Insider threats pose a risk when individuals with access to a company's physical or digital resources inadvertently or intentionally disclose or misuse data. This can affect current or former employees, contractors, suppliers or business partners, including criminals with unauthorized access.
The consequences range from data breaches to fraud or sabotage. Insider threats can arise from malicious intent, whistleblowing or unintentional mistakes, such as the theft of sensitive data by employees. The significance of insider threats lies not only in malicious acts by former employees, but often also in mistakes made by ordinary employees with access to valuable information.
To protect against insider threats, training programs and security measures such as identity management are crucial. Companies should strengthen their security practices and promote a culture of security.