What is an Insider Threat?
An insider threat is a security risk that comes from within an organization—such as employees, contractors, or business partners—who have access to sensitive data, systems, or networks.
These individuals may intentionally or unintentionally compromise security, leak data, or disrupt operations.
🔹 Types of Insider Threats
🔹 Malicious Insider – Someone who deliberately steals, leaks, or damages data (e.g., disgruntled employees, corporate spies).
🔹 Negligent Insider – An employee who unintentionally exposes security vulnerabilities (e.g., falling for phishing scams, mishandling data).
🔹 Compromised Insider – A legitimate user whose credentials are stolen or misused by an attacker (e.g., hacked accounts, social engineering victims).
🔹 Why Are Insider Threats Dangerous?
✅ Access to Sensitive Data – Insiders already have credentials, making it easier to bypass security.
✅ Harder to Detect – Insider actions often appear normal, making them difficult to identify.
✅ Can Cause Financial & Reputational Damage – Data leaks, fraud, or sabotage can result in lawsuits, fines, and loss of trust.
✅ Bypass Traditional Security Measures – Firewalls and antivirus software may not stop an authorized user from misusing access.
🔹 Examples of Insider Threats
🚨 A former employee takes sensitive client data before leaving to join a competitor.
🚨 An employee accidentally emails customer records to the wrong recipient.
🚨 A worker falls for a phishing email, allowing an attacker to access internal systems.
🚨 A contractor installs malware on company systems to disrupt operations.
🔹 How to Prevent Insider Threats
✔️ Use Least Privilege Access (PoLP) – Limit access to only what users need.
✔️ Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) – Prevent unauthorized account access.
✔️ Monitor User Activity & Set Alerts – Use tools like SIEM (Security Information & Event Management) to detect unusual behavior.
✔️ Provide Security Awareness Training – Educate employees on phishing, social engineering, and data handling.
✔️ Use Data Loss Prevention (DLP) Solutions – Stop unauthorized data transfers.
✔️ Revoke Access Immediately for Departing Employees – Disable accounts and credentials as soon as employees leave.