INDUSTRIAL ESPIONAGE THREATS IN CORPORATE SOUTH AFRICA

The widespread presence of industrial espionage in South Africa could be an indicator that domestic corporate security frameworks have so far failed to neutralize the threat. It is nevertheless unfortunate that South Africa’s firms do not have adequate security frameworks in place to protect themselves from industrial espionage. It is therefore, the aim of this study to understand the manifestation of industrial espionage and recommend security measures that firms in the country can adopt to fight against the threat. The data was collected using qualitative methods and was analysed using a thematic approach. Analysis of the study shows that industrial espionage is one of the major risks of business operations. Business rivals apply a number of instruments including human and technical sources. The human and technical sources of intelligence are believed to be the most preferred means of perpetuating this criminal activity.