security risk

American  

noun

1. a person considered by authorities as likely to commit acts that might threaten the security of a country.

---

security risk British  

noun

1. a person deemed to be a threat to state security in that he could be open to pressure, have subversive political beliefs, etc

---

Etymology

Origin of security risk

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

National Guard unit deemed his tattoos to be a security risk — citing concerns about “insider threats” — and he was not allowed to work the security detail for President Biden’s 2021 inauguration.

From Salon • Jun. 22, 2026

“All of this translates into a heightened security risk for Europe,” said Lange.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 2, 2026

I made a judgment call based on information we obtained from the hotel, events I had witnessed in the days prior and the heightened overall security risk of our location.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2026

“In carrying out such bets, relying on secret and classified information, there is a real security risk to IDF activities and state security,” the Israel Police said in a statement External link.

From Barron's • Feb. 27, 2026

The guards seemed befuddled, but they could hardly consider these vivacious young girls a security risk.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela