What characterizes an insider threat?

An insider threat is characterized by the manipulation of data or systems by individuals who are trusted within the organization, such as employees, contractors, or business partners. These individuals typically have legitimate access and knowledge about the organization's internal processes, making their actions particularly harmful and difficult to detect.

In this context, the correct answer highlights the risk posed by individuals who use their insider knowledge to exploit systems or sensitive information to the detriment of the organization. This can include actions like stealing data, sabotaging systems, or leaking confidential information.

The other choices focus on threats that originate outside the organization, such as external hacking or malware delivered through phishing emails, which primarily involve malicious actors who do not have established trust or access privileges. While these are significant cybersecurity concerns, they do not fit the definition of an insider threat, which specifically involves trusted individuals within the organization engaging in harmful behaviors.