INFORMATION SECURITY THREATS: WHAT IS PUBLIC VERSUS PRIVATE SECTOR’S PERCEPTION?

Charles Chekwa Akins Ogungbure Troy University

Mmutakaego Chukwuanu Allen University

Eugene Thomas, Jr. Troy University 

ABSTRACT

In an effort to examine Information System (IS) security, this research seeks to answer the question, what are public and private sectors’ perceptions about information security threats? In doing so, it is important to identify and isolate threats and vulnerabilities that impact Information Systems in both the public and private sectors. A comparison of the possible contributing factors which may lead to threat and malicious behavior in the public and private sectors is presented. Additionally, legislations that were enacted to protect business and individuals in the realm of these threats and behaviors are reviewed. Finally, attention is also given to the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) that promotes and ensures a safe computing environment and the employee’s responsibility to self-protect.

The results of this study indicates that, while certain variables may show as statically insignificant, sufficient evidence, via availability of weaknesses and threats and response support need for further investigation of perceptional differences and treatment of Information Security threats found in Public and private sectors.