Physical security in cybersecurity is important. Why? Well, these two are different securities. But, both protect the organization’s assets and resources. Indeed, security leaders seek to converge the two?
But why? And how important is physical security’s role in protecting data? Read this post and find out.
What Does It Mean When We Say Physical Security?
Do you think of bars, armed uniforms, locks? Well, you got it right.
Physical security is the protection of people, physical assets, and properties. In other words, it prevents actions and events that cause damage or loss.
Additionally, it focuses on the strategy, application, and preservation of countermeasures. Especially those that can defend the business’ physical resources.
Why It’s Important?
Physical security is as important as cybersecurity. Why do we say that?
For instance, an open door increases the risk of unauthorized people entering. And they can take valuable goods that are visible. Additionally, human errors and accidents can cause harm to valuable assets.
On the other hand, think about cybersecurity solutions. These solutions focus only on anti-malware tools. As well as firewalls and data security measures.
But, let’s say the attackers steal the computer from the storage room. What will happen? So, it’s obvious that software alone can’t do anything about it.
Thus, physical security and cybersecurity are more closely connected. These two need to be working together. To protect the physical and digital assets of your organization.
Create A Solid Security Posture
Physical security can help cybersecurity through the following:
- By knowing who’s in your property or building.
- Taking time to consider when and how they get in.
- Ensuring also that they have the authorization to be there. In other words, you’re creating a safer space.
- Locking down areas/ properties that store sensitive information and equipment.
Besides, the following point also help:
- (What you are protecting). You may need to identify and classify assets and resources.
- (Who to protect from). You may need to identify plausible threats.
- (The likelihood). Knowing the plausible weak spots that attackers may exploit.
- (The consequences). Identifying the expected cost when something bad happens.
Think About Physical Security When It Comes To Cybersecurity
What do businesses do to strengthen their cybersecurity defenses? Well, they apply security patches. They also firewall and other software.
But software is not the only weapon. You also need to consider physical security in your line of defense.
Goldstein (2016) suggests precaution also – outside of your computer. So, how will you do that?
Well, consider the following:
- Fostering a culture of security. But what does it mean? Take time to train your employees in security awareness. This includes motivating them to protect the organization.
- Securing entry points. You may want to invest in security gates and doors.
- Using surveillance cameras. This helps detect potential threats. Besides, cameras provide solid evidence to review after the incident.
- Install some alarms. These things are useful for warding off intruders.
- Guarding the server rooms. Most businesses maintain their data center in a room. So monitoring and securing the access with security gates is very important.
