Survey on Bring Your Own Device

Abstract

In this project, we present the results and analysis of the survey tool, which seeks to find information on student use of mobile technology devices on college campuses. Specifically, the survey addresses Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) knowledge of those surveyed, such as their familiarity with these types of devices and knowledge of security risks. The risks involved in BYOD can be perceived as either online security, i.e. fraud, sharing of files or the risk of the loss of the equipment itself, i.e. a device being stolen or lost while on campus. Other issues addressed include the use of passwords and knowledge of Internet security from basics to more advanced terminology and concepts.

Introduction

The trend towards student use of BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) practices has become commonplace among students worldwide. The pervasive use of mobile phones, tablets, and laptops has raised some important questions about security. The survey created to test student responses to questions regarding the practice of BYOD aims to determine the level of awareness among students towards the risks associated with bringing personally owned electronic equipment such as the aforementioned devices with them to campus.

Security risks include both Internet-based risks as well as personal property loss, which can also happen in tandem. The research gained by this survey tests a hypothesis that student knowledge of the risks involved with BYOD usage is often overlooked and sometimes non-existent. Students are risking the security of their personal information by using shared networks on campus as well as risking the chance of having these often costly devices stolen. Additionally, if security is breached in the form of hacking, personal information leakage could lead to other potential losses for the owners of these devices if information such as name, student ID number, date of birth, etc. are obtained by an unknown party and used in a fraudulent manner. Other common mistakes include using the same password for multiple online accounts, which opens the risk of greater property loss via access to personal information, both academic and non. Greater student awareness of how to protect oneself on the Internet and on-campus could eliminate the security risks involved with BYOD and instead highlight the benefits of having such technology readily available. Campus security procedures could become more effective by the use of the information gathered in this survey as the policies and procedures in place aimed at helping to avoid theft of student property and criminal activity on college campuses.

Methodology

In this research, students are surveyed on their general knowledge of Internet security and usage on mobile devices via a 60 question online survey. Additionally, their frequency of use of BYOD products is used to assess how risky student behavior in regards to electronic and internet usage on campus really is and how preventative measures can be installed to help avoid criminal activity such as hacking or theft of these Internet-capable devices.

The survey is hosted by SurveyMonkey Inc., a popular and trusted Internet-based survey platform. Participants are notified of the following statements and disclosures as to their participation in this study:

Purpose of Research

I understand that this research project is designed to use a data collection tool used to gather information about individuals based on the topic of Bring your own device.

Specific Procedures to be used. During my participation in the study, I will be asked to answer a series of questions in an electronic survey related to my knowledge of Bring your own device. My answers to these questions will help in capturing the relevance of the topic Bring your own device.

Duration of Participation. I understand that the total time I will be involved in this study will range from 15-25 minutes.

Risks to the Individual. I understand that the risks associated with participation in this study are no more than I would encounter in everyday life.

Benefits to the Individual or Others. I understand that there is no direct benefit to me for participating in this study. I also understand that the knowledge gained from this study will help in the Bring your own device data collection.

Compensation. I understand that I will not be provided with compensation for participating in this study.

Extra Costs to Participate. I understand that I do not incur any extra costs by participating in this study.

Confidentiality

I understand that the electronic survey will automatically assign to me a numerical identifier under which all of my responses will be stored. At the end of the data collection period, I understand that all the data will be deleted from the server at the conclusion of the study. These measures will serve to minimize the risk of a breach of confidentiality. The project’s research records may be inspected by the University Research Review Board or its designees to ensure those participants’ rights are being protected. This is also part of an academic course.

Voluntary Nature of Participation

I understand that I do not have to participate in this research project. If I agree to participate I can skip any question I do not feel comfortable with and I can withdraw my participation at any time without penalty. On page 2 are there are 24 questions about generic computer information. Also, there are 21 questions about the relevance of your laptop and 14 questions on mobile/tablet devices.

Reference

“Bring Your Own Device Survey.” (2013). https://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=viLFNDoU3WlgDvp55t4AKQ%3d%3d