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Survey of Office Workers Highlights Password Exchange Risks

Almost three quarters of office workers in an impromptu man-on-the-street survey were willing to give up their passwords when offered the bribe of a chocolate bar. . . .. Almost three quarters of office workers in an impromptu man-on-the-street survey were willing to give up their passwords when offered the bribe of a chocolate bar. The organizers of the conference Infosecurity Europe 2004 plans to announce on Tuesday that they surveyed office workers at Liverpool Street Station in England, and found that 71 percent were willing to part with their password for a chocolate bar. The survey also found the majority of workers would take confidential information with them when they change jobs, and would not keep salary details confidential if they came across the details. Some 37 percent of workers surveyed immediately gave their password. If they initially refused, researchers used social engineering tactics, such as suggesting that the password has to do with a pet or children's name. An additional 34 percent revealed their passwords at that point. The link for this article located at securitypipeline is no longer available. . Poll indicates alarming willingness to trade access codes for sweets, highlighting significant lapses in awareness about cybersecurity among employees.. Password Security, Social Engineering, Workplace Risk. . Anthony Pell

Apr 20, 2004 • Anthony Pell Network Security