Security Cartoon

Two IU School of Informatics professors are now using cartoons to help consumers avoid becoming victims of online fraud. Markus Jakobsson and research associate Sukamol Srikwan recently released a new web site—www.SecurityCartoon.com—to help lay people understanding Internet risks facing typical users.

In a press release issued by the school this week, graphic designer Srikwan explains:

The cartoons we have developed obviously are not a textbook approach, not made for professional journals or geared to an audience of professional researchers. We wanted this to be accessible to anyone who uses the Internet. General consumers, teenagers, teachers, and anybody who banks or shops online. That’s why the cartoon format is perfect – everybody can relate to it.

The cartoon content describes scenarios where online security is an issue, introducing to many such terms as phishing, pharming, malware, spoofing and fightback. Through their paneled dialogue, the characters teach readers the reasons for taking or avoiding specific actions. The Center for Applied Cybersecurity Research and the Anti-Phishing Group at IU is one of the most prolific and proactive in the world, dedicated to studying Internet fraud and developing countermeasures to limit or avoid damage. The use of cartoons was the outcome of research by these groups.

“Security is about understanding what can hurt you,” notes Jakobsson, “but very few of us have the time or dedication to read books and articles about Internet security.”