This paper re-examines how personality influences secure computing practices. Unlike previous studies, we focus on secure computing behavior in a Southeast Asian market, offering insights into the relationship between personality and security behavior in emerging economies. Additionally, we incorporate multifactor authentication as a key component of modern secure computing practices.

To conduct our study, we used a snowball sampling technique to invite residents of the Philippines aged 18 and above to complete an online questionnaire. The survey assessed the Big Five personality traits alongside secure computing behaviors, including software updates, device security, proactive awareness, password creation, and multifactor authentication. The questionnaire was available online for 51 days, from August 14 to October 3, 2023, yielding 620 complete responses.

Data analysis was conducted using the “seminr” package in R. Confirmatory factor analysis confirmed that our survey instruments demonstrated satisfactory reliability, discriminant validity, and convergent validity. We used Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling to examine the impact of personality on secure computing practices. To assess common method bias, we applied Harman’s single-factor test and the smallest positive correlation test, both of which indicated negligible bias.

Our findings align with existing literature, showing that conscientiousness and agreeableness are positively associated with secure computing practices, while neuroticism has a negative correlation. These results suggest that personality continues to shape secure computing behaviors across different cultures. Organizations could enhance cybersecurity by offering tailored security training and implementing streamlined security procedures to accommodate diverse personality traits, ultimately improving the protection of information systems.

Authors:
Philip Kwa, Asian Institute of Management, Philippines
Wendy Yee Hui Wan, Singapore Institute of Technology, Singapore
Rei Nikolai Magnaye, Asian Institute of Management, Philippines
Jaime Kristoffer Caig, Asian Institute of Management, Philippines
Sharon Torreverde, Asian Institute of Management, Philippines

About the Presenter(s)
Mr. Philip Kwa is the Academic Program Director and Clinical Professor for the Master in Cybersecurity Program at the Asian Institute of Management, Philippines. His research and teaching focus on cybersecurity and governance risk management.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-kwa/

See this presentation on the full schedule – Monday Schedule

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