What is considered an "insider threat"?

An "insider threat" refers to risks that arise from individuals within an organization who misuse their access to sensitive information, either intentionally or unintentionally. This definition encompasses both malicious actors—like employees or contractors who may leak information for personal gain or to harm the organization—and those who may inadvertently cause risks by mishandling sensitive data. The key aspect is that the threat originates from within the organization, where individuals have the ability to access confidential information due to their roles.

Understanding insider threats is crucial for organizations in preventing unauthorized disclosures, as these risks can be particularly challenging to detect and manage. Training and awareness initiatives are often required to mitigate these threats, ensuring that employees recognize the importance of safeguarding sensitive data and adhere to security protocols.

In contrast, the other choices relate to external security risks or emphasize unintentional behaviors but do not capture the essence of what constitutes an insider threat, which specifically involves individuals misusing their legitimate access to information within the organization.