Flater, D.
(2018),
Bad security metrics: the problem and its solution, IT Professional (IEEE), [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=924554
(Accessed October 15, 2025)
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Bad security metrics: the problem and its solution
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Abstract
It is generally acknowledged that few security metrics have the level of predictive validity that their uses require, but neither the nature of the problem nor the steps needed to avoid it have been fully characterized. This article examines both questions through the lens of basic measurement theory, which (1) demonstrates a method by which intrinsically weak metrics can be dismissed quickly, before sunk costs become significant, and (2) provides positive advice on how the metrics can be strengthened to provide moderate but verifiable value.Citation
IT Professional (IEEE)
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Journals
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Keywords
security, measurement, metrics, scale theory
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Created January 4, 2018, Updated May 27, 2020