Understanding the Human Factors in the Psychology of Cyber Threats

Abstract

This chapter examines how human factors play a crucial part in cybersecurity vulnerabilities, highlighting the important influence of psychological and behavioral aspects on the vulnerability to and mitigation of cyber threats. It explores the psychological tricks used in social engineering, insider threats motivated by malice or incompetence, and the cognitive biases that affect cybersecurity judgment. The chapter demonstrates how businesses can create security interventions that effectively encourage safer behavior by utilizing behavioral economics concepts. Empirical case studies, encompassing significant episodes in India, demonstrate the pragmatic consequences of these human elements. The chapter emphasizes how crucial it is to create a culture of cybersecurity awareness and resilience through thorough training, strict access controls, and well-thought-out behavioral interventions. Through the integration of technical measures and an understanding of human behavior, companies may strengthen their defences against the constantly changing cyber threat scenario.