Reports show that attacks on businesses are becoming not only more frequent but also more in-depth. Criminals have made it their mission to find inventive ways to infiltrate companies, and their attacks are costing businesses in America an estimated $100 billion dollars each year. Keep in mind that those are only the direct costs of theft, cyberattacks, and other unfortunate incidents. Indirect repercussions can be even more costly.
Physical Security Measures for Your Business
Many businesses have largely turned their attention to cybersecurity measures at this point and with good reason. Cyberattacks have surged by more than 75 percent per year for the last several years. Though small and medium-sized businesses are the most common targets, no company is immune to the ever-growing range of threats.
Still, studies show that physical attacks are on the rise as well. By some accounts, they’ve increased just as much as cyberattacks. As such, it’s important to keep the following essential security measures in mind to physically protect a business from wrongdoers.
Access Control
For one, access control is your first line of defense against criminals. Be sure your doors and windows have high-quality locks, and consider using keycards, PIN codes, or other measures to allow authorized personnel in and out of your premises. With the right measures in place, you can control who comes and goes while also creating an effective tracking system to use if a crime takes place.
For many companies, simply controlling and keeping track of who comes and goes isn’t enough. Some areas of your business may need more protection than others. For example, you may need more stringent security in your manufacturing area or warehouse than in your front office or vice versa. With that being the case, you may need different access control measures for various areas of your business.
Surveillance Systems
Surveillance systems are also essential. Security cameras can work in tandem with tracking systems to pinpoint crimes, track down perpetrators, and unearth potential vulnerabilities in your security. They’re often effective ways to discourage criminals to begin with. Be sure to cover all of the entry and exit points in your business, including parking lots, doors, and loading docks.
Alarm Systems
Alarm systems are also helpful for preventing break-ins and vandalism. More advanced systems have motion sensors to detect suspicious activity both outside and inside your business. Even basic systems can alert you and law enforcement about unauthorized access. As is the case with security cameras, simply knowing you’re equipped with an alarm system may deter some criminals.
Protecting Your Business Against Physical Threats
Cybersecurity is important, and it’s only going to become more crucial moving forward. Today’s businesses shouldn’t overlook their physical security as they’re focusing on preventing cyberattacks, though. Access control measures, surveillance systems, and security alarms can help you protect your assets against physical threats. Remember that your security needs may change over time, and the range of threats you’re up against is sure to grow, so conducting ongoing risk assessments and security revamps is likewise vital.