Φshing You Understanding Phishing Susceptibility through Personality, Age, Education Level, and Gender

Alia El Bolock¹* and Saifeldin Madany^2
1Computer Science and Engineering, The American University in Cairo, Egypt
²Information Security, German International University, Egypt
*Corresponding Author: Alia El Bolock, The American University in Cairo, New Cairo, Cairo, Egypt.

Published: February 04, 2025

DOI: 10.55162/MCET.08.263

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Abstract  

This research investigates the relationship between character (personality traits and background) and susceptibility to phishing attacks in social engineering contexts. Our study uses a practical experimental design with controlled scenarios to measure susceptibility to phishing in a real simulated attack. Ethical safeguards, such as informed consent, anonymized data handling, and a comprehensive participant debriefing, were integral to the research. The findings indicate that high extroversion and low neuroticism greatly increase the probability of falling for a phishing attack. However, the age range was also a significant influencer of susceptibility, while educational background and gender had no effect. These results highlight the need to consider personality and demographic factors in cybersecurity defenses. This paper offers nuanced insights into personality-driven vulnerabilities and supports the value of ethical, realistic experimental designs in social engineering research.

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