Addressing Cybersecurity Challenges in Times of Crisis: Extending the Sociotechnical Systems Perspective

Recent crises have significantly amplified cybersecurity challenges. Numerous studies have identified these challenges during major crises; however, empirical investigations using a sociotechnical systems (STS) theoretical perspective remain limited. Against this backdrop, this research study examines and categorizes cybersecurity challenges in the Higher Education and Research Sector (HERS) through the lens of STS theory. Utilizing a qualitative methodology, semi-structured interviews were conducted with cybersecurity experts and top managers. This study proposes an STS cybersecurity framework, classifying challenges into five subsystems: social, technical, political, economic, and environmental. This framework expands on previous literature by incorporating factors often overlooked, such as cybersecurity challenges arising from internal and external environmental conditions, legal and regulatory political factors, and national and global economic factors. This research provides valuable theoretical and practical insights applicable beyond the context of the recent crisis.