The Management of Security and Privacy Concerns by Smart Phone and Social Media Users in University of Nairobi

Abstract

The purpose of this study to establish what the major security and privacy challenges smart phone users on social media experience and, what if anything, they do to protect themselves. The issue of cybercrime and personal security online is a major threat globally and with the growing numbers of smartphone users and internet dependency in Kenya, people are susceptible to having their private information misused. The studies address this threat by finding out the extent to which smartphone users in Nairobi are aware of security threats lurking online. The researcher employed a mixed methodology approach where a survey questionnaire and Focus Group Discussions were used. The population sample was 160 respondents from the University of Nairobi, aged between 18-35 years who have access to smartphones and are active social media users. Findings show that most people are aware of some of the threats to privacy on social media and smart phones. However, it was evident that some respondents do not safeguard their privacy when accessing social media sites. It was recommended that in order for more Nairobi residents to pay attention, there is a need for more education and awareness of the impact of our digital footprint on financial, personal and professional lives. In conclusion, there is a clear need to keep consumer education on impact of loss of privacy on SNS and smartphones in Nairobi