Factors that influence human error

Discuss the factors that influence human error as outlined in the class text. Also, review some of the software attacks that poses a challenge for management. Provider detailed explanation of one topic from Human Error or Failure, and one topic from Software Attacks. 400 words.

Full Answer Section

     
  • Stress: Stress can also lead to errors, as people may be more likely to make mistakes when they are feeling anxious or under pressure.
  • Motivation: Low motivation can also lead to errors, as people may not be as careful or as thorough when they are not motivated to do their job well.
  • Skill level: People with lower skill levels are more likely to make errors than people with higher skill levels. This is because people with lower skill levels may not have the knowledge or experience to avoid making mistakes.
  • Incident reporting: If incidents are not reported, then it is difficult to identify and address the underlying causes of human error. This can lead to repeat errors.
  • Organizational culture: The organizational culture can also influence human error. For example, a culture that emphasizes speed over accuracy can lead to more errors.

Here are some of the software attacks that pose a challenge for management:

  • Malware: Malware is software that is designed to harm a computer system. It can be used to steal data, install ransomware, or disrupt operations.
  • Phishing: Phishing is a type of social engineering attack that uses email or text messages to trick people into revealing personal information, such as their passwords or credit card numbers.
  • Zero-day attacks: Zero-day attacks exploit vulnerabilities in software that the software vendor is not aware of. This makes them very difficult to defend against.
  • DDoS attacks: DDoS attacks are designed to overwhelm a computer system with traffic, making it unavailable to its intended users.
  • Ransomware attacks: Ransomware attacks encrypt a victim's files and demand a ransom payment in exchange for the decryption key.
  • Supply chain attacks: Supply chain attacks target the software supply chain, such as the software development process or the distribution channels. This can allow attackers to insert malicious code into software that is then installed on unsuspecting computers.

I hope this helps!

For a more detailed explanation of one topic from human error or failure, I will discuss cognitive limitations. Cognitive limitations are the limitations of our brains that can lead to errors. These limitations include:

  • Attention: We can only focus on a limited amount of information at a time. This means that we can easily miss important details or make mistakes when we are multitasking.
  • Memory: We can only remember a limited amount of information for a short period of time. This means that we may forget important instructions or information if we are not careful.
  • Decision-making: We can only make decisions based on the information that we have available. This means that we may make mistakes if we do not have all of the information that we need.

To mitigate the effects of cognitive limitations, we can try to:

  • Simplify tasks: Break down complex tasks into smaller, more manageable tasks.
  • Take breaks: Give our brains a chance to rest and recharge.
  • Use checklists: Checklists can help us to remember important steps and avoid errors.
  • Get enough sleep: Sleep helps our brains to consolidate memories and make better decisions.

For a more detailed explanation of one topic from software attacks, I will discuss zero-day attacks. Zero-day attacks are attacks that exploit vulnerabilities in software that the software vendor is not aware of. This makes them very difficult to defend against because there is no patch available to fix the vulnerability.

Zero-day attacks can be very costly and disruptive. They can also damage a company's reputation.

To protect against zero-day attacks, companies can:

  • Use security software: Security software can help to detect and block zero-day attacks.
  • Patch software promptly: When a patch is available for a vulnerability, install it promptly.
  • Educate employees: Employees should be aware of the risks of zero-day attacks and how to protect themselves.
  • Have a plan in place: Have a plan in place in case a zero-day attack occurs. This plan should include steps to contain the attack and minimize the damage.

Sample Answer

     
  • Cognitive limitations: Humans have limited cognitive abilities, such as attention, memory, and decision-making. This can lead to errors when people are overloaded with information or when they have to make quick decisions.
  • Workload: High workload can lead to errors, as people may not have enough time to think carefully about their actions.
  • Fatigue: Fatigue can also lead to errors, as people may not be as alert or as focused as they would be when they are well-rested.