Hailey Caram
Read this https://dojmt.gov/wp-content/uploads/Glasswasherparts.com_.pdf sample breach letter “SAMPLE DATA BREACH NOTIFICATION” and describe how two different economics theories and two different social sciences theories relate to the letter.
The breach notification letter made important connections to both economic and social science theories. One economic theory that was displayed in the letter was rational choice theory, which is the idea that both individuals and organizations make decisions based on what they believe are in their best interest. The platform likely made choices that minimized cybersecurity measures, increasing security risks.
Marxian economic theory was another theory that was present in the notification letter. This theory shows how those with power can take advantage of those without. The breach exposed information of company customers. Although the withholding of information was law enforcement’s decision, company officials were still able to withhold this information, potentially compromising the security of their customers. Company officials had the ability to withhold this information partly due to the inherent power of their position and the lack of customer power. The lack of transparency between company officials and customers suggests an imbalance of power. Company interests were prioritized over those whose data was stolen and at risk.
Analyzing this letter utilizing structural functionalism theory, which asserts that society is made up of interrelated parts (Nickerson, 2023). These parts work together to maintain functionality. The data breach represents a failure in part of the system, which affects other parts. The notification letter and attempts to minimize the effects of the breach are examples of the system working to repair the rupture and uphold societal functioning.
Another relevant social science theory is conflict theory, which views society as a competition between people for resources (Nickerson, 2023). The breach notification letter demonstrates how companies may prioritize profits over other people’s security, which may leave customers vulnerable. Conflict theory asserts that those in power try to maintain control, sometimes even at the expense of others. This theory is evident in the breach notification letter, as company officials failed to notify consumers in a timely manner.
The breach notification letter shows how considering both economic motivations and social science is necessary when making decisions that affect the cybersecurity posture.
References
Nickerson, C. (2023, October 10). Conflict theory in sociology. SimplyPsychology. https://www.simplypsychology.org/conflict-theory.html