Insider threats are a growing concern for companies trying to keep their data secure, especially as remote work and digital systems have blurred traditional security boundaries. A significant number of data breaches happen because of employees with access to sensitive information.

Whether intentional or not, these breaches can cost companies millions of dollars and damage their reputation. This article looks into the kinds of employees who are most likely to steal or mishandle company data, why they might do it, and what businesses can do to reduce the risks.

Types of Employees Most Likely to Steal or Expose Data

Not every employee is equally risky when it comes to data security. Some are more likely to mishandle or steal information than others. Below, we’ll look at the kinds of employees who tend to cause these problems, whether by accident or on purpose, and what makes them more likely to be a concern.

1- Privileged Users with High Access Levels

Employees with access to the most critical data are often the biggest risk to a company’s security. These “privileged users” have permissions that go beyond those of most staff. Their access makes them a priority in any security plan aimed at managing internal risks.

Real-world incidents show how dangerous this can be. A former engineer at a tech company stole trade secrets before leaving for a competitor. This kind of access let him take valuable data with ease.

To reduce the chances of this happening, businesses should use systems that carefully control and review who has access to what information. Routine audits can help ensure that employees don’t hold more access than their role requires.

2- Employees Facing Financial Distress

Money troubles can drive some employees to make poor choices, including selling access to company data. Many reports show that financial issues are a major reason behind insider data theft. In fact, nearly 86% of data breaches are driven by financial incentives. Employees who are overwhelmed by debt might see an opportunity to make quick money by sharing sensitive information.

One example of this involved an employee who sold customer contact details to third parties, leading to identity theft. While it’s impossible to prevent financial struggles altogether, managers can look for signs of stress, like changes in spending habits. Offering support and keeping an open line of communication might reduce the temptation to misuse data.

3- Disgruntled Employees

Upset or unhappy workers can be a big risk if they decide to take their frustrations out on their employer. When employees feel ignored or mistreated, they might see leaking or stealing data as a way to get back at their company.

A former worker at a large retail chain, for instance, posted sensitive information online after he received a disciplinary warning. This breach ended up costing the company dearly in legal fees and public trust.

To avoid similar issues, managers should regularly check in with their teams, address any conflicts quickly, and stay aware of signs that someone might be feeling resentful. Addressing issues before they grow can prevent bigger problems later.

4- Employees with a History of Non-Compliance

Some employees consistently ignore company rules, and they can be a major risk when it comes to data security. These workers might not mean any harm, but their disregard for protocols can lead to mistakes that expose data to outside threats.

For example, an employee who skips encryption steps to save time can end up putting confidential information at risk. While they might not intend to cause harm, their actions can open the door for hackers.

Organizations should focus on regular training sessions and reinforce the importance of following security protocols. By making sure that everyone understands why these rules matter, companies can cut down on the risks posed by careless behavior.

5- Departing Employees

When employees are in the process of leaving a company, it can be a particularly risky time for data security. Many data theft incidents happen in the period between when an employee gives notice and their last day on the job. Sometimes, they might take information with them as they prepare to start a new position.

A well-known case involved a tech engineer who took sensitive files before joining a rival company. This shows how vulnerable companies can be during transitions.

To counter this, businesses should have clear procedures in place for offboarding. This includes removing access to important systems as soon as possible and closely reviewing any recent activity.

The Most Common Data Types at Risk

Knowing what kinds of data are most often targeted can help businesses prioritize their security efforts. Here’s a look at the top types of data that are frequently stolen or exposed:

1. Client and Customer Data: Nearly 45% of insider breaches involve information about customers or clients. This might include lists of customers, their purchase histories, or other private details. Since this data can be very valuable to competitors, protecting it should be a high priority.
2. Source Code: Source code is another common target, making up about 14% of insider breaches. Losing control of proprietary code can have serious effects on a company’s competitive edge.
3. Personally Identifiable Information (PII): PII includes things like social security numbers and home addresses. This type of data is often protected by laws and regulations, but it’s still a common target for insider threats.
4. Design Files and Product Formulas: In fields like manufacturing and pharmaceuticals, leaked design files or secret formulas can cause big problems. Such losses can directly hurt a company’s market position.
5. Employee HR Data: Information like salary details or performance reviews can also be targeted. Sometimes, this data is used to settle scores or manipulate situations, making it a potential weak spot in data security.

Mitigating Insider Threats: Proactive Strategies

To keep insider threats in check, companies should take a balanced approach that combines smart technology with thoughtful management. Here are some ways to reduce the risk:

• Identity and Access Management (IAM): Good IAM practices ensure that employees can only access the information they need to do their jobs. Regularly checking and updating these permissions helps keep sensitive data protected.
• Behavior Monitoring: Monitoring tools can help spot unusual behavior, like accessing files that an employee doesn’t usually use or logging in at odd times. Early detection is key to stopping potential issues before they escalate.
• Employee Training and Awareness: Consistent training on security practices helps keep everyone on the same page. When employees understand the consequences of data breaches, they are less likely to make mistakes that could put data at risk.
• Thorough Offboarding Process: A careful offboarding process is crucial for reducing risks when employees leave the company. Removing access to systems quickly and reviewing recent activities can help protect sensitive data from being taken during this vulnerable time.

Conclusion

Insider threats are a serious issue for today’s businesses, but they don’t have to be an inevitable problem. By understanding which employees are more likely to pose a risk, like those dealing with financial stress or feeling unhappy at work, companies can put better protections in place.

With the right mix of security measures and regular communication, it’s possible to keep sensitive information safe. When companies take these steps, they not only prevent potential financial losses but also build a more secure and trustworthy environment for everyone involved. Addressing these risks proactively means keeping valuable data in the right hands and maintaining the trust of clients and partners.