Development of a cyber security model for crime prevention in the Namibian microlending industry

Abstract

The aim of this study was to design and develop a cybersecurity model that would create awareness, protect information systems, and prevent cybercrime in the Namibian micro lending industry. The types of cybersecurity threats identified in the industry included hacking, phishing, virus dissemination, logic bombs, denial of service attacks, email bombing and spamming, web jacking, cyber stalking, cyber bullying, software piracy, salami slicing attacks, identity theft, and credit card fraud. The research focused on investigating these cybercrimes due to the questionable effectiveness of the micro-lending industry's current security measures, highlighting the need for investigation within the context of the industry. The main purpose of the proposed crime prevention mechanism was to identify the current cybercrimes in the industry and understand the associated challenges. This study aimed to address the problems related to cybercrime in the micro lending industry and examine the challenges it faced in terms of cybersecurity awareness. Additionally, the research aimed to propose prevention strategies that could be implemented in the micro-lending industry. A combination of quantitative and qualitative methods was used in the research process. The study involved developing specific research questions and procedures, collecting data in the participants' natural environment, and analysing the data inductively by advancing from particulars to broad themes. The researcher then made interpretations about the meaning of the data. The performance of the proposed mechanisms was evaluated through expert reviews. The main contribution of this research was the design and development of a cybersecurity model specifically tailored to the micro-lending industry in Namibia. This model not only enhances awareness among industry stakeholders about the importance of cybersecurity but also provides practical tools and guidelines for implementing effective security measures.