
While external cyberattacks dominate headlines, insider threats pose a significant risk to SMBs, especially in Q4. Whether intentional or accidental, insider threats can lead to data breaches, financial loss, and reputational damage. Let’s explore how SMBs can mitigate this often-overlooked risk.
What Are Insider Threats?
An insider threat occurs when an employee, contractor, or business partner misuses their access to systems and data. This could be malicious (e.g., stealing data for personal gain) or accidental (e.g., mishandling sensitive information).
Why Q4 Is High-Risk
The end of the year often sees:
Increased Turnover: Departing employees may leave with proprietary data.
Holiday Distractions: Employees may be less vigilant, leading to accidental breaches.
Contractor Engagements: Temporary staff may not adhere to your security policies.
Preventive Measures for SMBs
Access Controls: Implement the principle of least privilege, granting employees access only to the data they need.
Behavior Monitoring: Use tools to detect unusual activity, such as large data transfers or repeated access attempts to sensitive files.
Exit Protocols: Revoke access immediately for departing employees and contractors.
Regular Audits: Conduct audits of user access and activity to identify potential risks.
At Konkord IT, we provide insider threat detection solutions, access management systems, and security training tailored for SMBs. Let’s work together to safeguard your business from the inside out.
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