Physical Security – The Overlooked Aspect of IT Defences

Online cyber protection is at the forefront of everyone’s mind as companies and individuals aim to safeguard themselves against the cyber threat.

And whilst this is essential, physical security to protect IT systems and infrastructure is equally important, including controlling access to physical servers and network appliances on site to prevent theft and tampering.

Just think for a minute about all the people – suppliers, staff, customers, contacts – who come into your offices and then consider all the infrastructure – computers, servers and hardware – that they potentially have access to?

Physical security is something we’re focusing more on at Lifeline IT and we’ve been working with Viewpoint Connections to find out about the key areas that need to be considered. We talk to security expert and Viewpoint Founder Marc Samuel to find out more.

Access Controls
“You need to have a comprehensive understanding of who is coming in and out of your building and what access they have to your equipment. There should be a system in place to monitor when people arrive, what they are there for, who has invited them in and when they leave. You should also regularly audit your supply base – cleaning companies, food delivery, couriers – so you are confident in the service and staff they are providing.”

Cameras and CCTV
“Having cameras and CCTV is a core part of physical security but it’s not just to prevent break-ins and theft. It can also be incredibly useful to find out what is going on in the building and to monitor things like misplaced stock or if something gets broken. One of our clients used their system to trace a £20,000 stock discrepancy back to their supplier, which allowed them to recover the loss. That single incident covered most of the cost of their CCTV installation.

“When you’re installing a CCTV system or cameras, make sure you have the correct level of cover for your operation. If you have a reputable provider, listen to what they recommend and be guided by them as they are the experts. I often see clients scaling back what we’ve recommended to try and save money, only to come back a few months later asking for more cover.”

Insurance
“Insurance is now essential for companies and it’s key that you have the correct level of cover – it’s better to be safe than sorry. Having good security systems, such as monitored CCTV and an alarm, can often help reduce the cost of your policy so it’s worth speaking to a security company for advice on your actual needs.”

About Viewpoint Connections
Founded 20 years ago, Viewpoint Connections looks after a mix of commercial, community and residential organisations and provides services including CCTV, alarms and intercoms.

To find out more call Marc on 020 8958 0232 or 07956 881721 or visit:

https://www.instagram.com/CCTVbyViewpoint/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcsamuel/.