Just over a decade ago, the security sector reported that an estimated 500 data breaches took place per year through businesses in the United States. Today, that number has soared to more than 3,000. It’s not necessarily that businesses are growing lax in their security measures. It’s just that more data is being stored online and on digital devices than ever before, and cybercriminals are finding an ever-growing number of ways to get their hands on sensitive information.
Protecting Sensitive Information
With that being the case, today’s companies must continually update and upgrade their business security measures. Antivirus software, firewalls, multifactor authentication, encryption, and intrusion detection and prevention systems are all highly effective ways for businesses to protect their sensitive information and that of their customers, vendors, and other members of their supply chains. Still, not all attacks are high-tech operations. In fact, some are so simple and obvious that many businesses overlook them. Certain physical security efforts can help keep them at bay.
Securing Servers and Devices
For one, businesses should secure their servers and mobile devices. In many cases, wrongdoers can fairly easily get inside and tap into a company’s servers. They may break in after normal business hours or even slip inside and covertly make their way to a server room in broad daylight without employees even realizing they’re there. In terms of mobile devices, those that contain or have access to sensitive information are equally vulnerable if not more so. Intruders can easily pick them up and walk away with them.
In light of those issues, it’s best to keep servers in fully secured rooms. Locks and reinforced walls and doors can help keep intruders away from them. Those rooms shouldn’t have windows, either. At the same time, using access control measures, like keycards, pass codes, and biometric scanners, can ensure that only authorized personnel gain access to servers. Company-owned mobile devices should also be kept in secured areas, when possible, to reduce the likelihood of having them fall into the wrong hands.
Protecting Physical Files
Though quite a few businesses have gone paperless at this point, many still rely on physical files to some extent. Those are vulnerable as well. Because of that, businesses should pay close attention to how they’re stored.
As is the case with servers and mobile devices, physical files should be stored in secure areas where visitors can’t easily get to them. Access control measures like those previously mentioned can also aid in protecting paper documents. Many industries have strict protocols in place regarding when, how, and if files should be stored. Taking care to remain in compliance with those regulations protects businesses and their clients and partners.
Maintaining Physical Security
Digital and online security are major concerns these days. In some cases, though, physical vulnerabilities can leave businesses and members of their supply chains susceptible to data breaches. Keeping servers, mobile devices, and physical files protected helps to minimize the risks. Businesses should pay close attention to their physical security measures to safeguard sensitive information on this most basic but exceedingly important level.