(Newswire.net — October 9, 2020) — Theft, vandalism, and burglary could be a massive blow for businesses with scarce resources. It can lead to the loss of operation-critical items, which is why physical security is essential for your business to prevent crime. Even worse, if a cybercriminal gains physical access to your business’ premises, they can launch a cyber-attack. In fact, one in every ten data breaches involves physical actions, according to Threatpost.
Burglars who gain access to your premises can do everything, from stealing paper-based documents to accessing sensitive files on your computer. However, if you have strong physical security controls in place, the chances of these threats turning into reality are low. It all trickles down to the physical security measures you put into place.
Here are four tips to improve your business’ physical security.
Assess The Risks
Not all parts of your business will require the same level of physical security. For instance, your servers will need to be more secure than the employee lounge area. Remember, while external threat actors can be dangerous, insider threats tend to fly under the radar. You need to protect your business from both external threats and disgruntled employees.
Start by taking inventory of the rooms you use to store devices and sensitive documents. Assess who has access to which room before deciding on what needs to change. Such information will help you create strong access control policies limiting access to specific areas on your premises.
It will also be easier to decide on the best technology for limiting access, from simple padlocks to biometric locking systems. If you are having a hard time deciding between the different security options for your office doors, you can always consult a reputable locksmith to walk you through making the right decision.
Install Surveillance Systems
Surveillance systems can be excellent crime deterrents. Most criminals will think twice before entering your business if they immediately see cameras. You don’t have to limit yourself to the conventional surveillance systems that needed you to connect cameras with wires directly to an in-house hard drive or server. Modern surveillance cameras have advanced so much that many cameras send data straight to the cloud.
That means you can monitor your business remotely, and that you have scalable storage for storing footage for years. You can even find wireless cameras, reducing the complexity of installation. Surveillance systems could also be crucial at monitoring employees and managers during working hours. Be sure to provide enough lighting within your business premises to allow the cameras to record clear footage.
Educate Your Teams
Your employees are a strong part of your physical security. Their efforts could make or break your business, which is why you need to inform them about the different physical security measures you have in place. For instance, it can be easy for them to fall prey to tailgating social engineering scams. This occurs when a threat actor disguises himself as a trusted individual (like a delivery guy) to be allowed to access your premises.
Educating employees and creating ad hoc security policies will also help them know what’s expected of them. For instance, they will know that they need to carry a keycard to work every single day. Training can also help employees identify any internal threat actor.
Prioritize Privacy In Your Office Design
From conversations to sensitive documents, you need to limit access to a ‘need to know’ basis – this applies to your office design too. Modern office design practices lean towards open-plan offices for better collaboration, but this reduces privacy. It can be easy to eavesdrop on conversations and see sensitive data. Improve privacy by having soundproof conference rooms and offices with half-tinted glass walls.
You Are In Control
Internal and external threat actors will always be around. The stronger your security measures are, the less successful they will be. Implement the tips above to protect your business from common physical security risks. Be in control of your business security.