What does the term 'Insider Threats' refer to?

The term 'Insider Threats' specifically refers to individuals who have legitimate access to an organization's systems and data but may misuse that access for malicious purposes. This definition encompasses employees, contractors, or anyone else who is associated with the organization and has insider knowledge that can be exploited.

Insider threats can manifest in various ways, including data theft, espionage, sabotage, or even unintentional actions that compromise security. The distinction of insider threats is important because they often circumvent traditional security measures that focus on external threats, since insiders are already trusted and typically bypass many of the controls designed to protect against outside attacks.

Understanding insider threats is crucial for organizations as they develop more comprehensive security strategies that address both external and internal vulnerabilities. By focusing on the behavioral aspects and security practices of individuals within the organization, businesses can better protect themselves against these unique risks.