Self-efficacy in information security: Its influence on end users’ information security practice behavior

The ultimate success of information security depends on appropriate information security practice behaviors by the end users. Based on social cognitive theory, this study models and tests relationships among self-efficacy in information security, security practice behavior and motivation to strengthen security efforts. This study also explores antecedents to individuals’ self-efficacy beliefs in information security. Results provide support for the many hypothesized relationships. This study provides an initial step toward understanding of the applicability of social cognitive theory in a new domain of information security. The results suggest that simply listing what not to do and penalties associated with a wrong doing in the users’ information security policy alone will have a limited impact on effective implementation of security measures. The findings may help information security professionals design security awareness programs that more effectively increase the self-efficacy in information security.