The nature of threats has transformed dramatically. No longer confined to traditional physical security breaches, today’s dangers encompass cyberattacks, targeted violence, and sophisticated espionage. The assassination of Thompson highlights the extreme lengths to which adversaries may go, driven by motives ranging from personal vendettas to broader socio-political agendas.

Insider threat
The threat landscape is not limited to external actors. Insider threats pose a significant risk, often overlooked until it’s too late. Disgruntled employees, corporate espionage, and data leaks can cause substantial damage. For instance, in 2019, a former employee of Tesla was accused of hacking into the company’s systems and stealing confidential data, which he then leaked to the media.  Insider threat can be particularly damaging because steps taken to detect or prevent these events often erodes the trust between companies and employees. Any action taken needs to be done sensitively to protect your company culture.

Reputational damage
Reputational damage from security breaches, such as, humiliation or intimidation, insider threat and assassination (or attempted), can be devastating, affecting business performance and shareholder confidence. A single incident can erode trust built over years, leading to loss of customers, partners, and market value. The impact on shareholder confidence can be profound, as investors seek stability and assurance that their investments are protected.

Is your approach to security reactive or proactive?
If you are a CEO or Security leader within your company you need to ensure your security strategy is doing enough to safeguard your people, assets and reputation. This necessitates a dynamic and proactive approach to security.

Increased security measures
Your current measures robust enough to counteract not just known threats but also those that are emerging? Your security protocols may need to be enhanced and this should include comprehensive and regular threat assessments, improved physical security, and investing in advanced security technologies.

Executive and Close Protection
As we move forward, there will be a greater need executive protection services for key c-suite members.

Awareness and training
If not already, Executives should receive training to raise their awareness of security, including situational awareness training and protocols for different incidents and emergencies.

Fostering a security culture
It is important that everyone in your company is security conscious and given confidence to challenge colleagues and alert security of any concerns or suspicions.

Overall, the incident underscores the need for heightened vigilance and proactive measures to ensure the safety of corporate leaders.