Technostress' Impact on Cybersecurity in Institutions of Higher Education

• In Event: Roundtable: Crime

Abstract

In recent years, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic, technology has taken on an ever-increasing presence in the workplace. Consequentially, that presence has been accompanied by increased stress levels among Americans. Technostress, as it is referred to, has been widely associated in the research literature with notable declines in job satisfaction, reduced performance levels, and a heightened risk of burnout. While much of the research on technostress has been concentrated in the areas of IT and business, far less is known about its relevant effects in higher education, specifically as it relates to cybersecurity. Cybersecurity plays a crucial role in safeguarding an organization's computer information systems, networks, and data from unauthorized users; and employees often serve as the last line of defense. The increased levels of technostress then would seem to pose a threat to any educational institution’s digit assets. Human errors such as weak passwords, not recognizing phishing scams, or missed/overlooked authentication steps, represent a significant threat to the protection of information if the necessary precautions are not taken. Thus, it becomes imperative to explore this matter further.

Author

• Claudia S. Rocha, Eastern New Mexico University