Abstract: Social Engineering (SE) Awareness, Training, and Education (SEATE) is one of the recommended defenses against SE attacks among users of Information Systems. However, many of these SEATE programs fails to achieve the desired impact leading to exposures. This study sought to explore SEATE programs to identify gaps/challenges and propose relevant content, Delivery Methods, and a novel behavioral change Model to improve SEATE programs among users. An explorative Literature Search was conducted on the relevant SEATE Content, Delivery methods and the challenges of SEATE Programs. Consequently, the relevant and critical content and delivery methods were proposed. The challenges that impede the efficient and effective conduct of SEATE Programs were established. A behavioral change Model known as Social Engineering Awareness, Transition, Adaptation and Consolidation (ATAC) based on Stable-Quasi-Stationary Equilibrium theory was proposed. The model was validated using Expert Opinions. Five (5) expert in cybersecurity were recruited to appraise the model based on five metrics; fit for purpose, novelty, ease of use and structure. The results show that, challenges still exist in the conduct of SEATE programs. To improve SEATE programs requires relevant and innovative content, and delivery method (Hybrid Approach). Validation of the proposed behavioral change model showed an average score at 73.6% and performance metrics at 92%. As the menace of SE attacks rages on and exploiting the user, the need for SEATE programs remains imperative. A well-developed and relevant content, delivery methods and a clear understanding of the challenges is required to improve SEATE. Following the model developed, and the repeated use of it will lead to improving user resistance and or immunity to SE attacks and by extension improve security culture among users.

Azaabi Cletus, Benjamin Weyory and Alex Opoku, “Improving Social Engineering Awareness, Training and Education (SEATE) using a Behavioral Change Model” International Journal of Advanced Computer Science and Applications(IJACSA), 13(5), 2022. http://dx.doi.org/10.14569/IJACSA.2022.0130572

@article{Cletus2022,
title = {Improving Social Engineering Awareness, Training and Education (SEATE) using a Behavioral Change Model},
journal = {International Journal of Advanced Computer Science and Applications},
doi = {10.14569/IJACSA.2022.0130572},
url = {http://dx.doi.org/10.14569/IJACSA.2022.0130572},
year = {2022},
publisher = {The Science and Information Organization},
volume = {13},
number = {5},
author = {Azaabi Cletus and Benjamin Weyory and Alex Opoku}
}