A physical security breach can have just as big of an impact on a business as a cyberattack. Businesses need a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy that includes physical and cyber security measures.
Together, cyber and physical assets represent a significant risk to physical security and cybersecurity – each can be targeted separately or simultaneously, resulting in compromised systems and infrastructure.
In this post, you’ll learn why physical security needs to be a part of a cybersecurity strategy. But let’s get to know the basics first.
What is Physical Security?
Physical security protects people, property, and information from physical threats, such as burglary, theft, and vandalism. Physical security infrastructure includes security cameras, alarm systems, gates, and professionals like security guards or safety officers.
Cybersecurity protects computer networks and data from cyberattacks, such as malware, ransomware, and hacking. Cybersecurity measures include antivirus software, firewalls, and password protection.
Why Is Physical Security Needed in the Case of a Cyberattack?
In 2021, cybercriminals could access surveillance footage after hacking over 150,000 security cameras.
As technology becomes more ubiquitous in our lives, companies are increasingly at risk of cyberattacks. Botnets, collections of compromised devices used for nefarious purposes, are a growing threat to businesses. Often, companies are unaware that their devices have been compromised until it’s too late.
Physical security and IT departments must work together to ensure devices are safe. Physical security needs to track who has access to devices and ensure no one brings in a device that could be used for a cyber-attack. IT departments can help by ensuring devices are secure and installing software that can help protect against attacks.
Companies and their assets are at risk from hundreds of data breaches. Security personnel should be stationed wherever important company information is stored, such as on servers or computers, to prevent any unauthorized access that could lead to a disaster for the business bankrupting its resources with devastating consequences.
When it comes to data breaches and cyber-attacks, the goal of physical security is to make it as difficult as possible for attackers to get to company assets. By adding physical security measures, businesses can make it more difficult for attackers to access company data or disrupt business operations.
The abuse of automation to control heat and ventilation is a huge problem for many organizations. It allows abusers access that they would not have otherwise, alters the environment so it can be overheated or destroyed technology such as communications hardware/software vulnerabilities; all while leaving behind weak passwords in place which could allow them further BARBS!
The Bottom Line
As technology evolves and cybercriminals innovate new attack methods, businesses must employ a multi-layered approach to cybersecurity. Physical security is an important part of this strategy, as it helps to prevent access to sensitive data and systems that could lead to further damage in the event of a cyberattack.
Physical security can help to keep employees calm and organized during a cyberattack. Suppose employees know that there are physical security measures in place. In that case, they will be less likely to panic if their computer is infected with malware or they experience another type of cyber incident. This can help to minimize the damage caused by the attack and improve the chances of recovering quickly.
