Operational Security and Insider Threats

Questions and Answers

What does Good OPSEC help to prevent?

Cyber attacks

Natural disasters

Unauthorized access to facilities

Unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information (correct)

Unauthorized disclosures can derive from which of the following?

Good security practices

Poor security practices (correct)

Intentional actions (correct)

All of the above

Which of the following are categories of insider threats?

Leaks (correct)

Spills (correct)

Espionage (correct)

All of the above (correct)

What is the definition of an insider?

Any person with authorized access to DoD resources. Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of an insider threat?

The threat that an insider will use authorized access to harm security. Signup and view all the answers

Define leaks in the context of insider threats.

Intentional, unauthorized disclosure of classified information. Signup and view all the answers

Define spills in the context of insider threats.

Unintentional transfer of classified information to unaccredited entities. Signup and view all the answers

What is the most common form of insider threat?

Spills Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Good Operational Security (OPSEC)

Essential for preventing unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information, both classified and unclassified.
Protects the integrity and security of the Department.

Causes of Unauthorized Disclosure

Arises from poor security practices and negligent cyber hygiene.
Can also be a result of deliberate policy violations.

Categories of Insider Threat

Leaks: Intentional disclosure of sensitive information.
Spills: Accidental transfer of classified information to unauthorized entities.
Espionage: Spying or obtaining confidential information for malicious purposes.
Sabotage: Intentional damage to systems or data.
Targeted Violence: Acts of aggression directed toward individuals or organizations.

Definition of Insider

Refers to anyone with authorized access to Department of Defense (DoD) resources.
Includes current and former employees, volunteers, consultants, and contractors.

Definition of Insider Threat

Represents the risk that someone with authorized access may intentionally or unintentionally harm national security.
Potential damages include espionage, terrorism, unauthorized information disclosure, and degradation of resources.

Definition of Leaks

Involves the deliberate and unauthorized sharing of classified or proprietary information.
Information is shared with individuals or organizations lacking a "need-to-know."

Definition of Spills

Refers to the accidental transfer of classified information to unauthorized systems or individuals.
Highlights a significant vulnerability in security practices.

Most Common Form of Insider Threat

Spills are identified as the most frequent type of insider threat encountered.

Description

This quiz focuses on the importance of operational security (OPSEC) and the various categories of insider threats. Understand how unauthorized disclosures occur and the critical role of maintaining security practices within the Department of Defense. Test your knowledge on protecting sensitive information.