Abstract

This research examines the impact of framing and base size of computer security risk information on users’ risk perceptions and behavior. It draws on Prospect Theory, which is a theory in behavioral economics that addresses risky decision-making, to generate hypotheses related to users’ decision-making in the computer security context. We hypothesize that negative framing and large base size increase users’ perceived risk and reduce users’ risk-taking behavior. A 2 × 3 mixed factorial experimental design is proposed to test the hypotheses. This research extends the literature on biases and heuristics of users in the context of computer security.

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Impact of Framing and Base Size of Computer Security Risk Information

This research examines the impact of framing and base size of computer security risk information on users’ risk perceptions and behavior. It draws on Prospect Theory, which is a theory in behavioral economics that addresses risky decision-making, to generate hypotheses related to users’ decision-making in the computer security context. We hypothesize that negative framing and large base size increase users’ perceived risk and reduce users’ risk-taking behavior. A 2 × 3 mixed factorial experimental design is proposed to test the hypotheses. This research extends the literature on biases and heuristics of users in the context of computer security.