In today’s world, web and mobile applications have become an essential part of our daily lives. However, with the constant influx of new applications, the overabundance of choices can lead to what is known as “app fatigue.” In relation to a company, app fatigue not only affects the user but can also significantly impact company cybersecurity.

App fatigue refers to the feeling of being overwhelmed by the sheer number of applications available and the amount of time and energy required to manage them. 

According to a report in Globe Newswire, in 2020, 97% of companies faced mobile threats that used multiple attack vectors, 46% of companies had at least one employee that downloaded a malicious app, and 40% of the mobile devices in the world are inherently vulnerable to cyberattacks.

With people having an average of more than 80 apps installed on their smartphones and spending over four hours per day using them, the problem of app fatigue has become a growing concern for people and organizations alike. As a result, the need for companies to take steps to manage the use of apps in the workplace and reduce the impact of app fatigue on productivity and cybersecurity is essential.

Continue reading this article to know what app fatigue is, how it works, and ways to combat it.

What is App Fatigue?

App fatigue refers to the feeling of overwhelm or frustration that users experience due to having too many apps installed on their devices, the constant demands on one’s attention to use them or having to switch between different apps to get their work done. With the increasing number of apps being developed and technology becoming more integrated into our daily lives, app fatigue is becoming a common issue for many people, as well as companies.

App fatigue can lead to feelings of frustration and burnout, making it difficult for employees to focus on their work and complete tasks efficiently. It can also have a negative impact on a company’s productivity and cybersecurity. 

When employees are feeling overwhelmed by the number of apps they have to use, they may make mistakes such as downloading a malicious app or neglecting to update their apps, which can leave the company’s digital environment vulnerable to cyber-attacks.

How Does App Fatigue Work?

App fatigue works by overwhelming users with the sheer number of apps available and the constant demands on their attention to using them. This can lead to feelings of frustration and burnout, making it difficult for people to focus on their work and complete tasks efficiently.

The following are some of how app fatigue works:

Overload of information

With so many apps and notifications competing for our attention, it becomes difficult for the brain to process all the information and prioritize what is important. This leads to feelings of being overwhelmed and a decrease in productivity.

Distraction

The constant stream of notifications and updates from different apps can be a major distraction, making it difficult for individuals to focus on their work.

Decreased motivation

The constant demands on one’s attention can lead to feelings of burnout and decreased motivation, making it difficult for them to be productive and engaged in their work.

Decreased job satisfaction

When people are feeling overwhelmed and frustrated with the number of apps they have to use, it can lead to decreased job satisfaction and motivation.

How Does App Fatigue Put Company Cybersecurity at Risk?

App fatigue can put a company’s cybersecurity at risk in several ways:

Increased likelihood of employees downloading and using unsecured applications

With so many applications available, employees may download and use applications not approved by the company, putting sensitive company data at risk. In addition, employees may be more likely to grant excessive permissions to applications, increasing the risk of data breaches.

Reduced employee vigilance in terms of mobile security

Overwhelmed employees may become less cautious when it comes to downloading, using, and updating their applications, potentially leading to the installation of malicious software, unpatched vulnerabilities, and opened exploitation paths. This can result in data theft, network breaches, and other security incidents.

Increased likelihood of user error

When employees constantly switch between apps or have too many apps installed on their devices, they are more likely to make mistakes, such as downloading a malicious app or clicking on a phishing link.

Shadow IT

App fatigue can also lead employees to use personal apps or “shadow IT” solutions to get their work done, which can be a security risk for companies. These personal apps may not have the same level of security and privacy protections as enterprise apps and can expose sensitive company data to unauthorized individuals.

Lack of control

Companies have less control over the security of personal apps and “shadow IT” solutions, making it difficult to ensure the privacy and security of sensitive company data.

Decreased productivity

When employees are overwhelmed by the number of apps they have to use, their productivity can suffer, leading to missed deadlines and decreased efficiency.

It is important for organizations to take steps to address app fatigue and ensure the security of their digital environment.

Ways to Combat App Fatigue

Is it better to wait for something bad to happen? There are several ways organizations can combat app fatigue and reduce its impact on company cybersecurity:

Implement a Single Sign-On (SSO) solution

SSO solutions allow employees to access multiple apps with a single set of credentials, reducing the need to switch between different apps and improving the security of the digital environment.

Encourage the use of enterprise apps

Organizations can encourage employees to use enterprise apps that have been approved and vetted for security and privacy.

Provide training and resources

Companies can provide training and resources to help employees manage their apps and reduce the likelihood of making mistakes.

Streamline app usage

Organizations can work to streamline app usage by consolidating similar functions into a single app and eliminating unnecessary apps.

Implement off-screen time

Over 90% of jobs are done on the computer, so employees tend to stare at their computers more. To combat this, implement the “off-screen and take a break from your screen” system.

Monitor app usage

Companies can monitor app usage to identify which apps are being used most frequently and make changes to reduce app fatigue.

Remove redundant apps

Apps with redundant functionalities or no longer in use should be removed. For the remaining apps, check out where the functionalities overlap. Also, consider if you are using all the functionalities available in the app.

Foster a culture of security

Organizations can foster a culture of security by emphasizing the importance of privacy and security to employees and encouraging them to prioritize it in their daily work.

Help your Employees and Company Combat App Fatigue with GEEK911

The well-being of your employees impacts how well your company operates. GEEK911 can help your Silicon Valley area business implement advanced security techniques to reduce your risk.

Schedule a consultation by calling 1-866-433-5411 or reach us online.