Are You Aware of Your Data Privacy? The Case of Digital Contact Tracing Applications (MySejahtera)

Abstract

Digital Contact Tracing (DCT) apps have been widely used as one of the control measures in mitigating the COVID-19 pandemic all over the countries. Despite the various benefits, the use of the DCT apps has raised several issues, particularly in the area of data privacy. Thus, it is important for users to be aware of their privacy while using such apps. This study was conducted to identify the level of user awareness on data privacy and investigate whether the data privacy concern can influence the adoption of the MySejahtera application. A total of 505 responses were obtained from an online survey distributed through social media. The data were then analyzed quantitatively using descriptive statistics and Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) techniques. Empirical results found that the user awareness level on data privacy in using MySejahtera App is moderately high. The respondents are highly aware that their personal data were collected while using the app although they demonstrate less awareness on the privacy risk towards misusing of their personal data. The study also found out that data privacy concern does influence the adoption of MySejahtera App. Even though the awareness level towards their data privacy is considered high, it is believed that this finding is largely influenced by the enforcement made by the Malaysian Government to mitigate the CO VID-19 outbreak. This study provides insights into users' understanding of data privacy pertaining to DCT applications focusing on MySejahtera. The findings offer the government some recommendation to formulate effective strategies to reduce personal concern towards the apps. The government can make use of the findings in handling the stored data for strengthening public trust.