Cross-Cultural Differences in Attitudes Towards the Security of Personal Data and Online Privacy: A Systematic Literature Review

This systematic literature review examines cross-cultural differences in attitudes towards the security of personal data and online privacy. As digital technologies increasingly collect, store, and analyse personal information, understanding how privacy and data security are perceived across cultures is critical. Following PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, we searched Scopus, Web of Science, EBSCOhost, and OVID for papers published between 2015 and 2025. After screening 585 records and assessing 73 full-text papers, 23 studies met the inclusion criteria. The review addressed three questions concerning the theories used to explain cross-cultural privacy attitudes, the cultural differences identified, and the extent to which collectivist and individualistic cultures differ. Risk of bias was assessed using the SPIDER framework. Findings were tabulated and synthesized narratively. Hofstede’s cultural dimensions theory was the most frequently used framework, although the review found considerable theoretical fragmentation and reliance on national culture as a proxy for individual values. Empirical findings were mixed: some studies reported greater privacy concern, data sensitivity, or reluctance to disclose among individualistic cultures, whereas others found higher privacy concern, perceived risk, or anxiety about data misuse among collectivist cultures. These inconsistencies suggest that privacy attitudes are context-dependent and shaped by data type, institutional trust, relationships, perceived benefits, and regulatory conditions. The review argues for more nuanced, culturally responsive theories, methods, and cybersecurity interventions.