Enhancing Cyber Hygiene and Literacy via Interactive Mini-games

Abstract

Cyber threats are an increasingly reality for technology users in day-to-day use. As such, it is important to teach people how to protect themselves and follow good cyber security practice. However, while many awareness-raising materials and resources can be found, they run the risk of being read and forgotten rather than providing an engaging context that users will return to. This paper discusses the design, implementation and initial evaluation of a mobile app that seeks to promote cyber hygiene and security principles and practices via a series of mini-games. Each is focused upon an issue of relevance to end-users (e.g. password selection, phishing avoidance, and safe use of networks), and seeks to present learning content via short, interactive experiences. The resulting app is realized in prototype form, with associated practical evaluation suggesting positive findings in terms of user performance and feedback.