An investigation into the perception of security for mobile devices

Abstract

Today’s technological pace is showing no signs of abatement. Mobile devices are catalysing such revolutionary advancements. They are becoming increasingly important – shaping progress and impacting society at large. Seamless interactivity and communication as well as ubiquitous access to services form just few of the innumerable benefits acquired by users. The accumulation and storage of increasingly personal and sensitive user data by mobile devices is becoming the order of the day. It is the prerogative of every responsible and informed user to safeguard such data from malicious intent by ensuring optimum security measures. This study investigates users’ perception of security for mobile devices. Quantitative and qualitative surveys as well as ensuing studies were conducted. Quantitative studies incorporating a questionnaire sought engagement from the daily users of a mobile device through the prevalent social media platform, Facebook. A qualitative study using an open-ended questionnaire and targeting IT security experts working within different industries was also undertaken. The formal analysis of the questionnaire responses within the quantitative studies revealed a conspicuous lack of knowledge and information about the considerable threats to the security for mobile devices. This lack of user awareness and knowledge was also singled out by security experts within the qualitative studies as a major stumbling block, inhibiting the fullest possible protection of the mobile device. The same experts recommended the importance of adopting the best security practices. However, the quantitative studies showed that the implementation of this recommendation was at times lacking. The observations and contributions arising from this study focus on tackling the lack of user awareness and knowledge with respect to mobile device security. Among them, ongoing education and security related training featured prominently.