"It feels more sexy and interesting to fend against the assailant from the outside rather than face the possibility that the guy in the next cubicle is ripping off corporate data, " said Mr Rowney.

BBC: Malicious insider attacks to rise

Yes, there are legitimate domestic asset-protection schemes (see box, p. 60) to fend off ruinous legal awards against doctors hit by medical malpractice claims, executives by shareholder suits, spouses by divorce.

FORBES: Where Did the Money Go?

The ebullient Mr Zuma, soon (it is said) to marry his sixth wife, is struggling to fend off a string of charges against him for corruption and tax evasion.

ECONOMIST: South Africa

After all, through generous political giving and effective lobbying, Fannie and Freddie have managed to fend off attempts to force them to boost the capital they hold, their buffer against losses.

NPR: Housing Bill Calls For New Fannie-Freddie Regulator

Hollis-Eden's drug, an immune system booster, appears to help the bone marrow fend off toxic effects of radiation and could be used by troops going into battle to protect against the effects of dirty bombs.

FORBES: Biotechs See Dollar Signs In War

Despite his reputation as one of the most fiscally conservative Blue Dog Democrats -- he voted against and promised to help reform the health care reform law -- Marshall was unable to fend off a 2010 challenge in his Republican-leaning district by Austin Scott, who was backed by the tea party.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

But slumping oil prices have triggered speculation against the Norwegian krone and the bank is having to shove up interest rates in an effort to fend off a feared burst of inflation.

ECONOMIST: Norway: Bondeviction? | The