analyze participant cybersecurity behavior, phishing awareness, password security practices, Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) adoption, scam exposure, and overall digital safety awareness within the region. The study used a quantitative survey-based methodology through Google Forms for data collection. A total of 124 valid responses were collected from participants belonging to multiple districts of AJK. The survey included demographic questions, cybersecurity awareness questions, phishing-related behavior analysis, password security assessment, cyber hygiene evaluation, and cybersecurity experience analysis. The findings revealed that cybersecurity awareness within AJK exists at a developing level; however, practical cyber hygiene weaknesses remain common among many users. The research identified several risky behaviors including password reuse, limited Two-Factor Authentication usage, weak phishing awareness, and unsafe interaction with suspicious links. The study also found that a large number of participants had already experienced scams, phishing attempts, or suspicious cyber incidents despite limited formal cybersecurity training exposure. The research further identified a behavioral contradiction where many participants possessed basic cybersecurity knowledge while still practicing unsafe cybersecurity behavior. The study concluded that cybersecurity within AJK is not only a technical issue but also a behavioral and awareness-related challenge. The research highlights the importance of practical cybersecurity education, cyber hygiene awareness, phishing prevention training, and institutional cybersecurity awareness initiatives within AJK. The study also provides a foundation for future cybersecurity awareness research, policy development, and digital safety improvement programs within the region. #ZarghamAyyub #Cybersecurity Awareness#Cyber Hygiene#Behavioral Cybersecurity#Phishing Awareness#Password Security#2FA#Social Engineering#Digital Safety#AJK Cybersecurity Research