What perspective does a Misuse Case represent in software design?

A Misuse Case represents the perspective of an actor that is hostile to the system. This approach is essential in identifying the potential threats and vulnerabilities inherent to a system by considering how it might be misused or attacked. By focusing on what could go wrong, such as unauthorized access or data breaches, designers and security professionals can better understand the security requirements and incorporate necessary defenses into the system architecture.

This perspective allows teams to think critically about the ways a malicious actor could exploit weaknesses, enabling the development of more resilient systems. It helps in prioritizing security measures and ensuring that protective mechanisms are effectively implemented to counteract the identified misuse cases. Understanding the potential methods of attack empowers stakeholders to create more secure applications by designing countermeasures and proactive strategies to mitigate risks.