Design and Development of a Malware Awareness Platform

Abstract

The proliferation of malware poses significant challenges to cybersecurity worldwide, with Zambia experiencing a growing vulnerability due to increasing internet penetration and limited public awareness. This study focuses on the design and development of a Malware Awareness Platform (MIMS) tailored to Zambia's digital ecosystem. The platform integrates educational tools, real-time threat intelligence, and prevention strategies to empower users with knowledge and defenses against malware. Utilizing a user-centered design approach, the study conducted a baseline analysis of cybersecurity practices, revealing critical awareness gaps. The platform's development incorporated iterative testing to ensure usability, accessibility, and scalability. Results demonstrated the platform's potential to significantly enhance malware awareness, reduce user susceptibility, and contribute to national cybersecurity resilience. This research not only addresses Zambia's immediate needs but also offers insights for developing similar solutions.