CYBER SECURITY AWARENESS AMONG WOMEN USERS - AN EMPIRICAL STUDY

Abstract

The number of internet users in India is increasing. According to the Datareportal, there are 624 million internet users in India in January 2021 which is almost the 50 percent of the population. The Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI)'s Digital in India report indicates that the number of female users in India is increasing. The split of male to female is 58:42 in metros. Internet world is creating enormous opportunities for women to voice out their opinion without fear in the cyber space. It has created more benefits in terms of access and opportunities. With the fast-growing reach of the internet, speedy spread of mobile information and the escalated use of social media, crimes are also increasing. Women being a vulnerable group often do fall victim to this. In spite of so many efforts to combat the issue of Cybercrime and provide safety to users, cybercrime rates are high and pose a major threat to the dignity and safety of women. There are many security tools and spaces available where women can enjoy the benefits of the cyber world. But lack of awareness on how to use things safely and securely is making women more vulnerable to cyber-attacks than men. This research study is an attempt to understand to what extent women users are aware of threats in cyber-space; precautions to be taken and legal protection available to them.