Information Security Challenges During Digital Transformation
Bemenet Kasahun Gebremeskel, Gideon Mekonnen Jonathan, Sileshi Demesie Yalew
Abstract
Since the proliferation of information technology (IT) into business processes, organisations have grown to rely on a large amount of data to improve their products and services and create added value. This development has made information the most valuable asset for any organisation, which, in turn, has made information security a primary concern for leaders. Despite the tremendous potential of digital transformation, prior empirical studies indicate that information security challenges must be overcome to realise the anticipated benefits. Analysing the data collected from 14 leaders through semi-structured interviews, this study identified six information security challenges facing organisations undertaking digital transformation—financial constraints, risk of security breaches, reduced productivity, reduced access and control over information, lack of expertise, and dynamic security management needs. Propositions, as well as the implication of the findings for research and practice, are discussed.