Insider Threats: What Are They and How Can They Be Prevented in The Corporate Environment?

Whenever we talk about information security, we pay special attention to external threats only, like cybercriminals, digital scams or malware found on the internet. 

However, there are also situations within the companies themselves that could pose a risk to confidential data and corporate processes. These occurrences are known as insider threats, and while they may be more inconspicuous, they still have a significant impact.

This is why it’s so important to understand that potential risks are not derived exclusively from external factors when it comes to thoroughly protecting a company. Would you like to find out how to mitigate these hazards to help your organization steer clear of them? Take a look at these tips!

What are insider threats?

Insider threats happen when company employees, who have legitimate access to systems and information, behave in ways that jeopardize cybersecurity. 

But these acts are not always intentional. Sometimes, just simple carelessness can create opportunities for problems.

These threats can be split into two main types: 

• Accidental: Takes place when someone makes a mistake, such as sending an email containing sensitive data to the wrong recipient or using weak credentials. 
• Malicious: Involves deliberate actions, such as copying confidential records for personal use or distributing them to others.

How can risky behaviors be identified?

Some of the signs that warrant attention include certain behaviors, like sharing passwords, using unauthorized personal devices, and storing company files on external platforms. 

Another common situation involves being inappropriately curious. For example, an employee who tries to access folders or programs that are not related to their job responsibilities can be considered inappropriate behavior. 

In other words, even minor, everyday practices can create loopholes that go unnoticed. Surveillance must remain continuous and vigilant, making sure to foster a culture of collective care above all.

What can you do to prevent insider threats?

One of the most effective ways to keep insider risks in the workplace at bay is to pay close attention to digital security best practices. There are solutions available that make the learning process more engaging and less overwhelming through practical challenges, simple content, and rewards for correct actions. 

The prevention of insider threats also involves simple and effective measures that should be adopted in everyday routines, such as:

• Always make sure to pay attention to the importance of digital security in your everyday organizational activities.
• Participate in training sessions and take the opportunity to ask questions about how to protect yourself online.
• Use strong passwords and never share them with others.
• Use the company’s devices and platforms responsibly.
• Avoid storing important files messily or outside the designated systems.
• Understand why safety rules exist — to protect you and the company.
• If you see anything strange, such as a suspicious email or unusual behavior, report it immediately to the team in charge.

How should suspicious situations be handled?

When someone notices abnormal behavior, the best course of action is to inform the department responsible for information security or follow the official channels of the company. No suspicion should be ignored, even if it seems ordinary.

Creating this environment of trust and mutual accountability helps get everyone involved in data protection. And the more involved employees are in taking care of security, the less room there will be for mistakes or unauthorized access.

Contrary to what many people think, insider threats are not limited to just major scandals or criminal actions. They tend to manifest themselves in everyday tasks, whether through being inattentive, lacking information, or making poorly thought-out decisions. That’s why the more the team is informed, the greater the chances that any damage can be prevented.

Being safe is always more effective than being sorry. Investing in awareness, recognizing warning signs and reinforcing the role each person has regarding information security transforms the organizational scenario into a more protected and prepared workplace. After all, when everyone takes responsibility, the entire team comes out on top.