What is a common cause of false alarms in intrusion systems?

A common cause of false alarms in intrusion detection systems is indeed related to user error, which aligns with the choice provided. Users may inadvertently trigger alarms through incorrect usage of the system, such as not arming the system properly, failing to follow operational protocols, or misconfiguring sensors. This human element can lead to alarms being raised without any genuine security threat, thereby causing disruptions.

While technical malfunctions can trigger alarms, the focus here is on user-related issues that create unnecessary alerts. Unauthorized access, typically associated with an actual breach rather than false alarms, does not contribute to the false positives generated by the system. Weather conditions, while they can affect the physical environment and potentially impact sensor accuracy, are less likely to be considered a common cause of false alarms compared to errors made by subscribers who manage the system. Therefore, understanding the human factor is crucial for mitigating false alarms in intrusion detection systems.