Playful Secure Participation A Review of Game-based Learning Applications on IT Security and Security Practices

Abstract

In a world dominated by digital media, interaction with IT systems and the Internet is child‘s play for some and a major challenge for others. But what seems intuitive is not immediately right – or safe. In terms of secure practices, many lack basic knowledge and skills about IT security and information technology. Game-based approaches to imparting the necessary knowledge and skills should enable secure participation in this digitalized world. This paper presents a two-fold review of game-based learning applications and serious games on IT security and security practices that analyzes and evaluates publications and available applications based on two hypotheses. While there are many publications from the field of research that are also suitable for end users without previous knowledge, there are only a few games that are actually available. Moreover, games available online do not provide sustainable knowledge and skills that enable safe participation. It takes context and relevance to teach secure practices for the use of IT systems and the Internet. With the development of new games that take these aspects into account, end users can experience a motivating introduction to IT security.