Today’s corporate environments expose your business to more than just physical threats, although these risks are as ever-present as they always were. Cybercrime like phishing and data violations present a new layer of danger and no sector or business remains unscathed.
In 2022, the total number of corporate ransomware attacks surged by 13 percent (more than the last five years combined). To ward off these dangers and protect your premises, employees, and clients, you need a comprehensive security approach.
Our guide will help you enhance security across all major areas, from physical barriers to digital safeguards.
Assess Your Current Security Setup
First things first, you need to do a detailed assessment of your existing infrastructure. This will help to identify potential vulnerabilities and opportunities for improvement, which ensures current measures align with your security needs.
Start with areas like access control, surveillance, and alarm systems. For instance, are your access points properly monitored? Does your surveillance system offer clear images?
Your business can conduct an internal review or engage a professional security firm to audit the premises from an impartial perspective.
Upgrade Your Surveillance System
Cameras, alarm systems, and other surveillance serve as a critical line of defence for any business, deterring would-be criminals with their real-time monitoring. However, many companies rely on outdated systems that lack clarity and comprehensive coverage.
High-definition (HD) cameras can make a significant difference in image clarity and use connectors for better transmission between devices. HD surveillance paired with cloud-based systems allows for remote monitoring, so you can view live feeds and review footage from anywhere, at any time.
Implement Multi-Layered Access Control
Gone are the days when a simple key was enough to secure a business. Today’s access controls offer advanced solutions such as biometric authentication and smart card systems, that restrict access to sensitive areas to only authorized personnel.
Key cards, fingerprint scanners, and access codes create multiple checkpoints that make unauthorized access considerably more challenging. You can streamline access for guests and clients, logging their details and movement within the premises. This adds another layer of visibility if you’re regularly welcoming visitors.
Invest in Cybersecurity to Protect Digital Assets
Physical security alone is no longer sufficient in an era where cyberattacks are increasingly common. Losses connected to cybercrime were estimated to be over $12 billion in 2023 so there is a lot at stake. To secure your digital assets, you need to safeguard your network and data from malicious actors.
Basic protections such as firewalls and antivirus software form the backbone of a strong digital defence. Equally important is employee training in phishing scams and suspicious activities since most successful cyberattacks stem from human error.
Regular software updates and security patches are also necessary to close vulnerabilities as they emerge since outdated software is a known target for hackers.