Assessing University Students' Attitudes Towards Phishing Email Reporting Tools

Phishing attacks are a significant threat to organizations, including universities. Effective defense mechanisms, such as phishing reporting software embedded in email systems, enable users to report suspicious emails. While faculty and staff are generally obligated to defend against these threats, students do not share this responsibility. This research proposal aims to explore university students' attitudes towards using phishing reporting features in their email systems. Understanding these attitudes can provide valuable insights for improving the adoption and effectiveness of such features among students. The study's findings could have practical implications for enhancing the protection of university networks and systems from phishing attacks. Additionally, the research will contribute to the broader field of technology acceptance, specifically regarding email reporting systems in educational environments. By examining factors such as perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness, this study seeks to inform strategies for increasing student engagement with phishing defenses, ultimately contributing to a more secure academic cyber environment.