Insights from the Institute for Digital Security and Behaviour
Welcome to Insights from the Institute for Digital Security & Behaviour (IDSB) at the University of Bath.
Here you'll find expert commentary, analysis and opinion from researchers across the Institute, exploring the human dimensions of digital security. From artificial intelligence and online harms to cybersecurity, digital policy and emerging technologies, our blogs examine the issues shaping our digital world and what they mean for people, organisations and society.
Drawing on rigorous, interdisciplinary research, our contributors share the latest thinking, evidence and debate to inform policy, practice and public understanding.e Member Research Spotlight features selected research and publications from IDSB members, showcasing the breadth of expertise, innovation, and analytical insight within the behavioural science and security community.
Why people must be at the heart of digital security
21 July 2026
In this introductory blog, IDSB Director Professor Laura Smith welcomes readers to the new Institute for Digital Security & Behaviour (IDSB) blog and sets out why a people-centred approach is essential to tackling today’s digital security challenges.
Laura explores how digital technologies bring significant opportunities, but also create complex human and social challenges that cannot be solved through technical solutions alone. From online harms and disinformation to cyber threats and the misuse of emerging technologies, understanding people’s behaviour, decisions and experiences is central to building safer digital societies.
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Image shows IDSB directors Laura Smith and Adam Joinson
Why safe and responsible AI matters more than ever
21 July 2026
How can we ensure artificial intelligence benefits society while minimising its risks? In this blog, IDSB Deputy Directors Dr Andre Barrinha and Dr Julian Padget and Senior Research Fellow Dr Emma Walker explore why effective AI governance has become an urgent global priority.
Drawing on discussions at the United Nations Global Dialogue on AI Governance, the authors examine the real-world risks already emerging from AI technologies, from misinformation and cybercrime to online harms, and argue that safe and responsible AI requires collaboration across government, industry, academia and civil society. They set out why multidisciplinary, people-centred approaches to AI governance are essential if we are to realise AI's potential while protecting individuals and society.
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The (not so) funhouse mirror factory – how social media is reshaping politics in the digital age
21 July 2026
How do social media platforms influence political debate? In this blog, IDSB researcher Dr Olivia Brown explores how a small number of highly active users and platform algorithms can distort online conversations, amplify divisive narratives and shape public perceptions of political support.
Drawing on IDSB research and real-world examples, the blog examines the role of algorithmic amplification, misinformation and online engagement in reshaping political discourse. It argues that improving public understanding of how social media platforms influence the information we see is essential to helping people engage more critically with online political debate.
Read the full blog: [insert link]