According to the National Insider Threat Task Force (NITTF) “an insider is any person with authorized access to an organization’s resources to include personnel, facilities, information, equipment, networks, or systems”.
The NITTF defines the insider threat as “the risk an insider will use their authorized access, wittingly or unwittingly, to do harm to their organization. This can include theft of proprietary information and technology; damage to company facilities, systems or equipment; actual or threatened harm to employees; or other actions that would prevent the company from carrying out its normal business practice” Reference Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency.
As a Cleared Defense Contractor, Mississippi State University (MSU) provides security awareness and guidance to help personnel recognize potential or actual insider‑threat indicators across all work environments, including on‑campus, off‑campus, and remote or telework settings. MSU ensures personnel are informed on how and where to report observed insider‑threat concerns.
Reports are reviewed through the MSU Research Security Insider Threat Program, which applies appropriate risk‑management principles, analytical methods, and investigative techniques tailored to the specific circumstances of each report. All activities are conducted in accordance with applicable laws and policies and with appropriate protections for privacy, civil rights, and civil liberties of both the reporting individual and the subject of the report.
For Insider Threat Program information please contact the ITPSO at clc1@msstate.edu or the FSO at cjenkins@ors.msstate.edu.