Application of Protective Motivation Theory in cyber safety context: Human factor in risk mitigation

Abstract

Popularity of Internet usage has increased drastically in recent years. Being ICT natives; youth, become one of the highest beneficiaries of the internet. At the same time they become more vulnerable to threats associated with the internet. Elimination of all cyber threats is less practical. Most of the time internet users are part of the problem and solution as well. Therefore inculcating cyber safety behaviours among users is productive in order to mitigate cyber threats.. The purpose of this paper is to analyse the suitability of application of Protective Motivation Theory as a cyber-risk mitigation mechanism in Sri Lankan context with special focus on youth. Protective Motivation Theory is a behavioural science theory mostly used in health context. The sample consist of 40 set of secondary data consist of journal articles, conference proceedings and research reports. Theses secondary data and 10 case studies analysed qualitatively using grounded theory method and the results show the positive impact of generating self and coping efficacy as a cyber safety mechanism. The application of protective motivation concept critically subjected to PESTAL analysis against the political, economic, social, technological, environmental and legal aspects of Sri Lanka. The study shows the changing human behaviour is the most important and positively affect reducing cyber threat, especially in a developing country like Sri Lanka.