Establishing the Influences of Cardinal Virtues on Employees’ Cyber Security Ethical Behavior in the Banking Sector in Uganda

Abstract

Purpose: Cyber security threats emanating from employees’ incorrect behavior have escalated in the banking sector. Yet formal policies and technical solutions have failed to solve the problem. Virtue ethics may be a method that can handle this concern. This research aimed at enhancing Cyber security by confirming through statistical analysis the applicability of cardinal virtues related to cyber security ethical behavior. Methodology: The quantitative survey method utilizing an online questionnaire was used. Confirmatory factor analysis determined causal patterns in the variables and assessed them for validity and reliability. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling was then used to test casual relations between the study’s constructs. Findings: The results reveal that there is a positive but an insignificant effect of prudence Beta 0.094. p = 0.277 on cyber security ethical behavioral Intentions; there is a positive and significant influence of Temperance; Beta 0.255, p = .000; a positive and significant influence of courage; Beta 0.247, p = .001; on cyber security ethical behavior, that there is a positive and significant influence of Justice; Beta 0.452, p = .000; on cyber security ethical behavioral Intentions. The results further showed that a positive change in ethical behavior intentions leads to a positive change in cyber security ethical behavior. Unique contribution to theory and practice: This research makes a theoretical contribution to Cyber security ethics by promoting virtue ethics as a framework for moral investigations into Cyber security. Results can be utilized to improve methods, instruments, and tools to assess the employees’ cyber security ethical behavior. Policy makers can develop virtue ethical based training programs with dedicated, continuous learning and teaching undertakings geared towards monitoring and enhancing the overall ethical behavior towards cyber security in the banks. The results are a platform to the Government of Uganda through the Ministry of ICT in generating appropriate national policies related to Cyber security ethics as a strategy aimed at improving Cyber security in the banking sector.