Countermeasures for protecting cloud operations against internal threats include all of the following except?

Hardened perimeter devices are typically associated with protecting the external boundaries of a network rather than addressing internal threats. In the context of managing cloud security, internal threats often arise from employees or contractors who have legitimate access to systems and data. Therefore, countermeasures focused on mitigating these internal risks must target behaviors and practices within the organization.

Extensive and comprehensive training programs play a critical role in educating employees about security policies, best practices, and recognizing potential threats, which reduces the likelihood of human error that could lead to data breaches. Aggressive background checks help ensure that individuals with malicious intent or inadequate qualifications are not granted access to sensitive information. Skills and knowledge testing reinforces the understanding of security protocols and practices among employees, ensuring that they are well-equipped to recognize and respond to security challenges.

In summary, while hardened perimeter devices are essential in defending against external attacks, they do not address the specific needs and concerns related to internal threats, making them an unsuitable countermeasure in this context.