Is Cybersecurity Important to the Physical Security Industry?

Cybersecurity is a hot topic issue everywhere - not just for those of us in the security industry. The news is filled with cybersecurity hacks, and many people work in organizations that have mandated at least some form of cybersecurity protocols, ranging from password security best practices to VPN firewalls. 

And through all the cybersecurity commotion, it’s not normal to think about how cybersecurity is connected with physical security. And whether we like it or not, the two are highly connected and should be treated as two parts of one unified security program. 

When you live and breathe physical security, cybersecurity can seem like a confusing, complicated beast. We are going to look at how cybersecurity and physical security work together and how you can start building well-rounded security programs that include both

What is Cybersecurity?

Cybersecurity is the process of “protecting networks, devices, and data from unauthorized or criminal use and the practice of ensuring confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information.” Basically it’s anything an organization or person does to protect their digital devices and information. There are different types of cybersecurity attacks, all of which can have negative consequences if an attack is successful. Here are some of the most common cyberattacks: 

• Phishing - Fake emails made to look like real emails in order to trick the receiver to providing sensitive information the sender can steal. 
• Ransomware - This is malicious software that “kidnaps” your files/systems for a ransom, or sum of money to regain access. Note: paying the ransom doesn’t mean that the attackers are guaranteed to restore your system. 
• Malware - Software that is used to gain access and cause damage to a system.
• Social Engineering - Often combined with other types of attacks, this tactic attempts to trick people into sharing personal, sensitive information or sending monetary payments.  

So now, that you know about the different types of cybersecurity threats or cyberattacks, what are the different types of cybersecurity tools you can implement? 

Here are some of the most common types of tools, but keep in mind the larger the business, the bigger the cybersecurity program. 

• Smart Locks
• Video Surveillance 
• Firewalls
• Malware Protection

Cybersecurity & Physical Security 

The most effective security programs are a mixture of both cybersecurity and physical security measures. Here’s the deal though, most business owners and executive management teams don’t fully understand this, prioritizing cybersecurity over physical security. 

The reality is that both physical security and cybersecurity programs have plenty of room for error. Technology glitches happen all the time. Chances are you’ve had the internet go out or a camera feed come back dead or inaccurate. 

Physical security leaves plenty of room for human error. Even with guard management solutions like Silvertrac, something may happen in an area that a guard currently isn’t patrolling or they missed an open door. 

Together, physical and cybersecurity offer full security protection. Let’s look at a couple of examples of using physical and cybersecurity to cover all gaps in a security system

An IT client has a server room containing super important information that is protected by a firewall. A firewall prevents hackers from getting access to the information digitally. But without a security officer to monitor the server room, a thief could break in and steal equipment, which is not only incredibly expensive but can lead to hacking if the information is stolen and taken to another network. 

Using on-site video surveillance monitoring with patrolling security officers is another great example. While an officer may be going on tour every hour or two, an artificial intelligence video surveillance program like ROG’s video intelligence tools can alert an officer in between scheduled tour stops. Once the security officer is alerted by the surveillance system, he can apprehend a potential trespasser or respond to a physical hazard. 

When creating an effective security program, the key is to asses the cybersecurity and physical security resources that are available and see how they can best complement each others’ gaps. 

How Does Knowing Cybersecurity Sell Security Services?

Even if you’re a physical security owner/operator, knowing how your services can complement the cybersecurity program will give you a leg up on the competition. 

Using the information in this blog, we hope that you have a basic foundation of what cybersecurity can look like in relation to selling security services.

When you go on-site to assess a property, ask them about what measures they have in place and be ready to offer how your services will complement those efforts. They will appreciate your attention to the full scope of their security needs and be excited to work with someone who can easily step in to round-out their overall security program. 

If a potential client doesn’t have cybersecurity efforts in place but is looking to build out a well-rounded security program, your knowledge can be a great foundation to helping asses the needs of the property and build out a program together, building trust in your services and your ability to secure the premises. 

With the increasing need for effective cybersecurity, learning and understanding this aspect of security is a great opportunity for competitive physical security companies to step-up and show that they are serious about providing top-notch service. 

Not currently using a guard management solution or ready to up-level your technology? Schedule a Silvertrac demo today!