Akash Kumar is a Master of Information Technology (Cybersecurity) student at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), with a strong academic and research-oriented background in cybersecurity. His interests lie in human-centric cybersecurity, usable security, and privacy, with a particular focus on understanding user behaviour in areas such as password practices, phishing, and social engineering. He has been recognised for academic excellence through placement on the Dean’s List in the Faculty of Engineering and IT. Akash is actively engaged in research that bridges technical security mechanisms with human decision-making, and he aims to contribute to the design of practical, user-aware cybersecurity solutions that improve real-world security outcomes.
Cybersecurity Human-Centric Cybersecurity Usable security and privacy
Universities are attractive targets for cyberattacks due to open networks and a large number of users, primarily students. This research examines cybersecurity practices among higher-education students, focusing on three areas: password security, phishing awareness, and social-engineering vulnerability. A survey of 146 students from various Australian universities revealed that while students have a moderate awareness of cybersecurity dangers, their practices are inconsistent. High rates of password reuse and poor complexity were noted, and many participants struggled to identify phishing indicators. Postgraduate students generally demonstrated better cybersecurity behaviours compared to undergraduates. Additionally, previous cybersecurity training was linked to improved detection of social engineering, though the effect was limited. Participants expressed a strong interest in practical cybersecurity training, preferring interactive and self-directed methods over traditional lectures. The findings underscore the need for systematic, behaviour-based interventions and structured cybersecurity education within institutions. Future research should explore causal factors, test training interventions, and conduct crosscultural comparisons to enhance the understanding of cybersecurity practices among students.
