What does the term "insider attacks" refer to in the context of computer security incidents?

The term "insider attacks" specifically refers to threats posed by individuals within an organization, such as employees or contractors, who have inside information about the organization's security practices, data, or computer systems. These insiders can exploit their access to cause harm, whether intentionally or inadvertently. Insider attacks can include actions like stealing sensitive information, sabotaging systems, or leaking confidential data.

This concept emphasizes the importance of monitoring and securing not just external threats but also potential risks from within the organization. Organizations often implement various strategies, such as stringent access controls, employee training, and monitoring systems, to mitigate the risk of insider attacks.

In contrast, external hacking attempts refer to unauthorized access from outside the organization, cyberbullying involves harassment through digital means, and software vulnerabilities are weaknesses in software that can be exploited, often by external attackers rather than insiders. Thus, the distinct nature of insider attacks makes it crucial to focus on the actions of individuals who have legitimate access to organizational resources.