Internal security threats – exposing the enemy within

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Internal security threats

Organisations are facing a surge in internal security threats. A startling 76% of organisations have detected increased insider threat activity over the past five years. Yet, less than 30% believe they have the right tools to handle these threats effectively.

These findings from the 2024 Insider Threat Report by Cybersecurity Insiders and Securonix are deeply concerning. They highlight the current state of internal security risks and the challenges organisations face.

Even more alarmingly, only 21% of respondents reported having a fully implemented and operational insider threat programme. This statistic underscores a critical gap in organisational defenses that needs urgent attention.

An insider threat can feel like the plot twist in a spy thriller. It’s the moment you realise the enemy has been inside the house all along. Suddenly, even casual conversations by the water cooler can seem suspicious. So, what do you do when your corporate narrative unexpectedly becomes dramatic?

Identifying the mole

Recognising an insider threat is like discovering an unexpected adversary within your own ranks.

It often starts with anomalies. These could be unusual after-hours access or suspicious data transmissions that raise red flags. Identifying these Indicators of Compromise (IoCs) requires keen observation and awareness of out-of-place behaviours. However, technology alone might not always reveal someone’s questionable intentions.

More often, it’s vigilant colleagues who notice red flags. These red flags may include odd working hours, substance abuse or gambling addictions, or intrusive questions about unrelated data.

Other signs could be frequent contradictions in personal stories or inconsistencies about backgrounds, raising suspicion. While none of these behaviours alone necessarily signal a threat, small inconsistencies can add up over time.

Containment – the first line of defence

Once you’ve identified an insider threat, the immediate step is containment. Limiting their access must happen swiftly and decisively. This includes revoking access rights, isolating their machines from the network, and thoroughly reviewing their activity logs.

Containment aims to stop the immediate threat while ensuring the breach doesn’t spread further within the organisation.

Exposing and eradicating

Eradicating a threat requires precision and efficiency. Whether it involves disciplinary actions, legal steps, or removing the individual, it must be thorough. This could mean escorting them out of the building, with or without handcuffs, depending on the severity of their actions.

Recovery and reflection

After the threat is neutralised, the next step is recovery and reflection. Organisations must investigate what went wrong and what went well. A thorough audit is essential to identify weaknesses and rebuild defenses stronger than before.

The sequel no one wants

Insider threats are rarely a one-off scenario and can impact multiple organisations. Unfortunately, these threats show no signs of slowing down.

Prevention must become a priority. This involves comprehensive training, vigilance and fostering a strong security-conscious organisational culture. Regular security drills and awareness programmes are vital to keep teams informed about the latest threats.

Finally, don’t keep the event and its learnings to yourself. Share these insights with other organisations to help them prepare. This collective approach strengthens defenses across the board and reduces the chances of falling victim to malicious insiders.


Javvad Malik | Lead Advocate | Security Awareness | KnowBe4 | mail me |


 



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