Could You Identify an Insider Threat?

Assertive Professionals is dedicated to preventing and countering insider threats in seeking to establish a secure operating environment for its personnel, facilities, information, equipment, networks, and systems.

DoDD 5205.16 defines Insider Threat as: The threat an insider will use her or his authorized access, wittingly or unwittingly, to do harm to the security of the United States. This can include damage to the United States through espionage, terrorism, unauthorized disclosure of national security information, or through the loss or degradation of departmental resources or capabilities. NISPOM DoD 5220.22-M: The likelihood, risk, or potential that an insider will use his or her authorized access, wittingly or unwittingly, to do harm to the national security of the United States. Insider threats may include harm to contractor or program information, to the extent that the information impacts the contractor or agency’s obligations to protect classified national security information.

Reporting Requirements:

All employees are encouraged to report to the Assertive Professionals Insider Threat Program Senior Official (AP ITPSO) the following insider threat indicators as they occur, including (but not limited to):

a. Physical and industrial security violations

b. Overseas travel policy non-compliance

c. Seeking higher clearance than necessary

d. Disregarding need-to-know in classified discussion

e. Working inappropriate hours or in private

f. Unnecessary information access

g. Depression

h. Personal stress

i. Exploitable alcohol or drug behavior

j. Exploitable gambling behavior

k. Financial trouble

l. Disciplinary issues