The Psychology and Communication Technology (PaCT) Lab is a research group based in Northumbria University’s Department of Psychology. It was established in 2002 to explore the relationships between people and technology and to study four overlapping themes of privacy, security, trust and behaviour change. Our staff are predominantly psychologists who draw upon a wide range of research methods and tools. The lab has access to a dedicated suite of laboratories with video editing facilities, eye-tracking equipment and workshop space, plus access to good participant panels, including panels of older adults (aged 75+).
PaCTLab has been instrumental in the understanding of the human side of technology and cyber security with major grants from government and industry. Our ongoing and recent projects have investigated security and privacy issues in the workplace, exploring both employee and employer awareness of cyber threat and the mitigation of that threat. Additionally, we have explored global identity and access management, usable and inclusive security, privacy preferences, online trust and disclosure patterns over social media. Overriding all of our research is the notion of behaviour change (e.g. how can we change end-user behaviour to promote security and enhance privacy).
Role in CYBECO
The role of the Northumbria University team in the project will focus on providing support about behavioural and psychological insights concerning both defenders and attackers, adoption of cyberinsurance and policies regarding cybersecurity