Title: Dimension of mobile security model: mobile user security threats and awareness

Authors: M. Sheila; M.A. Faizal; S. Shahrin

Addresses: Center for Advance Computer Technologies (C-ACT), Faculty of Information and Communications Technology, Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Hang Tuah Jaya, 76100 Durian Tunggal, Melaka, Malaysia ' Center for Advance Computer Technologies (C-ACT), Faculty of Information and Communications Technology, Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Hang Tuah Jaya, 76100 Durian Tunggal, Melaka, Malaysia ' Center for Advance Computer Technologies (C-ACT), Faculty of Information and Communications Technology, Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Hang Tuah Jaya, 76100 Durian Tunggal, Melaka, Malaysia

Abstract: This is an exploratory study that evaluates mobile security awareness and mobile security vulnerabilities based on practices among mobile users in higher education institutions. Using a cross-sectional survey and a convenient sampling technique, students from one of the universities in Malaysia where e-learning and m-learning are implemented were chosen as the target population. The work shows that different layers of mobile security awareness exist among learners of each establishment. Key findings include differences in perception of wireless connection in mobile devices while on a public network, seemingly inappropriate usage, security protection among mobile users, security threat created by mobile devices and security threat awareness behaviour of users. This paper indicates a generic threat model for the processes of mobile learning. After a brief discussion of the attributes involved with mobile user security behaviour and protective characteristics of digital learning from the security and dependability point of view, the use of threat models in mobile users' security is explained. Limitations and future research have been indicated.

Keywords: mobile learning; mobile security; user awareness; threat modelling; security threats; m-learning; security vulnerabilities; higher education; Malaysia.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMLO.2015.069718

International Journal of Mobile Learning and Organisation, 2015 Vol.9 No.1, pp.66 - 85

Received: 12 Aug 2014
Accepted: 25 Feb 2015

Published online: 29 May 2015 *

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