Insider threats have been making headlines recently, affecting even large corporations like Disney. In one case, a disgruntled former employee hacked into their menu system, falsely labeling food items as allergen-free—putting customers at serious risk. In another instance, a Disney employee’s personal computer was hacked, leading to stolen work credentials and leaking company data.
These examples show that while insider threats can be malicious, they aren’t always intentional. However, both can have serious consequences. In this article, we’ll explore what insider threats are, the different types, and how businesses can protect themselves.
What Are Insider Threats?
An insider threat in IT security is a risk that comes from within an organization—such as employees, contractors, or business partners—who have access to sensitive data or systems.
These threats can be intentional, like a disgruntled employee stealing or leaking data, or unintentional, like an employee accidentally clicking a phishing link that compromises company security.
Because insiders already have access, their actions can be harder to detect and can lead to data breaches, financial loss, or reputational damage.
The Different Forms of Insider Threats
Businesses should be aware of different types of insider threats, which can be either malicious or accidental. Here’s a breakdown:
Malicious Insider
- What it is: Someone who intentionally misuses their access to steal, leak, or damage company data.
- Example: A disgruntled employee steals customer information to sell on the dark web.
Careless Insider
- What it is: Someone who unintentionally puts company security at risk due to negligence or lack of awareness.
- Example: An employee clicks on a phishing email, giving hackers access to company systems.
Compromised Insider
- What it is: A legitimate user whose credentials (username/password) have been stolen and used by an external attacker.
- Example: A hacker steals an employee’s login details through a phishing scam and gains access to company data.
Third-Party Insider
- What it is: External partners, vendors, or contractors with access to company systems who unknowingly or intentionally cause security risks.
- Example: A contractor’s weak security practices allow hackers to break into a company’s network.
By understanding the different types of insider threats your company may be vulnerable to, you can better detect potential issues and respond quickly to minimize risks.
How Businesses Can Protect Themselves from Insider Threats
Here are some simple ways businesses can reduce the risk of insider threats:
1. Monitor Employee Access
Keep track of who has access to sensitive information and systems, ensuring only the necessary employees have the permissions they need to do their jobs. For example, restricting access to customer data to only those who need it.
2. Use Strong Authentication
Require employees to use strong passwords and implement two-factor authentication, adding an extra layer of security. For example, employees must enter both a password and a unique code sent to their phone to log in.
3. Conduct Regular Security Training
Provide ongoing security training to employees to help them recognize threats like phishing and how to avoid falling victim. For example, running workshops on how to identify suspicious emails or links.
4. Implement Clear Security Policies
Establish clear rules on handling sensitive data and following security protocols to ensure consistency across the company. For example, requiring employees to lock their computers when leaving their desk.
5. Limit Remote Access
Control remote access to company data by using secure, encrypted connections and only allowing trusted devices to connect. For example, requiring employees to use a VPN when working from home.
6. Regularly Review User Access
Periodically review who has access to what systems and remove access for employees who no longer need it, such as after they leave the company. For example, deactivating accounts of former employees to prevent unauthorized access.
These steps help businesses reduce insider threats and keep your data and systems safe.
