The phrase signifies a process by which an organization evaluates the effectiveness of its initiatives designed to educate employees about the risks posed by malicious, negligent, or compromised insiders. It involves a structured assessment to determine the extent to which personnel understand and can recognize potential indicators of insider threats. An example might involve presenting employees with simulated scenarios designed to test their ability to identify and report suspicious behavior.
Such evaluations are critical for maintaining robust security posture. They provide tangible metrics on the return on investment from awareness training programs. Historical incidents have demonstrated the severe consequences of inadequate preparation in this area, resulting in data breaches, financial losses, and reputational damage. Regular testing allows for the identification of knowledge gaps and the refinement of security protocols to better protect sensitive information.
