What Functions Do Insider Threat Programs Aim to Fulfill?
Insider threats are one of the most serious cybersecurity challenges facing organizations today. Insiders, who have authorized access to an organization’s systems and data, can cause significant damage by stealing sensitive information, sabotaging systems, or committing fraud.
Insider threat programs are designed to help organizations mitigate the risk of insider threats. These programs typically include a combination of policies, procedures, and technologies to identify, detect, and respond to insider threats.
What are the functions of insider threat programs?
The primary function of an insider threat program is to protect an organization’s sensitive information and systems from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure. To do this, insider threat programs typically aim to fulfill the following functions:
- Deter: Insider threat programs can help deter insiders from engaging in malicious behavior by making it clear that such behavior will be detected and punished.
- Detect: Insider threat programs can help detect insider threats by monitoring for suspicious activity, such as unusual access to sensitive data or systems, or changes in behavior.
- Respond: Insider threat programs can help organizations respond to insider threats quickly and effectively. This may involve taking steps to contain the damage, investigate the incident, and prosecute the insider.
Additional functions of insider threat programs
In addition to the three primary functions listed above, insider threat programs can also aim to fulfill the following functions:
- Educate: Insider threat programs can help educate employees about the risks of insider threats and how to identify and report suspicious activity.
- Assess: Insider threat programs can help organizations assess their risk of insider threats and identify areas where improvements can be made.
- Report: Insider threat programs can help organizations comply with applicable regulations, such as the Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA).
Questions related to insider threat programs
Here are some questions that organizations should consider when developing or evaluating an insider threat program:
- What are the specific risks of insider threats that my organization faces?
- What are the goals of my insider threat program?
- What policies, procedures, and technologies will my insider threat program include?
- How will my insider threat program be implemented and managed?
By carefully considering these questions, organizations can develop an insider threat program that is effective in mitigating the risk of insider threats.
