Physical Security Fundamentals

Lately, much of the customer outreach, consulting, and solutions provided by ACP, CCCP, and Citon has been focused on cyber security strategy and preparedness. But, because lapses in physical security often lay the groundwork for devastating, future cyber crimes, it’s absolutely crucial to remember the physical security fundamentals. An effective cyber security posture begins with strong physical security.

As we focus on physical security considerations for the month of June, we begin with the first three steps to better physical security.

Physical Security Step # 1:  Identify What Specific Physical Assets You Must Protect

Start here. Even though the concept might seem obvious to some, this one is tip #1 for a reason. Quite possibly the biggest mistake made in physical security (other than ignoring it outright) is the attempted development of a physical security plan, without a clear and specific understanding of the physical assets which require protection. Physical security, at its core, is intended to deter and prevent damage to or loss of assets.

 

These assets may include people, equipment, data, building structures, and other items or resources critical to operational continuity. These protected assets will vary by the type of organization, location, and core purpose, as well as environmental considerations.  Some protected assets will have multiple different components. But physical security protocols, if designed well and implemented effectively, will protect multiple assets simultaneously.

 

Step # 2:  Identify the Core Threats You Are Protecting Against

Core threats are ever-changing and continuously evolving, but so is the technology and expertise that protects your assets. Now that you’ve identified which assets must be protected, step two is to identify the threats which put those assets at risk of damage or loss.

These threats might include physical damage to facilities and personnel, loss/theft of valuable items, data or confidential information, or other criminal activities which would result in financial damages or operational interruption. Effective physical security processes and procedures must be sufficiently thorough to protect the assets that matter most, while also nimble enough to adapt to changes in the threat landscape. Consider real-world scenarios like theft of computers, smartphones or documents, unaccounted visitors, lost/stolen employee identification, social engineering, and natural disasters.

Step # 3:  Acknowledge and Carefully Manage Existing Vulnerabilities

Once key assets have been identified and core threats have been acknowledged, it’s imperative that existing vulnerabilities are managed effectively. Pay close attention to doors, windows, and all other potential points of physical access to your facility.

 

Don’t forget to apply similar management and security protocols to the interior points of access for your MDF, IDF, and other critical infrastructure, along with locations which are a repository for items of value, including sensitive company and customer information. Ensure that these areas are lockable, fireproof, well-lit, protected by access control/alarm systems, and monitored by video surveillance systems.

 

Those are some physical security fundamentals to consider. But remember, physical security is a journey, and these are just the first three steps. The ACP Solutions Group has decades of experience with physical security, and we offer a wide range of options to help protect what matters most to you and your organization. Whether you’re just beginning that journey, or well on your way, we’re here to help. We’re proud of the trust we’ve earned from our clients, and we’d love the chance to earn yours, too. Talk to one of our physical security or cyber security experts today.