PHYSICAL SECURITY – Business

PHYSICAL SECURITY – Business

Physical security is essential for cybersecurity.

Physical security flaws can expose critical firm data to identity theft, which can have catastrophic ramifications. As an example:

• A flash drive was mistakenly left on a cafe table by an employee. When he returns hours later to retrieve it, the disc with hundreds of Social Security numbers has vanished.
• Another employee disposes of bundles of outdated firm financial data in a garbage container, where they are discovered after business hours by a criminal.
• A thief enters your workplace through an open window and grabs data and computers.

HOW TO SAFEGUARD EQUIPMENT AND PAPER FILES

Here are some pointers for safeguarding data in paper files as well as on hard drives, flash drives, laptops, point-of-sale systems, and other devices.

Store securely

If you have sensitive information in paper files or technological devices, keep them in a closed cabinet or room.

Limit physical access

Allow only those who require access to sensitive data included in records or devices.

Send reminders

Remind staff to keep paper files in closed filing cabinets, log out of your network and apps, and never leave important data files or devices alone.

Keep stock

Maintain a record of and safeguard any devices that capture sensitive client information. Keep only the files and data you require, and know who has access to them.