Insider Threat Awareness and Reporting

Security and Insider Risk

Insider Threat Overview

Insider threats are widely recognized as one of the most serious and persistent risks to public-sector and intergovernmental organizations. Publicly documented espionage and security-compromise cases consistently show that successful intelligence collection and information loss most often occur through insider access or insider-enabled activity—whether malicious, coerced, or unwitting—rather than through external intrusion alone. At the same time, external espionage, cyber operations, and foreign influence efforts remain active and evolving threats, often seeking to exploit trusted access, partnerships, or human vulnerabilities. In environments built on trust, delegated authority, and information-sharing, the impact of a single insider-related incident can be disproportionate, affecting operations, legal obligations, and public confidence. For this reason, modern security and counterintelligence frameworks emphasize a balanced approach that addresses both insider risk and external threats through prevention, awareness, and good-faith reporting as essential governance safeguards.

The Interagency Accord Commission maintains an insider risk awareness and reporting framework designed to protect information, operations, and institutional integrity. This framework is preventative and educational in nature, emphasizing early awareness, good-faith reporting, and alignment with established federal security practices.

Legal Safeguards and Reporting Obligations

Unauthorized disclosure, retention, or transmission of national defense or sensitive government information is prohibited under the Espionage Act (18 U.S.C. §§ 793–798), which establishes criminal penalties for espionage, willful mishandling of protected information, and related offenses that threaten national security. Consistent with this framework, the Interagency Accord Commission promotes a “If You See Something, Say Something” security culture, recognizing that timely reporting is one of the most effective tools for preventing harm. Individuals who observe suspicious behavior, potential insider threats, foreign influence efforts, or possible violations of security protocols are encouraged to report concerns promptly and in good faith. Reports may be submitted confidentially through appropriate authorities, including the FBI’s public tip portal at https://tips.fbi.gov/home, enabling early intervention, protection of lawful activities, and preservation of institutional integrity.

What May Be Reported

Individuals may consider reporting concerns related to potential insider risk or security issues, including but not limited to:

Misuse or unauthorized sharing of sensitive or restricted information
Improper use of access credentials, systems, or resources
Misrepresentation of affiliation, authority, or official capacity
Attempts to improperly influence Commission activities or partners
Indicators of foreign influence, coercion, or undue pressure

This framework is not intended for personal disputes, employment grievances, or retaliatory reporting.

How Reports Are Handled

The Commission does not conduct investigations, make findings, or take enforcement action related to insider threat matters. Information received is reviewed solely for administrative handling and, where appropriate, referred to competent federal authorities for assessment and action within their jurisdiction. All investigative and counterintelligence authorities remain with the appropriate federal agencies.

Report a Security or Integrity Concern: https://tips.fbi.gov/home

This link directs users to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s official tip portal. The Commission does not receive, retain, or investigate submissions made through external reporting systems. Reports should be made in good faith and based on reasonable concern. This page is intended to promote awareness and institutional integrity, not suspicion or surveillance.

This page is not monitored for emergencies. For immediate threats, contact appropriate federal or local authorities.