Data security: A tool to address challenges of data confidentiality against domain users in an organization

Abstract

Threats resulting from authorized users, specifically insiders, pose as one of the most challenging security issues that many organizations face today. Insiders often attack using authorized access and with actions very similar to non-malicious behavior. Insider threat poses a great risk to organizations due to the mere fact that they have privileges and authentic access to confidential data. Safeguarding information protect organization’s confidential data and other sensitive information that might compromise its operations and competitiveness. Insider attacks comprise of deliberate and unintentional access to an organization’s system, network, or data and intentionally exceeded or misused that access in a manner that negatively affects the confidentiality of the organization's information or information systems. Insiders attacks take many forms including worms, viruses, Trojan horse, detection or alteration of data, sabotage, espionage, fraud, theft of necessary data or destroy of data, financial loss or reputation damage. The insider threats usually compromise the Confidentiality, Integrity and Availability of data in an organization. However, this research emphasizes specifically on data confidentiality because confidential information may be misused to commit illegal activities in case it fall into the wrong hands. In addition, the disclosure of sensitive information can lead to loss of confidence and loyalty. Information is extremely valuable and central to performance of the organization therefore, breaching confidentiality may result in loss of productivity and destroy the business. The study proposes development of a security a tool that addresses data confidentiality by monitoring domain users’ activities. The tool will monitor activities such copying, modification or deleting confidential data.