Level of Awareness of Jordanian Universities Professors of Cybersecurity: Skills and ‎Challenges

Abstract

Objectives: The study aims to assess the level of awareness among Jordanian university professors regarding cybersecurity, identify the key challenges they face in acquiring sufficient knowledge about it, and explore its implications.

Methods: A descriptive approach was adopted, using a questionnaire distributed to 55 curriculum professors selected through an accumulative sample from a population of 120 professors in the same specialization from four Jordanian universities: Middle East University, Petra University, Amman Arab University, and Applied Science University. The sample was limited to those with at least the minimum knowledge required in higher education.

Results: The findings indicated that faculty members believe there is an organized global cyberwar and that communication applications do not adequately address cybersecurity needs. The most common motivations for cybersecurity violations were identified as extortion, theft, and obtaining information. Faculty members' skills were mainly limited to taking precautionary steps when receiving emails, but the biggest challenge was the lack of cybersecurity awareness courses provided by the universities.

Conclusions: The professors' skills were confined to taking precautionary measures in handling emails and securing their accounts using multiple methods. However, the most significant challenge was the scarcity of awareness activities that universities should organize for both professors and staff.