Why Race and Place Matter: Examining the Intersection of Cybersecurity and Digital Equity

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed various cybersecurity threats as more people relied on multiple digital communication modes to function socially and financially. In the 2021 National League of Cities report, responding to the economic impact of the pandemic, the U.S. Congress appropriated federal resources to ensure broadband connectivity through legislation. Despite these efforts, accessing reliable broadband in communities of color remained a persistent challenge, preventing underserved populations like the elderly and low-income adults from fully participating in society. This study explores the need for digital inclusion in communities of color by discussing the intersection of cybersecurity and digital equity in a predominantly Black city in the Mid-Atlantic region. The findings of this study underscore the pivotal role that employment provides in cybersecurity knowledge and practices while highlighting digital disparities due to infrastructural shortcomings, thus supporting that race, geography, and socioeconomic status are three critical barriers to achieving digital equity. Moreover, the findings of this study highlight skills and knowledge barriers in cybersecurity and digital literacy. Despite its many benefits, this study draws attention to the exclusionary side of technology in urban communities by emphasizing the need for better local and state efforts to address cybersecurity threats and digital infrastructural inequities.

Plain Language Summary

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic revealing various forms of digital inequities and infrastructural needs in underserved communities, there is little information about how these communities are faring today. This study examines the complexity of the digital divide and digital insecurity by comprehensively taking into account socioeconomic factors, digital behaviors, and digital knowledge in improving information and communication technologies in underserved communities after the pandemic. The findings support the need for increased digital literacy among various age groups, while highlighting the importance of employment in enhancing digital literacy and cybersecurity knowledge.