Insider threats—whether driven by addiction, financial desperation, personal grievance, or negligence—operate in the shadows, exploiting systems designed for trust rather than scrutiny.
Human behavior is inherently complex. Stress, addiction, mental health struggles, and personal pressures can influence decision-making in ways that are not immediately observable.
In Ferrer’s case, her addiction did not manifest as public chaos; instead, it quietly shaped her decisions and created opportunities for exploitation. Organizations often fail to recognize that employees are not infallible.
Systems assume rational behavior, compliance with procedures, and ethical decision-making. When these assumptions are violated, even subtly, the consequences can be significant.
The danger of insider threats is amplified by access and familiarity. Employees like Ferrer operate within established routines; they know how to navigate systems, where controls are weak, and which procedures are unlikely to be questioned. Continue reading…
