Cyber Fraud Prevention and Financial Management Readiness: A Framework for Accessible Education Settings

Abstract

This study examined cyber fraud prevention and financial management readiness among students in accessible education settings in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi, Philippines. It aimed to describe students’ awareness and practices in preventing cyber fraud and assess their readiness in managing personal financial resources amid increasing use of digital transactions and online financial services. A descriptive quantitative research design was used, involving 57 student-respondents who voluntarily participated and completed a structured Likert-type survey questionnaire. The data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. The findings revealed that the respondents had a high level of cyber fraud prevention, particularly in identifying suspicious messages, protecting passwords, safeguarding personal information, and avoiding phishing links. However, reporting possible cyber fraud incidents received the lowest rating among the cyber fraud prevention indicators. The respondents also demonstrated a high level of financial management readiness, especially in budgeting, responsible use of digital payment platforms, saving readiness, and spending control. Meanwhile, decision-making in managing personal financial resources received the lowest rating. The study concludes that students possess foundational digital safety awareness and financial readiness but still need stronger support in fraud reporting, financial risk awareness, and applied financial decision-making. The study recommends accessible learner support programs integrating cyber fraud prevention and financial literacy.