What is an insider threat in the context of security?

An insider threat refers specifically to risks posed by individuals within an organization who have legitimate access to its sensitive information and resources. These individuals may misuse their access deliberately for malicious purposes or due to negligence, leading to potential security breaches and data compromises. Unlike external threats, which originate from outside the organization, insider threats come from those who already have permission and often knowledge of the organization's internal operations and security measures.

This distinction is crucial because insider threats can be more challenging to detect and mitigate than external threats, as they often bypass traditional security perimeters and take advantage of authorized access. Understanding insider threats helps organizations develop more comprehensive security strategies that not only protect against external attacks but also monitor and manage the behavior of employees and other trusted individuals.