Abstract

In the digital age, password security is an important part of cybersecurity, especially for university students who often access online platforms for academic and personal use. This study examines the perceptions and perceptions of password security under university students, and examines knowledge, practices, and attitudes to protect online accounts from Botswana. Research uses a survey based on a survey to assess the understanding of students strongly creating passwords, using multi-factor verification and their vulnerability to cyber threats such as phishing and theft of credentials. The findings reveal a significant abyss between consciousness and implementation, with many students acknowledging the importance of password security, but do not take robust protective measures. Furthermore, in this study, Password security practices are highlighted, including comfort, lack of cybersecurity and low risk of cyberattacks. This research emphasizes the need for an increased campaign for education and awareness of cyber security within academic institutions to bridge the abyss between knowledge and practice. The study recommends integrating password security training in the curriculum, to promote the importance of password management and encourage the students to follow the rules and procedures for regular passwords change and multi-factor verification. By strengthening the awareness of password security with students is essential to improve cybernetic risks and ensure the protection of personal and institutional data.

Authors

Subitha Sivakumar¹, Sivakumar Venkataraman²
New Era College of Arts, Science and Technology, Botswana¹, Botho University, Botswana²

Keywords

Password Security, Cybersecurity Awareness, College Students, Online Safety, Authentication Practices