Can Internal Control, Rules and Regulations and Technology Adoption influence Bank’s Protection of Customers’ Data Security?

Abstract

The emergence of the internet led to issues concerning privacy and data protection of the customers in the banking industry. Of consequence, the banks have initiated several strategies to protect their customers. Among the strategies adopted by the banks include implementing good internal control and rules and regulations. The banks also have adopted technology in protecting their customers. However, there is yet limited study that has examined these factors from the contexts of customers’ data protection of the banks. This study aimed to examine the factors influencing employees’ understanding of customers’ data security. Specifically, this study examined the effect of internal control, rules and regulations, and technology adoption on Malaysian banks’ protection of customers’ data security. Utilising questionnaire as the research instrument, this study obtained responses from 220 bank employees. Based on the multiple regression analysis, this study showed that internal control and technology adoption have a significant positive effect on banks’ protection of customers’ data security. However, this study could not provide evidence on the significant effect of rules and regulations on customers’ data security protection. The findings of this study highlight the importance of protecting the customers’ data security to financial institutions. They also underscore the significant impact of data theft on individuals and organisations since customers’ information or data is a precious commodity in today’s world.