KnowBe4
By Perry Carpenter + Chief Evangelist and Strategy Officer
Over the past year, in doing research for my podcast Digital Folklore, I’ve noticed some interesting parallels between cybersecurity and folklore. These seemingly disparate realms actually share intriguing similarities, reminding us of the inherent fragility of our digital existence. So, for this blog post, I thought it might be fun to delve into the intriguing intersection of cybersecurity and urban legends, exploring the threads that bind them together.
Urban legends, with their tales of horror and mystery, have been passed down through generations, changing and adapting as they spread through word of mouth. Similarly, the tactics used by cybercriminals and the needs of cybersecurity professionals continue to change as our digital landscape evolves. From the early days of computer viruses to the rise of ransomware and the ongoing threat of social engineering, the world of cybersecurity has its own cautionary tales and legends that have shaped the industry.
Fear and Uncertainty
Urban legends often exploit our most primal fears and uncertainties, triggering a sense of unease or danger. Similarly, cybersecurity threats often prey on our anxieties, whether it's the fear of identity theft, financial fraud, or the loss of personal privacy. Just as urban legends tap into our psychological vulnerabilities, cybercriminals exploit our trust, distraction, fear, or virtually any heightened emotion, luring us into clicking malicious links or sharing sensitive information. The fusion of fear and uncertainty in both domains highlights the power of narrative in shaping our perceptions and actions.
Virality and Dissemination
Urban legends have long thrived on their ability to spread rapidly, relying on the human desire to share intriguing or shocking stories. In the digital age, this viral nature finds its mirror image in the lightning-fast propagation of cyber threats. Just as an urban legend can capture our collective imaginations and be transmitted across communities, cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and social engineering schemes can spread like wildfire, infiltrating countless devices and networks.
The Perils of Belief
Urban legends often persist because they tap into our cognitive biases. Similarly, cyberattacks often exploit our blind faith in processes and software, taking advantage of vulnerabilities that go unnoticed or unaddressed. The human element remains crucial in both realms; whether it's spreading an urban legend or falling victim to a cyber scam, our emotions and cognitive biases can lead us astray. Recognizing the power of belief and cultivating a healthy skepticism is essential.
Lessons Learned
The intersection of cybersecurity and urban legends sheds light on the fragility of our digital existence and the power of narratives in shaping our perceptions and behaviors. Just as understanding the origins of an urban legend helps us separate fact from fiction, understanding cybersecurity threats and mindsets empowers us to make informed decisions and protect ourselves online. Educating ourselves about the dangers lurking in the digital realm and staying abreast of evolving cybersecurity practices can go a long way in safeguarding our digital lives.