Is Insider Threats a New Cyber Risk?

Insider threat is not something new, however, workforce dynamics have intensified such risks lately. Insider threats are security risks originating from inside an organization. It could be anyone within a company – employee, contractor, sub-contractors. It applies to anyone who is authorized to access critical organizational data. Insider risks are a growing menace for businesses irrespective of industry verticals.

Insider threats aren’t always black and white to spot. It could be colleagues hard at work at the office, connecting remotely onto the corporate network from public spaces, or even a 3rd party vendor. Insider threats, perpetrated by employees within an organization, could lead to data breaches, intellectual property theft, financial losses, and disrupt brand image.

Workplace Dynamics Fuelling Insider Threats

BYOD (Bring Your Own Device)

Due to hybrid work nature, use of personal devices for work purposes is on. BYOD policies could lead to security vulnerabilities. Given that home networks and devices aren’t as secured as company assets. There are chances where employees could compromise company data via installing apps or allowing devices to connect to unsecure networks.

Security Measures for BYOD

Establishing a precise BYOD policy that includes security requirements, regular device updates, encryption, & remote wipe capabilities. Companies must install potent Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions. MDM solutions monitor and secure personal devices used to access organizational data.

Permanent Remote Workforce Culture

Companies were grateful when they could transform work culture to remote workforce at the need of the hour. However, it brought upon certain challenges for the security teams.

Remote employees accessing confidential data using their own home network or from anywhere else is a challenge. So, proper security measures must be put in, else they turn into a significant insider threat.

Security Measures for Remote Workforce Culture

Companies must enforce robust endpoint security solutions, strong access controls & provide employees with cybersecurity awareness trainings. Security measures ensures that they comply with best practices for secure remote work.

Freelancers & Contract Workers

There are many freelancers across various technologies & verticals. Companies hiring freelancers & contract workers must put in extra effort in Cybersecurity. Companies relying on them as a cost-cutting strategy must not turn out to be expensive cyber risks. Given freelancers & contract workers having access to organizational data could surge insider threat.

Security Measures for Freelancers & Contract Workers

Companies must put forth strict access controls & temporary permissions for accessing important data. Proper thorough background checks must be made. Also, undergo security training to understand their cyber responsibilities.

Conducting Cybersecurity Awareness Workshops

As many companies have been keen on educating their employees on technical training, social awareness and more. Clearly, every employee gets better at things with a learning curve. Likewise, companies must take initiative in educating their employees about Cybersecurity.

Companies must stress the awareness on Insider Threats. Educating employees on a regular basis on the cyber risks and online scams. It is necessary for individuals accessing company’s data to be cautious. They must learn about cyberattacks and understand that it could happen to anyone. Security teams know the importance of monitoring and mitigating such cyber risks.

Wrap Up

It is always healthy to create a security culture. Making employees report unusual user activity without the fear of repercussions. It is vital to have a work culture that encourages employees of any level/grade to take initiative to report phishing emails or links. Companies must invest in advanced threat detection solutions and employee cybersecurity awareness programs.

Partner up with SNS for the best Cybersecurity Solutions & conducting Cybersecurity Awareness Training Workshops for Corporates.

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Swathi
Author

Working IT professional and a Cyber Security enthusiast. Passionate to write about Cyber Security topics and Solutions. I share my insights as I study articles and trending topics in the field of Cyber Security.