Cognitive biases are integral to how we process information and make decisions, often allowing us to act quickly and efficiently. However, while these mental shortcuts can sometimes lead to poor judgment or manipulation, they can also be harnessed for good. In fact, “social engineering for good” uses the same cognitive biases that attackers exploit to help individuals and organizations make better decisions, especially in high-stakes environments like cybersecurity.

For example, the availability heuristic causes people to focus on recent or easily recalled events. Cybersecurity training programs can use this to their advantage by frequently reminding employees about the dangers of phishing attacks, keeping the threat top of mind and making individuals more vigilant when suspicious emails appear.

Similarly, confirmation bias, which leads people to favor information that supports their beliefs, can be leveraged to reinforce positive behaviors. Regularly exposing employees to stories and examples of strong security practices can make them more likely to seek out and believe in the importance of safe online habits.

Anchoring bias can also be used defensively. By initially framing cybersecurity policies or instructions as critical, businesses can ensure that employees view these guidelines as non-negotiable. This establishes a solid foundation where security is a priority, and any deviation from it feels like a significant departure.

Negativity bias, which makes us focus more on negative outcomes, can be harnessed to drive better behavior as well. For example, cybersecurity training that emphasizes the severe consequences of a data breach—loss of sensitive information, financial penalties, reputational damage—can motivate individuals to be more cautious with their online actions, knowing what’s at stake.

In some cases, social proof, a bias where people look to others for behavioral cues, can also be an ally. Creating a culture of security, where employees see their peers adopting good practices like using strong passwords or reporting phishing emails, can encourage widespread adoption of secure behaviors. If everyone around you is practicing good security hygiene, you’re more likely to follow suit.

By understanding these biases and deliberately designing security programs that align with how people naturally think, organizations can build a stronger defense against cyber threats. Cognitive biases, often seen as vulnerabilities, can become powerful tools for fostering good decision-making and preventing attacks.

In a way, social engineering for good takes the tactics of attackers and turns them around to protect individuals. Rather than manipulating people to fall for scams, these tactics are used to empower them to stay safe online, reinforcing positive behaviors and making the right security decisions second nature.