Cybersecurity Awareness and Online Banking Practices Among Housewives in Thane City: An Empirical Study

The rapid digitization of India’s banking sector has substantially increased the reliance on online banking services, especially within urban households. This empirical study investigates the level of cybersecurity awareness and online banking practices among housewives in Thane City, an urban region with significant digital penetration. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research assesses the extent of cybersecurity knowledge, the nature of online banking behaviours, the correlation between awareness and safe banking practices, and the barriers faced by housewives in adopting secure online banking protocols. Results from a sample of 300 respondents highlight moderate adoption of online banking for routine financial management but reveal critical gaps in cyber security awareness—especially concerning password management, two-factor authentication, and response to suspicious activities. The findings underscore a strong correlation between cybersecurity knowledge and the adoption of safe banking practices, while also identifying technical complexity, lack of training, and social norms as key barriers. The paper concludes with actionable recommendations for banks, policymakers, and community organizations to enhance digital literacy and foster a cybersecurity-conscious culture among housewives. The implications extend to broader policy and regulatory considerations for promoting secure digital financial inclusion.