What does the term "insider threat" refer to?

The term "insider threat" specifically refers to a risk that originates from individuals who are already within the organization. These individuals may have legitimate access to the company's sensitive information and systems, which can make their potential for harm particularly dangerous. Insider threats can manifest in various ways, such as employees intentionally stealing data, subcontractors misusing their access, or even staff inadvertently causing breaches through negligence.

Understanding the concept of insider threats is crucial in cybersecurity because these threats often arise from trusted individuals, making them harder to detect than external attacks. By recognizing the varied motivations of insiders—whether malicious intent, personal gain, or just careless behavior—organizations can develop more tailored strategies to mitigate such risks. This focus on individuals inside the organization sets this choice apart from options that discuss external factors or breaches unrelated to people with access to the organization's resources.