Accessible and Usable Security: An evaluation of screenreader users’ online security and privacy strategies

Despite the advances in the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.0), many visually impaired users struggle to complete simple tasks online due to usability issues. These obstacles can have detrimental effects on levels of security and privacy; however, academic research rarely explores the intersection of web accessibility and usable security. This project explores the web-based barriers that screen-reader users face while identifying and managing digital threats. We will take a two-phase approach that includes an expert evaluation and a user study with visually impaired individuals. The outcomes will include practical recommendations for fostering accessible, online security and a short-video/audio workshop to share the project’s main findings with the sight-loss community and related industry professionals. This project is of timely importance as the January 2020 compliancy deadline upheld by the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disability Act (AODA) is fast approaching.