What does 'insider threat' mean in nuclear security?

The term 'insider threat' in the context of nuclear security specifically refers to the risk posed by individuals who have authorized access to sensitive information or nuclear facilities and may misuse that access for malicious purposes. This can involve actions such as stealing classified information, sabotaging facilities, or otherwise undermining security protocols from within.

Understanding this definition is crucial because it distinguishes insider threats from external threats, such as sabotage by foreign agents or the risk of accidents from system failures. While external threats and accidents are important aspects of nuclear security, insider threats particularly concern those individuals who have the trust of the organization and therefore can exploit their access in harmful ways. This interpretation emphasizes the need for comprehensive screening, ongoing monitoring, and robust security measures to mitigate such risks from within an organization.