As the world recovers from the COVID-19 epidemic and people return to the office, businesses are taking the opportunity to renew security policies and procedures. As more and more companies now use a hybrid model, a combination of remote and office work, there will be risks on all sides – both physical and digital threats. To protect your business, here are some of the best security measures you can consider using in 2022.
Review your door entry control system
Security starts at the front door. If you do not have a door control system, you should seriously consider adding one. If you already have one in place, it may be time to improve.
In testing the best access control system for your location, one of the decisions you have to make is whether to install a site access control system or cloud-based software. As departmental entry control experts in OpenPath explain, many asset access control providers use a local server, which takes up virtual space in their area and requires personal attention. Especially in a mixed workplace where staff may not always be available to find repair people, cloud-based management platforms may be the best option.
As OpenPath explains, “Cloud-based management platforms are popular with many businesses, as they offer more flexibility and simplicity.” This software allows you to make changes to departmental schedules and staff details and check system status anywhere. Troubleshooting, fixes, and updates can often be done online as well.
OpenPath suggests looking at the following features on your door-to-door access system:
- Real-time data and notifications so you know what’s going on in your area at the time
- Detailed reports and research methods in the event of a security incident
- Custom dashboards optimized for mobile devices
- Remote control, which is especially useful when managing multiple locations
- Lock feature in case of emergency
- Useless access, which is not only easy but a way to improve safety in the post-epidemic workplace
- Video power is built-in for added security
Protect your business from identity theft
Identity theft affects not only individuals but also businesses. According to Experian, “Identity theft and fraudulent losses cost American companies billions each year. Both can have a detrimental effect on revenue, causing problems for lenders and suppliers and affecting the reputation of your business. ”
In their article “Here’s How to Find Out If Your Identity Has Been Stolen”, Aura describes three of the most common ways identity theft occurs:
Attack on the crime of identity theft
This includes spam emails, texts, and calls from supposedly established websites, financial institutions, or government agencies asking you to “verify your identity,” for example, by disclosing your social security number.
Real theft
If a thief steals your driver’s license or Social Security card, that alone is not enough to steal your identity and get your bank or credit card information.
Data breach
Criminals can access a company website to steal data, such as passwords, credit card information, and Social Security numbers.
The threat of data breaches is highest in the post-epidemic world, as many companies have adopted mixed-use work models. Nate Need, CEO of DEV.co and SEO.co, shares some ideas on how to prevent data breaches:
Use guards
In some cases, locks and doors are insufficient, and your business may need additional security. That’s where hiring security guards makes sense. It does not matter if you are a brick and mortar store, you have a call centre, or you live in a normal office area – a security guard can stop criminal activities just by being present.
A security guard will monitor and report suspicious activity. In the event of an incident, they are in a position to respond immediately. In addition, the presence of security personnel can give employees peace of mind; assuring them that things are under constant scrutiny. As a bonus, in the post-epidemic work environment security guards can also help enforce the requirements of the COVID-19; mask as well as public isolation and other safety guidelines.
Conclusion
Limit access to data by limiting the number of people who can access information or implement a policy that does not allow certain types of data; such as credit card information, should be stored.
Improve your common security by using tools like firewalls, VPNs, and standard updates.
Train your employees with common threats and best data security practices. After all, Need points out 88% of violations can be caused by human error.
Check and update. As your organization continues to evolve and cybercriminals develop new ways of hacking; your data security policies need to change as well.
