High-end digital hacking procedures concern cybersecurity departments all around the world. One must not ignore that physical security hacks can be a risk factor in a business as well. A low-tech physical threat or hack referred to as a “tailgating attack,” offers an easy point of entry into restricted areas. Malicious parties might enter and initiate data breaches, which can be damaging to a business. The risks associated with tailgating must be mitigated, and measures must be taken to eliminate the overall threats. The motive of following a step-by-step guide is to address the root cause and prevent such attacks.
Proper training of employees in physical security
The majority of businesses base their security training programs on digital security awareness and practices. Recognizing phishing emails and practicing other digital security measures are important, but ignoring physical security practices is an unwise decision. Neglecting the physical security of a business can negatively impact a business. Thus, a business must promote year-round training on robust physical security programs dedicated to tailgating attacks and the process of mitigating the risks involved. When employees of a business are trained in both physical and digital security, it helps the business run efficiently.
Understanding social engineering
Several people fail to identify tailgate attacks as they are not familiar with the concept of social engineering attacks. Practicing security training sessions is useful, but simulating attacks can help enhance security awareness among business employees. Since employees will encounter real-world security incidents, they will be trained better and can also come up with efficient solutions. Simulating a tailgate attack is an excellent method to familiarize employees with the different techniques of social engineering. With proper understanding and know-how about different social engineering forms, trained employees can easily identify suspicious activities that are synonymous with tailgating and piggybacking and take the necessary steps.
Enhancing physical security and accessibility
The majority of businesses operating today use smart cards for office entry and exit for employees. This is one of the prime reasons that are responsible for the continuous shortcomings of physical security and the success of tailgating. A completely staffed reception area with dedicated security professionals can initiate additional physical access security and protection. Using turnstiles that allow one individual to enter the office at a time can be an excellent alternative to improving physical security measures. Badges are also believed to improve physical access security at a cost-effective rate. It helps to visually detect anyone who should be and shouldn’t be entering the office premise.
Utilizing video surveillance
When an office building has multiple entry points and exit points along with several restricted areas, monitoring becomes a major challenge. Even a staffed reception desk makes things overwhelming. This is where advanced and smart video surveillance using AI and video analytics can be helpful. It helps to improve the functioning of a business with the help of real-time physical security monitoring. The video surveillance can get access to video footage with facial scans of people entering and exiting the building.
Conclusion
Physical security hacks are not a matter of the past but take place regularly even today. Several businesses are not resourced to mitigate the risks associated with a tailgating attack. It is highly recommended that businesses focus on physical security awareness and social engineering so that tailgating attacks can be eliminated.
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