Safeguarding the integrity of digital infrastructure is a crucial priority for organizations in various sectors in a modern, interconnected society. Given this context, it is worth noting that there are already numerous technological defenses in place, but human susceptibility to risks remains. Human error often provides the opening for malicious individuals to exploit organizational vulnerabilities, digital or otherwise. Furthermore, malicious intent is not strictly necessary, as naive, disgruntled, or poorly equipped employees also present a significant risk for organizations.
Vaillance Group recognizes this vulnerability and emerges as a reliable partner and a pioneer in battling against insider threats. The company is led by Shawnee Delaney, a cybersecurity and human intelligence (HUMINT) expert. Her extensive experience working in clandestine operations with the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) and protecting critical infrastructure within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reinforces her mission to mitigate insider risks.
The company helps businesses and organizations defend themselves against insider threats through training programs and consulting services. These services aim to help clients obtain the tools and knowledge necessary to identify and neutralize potential threats originating from within their ranks.
One of Vaillance Group's primary offerings is its Insider Threat Vulnerability Assessments, also known as Human Risk Assessments. Every organization relies on its workforce. Therefore, they must understand the nuances of human behavior within this landscape. Delaney shared, "Most insider threats stem from unintended or careless actions. People might understand the rules but see no harm in bending them a little. They might think, 'It's just printing something from my home printer, no big deal.' However, breaking company policies puts the entire organization at risk. Insider risks come with having humans on board. After all, we're all prone to mistakes."
According to the founder, the most alarming threats come from insiders with malicious intent, engaging in activities like fraud, sabotage, espionage, stealing intellectual property, workplace violence, or even leaking sensitive information. Many organizations mistakenly view insider threats only through a cybersecurity lens. However, it is a human issue that demands attention.
Recognizing the human factor in risk assessments is crucial because individual traits and outside pressures can significantly influence behavior. Factors like narcissism and external stressors, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, can worsen existing risks and cause worrying behavioral patterns to emerge.
With this, Vaillance Group delves into the Critical Pathway framework devised by experts like Dr. Eric Shaw and Dr Laura Sellers, to discover the factors leading to increased insider threat risks. It dissects personal predispositions, stressors, and concerning behaviors to help organizations understand what makes them vulnerable and what strategies they can employ to address them.
Moreover, Valliance Group considers every employee's lifecycle (from recruitment to resignation, retirement, or termination) within an organization because oftentimes these are the touchpoints where the risk can be significantly mitigated.
In other words, organizations can identify areas of weakness and develop strategies to reduce the possibilities of insider threats by conducting human risk assessments. This process goes beyond checking boxes for policies and governance. It involves considering factors like workplace culture and employee morale to create a comprehensive risk management framework.
Valliance Group offers multiple courses designed to address the challenges posed by insider threats. Each equips organizations with the knowledge and tools needed to protect their assets, from foundational insights in the "Introduction to Insider Threats'' to advanced strategies for mitigating risks in "IT Sabotage" and "Insider Fraud." There are also specialized courses, such as "Travel" and "Work from Home," that provide practical guidance for enhancing security in remote work environments.
Ultimately, Vaillance Group offers effective solutions to address the challenges of insider threats. It helps organizations navigate the landscape with confidence and resilience through meticulous assessment, targeted training, and proactive program development. The company aims to continue protecting its clients against the multifaceted threats brought by human vulnerabilities in the workplace.
Media Contact
Name: Shawnee Delaney
Email: [email protected]
