Which of the following describes an external security threat?

The correct response identifies external security threats as attacks that originate from outside the organization. This includes any malicious actions taken by individuals or entities that do not have authorized access to the organization's systems, networks, or data. Such external threats can manifest in various forms, such as hacking, phishing, or distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks.

Understanding this concept is crucial for an organization's cybersecurity strategy, as it highlights the need for robust defenses against unauthorized access attempts and malicious activities that aim to compromise confidential information or disrupt operations. By budgeting and deploying resources to counteract these external threats, organizations can better protect their assets and maintain business continuity.

In contrast, options focusing on employee misconduct, vendor relationships, or internal systems point to internal security threats or risks rather than external ones, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between different sources of security vulnerabilities.