ENHANCING CYBER HYGIENE PRACTICES AMONG INFORMAL MOBILE USERS IN RURAL NIGERIA: A BEHAVIOURAL FRAMEWORK FOR DIGITAL SAFETY

Abstract

Cyber hygiene is critical for safeguarding digital identities, yet informal mobile users in rural Nigeria remain highly vulnerable due to low digital literacy and weak security practices. This study investigates cyber hygiene behaviours across rural communities in Taraba, Adamawa, and Bauchi States, applying behavioural change theory to design a context-specific framework. Using a mixed-methods approach, we surveyed 450 participants and conducted focus group discussions to explore awareness, risk exposure, and barriers to secure practices. Results show that while 67% of respondents reported at least one protective behaviour, only 18% enabled two-factor authentication and 36% experienced financial or data loss. Education level was strongly associated with cyber hygiene adoption (χ² = 28.74, p < 0.001). Qualitative findings revealed cultural norms such as communal phone sharing and reliance on oral learning as key vulnerability drivers. Building on these insights, we propose the Behavioural Framework for Digital Safety (BFDS), which integrates capability, opportunity, and motivation into a culturally grounded model for promoting secure digital practices. The study advances inclusive cybersecurity research and offers practical guidance for policymakers, NGOs, and mobile operators seeking to design scalable, community-driven interventions.