When Language Hides Risk

Some organisations hide risk intentionally.

Most hide risk accidentally.

The mechanism is often language.

Risk becomes hidden when:

• Findings are diluted.

• Consequences are understated.

• Responsibility becomes unclear.

• Jargon replaces facts.

Consider:

"Further enhancements could be made."

Compared with:

"The organisation cannot demonstrate that critical access rights are reviewed."

The first statement sounds harmless.

The second creates urgency.

Language influences perception.

Perception influences action.

Therefore language influences risk.