Exploring Phishing Awareness and User Behavior: A Survey-based Investigation

Abstract: Phishing attacks remain a significant threat to internet users, exploiting vulnerabilities in human behaviour to deceive individuals into divulging sensitive information. Understanding user awareness of these attacks and their responses is crucial for developing an effective environment. This paper presents findings from a survey-based study aimed at assessing public awareness of phishing attacks and evaluating user responses. The survey explored participants' familiarity with phishing, knowledge levels, encounter frequencies, security practices, and responses to suspicious emails. Additionally, participants were queried about their experiences with phishing awareness training and their interest in receiving further education on the topic. The results provide insights into the current landscape of phishing awareness among internet users, highlighting areas of strength and vulnerability. These findings contribute to the ongoing efforts to enhance internet security and mitigate the risks posed by phishing attacks. The implications of the study's findings for cybersecurity education, awareness campaigns, and the development of anti-phishing tools are discussed.