The meeting of cybersecurity and physical security is a growing concern for many organizations. As technology advances, more and more devices are being connected to the internet, creating new avenues for cyber attacks. At the same time, the importance of physical security measures, such as guards and surveillance, remains as high as ever. Nowadays, businesses must ensure their cybersecurity and physical security measures are up-to-date. This blog will explore the intersection of these two disciplines and discuss why organizations must address this risk area.
Here’s What You Need to Know About Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is the practice of safeguarding devices, networks, programs, and data from digital attacks.
Cybersecurity is a critical consideration for businesses in the modern age. In fact, the cost of cybercrime globally is estimated to reach $6 trillion annually by 2021, with data breaches costing approximately $3.86 million on average to fix. Furthermore, with companies increasingly relying on digital platforms as part of their operations and customer experiences, they must equip themselves with the necessary measures and resources to protect their online infrastructure from potential threats, such as malicious actors or software vulnerabilities. A breach could lead to significant expenditures for recovery and harm businesses’ reputations and revenue, making cybersecurity a vital part of any successful business strategy.
The Internet of Things (IoT) has also brought about a new era of interconnected devices, from smart thermostats to security cameras. While these devices offer many benefits, they also create unknown risks. For example, a vulnerability in one device could provide a way into an organization’s broader network, potentially compromising sensitive data or security measures.
What Role Does Physical Security Play?
Physical security protects people and property from physical threats like theft or damage.
Regardless of size, physical security is an essential part of any business. Unfortunately, 42% of small businesses reported having experienced an increase in physical security threats within the past year. As such, it’s essential for business owners to invest in security guards, door access control systems, and video surveillance cameras to prevent break-ins. In addition, investing in reliable physical security systems and educating staff on appropriate safety precautions can result in a more secure environment for everyone associated with your workplace.
The Intersection Between Cybersecurity & Physical Security
It is essential to understand that cyber attacks can have physical security consequences. For example, a cyber attack on a power plant or water treatment facility could result in widespread disruption or even physical damage. Similarly, a cyber attack on a building’s access control system could allow unauthorized individuals to gain entry, putting the safety of employees and assets at risk. In addition, a successful cyber attack can compromise physical security measures, making it imperative that organizations view cybersecurity and physical security as interdependent.
To address security risks, organizations must take a comprehensive approach to security that considers both cybersecurity and physical security. This means implementing measures such as network segmentation and access control to limit the potential impact of a cyber attack while maintaining robust physical security measures to prevent unauthorized access to facilities.
The Most Common Threats of Cybersecurity & Physical Security
The most common cybersecurity threats are malicious software, viruses, spyware, ransomware, phishing scams, and Denial of Service (DoS) attacks.
- Malicious software is designed to cause damage or gain access to someone’s information without that person’s knowledge or consent.
- Viruses are similar but can spread quickly across computers or networks.
- Spyware monitors online activity without the user’s knowledge or consent.
- Ransomware encrypts a user’s files until they pay a ransom fee.
- Phishing scams are messages from hackers pretending to be legitimate companies to get users’ personal information, such as passwords or credit card numbers.
- DoS attacks flood a website with traffic so that it cannot handle the load and crashes or becomes inaccessible for users.
On the other hand, physical security threats include theft, vandalism, trespassing, natural disasters (flooding, fires), power outages/failures, equipment breakdowns/failures, and terrorism. These threats can have severe consequences if not appropriately addressed. They can affect personnel safety, disrupt operations, and lead to financial losses due to property damage or lost revenue from downtime caused by these incidents.
How Controlled F.O.R.C.E. is Bridging The Gap
At Controlled F.O.R.C.E., we understand that cybersecurity and physical security measures are equally important when protecting your business from potential threats. Therefore, an effective security plan must include both types of protection to be prepared for any threat.
Controlled F.O.R.C.E. is committed to helping organizations stay ahead of these evolving threats. Our security services are designed to protect your people, processes, and property in this increasingly connected world where cyber threats can seriously impact our physical lives and vice versa.
Counter Surveillance & Electronic Countermeasure
Security in today’s environment is unique, multi-dimensional, and rapidly evolving. One aspect of security that is commonly overlooked is the protection of information. Our clients have unique concerns, from protecting information related to physical safety to protecting trade secrets and corporate strategies.
Physical Security
Controlled F.O.R.C.E. Security provides access to a network of security professionals who are trained in advanced security tactics, techniques, and procedures. Our team of professionals and partners employ the best practices and technologies to protect your people, processes, and property.
Whether you need Counter Surveillance & Electronic Countermeasures for preventing cyberattacks or physical security guards on site 24/7, our team will work with you to develop an effective security strategy tailored to your business needs. Together, we’ll create a plan that meets all applicable regulations while ensuring compliance with industry standards so you can rest assured knowing your assets are secure. Contact us to learn more: https://controlledforce.com/contact-us/
