Busting business myths: what's more important, cybersecurity or physical security?

Mythbusters (1)

Sep 28, 2022

Businesses today face a number of obstacles related to cybersecurity. Even though companies are increasingly focused on cyber-safety, several common cybersecurity misconceptions persist. Many people mistakenly believe that physical security is less important than cybersecurity, even though it makes up a $30 billion industry. In fact, studies show that having a surveillance camera system results in a 50% crime reduction or more.

Security cameras are the most effective theft deterrent that any business can invest in.

Surveillance cameras work as extra sets of eyes at your business. Business security cameras provide visibility, security, and even improve employee safety and productivity. In fact, security cameras are the most effective theft deterrent that any business can invest in. But not only are they effective at discouraging theft, they can help monitor and record what is happening on your business premises at any time, can help make your employees more productive, help solve disputes between employees or with customers, provide valuable data about bottlenecks to productivity, can help monitor potential workplace hazards, and so much more. But perhaps most importantly, they help protect your sensitive data and that of your clients by providing an invaluable extra layer of security.

Your business could be exposed to unknown risk if you or your employees believe any of the security myths below.

Myth: Cybersecurity and physical security are unrelated

Reality: You are probably aware that cybersecurity preparedness is one of the major obstacles facing businesses today. But did you know that cybersecurity includes preventing hackers from physically entering your building? Physically entering a building is one way that hackers access your data. 

With the rise of the Internet of Things (IoT) and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), cyber-physical systems (CPS) have become increasingly interconnected, expanding attack surfaces and blurring the once clearly defined distinction between cybersecurity and physical security.

The industry has been warning for years that if an attacker is able to physically access your devices, you're in trouble. Physical threats can compromise digital security in the following ways:

  • A USB drive infected with malware is planted in a parking lot, lobby, etc., and picked up by an employee and loaded onto a network.
  • A hacker breaks into a server room and installs rogue devices that capture confidential information.
  • An attacker can intercept data on the internet drop line by gaining access outside the building.
  • The attacker poses as an employee and relies on a real employee's courtesy to hold his door for him.
  • An inside actor watches a system engineer enter admin credentials.

The implications of these attacks are numerous. An attacker doesn’t even have to infiltrate highly secured areas to cause extensive damage. They would be able to access sensitive employee records if they were able to access a Human Resources PC. Money can be wired out of your company using an Accounts Payable PC, or confidential business plans can be accessed via a PC owned by a high-ranking executive.

An attacker can bypass all of these layers of protection if a business’s physical security is weak, even if these devices have extensive digital controls and cybersecurity safeguards in place.

Myth: Cybersecurity is more important than physical security

Reality: One of the most effective ways to prevent theft is to install a physical theft deterrent system. We’ve discussed how a comprehensive cybersecurity plan must include a physical security system. Controls at the perimeter should be able to keep out external threats, while internal measures should be able to reduce the likelihood of internal attacks (or at least flag them).

According to physical security experts, companies often focus too much on the front door, according to physical security experts. Having surveillance cameras, security guards, and badge access at the front of your building is crucial. However, monitoring smoking areas, gym entrances, and even loading bays is just as critical.

The cost of successful digital attacks keeps increasing, however, physical damage to your assets can be just as harmful. According to the 2021 Mid-Year Outlook State of Protective Intelligence Report from the Ontic Center for Protective intelligence which was based on a survey of 300 CISOs, CIOs, CTOs and other physical security decision leaders, 64 percent of respondents reported an increase in physical threat activity so far in 2021, and 58% say they feel less prepared to handle physical security for their organization.

Protect your business inside and out

There are a wide variety of business security cameras available. Generally, they fall into two categories: indoors and outdoors.

  1. Indoor security cameras

    The indoor security cameras provide a view inside your business. You can place them almost anywhere, and they can be discreet or out in the open.

    You should look for the following features in an indoor security camera:

    • Wide viewing angle
    • HD resolution
    • Night vision
    • Motion detection
    • Automatic recording
    • Remote monitoring
  2. Outdoor security cameras

    Outdoor security cameras are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions and lighting conditions while still capturing clear images. These cameras provide surveillance of your business' exterior, including the parking lot, side and rear entrances.

    An outdoor surveillance camera should have the following features:

    • Weatherproof
    • HD resolution
    • Wide field of view
    • Night vision and low-light performance
    • Motion detection
    • Automatic recording
    • Sufficient cloud storage options

Choose Milner for your indoor and outdoor security camera needs

The adjusted losses from cybercrime in 2021 amounted to nearly $6 billion. With new reports estimating that cybercriminals target small and medium-sized businesses 350% more often than large corporations. It's time to take steps to ensure that your business is secure. Talk to a Miner security expert today to get started on installing an effective surveillance system for your business.
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