Paper Type
Research-in-Progress Paper
Abstract
Public Wi-Fi provides a convenient, cost-effective means for network connectivity in areas where wired infrastructure would be impractical. However, the use of multiple access points and radio wave transmissions present formidable challenges to providing a secure platform. Considering the rapid growth in Wi-Fi hotspot deployments and their potential vulnerabilities, the damage from these malicious activities could be substantial. While organizations deploying hotspots have great control over the security posture of the Wi-Fi network, the consumer has little insight into the risk associated with a particular system. Despite widespread knowledge of potential vulnerabilities related to public Wi-Fi, many people still connect to unfamiliar hotspots. We explore user perceptions of public Wi-Fi risks and benefits when making a connection decision. We develop a public Wi-Fi connection calculus model based on the theoretical foundations of motivational determinants of risk taking behavior theory, technology threat avoidance theory, and the extended privacy calculus model.
Recommended Citation
Choi, Hoon Seok and Carpenter, Darrell, "Connecting to Unfamiliar Wi-Fi Hotspots - A Risk Taking Perspective" (2013). AMCIS 2013 Proceedings. 13.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/amcis2013/ISSecurity/RoundTablePresentations/13
Connecting to Unfamiliar Wi-Fi Hotspots - A Risk Taking Perspective
Public Wi-Fi provides a convenient, cost-effective means for network connectivity in areas where wired infrastructure would be impractical. However, the use of multiple access points and radio wave transmissions present formidable challenges to providing a secure platform. Considering the rapid growth in Wi-Fi hotspot deployments and their potential vulnerabilities, the damage from these malicious activities could be substantial. While organizations deploying hotspots have great control over the security posture of the Wi-Fi network, the consumer has little insight into the risk associated with a particular system. Despite widespread knowledge of potential vulnerabilities related to public Wi-Fi, many people still connect to unfamiliar hotspots. We explore user perceptions of public Wi-Fi risks and benefits when making a connection decision. We develop a public Wi-Fi connection calculus model based on the theoretical foundations of motivational determinants of risk taking behavior theory, technology threat avoidance theory, and the extended privacy calculus model.