Insider threats are becoming more sophisticated, posing significant risks to businesses everywhere. Whether it’s a coworker forgetting to lock away sensitive contracts, a third-party vendor introducing malware, or a cybercriminal impersonating an IT technician to steal company secrets, insider threats remain a serious concern.
A staggering 75% of organizations report being moderately to extremely vulnerable to insider attacks—and these incidents are growing in frequency. With 2025 on the horizon, it’s crucial to stay ahead of the curve. Below, we’ve outlined the 10 most pressing insider threats to watch for and how to mitigate them.
1. Data Exfiltration Through AI Tools
The rise of AI-powered tools has created new risks for data security. Employees often use generative AI and chatbots to streamline tasks, but these tools can inadvertently store, share, or transfer sensitive company information. Unrestricted usage in sensitive scenarios poses a major risk.
What to do:
- Implement strict policies around AI tool usage.
- Monitor data uploaded into third-party platforms.
2. Hybrid Work Environment Vulnerabilities
The shift to hybrid and remote work has amplified security challenges. Employees using personal devices or accessing corporate data over unsecured networks face a higher risk of accidental leaks or cyberattacks.
How to address this:
- Require VPN usage for remote workers.
- Ensure personal devices meet company security standards.
- Offer regular cybersecurity training tailored to remote work setups.
3. Financial Fraud and Social Engineering
Financially motivated employees may manipulate company data, engage in insider trading, or misuse former employees’ credentials. Social engineering tactics, such as phishing, can also trick employees into giving away valuable information.
Preventive steps:
- Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) for sensitive systems.
- Regularly monitor financial transactions for irregularities.
- Educate staff on recognizing and avoiding social engineering attempts.
4. Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) Risk
M&A activity often involves highly sensitive information. Employees with access to these details might misuse them, leak them for personal gain, or act out of fear if they anticipate job loss.
How to reduce this threat:
- Limit access to M&A data to essential personnel only.
- Monitor employee behavior for signs of discontent or unusual activity.
- Provide clear communication about job security during transitions.
5. Third-Party and Contractor Risks
Companies increasingly rely on third-party vendors, contractors, and gig workers, but these individuals may not adhere to the same security standards. A disgruntled contractor could misuse their access to copy sensitive data or cause intentional harm.
Best practices:
- Vet third-party vendors thoroughly.
- Limit contractors’ access to only what they need.
- Include strong security clauses in contracts.
6. Shadow IT and Unauthorized Applications
Shadow IT refers to employees using unauthorized apps, such as unapproved file-sharing platforms or SaaS tools. While these tools may boost productivity, they often bypass security protocols, leaving data vulnerable.
How to stay secure:
- Conduct regular audits to detect unauthorized app usage.
- Offer approved alternatives that meet employee needs.
- Educate staff about the risks of shadow IT.
7. Data Deletion or Corruption by Disgruntled Employees
Disgruntled employees may delete or corrupt company data as an act of revenge. This often happens when employees feel undervalued or are planning to leave the company.
Mitigation tips:
- Revoke access promptly when employees resign or are terminated.
- Monitor file activity for unusual deletion or modification patterns.
- Foster a positive work culture to reduce grievances.
8. Access Creep
Over time, employees often accumulate access permissions beyond what their roles require. Excessive privileges increase the risk of misuse or accidental exposure of sensitive information.
To combat access creep:
- Perform regular access audits.
- Revoke unnecessary permissions immediately.
- Use role-based access control (RBAC) systems.
9. Internal Phishing Attempts
Not all phishing attempts come from outside the organization. Employees with malicious intent may target their coworkers to gain access to confidential data or systems.
What you can do:
- Enable phishing simulation exercises.
- Train employees on recognizing internal phishing signs.
- Encourage reporting of suspicious emails—even from colleagues.
10. Negligent Behavior
Sometimes, insider threats don’t stem from malice but from carelessness. Employees mishandling sensitive data, neglecting security protocols, or falling for phishing scams can unintentionally cause significant breaches.
Prevention strategies:
- Regularly reinforce security training.
- Encourage a culture of accountability and vigilance.
- Use tools like DLP (Data Loss Prevention) software to catch errors before they escalate.
Creating a Security-First Culture
Proactively addressing insider threats requires more than policies and tools—it demands a workplace culture that prioritizes security. By staying vigilant, encouraging open communication, and equipping employees with the knowledge they need, organizations can significantly reduce insider threat risks.
As we approach 2025, make a commitment to:
- Stay updated with security awareness training.
- Report suspicious activity promptly.
- Promote secure practices within your team.
Together, we can ensure that both employees and organizations remain protected from threats inside and out.
