AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE LEVEL OF CYBERSECURITY AWARENESS AND DATA PROTECTION IN OFFICE ENVIRONMENTS (CASE STUDY OF ABDU GUSAU POLYTECHNIC, TALATA MAFARA)

This project investigates the level of cybersecurity awareness and data protection practices among staff and administrative units within Abdu Gusau Polytechnic, Talata Mafara. As cyber threats become increasingly sophisticated, educational institutions are vulnerable due to a lack of awareness and insufficient data protection protocols. The objective of this study is to assess the level of cybersecurity awareness and the effectiveness of data protection practices within office environments at Abdu Gusau Polytechnic, Talata Mafara. As digital transformation increases the reliance on information technology in academic institutions, there is a growing need to evaluate how staff understand and implement basic cybersecurity measures to safeguard institutional data. The study employed a mixed-method approach, using structured questionnaires and interviews to gather data from administrative and ICT staff members. The findings revealed that a significant number of staff have limited knowledge of cybersecurity risks and data protection policies, with over 60% of respondents admitting to having received little or no formal training in the area. In addition, the study uncovered inadequate implementation of security practices such as regular password updates, use of antivirus software, and data backup procedures. Based on these findings, the study recommends the establishment of comprehensive cybersecurity awareness programs, the formulation and enforcement of institutional data protection policies, and increased investment in secure IT infrastructure. These steps are essential to enhance the security posture of the institution and protect sensitive data from potential threats.