Commentary says security-alert overload can cause warning fatigue
Original title: When everything is a threat, nothing feels safe
A 2016 NIST study found fatigue signs in 25 of 40 interviews, but it was small and qualitative.
A CSO Online column argues that constant scam, breach, and vulnerability warnings can overwhelm people and reduce action. It cites a 2016 NIST study of 40 computer users in which fatigue appeared in 25 interviews. The author urges checking whether an alert applies, needs action now, and has a concrete response, and says providers should make secure behavior easier by default.
Unconfirmed: The cited NIST study is small and qualitative and is not a measure of how widespread fatigue is today.
- NIST interviewed 40 everyday users about security and privacy.
- Fatigue was not the study's original focus.
- The column says a critical flaw in unused technology may not need emergency action.
- Suggested habits include updates, unique passwords, MFA, and verifying urgent requests.
- Organizations
- NIST
From the original article
5 min read at csoonline.com
When you leave home, you lock the door. When you get into the car, you fasten your seat belt. These are familiar safety habits.
csoonline.com
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