NPSA Unveils New Insider Threat Situations
The National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) has launched a new initiative aimed at helping organisations prepare for potential insider risks. The Insider Risk Simulation exercises offer a unique opportunity for companies to experience what an insider risk event might feel like, providing a practical and interactive approach to crisis management training.
These simulations are part of the NPSA's broader strategy to equip organisations with the tools they need to respond effectively to insider threats. Insider risks can arise from employees or insiders whose behaviour changes due to negative workplace experiences or other triggers, posing a significant risk to an organisation's security.
### Understanding and Managing Insider Risks The Insider Risk Simulation exercises are designed to allow organisations to understand and manage insider risks by engaging in realistic crisis training scenarios. By participating in these exercises, teams can gain valuable insights into how to respond effectively to insider threats, minimising the impact on the organisation.
Effective communication is critical during insider events, and these exercises emphasise the importance of clear and concise communication in mitigating the impact of such incidents. The simulations provide bespoke training and free-to-access crisis exercises tailored to organisational needs, helping teams respond swiftly and appropriately.
### Identifying and Preventing Insider Threats The exercises focus on identifying and preventing insider threats by simulating two specific types of insider events: unauthorised disclosure and sabotage. They include materials for facilitators, such as guidance, facilitator notes, background briefings, and a step-by-step look at an unfolding crisis event, making it easy for a facilitator to run a session.
The NPSA stresses that if an organisation has people, it inherently has insider risk. By proactively managing insider threats, organisations can reduce the likelihood of insider events occurring and maintain a secure and productive work environment.
### Recognising and Responding to Insider Threats Monitoring behavioural data and security-related activities such as IT behaviours, travel, physical access, and use of removable media can help identify and ideally prevent insider threats. A supportive response to identified risks can help improve the employee’s relationship with the organisation and overall security posture.
The Insider Risk Simulation exercises are just one part of a wider protective security strategy that promotes the early detection and prevention of insider threats through behavioural analysis, monitoring, and fostering a positive security culture within organisations.
For more information about the NPSA and its Insider Risk Simulation exercises, visit the NPSA website [1]. The Insider Risk Simulation exercises have been tested with over 125 organisations across both the public and private sectors [2]. By taking advantage of these simulations, organisations can be better prepared to face the challenges posed by insider risks and maintain a secure and productive work environment.
[1] National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) website: [2] Insider Risk Simulation exercises tested with over 125 organisations:
The Insider Risk Simulation exercises, a part of the National Protective Security Authority's (NPSA) strategy, are designed to help organizations prepare for insider threats, specifically addressing unauthorized disclosure and sabotage via technology. By actively participating in these simulations, teams can improve their ability to identify, prevent, and respond to insider risks, thereby enhancing their cybersecurity measures.
