• Naresh

The rapid adoption of multi-cloud platforms by university students for academic projects, data storage, and collaborative development has introduced new challenges in cybersecurity awareness. Traditional perimeter-based security models are no longer adequate for safeguarding digital assets, leading to the increasing emphasis on Zero-Trust Security (ZTS), which operates on the principle of “never trust, always verify.” This study analyzes the level of Zero-Trust Security awareness among college students who frequently use multi-cloud environments such as AWS, Google Cloud, Azure, and hybrid platforms. A mixed-method survey design was adopted, involving 150 undergraduate and postgraduate students from computing disciplines. Data were collected using three validated scales: Zero-Trust Security Awareness Scale, Multi-Cloud Usage Pattern Scale, and Cyber Hygiene Practices Inventory. Results reveal that although students exhibit high familiarity with basic cloud operations, their understanding of ZTS principles—including identity authentication, least-privilege access, continuous monitoring, and segmentation—is significantly limited. Students who use multiple cloud platforms for coding, DevOps, and academic deployments show moderate adoption of ZTS-aligned practices, but misconceptions about authentication, API security, and device trust remain prevalent. The study concludes with recommendations for curriculum integration, hands-on lab modules, and simulation-based training to improve Zero-Trust readiness among future professionals.

Zero-Trust Security, Multi-Cloud Platforms, Cybersecurity Awareness, Identity Management, Access Control, Student Security Practices, Cloud Education

"Exploring Zero-Trust Security Behaviour of Students in Multi-Cloud Academic Platforms", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 10, page no.g559-g566, October-2024, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2410666.pdf

"Exploring Zero-Trust Security Behaviour of Students in Multi-Cloud Academic Platforms", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 10, page no. ppg559-g566, October-2024, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2410666.pdf