The importance of cybersecurity and its role in the successful implementation of e-services

Purpose: This study aims to assess the awareness, knowledge and digital skills of young people, students from Warsaw universities, in the field of cybersecurity related to e-services. The survey investigates the respondents’ awareness and knowledge related to various cyber threats, their perception, frequency and scale, and self-assessment of cybersecurity competence and practices. Design/methodology/approach: The study involving 278 young e-consumers, students of universities in Warsaw, was conducted using a survey questionnaire (CAWI technique). The selection of the sample was purposive and convenient. Respondents were asked about their perception of cybersecurity threats, self-assessed ability to defend against attacks and their use of various cybersecurity measures. The research examined key variables such as gender, age (two groups: 19-22 and 23-26 years), employment status and place of residence (large vs. small city). Statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics 29.0 Findings: The results indicate high levels of cybersecurity awareness among young e-consumers. Many respondents recognize cyber threats and their potential consequences. However, they also lack confidence in their abilities and the effectiveness of cybersecurity measures and tools. The study highlights the gap between the awareness regarding cyber threats and practical skills or the ability to mitigate them effectively. Research limitations/implications: The sample included a group of young e-consumers, students from major universities in Warsaw. Thus, the findings cannot be generalized to the broader population. However, due to their specific characteristics (level of education and digital skills, age and place of residence), the respondents may be regarded as a suitable group for pilot studies in cybersecurity awareness and skills development. Practical implications: The findings indicate a need for adequately targeted educational initiatives to enhance cybersecurity competence and skills among young e-consumers. Originality/value: This study examines the cybersecurity awareness of young people in the context of e-services, which is a topical yet underexplored issue. The study results can be valuable for educators, policymakers and cybersecurity professionals aiming to enhance cybersecurity awareness among young e-consumers. Keywords: cybersecurity awareness and knowledge, digital skills, e-services, e-consumers, consumer safety. Category of the paper: research paper.