Physical security is the protection of people,
equipment, networks, and data against all physical acts and events that may
harm a business or organization. This includes protection from fire, floods,
natural disasters, burglary, theft, vandalism, and terrorism. While
cybersecurity is the use of measures to protect digital systems, networks, and
data from unauthorized access, cyberattacks, and any kind of misuse, Physical
security primarily deals with safeguarding tangible assets like buildings and
equipment, whereas cybersecurity is more concerned with securing intangible assets
such as data and networks. The coexistence between these two aspects of
security is crucial for comprehensive protection against a wide range of
threats.
Cybersecurity or any kind of InfoSec doesn’t
work well without proper physical security measures. So it is very important. A
proper consultation with a physical security consultant gives the building the
best protection for both tangible and intangible assets.
1.
Fences
Fences are the outermost layer of protection on
our property that helps deter unwanted and harmful people. Since this is very
basic and most of the time incorporates less technology, this is not as
effective as the other security measures, but at least makes it hard for
someone to get in, creating some delay.
2. Cameras
A security camera, when placed enough to cover
all entrances and exits, offers a historical report of the events occurring in
that particular area, and when they are placed in plain sight, they can be a
deterrent to someone trespassing on an inaccessible area. In modern cameras,
there is infrared that enables recordings at night, while some also offer
motion-based recording, which records only when there is motion.
3. Alarm Systems
Seriously, though, alarm systems are an
essential reactive layer on top of the historical event-capturing layer, which
is your cameras. These can be your classic sensors detecting door openings,
motion or sound detectors, or other environmental monitoring devices like smoke
detectors that can dispatch the fire department. Not the most exciting stuff, but
definitely a super essential layer to your physical security.
Alarm systems are an essential reactive layer
associated with the capture of camera recordings. This includes typical sensors
used to detect door openings, motion or sound detectors, or other environmental
monitoring devices like smoke detectors that can call the fire department. Not
the most fascinating, but unquestionably a crucial layer of physical security.
4. Access Control Systems
Access control means restricting certain
people's access to certain areas. Sometimes it can be letting employees only
through the building's front. It can also include only granting selected
employees access to specific areas of property. A system may also be set up to
automatically lock the building in the evening and provide free entry during
business hours when a reception area is manned to welcome and keep an eye on
entering visitors.
5. Proper lighting
Proper interior and exterior lighting can
dissuade criminals from trying to break in at night. All building entrances
should, at the very least, be well-lit. Employees working late at night can
benefit from this. Also, hallways should have battery-powered emergency lights
installed to provide lighting in case of any power loss.
6. Document and Equipment Disposal
This aspect is frequently underestimated, but
sensitive company information, whether in physical documents or stored on hard
drives, can pose significant risks. It's crucial to properly manage and dispose
of old or unnecessary documents and computers, as outdated hardware can present
a similar threat. Hard drives containing company documents can become a
valuable resource for criminals seeking access to proprietary information,
financial records, or other confidential data that should be kept secure.
7. Regular Audits of Systems
Any system or security measure implemented is
only useful if it is properly maintained. Realizing the camera by the back door
stopped recording months ago after a burglary is not an appealing moment.
Verify that all of the cameras are still recording by checking them.
Certain measures are cost-effective and
straightforward to put in place, while others may demand an investment of both
time and resources. Nevertheless, all of these controls play a role in
enhancing your physical security stance, safeguarding both your organization's
assets and your colleagues. This collective effort contributes to a greater
sense of security for everyone. A physical security consultant brings
expertise, helping organizations acquire security, and implement effective
security measures. Their contributions are very valuable in protecting an
organization's physical assets and ensuring the safety of its employees and stakeholders.
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