How a physical security presence can improve your cyber security

Cyber security is increasingly important in today’s digital world. Changes coming into effect later in 2018 will see greater fines on company’s who suffer serious data breaches.

Having effective online security is of course important. But good physical security can also be effective against cyber crime, protecting electronic data and preventing a data breach.

Why is cyber security important?

According to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport’s ‘Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2017’, 1 in 2 of the SMEs surveyed had experienced a cyber security breach. As well as the associated costs and embarrassment a data breach can cause, from May this year, the new General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) may mean you’re left with a heavy fine too.

What is GDPR?

The biggest change in data protection laws for 20 years, GDPR or the General Data Protection Regulation is a new EU regulation that will strengthen data protection rules for all individuals within the EU, giving them greater control over the use of their personal data.

As well as giving citizens easier access to the information stored about them, it also brings in legislation requiring data breaches to be reported to the Information Commissioners Office (ICO). In short, it has never been more important to ensure client’s data is secure.

How can a physical security presence help my cyber security?

Physical security can be many things, ranging from security guards to CCTV and gate control. By implementing these procedures, companies could prevent the theft of electronic devices, which could, in turn, avert a loss of data.

Tips to keep data secure

Server rooms should be locked at all times, with access only allowed to authorised personnel. Access should be monitored by CCTV and a log book (as a minimum). A better solution would be a security door with an authentication system, such as a smart card or even a biometric scan. Having a security guard to allow access may be another way to ensure there’s no unauthorised access to the data centre.

Motion detectors can also monitor the room outside of office hours.

Lockdown portable devices – Securing electronic equipment, such as laptops and mobile phones can prevent data losses. One of the simplest and most common forms of security breach, theft of an entire machine can leave you vulnerable to loss of any data and network passwords saved on the computer. A simple way to prevent this loss, is to secure them using a cable lock, store them in a secure setting (such as the server room) or keep them on your person.

If taking the computer home, ensure good security practices are adhered to outside of the office as well as in it.

Secure sensitive files – It’s not just digital copies that can store confidential data. Printed materials, such as invoices or job tickets can contain sensitive information too. Ensure all paper records are shredded when no longer needed and sensitive documents are locked away in drawers or filing cabinets.

Report suspect breaches to ICO – The new GDPR guidelines state that it will be mandatory to report a personal data breach if it’s likely to result in a risk to people’s rights and freedoms. Previously it was not compulsory, but from May failure to notify the relevant authorities will result in a fine. The ICO’s advice: ‘Tell it all, tell it fast, tell the truth’.

Employ professional security officers – For businesses who regularly deal with sensitive data, on-site uniformed guards can act as a deterrent to criminal behaviour and also ensure best practices are undertaken. Working alongside your staff, a security officer will fit into your working environment with the minimum of disruption.

Abbey Security provides security solutions to businesses in Bury St Edmunds, Cambridge, Newmarket, Thetford and the surrounding areas

If you require security for your business, get in contact with our team on 01284 768832 or via our contact page.


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Posted on January 22, 2018

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