What is the term used to describe a risk posed by individuals within an organization who may misuse insider information?

The term "insider threat" specifically refers to risks that arise from individuals within the organization who have access to sensitive information and may misuse it for malicious purposes, whether intentionally or unintentionally. This can include employees, contractors, or business partners who exploit their access to data, systems, or resources, posing a significant security risk to the organization.

Insider threats can manifest in various ways, such as data theft, sabotage, or the unintentional compromise of security protocols due to negligence. Being aware of insider threats is crucial for organizations so that they can implement proper security measures, such as access controls, monitoring, and employee training to mitigate these risks.

In contrast, external threats originate from outside the organization and often involve hackers or cybercriminals attempting to compromise systems and steal data. Cyber threats encompass a range of malicious activities that exploit technological vulnerabilities, while public threats relate to risks that impact the organization as a whole but do not necessarily stem from within its ranks. Understanding the specific nature of insider threats enables organizations to develop targeted strategies for detection, prevention, and response.