Survey: Insider Threats Surge Across U.S. Critical Infrastructure

Survey: Insider Threats Surge Across U.S. Critical Infrastructure

Over three-quarters (77%) of organizations across US critical national infrastructure (CNI) have seen a rise in insider-driven cyber threats in the last three years, according to new research by leading cyber security services firm Bridewell. The threat from within ranges from criminal intent to individual negligence, but those surveyed said an act of intentional destruction at the hands of an employee was committed on average at least every other week within the last year.

Bridewell’s findings come amidst a growing international focus on insider-driven cyber threats against critical infrastructure. The recent US Pentagon data leak, which saw a junior employee leak highly sensitive information, highlights the increased importance of strong insider threat controls and broader operational security.

The ‘Cyber Security in CNI: 2023’ research report, which surveyed 525 cyber security decision makers in the US, in the transport and aviation, utilities, finance, government, and communications sectors, reveals that increased insider threat could also be linked to increased geopolitical tension and the current economic pressures felt by individuals, with over a third (35%) of critical infrastructure organizations reported a rise in the number of internal employees turning to cyber crime due to poor economic conditions.

At the same time, the worry around cyberwarfare right now also remains high, with 81% of CNI organizations concerned the services that keep the US running are under threat. With high levels of risk associated with human factors, such as fear, natural error, or inadequate training, the research highlights the need for organizations to be particularly vigilant to insider threats and vulnerable employees as the economy continues to recover and nation-states remain politically motivated.

The research also highlighted that threats are continuing from all angles, with 38% of security decision makers worried social engineering and phishing attacks will increase as a direct result of economic uncertainty – which rises to 52% within the US finance sector.

The finance sector is under particular threat from ransomware attacks, with incidents occurring on average every 5-6 days in the past year compared with every two weeks across all sectors. A series of high-profile hacks against the sector, including February’s ransomware attack against financial software provider Ion Group, highlight fears that threat actors are preying on employees’ vulnerabilities and financial concerns to gain illicit access to sensitive critical data and systems.

Scott Nicholson, Co-CEO at Bridewell, commented: “Due to its importance to daily life and the economy, any insider threats whether through malice, negligence, or desperation, within critical infrastructure organisations could have severe and far-reaching consequences. The recent National Cybersecurity Strategy outlined the need for collaboration between private and public sector organizations to ensure national security is protected and maintained against threats from all angles. Sophisticated threat actors are primed to capitalize on human vulnerabilities and mistakes, so organizations must take proactive steps towards reducing insider risks through regular background checks, robust monitoring and access controls, and continual employee cybersecurity education and training that reflects the ever-evolving threat landscape. ”

Featured

  • Gaining a Competitive Edge

    Ask most companies about their future technology plans and the answers will most likely include AI. Then ask how they plan to deploy it, and that is where the responses may start to vary. Every company has unique surveillance requirements that are based on market focus, scale, scope, risk tolerance, geographic area and, of course, budget. Those factors all play a role in deciding how to configure a surveillance system, and how to effectively implement technologies like AI. Read Now

  • 6 Ways Security Awareness Training Empowers Human Risk Management

    Organizations are realizing that their greatest vulnerability often comes from within – their own people. Human error remains a significant factor in cybersecurity breaches, making it imperative for organizations to address human risk effectively. As a result, security awareness training (SAT) has emerged as a cornerstone in this endeavor because it offers a multifaceted approach to managing human risk. Read Now

  • The Stage is Set

    The security industry spans the entire globe, with manufacturers, developers and suppliers on every continent (well, almost—sorry, Antarctica). That means when regulations pop up in one area, they often have a ripple effect that impacts the entire supply chain. Recent data privacy regulations like GDPR in Europe and CPRA in California made waves when they first went into effect, forcing businesses to change the way they approach data collection and storage to continue operating in those markets. Even highly specific regulations like the U.S.’s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) can have international reverberations – and this growing volume of legislation has continued to affect global supply chains in a variety of different ways. Read Now

  • Access Control Technology

    As we move swiftly toward the end of 2024, the security industry is looking at the trends in play, what might be on the horizon, and how they will impact business opportunities and projections. Read Now

Featured Cybersecurity

Webinars

New Products

  • Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems, an industry-leading manufacturer of pedestrian and vehicle secure entrance control access systems, is pleased to announce the release of its groundbreaking V07 software. The V07 software update is designed specifically to address cybersecurity concerns and will ensure the integrity and confidentiality of Automatic Systems applications. With the new V07 software, updates will be delivered by means of an encrypted file. 3

  • PE80 Series

    PE80 Series by SARGENT / ED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin

    ASSA ABLOY, a global leader in access solutions, has announced the launch of two next generation exit devices from long-standing leaders in the premium exit device market: the PE80 Series by SARGENT and the PED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin. These new exit devices boast industry-first features that are specifically designed to provide enhanced safety, security and convenience, setting new standards for exit solutions. The SARGENT PE80 and Corbin Russwin PED4000/PED5000 Series exit devices are engineered to meet the ever-evolving needs of modern buildings. Featuring the high strength, security and durability that ASSA ABLOY is known for, the new exit devices deliver several innovative, industry-first features in addition to elegant design finishes for every opening. 3

  • FEP GameChanger

    FEP GameChanger

    Paige Datacom Solutions Introduces Important and Innovative Cabling Products GameChanger Cable, a proven and patented solution that significantly exceeds the reach of traditional category cable will now have a FEP/FEP construction. 3