What does “insider threat” mean?

An "insider threat" refers to a security challenge that originates from individuals who are part of an organization. This can encompass employees, contractors, or business partners who have access to confidential data and systems. These insiders might inadvertently or intentionally misuse their privileges to compromise security, leading to data breaches or other harmful outcomes.

Understanding this concept is vital in cybersecurity, as insider threats can often be difficult to detect and mitigate due to the trust and access granted to these individuals within the organization. Unlike external threats, which come from outside actors such as hackers or malicious entities attempting to breach a system from afar, insider threats involve individuals who are already part of the organizational framework. Recognizing and addressing insider threats requires different strategies compared to external threats, emphasizing the importance of monitoring and managing employee behavior and access rights.