What type of individual might be part of an insider threat, according to DOD definitions?

An insider threat typically refers to a person within an organization who poses a risk to the organization's security, often due to their access to sensitive information and systems. A disaffected individual within the force meets this definition because they may harbor grievances or dissatisfaction towards the organization, which can lead them to act in ways that compromise security. These individuals can exploit their trusted positions and insider access to cause harm, whether intentionally or through negligence.

In the context of the Department of Defense (DOD), such individuals are particularly concerning because they have been trusted with sensitive information and are familiar with the organization’s operations, making their potential for causing harm more pronounced. This could manifest in various ways, such as leaking classified information, collaborating with adversaries, or otherwise undermining the organization's security.

While a trusted service member might typically be seen as a positive member of the organization, their loyalty could be undermined by personal issues or grievances, ultimately turning them into a security risk. Collaborating allies and foreign intelligence agents, while certainly potential threats, are not considered insider threats in the same way, as they function outside of the organization and lack the inherent access and trust that a disgruntled member possesses.