Researchers are investigating how the Adafruit Circuit Playground could gently nudge users into better cyber security habits. Source: University of BathWith the growing frequency in cyber attacks, researchers from the University of Bath and Goldsmiths, University of London, are working on a devices that encourages users to take proactive cybersecurity measures.

Inspired by exercise and fitness apps, researchers are developing a simple device that plugs into a PC and notifies users via sound, light or vibration to update passwords, lock computer screens or update privacy settings — all measures that when ignored leave users vulnerable to cyber attack.

The project relies on Adafruit Circuit Playgrounds programmed to determine when a user leaves their desk, which then reminds them to lock their screen with alarms such as lights, vibrations or sounds. Currently, the team is developing a prototype and will make open-source code available to businesses later in 2019, and eventually for home use.

Emily Collins, Ph.D., research associate at the University of Bath's School of Management, said, "Humans are the weak link in cyber security. It's leaving us all open to serious security threats. Our project recognises that people can respond to a gentle, well-timed nudge and is investigating the most effective way of doing that."

To see how a "cybernudge" might work, watch the accompanying video that appears courtesy of the University of Bath.