Guardians of the Data - Episode #6 - Cybersecurity’s Weakest Link: Human Risk

Human Risk in Cybersecurity: Insider Threats, AI, and Building a Strong Security Culture

Human behavior remains the most unpredictable factor in cybersecurity, and often the greatest risk. In this episode, counterintelligence and insider risk expert Lisa Gunning, with over 18 years of experience across public and private sectors, joins Ward to explore the evolving landscape of human risk and insider threats.

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Lisa shares practical insights on how organizations can better understand insider risk, foster a strong security-first culture, and adapt security policies to modern challenges like AI tools, data protection, and digital assistants. The conversation highlights the intersection of human behavior, cybersecurity strategy, and counterintelligence, offering actionable guidance for security leaders, IT teams, HR, and compliance professionals.

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Listeners will learn how to identify high-risk roles beyond traditional assumptions, collaborate across departments, and apply counterintelligence tactics to protect sensitive data and mission-critical systems. Whether you’re a security leader or business decision-maker, this episode provides real-world lessons and expert advice to reduce insider risk and strengthen organizational resilience.

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“Human behavior is the biggest risk. We are an unpredictable, ever-evolving group, and as a very wise colleague of mine once said, humans are gonna human.” — Lisa Gunning

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