The purpose of this study is to determine the levels of attitudes toward cybersecurity and cybersecurity behaviors among nurses and factors contributing to risky online behaviors in Saudi Arabia.
A cross-sectional correlational study collected data from 341 registered nurses at a Medical City in Saudi Arabia. Data was collected using an electronic self-reported questionnaire composed of a demographic information sheet, the Attitudes Toward CyberSecurity in Business scale to assess cybersecurity attitudes and the Risky Cybersecurity Behaviors scale to evaluate cybersecurity-related behaviors.
Most participants (83.3%) were familiar with cybersecurity, though only 8.2% were affected by cybercrime. Most (84.5%) had received some cybersecurity education, either through in-service training (77.1%) or complete courses (1.5% or both). Regarding attitudes toward cybersecurity, the mean score of the Attitudes Toward CyberSecurity in Business scale was 70.44 (out of 100), indicating generally favored attitudes. The median for the Risky Cybersecurity Behaviors scale was 13 (IQR = 11–22), reflecting relatively safe behaviors. The analysis revealed a weak negative correlation between attitudes toward cybersecurity and cybersecurity behaviors and identified several differences in participants’ scores based on their demographic and clinical variables.
Although nurses in this study exhibited a relatively favorable attitude and safe cybersecurity practices, they adopted some risky behaviors that necessitated administrative action. This study highlights the importance of ongoing cybersecurity education and training, frequent policy circulation and continuous support for health-care professionals to enhance cybersecurity practices and protect patient data in health-care systems.
Favored nurses’ attitudes toward cybersecurity significantly correlate with safer cybersecurity practices within hospital settings. Favored attitudes toward cybersecurity were associated with older ages, females with higher degrees, unit head nurses/supervisors and familiarity with and education on cybersecurity. Male participants and victims of cybercrimes exhibited riskier cybersecurity behaviors. Less risky online behaviors were linked to nurse managers/supervisors, who are familiar with and attended education on cybersecurity.
