Does IT Knowledge Translate into Security Awareness And Secure Smartphone Behavior? An Empirical View from Bangladesh

This study looks into the connection between IT knowledge, smartphone security awareness, and secure behavior in Bangladesh. A survey with random sampling was selected as the research approach and 678 smartphone users were surveyed. The first objective explores how formal IT knowledge influences smartphone security awareness, revealing varied impacts across different awareness aspects. The second objective investigates how awareness links to secure actions. The study finds that IT knowledge does not often translate into smartphone security awareness, however, higher awareness aligns with safer practices, like careful app installation and thoughtful use of features. Some formal IT education aspects are found to be significant, while others aren't, highlighting the need for an overhaul in IT education. These insights emphasize the importance of tailored education to bridge knowledge gaps and promote secure smartphone habits. The study contributes valuable information for guiding policies and educational initiatives in Bangladesh's evolving digital landscape.