When we think of data security, the first thing that springs to mind is the layers of cybersecurity measures designed to protect our digital assets management tool. Firewalls, encryption, secure networks, website security, and robust authentication protocols are all essential components of a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy. However, focusing solely on these digital defenses can lead to a critical oversight – physical security.
It can be easy to be lulled into a false sense of security by digital security stacks. But organizations that neglect physical security are taking a big risk, a surprisingly large amount of data breaches are physical.
Let’s have a close look at these risks and how physical security measures can help mitigate them.
Data Security: Thinking Outside the Digital Box
The need for robust cybersecurity measures is an obvious one. But in the digital age, it is easy to overlook the importance of physical security. This is important because the problem is more pronounced than you may believe.
Malicious intent isn’t restricted to digital acts, the age-old problem of physically securing premises remains just as relevant. The fact is that as the digital realm gets ever more secure, the criminal element is always looking for new opportunities. Increasingly, the opportunities that present themselves are physical.
The figures speak for themselves: According to various reports and studies, physical data breaches account for between 4% and 10% of all breaches. Even at the lower end, these are not figures that can be dismissed as an acceptable risk.
But physical security isn’t just protection against the actions of malicious individuals. It also serves as a safeguard against natural disasters, system failures, and other unforeseen incidents that could physically damage your data storage devices. From fires and floods to power outages and equipment malfunctions, physical security measures are crucial in ensuring that your data remains safe and accessible, no matter what happens.
The Role of Physical Security in Data Protection
Keeping something “under lock and key” has been with us for millennia. The importance of physical security has always been known, but modern systems constitute more than just a substantial lock and maybe a security guard or two.
Modern systems that integrate the latest technologies have a large role to play in protecting your data from malicious individuals and other threats.
Among the key components of modern physical security systems are:
- Access Control Systems: Building access control systems regulate who can access certain areas where sensitive data is stored or transmitted. They can include everything from traditional lock-and-key setups to sophisticated biometric scanners.
- Surveillance Cameras: Video surveillance is an essential physical security component and can deter potential intruders and provide valuable evidence in the event of a security breach. Modern systems often include features like motion detection and night vision.
- Security Personnel: Trained security officers can respond to incidents in real-time, provide a visible deterrent to potential intruders, and monitor security systems for signs of trouble.
- Intrusion Detection Systems: These systems can detect unauthorized access or suspicious activity, triggering alarms or notifications to security personnel.
- Environmental Controls: Measures such as fire suppression systems, climate control, and backup power supplies can protect data centers from environmental threats.
- Physical Barriers: Fences, walls, secure doors, and other physical barriers can deter or delay potential intruders.
- Visitor Management Systems: These systems track and control visitor access, ensuring that only authorized individuals can access secure areas.
These systems can provide an integrated and total physical security barrier that utilizes the latest technologies like AI, IoT, and cloud computing to “slam the door” on the substantial risk of physical data breaches.
To understand how technology is being used in physical security components, let’s have a closer look at one of the systems.
Access Control Systems: Age-Old Security Reinvented
A lock and key could be considered the grandfather of all access control systems. However, modern access control systems are unrecognizable from their forebears and represent a major component in physical security systems.
Among the innovations and technologies that access control systems use to protect data are:
- Smart Readers and Biometrics: Modern access control systems have moved beyond traditional keys and keycards. Today, smart readers that use biometrics, such as fingerprint or facial recognition, provide a higher level of security by ensuring that access is granted only to the right individuals.
- Wireless Locks: The use of wireless technology in locks allows for greater flexibility and control. Administrators can remotely control access, lock or unlock doors, and even receive alerts about unauthorized access attempts.
- Touchless Credentials: In an era where hygiene has become paramount, touchless credentials offer a safe and convenient way to control access. These systems can use mobile devices or contactless cards to grant access, reducing the need for physical contact.
- Integration with Other Systems: Modern access control systems can be integrated with other security systems, such as video surveillance or intrusion detection systems. This allows for a more comprehensive security solution where different systems can work together to enhance overall security.
- Cloud-based Management: With the advent of cloud technology, access control systems can now be managed remotely. This allows for real-time updates, easy scalability, and access from anywhere, providing greater flexibility and control.
Such systems can play a critical role in protecting your site from physical threats. They offer security, flexibility, and easy management to create a more secure and can even uplift productivity.
Securing the Future: The Integral Role of Physical Security
The consequences of a data breach can be devastating to an organization. Both in financial terms and loss of trust, the ramifications are substantial and this is rightfully why such resources are poured into cybersecurity systems.
But locking up your data against cyber threats is meaningless if the front door is left lying open. This last simple statement should resonate with all organizations. As we secure our future, let’s ensure that we are not just guarding against digital intruders but also securing the physical front door.
A comprehensive security strategy should encompass both the digital and physical realms.