Ethical Hacking Essentials Practice Test

Which type of insider might be unaware of company policies but poses a security threat?

1. Negligent insider

2. Disgruntled employee

3. Malicious insider

4. Professional insider

The correct answer is: Negligent insider

A negligent insider is someone who poses a security threat primarily due to a lack of awareness regarding company policies and procedures. This type of insider may inadvertently expose the organization to risks by not following protocols, failing to secure sensitive data properly, or making careless mistakes that compromise security. Their actions are often unintentional, stemming from ignorance rather than malice, which makes them a unique challenge for organizations aiming to maintain security. In contrast, disgruntled employees are usually aware of company policies and may actively seek to undermine or harm the organization as a result of their dissatisfaction. Malicious insiders knowingly take actions to jeopardize security for personal gain or revenge, clearly understanding the implications of their actions. Professional insiders, on the other hand, are typically experienced employees who are knowledgeable about the organization's procedures; their insider threat usually stems from a position of trust rather than ignorance. Therefore, the negligent insider's lack of awareness of policies makes them a significant and often underappreciated risk in the realm of cybersecurity.