Assessing Cybersecurity Awareness And Issues Among Citizens Of Navi Mumbai And Panvel Zone

Abstract

The government’s demonetization initiative, along with its vision to transform India into a cashless economy, has brought a significant shift in payment behaviour, accelerating the adoption of digital payment systems. This shift was further catalysed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which drastically reduced physical transactions and increased reliance on digital modes such as E-wallets. Although traditionally Indian consumers preferred cash-on-delivery methods, the pandemic has prompted a rapid rise in mobile wallet usage due to convenience and safety.

The diffusion of mobile payment systems is highly dependent on user readiness, perceived ease of use, and most importantly, trust in cybersecurity. With smartphones functioning as digital wallets, concerns related to cybercrime, data privacy, and digital fraud have grown significantly. While digital adoption continues to rise, awareness of cybersecurity and preventive practices remains uneven, especially in rapidly developing regions.

This exploratory study focuses on assessing the awareness of cybersecurity issues and readiness to adopt E-wallets among citizens of Navi Mumbai and Panvel zone—two key urban and commercial areas of Maharashtra. The research also investigates users' understanding of cyber threats, including aspects of computer forensics and techno-legal knowledge, which are increasingly relevant in the digital age.

According to recent RBI reports, India has witnessed nearly 1 billion digital transactions, underlining the urgency for digital literacy and robust cybersecurity frameworks. This study contributes insights into the challenges and preparedness of citizens in safeguarding themselves against cyber risks, and highlights the need for focused awareness campaigns and techno-legal skill development in urban India.