A short list of things to keep in mind when designing for security

The user needs to be aware of the tasks they have to accomplish and has to understand the risks and consequences if they don’t do it.

  • Clear instructions and security policy - why are there security concerns?
  • Use the right mechanism when required to avoid habituation and reflexes that could lead to a security risk (i.e : the user doesn’t read the pop up and closes it systematically) // If the user has developed a risky habit, maybe it’s because the design is flawed.
  • Is the task easy enough to allow the user to accomplish it without looking for an easier and less secure solution? (shadow IT)
  • The user has to remain confortable with the interface (usability!)
  • Give feedback! The user has te be able to see as soon as possible there’s an error or a security issue, and be able to understand it. The sooner is always the better to prevent dangerous errors
  • Security needs to be visible, but less secured and/or risky spaces have to be emphasized as well (i.e. : the green lock in Chrome is noticeable but nobody really notices when it’s not there…) // WYSIATI
  • The security of a network or of a solution is a resistant as its weakest link. Random exploration can help in identifying it (user will do random exploration)

Useful references :