PERSUASIVE TECHNOLOGIES

and develop a system to help employees learn and follow in- formation security guidelines and to develop an awareness of information security. The system is based on principles of per- suasive technologies, targeting a long-term shift in attitudes and human behaviours. But how can this be achieved on a sustainable basis? Information security can be increased, for example, by not using unencrypted WiFi networks on business trips and not leaving passwords lying around.

 n the EU project MUSES (Multiplatform Usable Endpoint Security), the AIT Technology Experience Business Unit has teamed up with various partners in order to research

I

IT IS USUALLY THOUGHTLESS ACTIONS BY EMPLOYEES WHICH CAUSE SENSITIVE COMPANY DATA TO FALL INTO THE WRONG HANDS.

PERSUASIVE TECHNOLOGY FOR INFORMATION SECURITY

In the MUSES research & development project, AIT is for the first time applying persuasive technologies (technologies which seek to change the attitudes and behaviours of people) in the field of informa- tion security for companies. Numerous studies have shown that inter- active games, competitions or simple statistics enabling comparisons with other people or departments promote long-term changes in atti- tudes and behaviours. Persuasive models have long been used in health care in the battle against smoking, unhealthy eating or poor exercise. The impact is far higher than with other methods such as training. “The challenge was to find out which methods also work for information security in companies,” says AIT expert Marc Busch.

AIT will also co-organise a conference dedicated to this topic: Persua- sive Technology will be held in Salzburg from 5–7 April 2016.

persuasive2016.org