User perception of Context-Based Micro-Training – a method for cybersecurity training

User behavior is one of the biggest challenges to cybersecurity in modern organizations. Users are continuously targeted by attackers and required to have sufficient knowledge to spot and avoid such attacks. Different training methods are suggested and used in the industry to support users to behave securely. The challenge remains, and improved methods for end-user cybersecurity training are needed. This paper introduces and evaluates user perception of a method called Context-Based Micro-Training (CBMT). This approach suggests that training should be delivered in short sequences when the information is of direct relevance. The intention is to provide training directly related to the user’s current situation while also providing an awareness-increasing effect. This notion is tested in a survey-based evaluation involving 1,452 respondents from Sweden, Italy, and the UK, comparing the perception of CBMT against the experience of traditional approaches. The results emphasize that current methods are not effective enough and show that CBMT is perceived positively by respondents in all sample groups. The study further evaluated how demographic aspects impact the perception of CBMT and found that a diverse group of users can appreciate it.