Why Do They Do What They Do?: A Study of What Motivates Users to (Not) Follow Computer Security Advice

Usable security researchers have long been interested in what users do to keep their devices and data safe and how that compares to recommendations. Additionally, experts have long debated and studied the psychological underpinnings and motivations for users to do what they do, especially when such behavior is seen as risky, at least to experts. This study investigates user motivations through a survey conducted on Mechanical Turk, which resulted in responses from 290 participants. We use a rational decision model to guide our design, as well as current thought on human motivation in general and in the realm of computer security. Through quantitative and qualitative analysis, we identify key gaps in perception between those who follow common security advice (i.e., update software, use a password manager, use 2FA, change passwords) and those who do not and help explain participants’ motivations behind their decisions. Additionally, we find that social considerations are trumped by individualized rationales.