Security Fatigue Leads to Reckless Computing Behavior

Risky and reckless computing behavior happens when computer users grow weary of dealing with computer security, according to an Oct. 4 study by the National Institute of Standards and Technology.

When users have to make more computer security decisions than they can manage, “they experience decision fatigue, which leads to security fatigue”—weariness or reluctance to deal with computer security—the study found.

Average computer users felt tired of being on “constant alert” and adopting safe behavior, it said.

To minimize security fatigue and help users maintain secure online habits, the study suggested limiting the number of security decisions that users need ...