MEASURING THE CYBERSECURITY AWARENESS LEVEL AMONG AUTISTIC INDIVIDUALS IN SAUDI ARABIA

Abstract

In the increasingly digital world, cybersecurity awareness is essential for individuals from all walks of life. However, the awareness level among autistic individuals, who may have unique learning styles and challenges, has been a largely understudied area. This research investigates the cybersecurity awareness level among autistic individuals in Saudi Arabia, utilizing an adapted Theory of Planned Behaviour framework as the guiding theoretical model. The study incorporates independent variables, namely Security Knowledge, Self- Perception of Skills, Cybersecurity Attitudes, and Actual Skills and Behaviour, to comprehensively measure cybersecurity awareness within this population. Quantitative research methods were employed, involving the distribution of surveys to 81 participants through a convenient sampling technique. Data analysis was carried out using the variance- based structural equation modelling (SEM) technique via the Smart-Partial Least Square (PLS) software. The research findings provide empirical support for two significant factors, namely Self-Perception of Skills and Cybersecurity Attitudes, while rejecting the influence of Security Knowledge and Actual Skills and Behaviour. This study underscores the critical importance of self-confidence and attitudes in shaping the cybersecurity readiness of autistic individuals. The outcomes have significant implications for tailoring educational interventions and support systems to enhance online safety for this demographic in Saudi Arabia, setting the stage for more inclusive and effective cybersecurity strategies worldwide