An Empirical Study of Home User Intentions towards Computer Security

Abstract

Home computer users are solely responsible for implementing security measures on their devices. Although most computers have security software installed, the potential remains for security breaches, which makes it important for home users to take additional steps, such as not sharing one’s password and using strong passwords, to secure their devices further. Drawing on protection motivation theory and findings from prior research, this study evaluates factors that influence individuals to implement additional security measures to protect their home computers. Using SmartPLS and responses from 72 home computer users, the results show that response efficacy, self-efficacy and subjective norms were significant in encouraging persons to implement additional security measures. Maladaptive rewards on the other hand acted as a significant detractor, while neither perceived vulnerability nor perceived severity was significant in relation to willingness to implement additional security measures.