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Making cyber security more resilient: adding social considerations to technological fixes

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  • Myriam Dunn Cavelty
  • Christine Eriksen
  • Benjamin Scharte

Abstract

How can a focus on socio-technical vulnerability and uncertainty make cyber security more resilient? In this article, we provide a conceptual discussion of how to increase cyber resilience. First, we show how cyber security and resilience thinking co-evolved through their connection to critical infrastructures, and how the ensuing dominant technical focus inevitably always falls short due to the diverse societal values that underpin their critical social functions. We argue that a sole focus on aggregate systems neglects the important differences in how cyber threats are experienced and dealt with by individuals. Second, we draw on insights from social resilience and disaster management literature to establish a better link between individuals and cyber systems. We focus on two key aspects of cyber security that highlight its social nature: vulnerability and uncertainty. Instead of thinking of cyber security as a “technical problem + humans,” we suggest cyber security should be conceptualized as a “social problem + technology.” We conclude by highlighting three ways forward for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners: interdisciplinary research, public debate about a set of normative questions, and the need for an uncertainty discourse in politics and policymaking.

Suggested Citation

  • Myriam Dunn Cavelty & Christine Eriksen & Benjamin Scharte, 2023. "Making cyber security more resilient: adding social considerations to technological fixes," Journal of Risk Research, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 26(7), pages 801-814, July.
  • Handle: RePEc:taf:jriskr:v:26:y:2023:i:7:p:801-814
    DOI: 10.1080/13669877.2023.2208146
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    Cited by:

    1. Eric Jardine & Nathaniel Porter & Ryan Shandler, 2024. "Cyberattacks and public opinion – The effect of uncertainty in guiding preferences," Journal of Peace Research, Peace Research Institute Oslo, vol. 61(1), pages 103-118, January.

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