In a time filled with technological advancements and the rise of remote working, the importance to physical security at work frequently is pushed to the side. As we are increasingly dependent on cybersecurity tools physical aspects of securing your physical possessions are usually ignored. But, despite the technological age physical security threats are still present and have changed, which requires an increased focus on protecting both tangible and digital assets.
We’ll discuss seven strategies that can be used to reduce physical security risks in modern-day workplaces regardless of whether it’s a traditional workplace or an outlying location.
- Protected Portable Devices
In the modern workplace it is commonplace to use portable devices like smartphones, laptops and USB sticks is all-encompassing. These devices are indispensable for those who commute, work from home or want to remain active beyond the normal hours of work. But the convenience isn’t without security.
One of the major concerns is the danger of having prying the eyes of people in public spaces and compromising sensitive data that is displayed on screens. To protect against this risk privacy screen protectors, provide an option. The thin sheets of plastic make sure that information is visible only when it is viewed at the top, thus enhancing security in public settings.
Additionally, companies should ensure password protection for laptops and implement encryption for sensitive data that is stored in portable gadgets. An absolute ban on using Wi-Fi networks that are public for work is also recommended because these networks are regularly targeted by hackers who want to compromise connection.
- Safe Server Rooms
Server rooms, which are the heart of the organization’s digital infrastructure should be secured to guard against unauthorised access and manipulation. The threats could include malicious insiders who have the intention to undermine or even negligent people who accidentally cause harm.
Furthermore, criminals could attempt physical burglaries, employing social engineering techniques to hack into servers. To stop these attacks efficiently, servers should be secured and secured rooms. Monitoring with CCTV cameras can add additional security through monitoring access to these important areas.
- Properly Disposing of Physical Records
Data breaches resulting from the destruction of physical records continue to be a problem for businesses. The instances of sensitive records being discovered in garbage bins or on the streets neglected are a common occurrence and totally preventable.
Organizations can avoid embarrassing situation and its potential legal consequences by taking the simple step of shredding records that contain sensitive information prior to disposal. Incorporating shredders into the information security policy and investing in shredding procedures in the security policies for information will significantly reduce the chance of data breaches caused by the improper disposal of records.
- Clear-Desk Policy
Implementing a clear-desks policy is a different method of preventing unauthorised access to records on paper and sensitive data. The policy teaches employees to ensure that confidential items aren’t left unguarded in their offices.
If they adhere to this policy Organizations reduce the possibility of non-authorized individuals gaining access to or taking sensitive information. Also, it reduces the risk of accidentally destroying documents while cleaning up workspaces.
- Access Control Systems
Access controls, which are often used to protect digital data are equally important for protecting physical places that hold sensitive data. Access restrictions should be enforced in areas that house physical records, and ensuring that only authorized personnel have the credentials or keys required to gain access.
This ensures that confidential physical records are safe within the locked cabinets or rooms that are inaccessible to unauthorised individuals.
- Safe Back-up Storage System
Although the value of backups is generally acknowledged however their security is frequently neglected. Backups usually contain photos of electronic copies that are stored either in cloud storage or remote servers. But these digital storage facilities aren’t immune to weaknesses and cyberattacks.
To ensure the reliability of backups, businesses should create offline backups disconnected from networks. This protects against a myriad of potential catastrophes, such as ransomware attacks or data corruption as well as server failure, protecting critical information even in the event of devastating events.
- Instruction for Physical Security Employees
As the primary element of any security strategy employees play an essential part in governing security systems, ensuring compliance with policies and ensuring responsible technology usage. Thus, thorough security-related training for employees is crucial.
Employees should be aware of their obligations and the requirements on them to adhere to the physical security procedures. Training programs should include subjects like safe handling of physical documents, adhering to clear desk policies, appropriate disposal procedures and knowledge of access control procedures.
With employees equipped with the skills and knowledge to improve physical security, businesses can greatly improve their overall security and decrease the chance of physical security breach.
In the end, as the digital landscape continues change, physical security is vital to safeguard the assets of an organization as well as sensitive data. Implementing these seven methods will help strengthen your business’s protection against threats to physical security regardless of whether you are in a traditional workplace or in a remote working environment. The balance between physical and digital security is crucial in the current workplace environment to provide a comprehensive security solution against ever-changing security threats.
