Cyberattacks are becoming more likely as more businesses are taking their operations online. Data can be stolen, money can be lost and even a company’s image can be hurt by a security breach. Consequently, organizations need to pay attention to both internet security and real security. An attacker can get access to confidential information if they can get their hands on a machine or device. In this piece, we’ll learn about physical security and look at the best ways to keep an organization safe. We’ll talk about everything one needs to know to keep people, land and investments safe from physical threats. So, let’s get started!
What is Physical Security?
Physical security is the most important thing an organization can do to protect its assets. With the right physical security measures in place, organizations can prevent or minimize loss from possible thefts, vandalism, natural disasters, fire and other damage. The global physical security market is expected to reach $172 billion by 2027.-(Source: Grand View Research) Investing in physical security allows a company the chance to assess threats by being proactive. Don’t wait until a threat happens; take steps now to make sure your organization is safe and secure.7 Best Practices for Physical Security
1. Access Control
Access control systems help limit who can go in and out of a place and when. Access can be controlled in many ways, such as with key cards, fingerprint readers or other tools. For instance, a company might make all its workers use their ID cards to get into the building. Even though guests have to sign in, they get a temporary pass. This keeps a digital trail of all people entering and exiting the premises.- A 2023 Ponemon Institute study found that the average cost of a data breach caused by compromised credentials was $4.35 million.
- Data Breach: In 2022, over 22 billion records were exposed to data breaches worldwide.
2. Install Video Surveillance
Security cameras can be a great way to keep people from breaking in especially If they know that they are being watched. When putting up cameras, it’s important to choose places that cover all entrances and exits including windows, doors, garage entrances, building walls, etc. There should be no obstructions or blind spots. Ensuring good lighting in these places will get clear footage.- According to a 2022 study by ASIS International, the average cost of retail theft in the United States is $720.98 per incident. s.
- Physical Theft: In the US alone, businesses lose over $60 billion to theft each year. (Source: https://www.infosecurity-magazine.com/news/data-theft-top-concern-it-leaders/)
- Inventory Loss: Retail businesses lose an average of 1.44% of their inventory to theft each year, accounting for billions of dollars in losses. (Source: https://nrf.com/blog/state-of-retail-industry-2023)
3. Train employees on security best practices
Employees are a big part of maintaining security. Regular training classes and workshops on security measures, like being alert and reporting suspicious people or behavior, can help workers understand how important security is and how can they contribute to a secure workplace. Security should not be the responsibility of the security department alone.- Human Error: Human error is a leading factor in security breaches, with studies suggesting it contributes to 88% of incidents.
- Cybercrime: Over 90% of successful cyberattacks rely on social engineering techniques like phishing to gain access to sensitive information. (Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0JJbS4Ly9Og)
4. Use Perimeter Fencing
A fence can help keep people from getting into a place without permission. When picking a fence, choose materials that are strong and can’t be broken or cut quickly. The fence should also be high enough to stop people from climbing over it. An effective way to keep intruders out is to use barbed wire on top of a chain link fence.- The National Insurance Crime Bureau estimates that cargo theft costs businesses $30 billion annually in the United States alone.
5. Emergency Response Plans
Emergency response plans are significant for ensuring workers and guests are safe during a disaster. These plans show what to do if there is a natural accident, a fire, an active shooter or any other threat. They have advice on how to evacuate, who to call in an emergency, and what to do in different kinds of situations to minimize impact on critical operations. For example, an office might have evacuation plans strategically placed and accessible to all, that explain exit routes during a fire or an earthquake. Similarly, a hospital might have a plan for how to handle a disaster like a storm or a mass shooting.- The National Fire Protection Association estimates that the average property damage caused by a fire in the United States is $251,400.
6. Conduct regular security audits
Regular and systematic security checks can help find possible flaws in security systems so that steps can be taken to fix them. A company can do this on its own or hire a third-party security business to do an evaluation. This process helps find problems with real security measures, such as not enough lighting, broken locks or technology that is no longer used. Once identified, steps should be taken to fix them to avoid any untoward incident.- A 2022 study by the Ponemon Institute found that organizations that conducted regular security audits experienced 23% fewer data breaches and 29% lower data breach costs.
7. Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is an important part of physical security in the digital world we live in today. Cybercriminals and hackers can use digital tools to get into real systems and cause serious damage. Cyberattacks can be stopped by putting security measures like firewalls and intruder detection systems in place. For example, a bank might use barriers to keep people from getting into its network without permission. In the same way, a hospital might have intrusion monitoring systems in place to watch for any efforts to hack into their systems. The average cost of a ransomware attack in 2023 reached $4.54 million, according to a report by Coveware. Robust cybersecurity measures are crucial for protecting against such attacks and associated losses.8. Partnering with a Security Company
A security company can give an organization the knowledge and tools to help keep its property and people safe. They can send trained security staff to keep an eye on a building, set up security systems or do regular security checks. They can also give extra security options like security guards, patrol services, monitoring tools and cyber security. Partnering with a security company gives the business peace of mind and confidence to all its employees that they are working in a safe environment. The global physical security market is expected to reach $172 billion by 2027 (Grand View Research, 2023). This indicates the growing recognition of the importance of professional security solutions in mitigating losses.Emerging Trends in Physical Security: AI, Robotics, Automation
Physical security is undergoing a significant transformation as advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and automation reshape how organizations protect their assets and infrastructure. These emerging trends offer exciting possibilities for enhancing security posture, improving efficiency, and reducing costs.| Factors | Description | Benefits |
| AI-Powered Video Surveillance | * Smart cameras with AI analytics * Facial recognition and biometric identification * Predictive analytics | * Enhanced threat detection and response times * Reduces false alarms * Provides valuable insights for better decision-making |
| Robotics for Enhanced Security Operations | * Autonomous robots for patrolling and monitoring * Robotic security guards * Drone surveillance | * Frees up human security personnel for critical tasks * Provides continuous monitoring and data collection * Ideal for remote locations and large events |
| Automation for Streamlining Security Processes | * Automated access control * Automated incident reporting * Integration with other systems | * Reduces the need for manual intervention * Saves time and ensures consistent documentation * Creates a centralized and automated security ecosystem |
