How do external threats differ from internal threats?

External threats are characterized by their origin; they come from outside the organization. This can include a variety of risks, such as cyberattacks from hackers, physical break-ins, or even competitions that seek to undermine a business's market position. Understanding that external threats stem from entities or individuals not connected to the internal operations of the organization is crucial for developing effective security strategies.

This differentiation is vital because it affects how an organization prepares for and mitigates risks. External threats often require different tactics and resources compared to managing internal threats, which typically arise from within the organization itself, such as employee misconduct or insider information leaks. Recognizing the source of a threat helps in tailoring the defense mechanisms and responses appropriately.