Working from home, or even a hybrid at-office and at-home schedule, is now a reality. For many businesses in many industries, this has unearthed several security concerns, particularly as they pertain to cyber vulnerabilities and the potential for data breaches. But there also exist physical security considerations that business owners should be made aware of.
Here are three of the biggest:
- Visitor management adjustments: With hybrid workforces fully implemented worldwide, the typical traffic flow of your office space pre-pandemic may be forever altered. With a mishmash of employees now splitting their time between the home office and occasional on-site meetings, keeping a close eye on the comings-and-goings of all authorized personnel, visitors, and vendors are more important than ever. A 24-hour remote management system can help you keep thorough records while ensuring that no one is taking advantage of the new order of things. They also allow for meticulous monitoring of your headquarters while giving you the power to create credentials, arm and disarm doors, and grant access on the fly.
- Issues with the Internet of Things: While a remote employee may not have a fleet of CCTV cameras covering their driveway, garage, and guest bathroom, or a hollow metal door equipped with state-of-the-art access control – chances are good that they have other electronic home devices that are integrated with their smartphones. From smart thermostats to automatic door locks to garage door openers, the Internet of Things (IoT) operates many of today’s households. And these tools, while handy, are also vulnerable to cyberattacks and hacks, putting your company’s data at risk, as well. Many home video surveillance systems, in particular, are not 100% secure – which could pose significant problems for your business. The solution? First, educate. Be certain to discuss potential risks with your team, and teach them how to recognize different scams, like phishing, while taking steps to mitigate data loss (regularly shredding documents, etc.) Second, talk to your security provider about enhancing your company’s cybersecurity and the possibility of establishing other safeguards, like doorbell cameras, which your employees can implement themselves.
- Document dangers: It’s often overlooked, but if your employees are set up to receive company-related mail, you may want to invest in a post office box for delivery. Sensitive materials being mailed directly to a private residence could be intercepted and/or read by criminals. Also be sure to provide personal shredders for your remote team, allowing them to properly dispose of documents after they are no longer needed – reducing the risk of dumpster divers taking off with your intellectual property.
Secom, LLC can help you address all physical security considerations facing your business in an ever-changing business landscape. With over 50 years of experience installing and maintaining state-of-the-art access control, video surveillance, alarm, and visitor management systems, our team will help you establish a comprehensive plan to protect your assets. Contact us today to learn more.