Geopolitical Tensions Threatening Internal Security of European Organizations

Rising Threats to Internal Security in Europe

In the current landscape shaped by geopolitical tensions, European organizations are under significant pressure. This pressure is not just external; a pressing risk is emerging from within—insider threats. A recent report by the risk consulting firm Signpost Six highlights that 84% of European companies identified as high-risk feel ill-equipped to detect and manage incidents of insider threats.

Understanding Insider Risk

Insider risk encompasses dangers such as espionage, sabotage, and strategic manipulation orchestrated by employees, contractors, or suppliers. Traditionally viewed as incidental, this risk has evolved into a fundamental concern amid a global environment where conflicts are increasingly waged through economic, technological, and social channels. State actors, criminal organizations, and activist movements are targeting the human element, often viewing insiders as more effective conduits for destabilization than external cyber-attacks or physical break-ins.

According to Dennis Bijker, CEO of Signpost Six, the prevalence of insider threats has escalated due to various geopolitical developments. One notable trend is the rise of hybrid warfare, where countries conduct rivalries beyond conventional military fronts. This shift has led commercial entities—ranging from critical infrastructures to tech firms—to become prime targets for espionage and sabotage. Insiders with access to crucial systems and sensitive information represent an easier, often less detectable target for malicious actors compared to traditional methods of attack.

The Role of Criminal Networks

Moreover, state actors are increasingly employing criminal networks as proxies to carry out operations while minimizing traceability. This tactic puts pressure on employees, who may face extreme coercion through financial incentives, threats, or blackmail.

Globalization and Vulnerability

The globalization of supply chains has further heightened the vulnerability of organizations. Access to critical systems is often in the hands of third parties operating under different legal and political frameworks. As geopolitical tensions rise, the impact on daily operations becomes more pronounced.

In this evolving context, relying solely on technical and physical security measures is no longer sufficient. Organizations must embrace comprehensive risk accountability, emphasizing collaboration among human resources, security, risk management, and legal departments. The reality is that geopolitics is no longer an external affair but also plays out within organizational walls. Ignoring these dynamics can unwittingly position employees as targets.

Taking Action

To bolster resilience against insider threats, organizations must take proactive steps:
1. Enhance Training and Awareness: Regular training programs can educate employees about potential risks and foster a culture of vigilance.
2. Risk Assessment: Conduct thorough assessments to identify vulnerabilities within the organization, focusing on both technical infrastructures and human factors.
3. Interdepartmental Collaboration: Encourage teamwork among different departments to ensure information sharing and a unified response to insider threats.
4. Incident Response Plans: Develop and regularly update response plans to ensure all employees are prepared to act decisively in the event of an insider threat incident.

In conclusion, the path forward for European organizations lies in recognizing the complex interplay of geopolitical factors and internal security. By addressing insider risks head-on, they can establish a safer and more resilient operational environment that not only protects their interests but also safeguards their workforce.