My research interest lies in Usable Security and Privacy. I find it fascinating because it merges strong security with user-friendly design. Think of it as making the digital world safe without needing a PhD in cybersecurity! What excites me even more is that I can make a tangible impact—even if it’s just enlightening my dad about password security.

The Trade-off: Functionality vs. Security

One intriguing aspect of this field is the trade-off between functionality and security. The features that web applications and software offer can indeed open doors for various attack vectors. For instance, a feature designed to enhance user convenience might inadvertently introduce vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit. This delicate balance makes me wonder: do developers really consider human psychology while designing, or is it just a happy accident? Understanding this balance is crucial. On one hand, adding more features can enhance user experience and satisfaction. On the other hand, each new feature is a potential entry point for security breaches. It’s a complex dance between usability and security.

To deepen my understanding, I’m currently taking a Usable Security course on Coursera offered by the University of Maryland. This course is helping me get a solid grasp of the fundamentals of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) before I make any bold claims.

I will be using this space to share my thoughts about existing research in this field and to document my journey as I learn more.