Businesses are taking advantage of the opportunity to update their security policies and processes while the world recovers from the COVID-19 outbreak. Because many businesses are embracing a hybrid model that combines remote and in-office employment, there will be dangers from all sides – both physical and digital. Here are some security best practices to consider in 2022 to secure your organization.
1.Upgrade your access control system for your doors
The entrance door is where security begins. You should seriously consider installing one if you don’t already have one. If you already have one, it’s probably time to replace it.
One of the decisions you’ll have to make when determining the most acceptable access control system for your location is installing an on-site access control system or cloud-based software. Most legacy access control providers employ an on-premise server, which takes up physical space in their facility and requires in-person maintenance, as the door access control specialists explain. Cloud-based management tools may be a superior alternative, especially in the hybrid workplace, where staff may not always be available to accept maintenance personnel.
“Most firms prefer cloud-based management tools because they offer more flexibility and ease,” says the expert. You can alter door schedules and personnel credentials and check the system status from anywhere with this software. Troubleshooting, maintenance, and upgrades are typically available online.
In your door entry system, we recommend searching for the following features:
- Real-time data and notifications, so you know what’s going on in your facilities at any given time.
- In a security breach, detailed reports and audit trails are available.
- Mobile-friendly custom dashboards
- When managing many sites, remote management is critical.
- In case of an emergency, there is a lockdown feature.
- Touchless access is convenient and a technique to improve worker safety in the aftermath of a pandemic.
- For enhanced security, there are built-in video capabilities.
2. Protect your company against identity theft
Identity theft affects not only people but also corporations. “Business identity theft and fraud losses cost American organizations billions each year,” according to Experian. Both can have a detrimental influence on cash flow, as well as problems with creditors and suppliers, as well as your company’s reputation.”
Phishing scams
Spam emails, texts, and phone calls from ostensibly legitimate websites, financial institutions, or government authorities may ask you to “confirm your identity” by disclosing your social security number.
Theft of property
If a thief steals your driver’s license or Social Security card, they may be able to steal your identity and access your bank or credit card accounts.
Breach of data
Hackers can access a company’s database and steal sensitive information, including passwords, credit card numbers, and Social Security numbers.
Because many organizations have implemented hybrid work patterns in the post-pandemic world, the risk of data breaches is particularly significant. Sheth Jeebun offers some suggestions for preventing a data breach:
- Limit data access by limiting the number of persons who have access to it or creating a policy that prohibits the storage of particular categories of data, such as credit card information.
- Improve your overall security by using firewalls, VPNs, and regular software upgrades.
- Inform your staff about typical data security threats and effective practices. After all, according to Need, the human mistake is responsible for 88 percent of data breaches.
- Audit and reassess. Your data security measures should adapt as your firm evolves and thieves create new hacking techniques.
3. Employ security personnel
In some circumstances, locks and doors are insufficient, and your company may require additional security. It makes sense to hire security guards in this situation. Whether you own a physical store, operate a contact center, or work in a traditional office setting, a guard can deter criminal activity simply by being present.
A guard will keep an eye out for unusual conduct and report it. If an incident occurs, they are ready to respond right away. Additionally, the presence of security officers can provide employees with a piece of mind by assuring them that everything is under constant surveillance. Security guards can also help implement COVID-19 mask and social distance standards and other safety guidelines in the post-pandemic workplace.
4. Provide ongoing security training
According to the 2020 State of Privacy and Security Awareness Report:
- Forty-three percent of employees are unaware that opening an unfamiliar email attachment or clicking a suspicious link can result in malware infection.
- 55% of employees believe connecting their devices to a public WiFi network is safe.
- Over a quarter of employees say it is appropriate to transfer work using a personal cloud server as long as they run a virus scan before downloading the data.
The possibility of cybersecurity vulnerabilities has increased as more workers work remotely or alternate between the office and their home on a hybrid work schedule. Employee security awareness training, updated at least once a year to cover the latest cybersecurity dangers, is the simplest method to mitigate these risks.
Ensure your training incorporates general security regulations for your firm, such as document shredding processes and cybersecurity best practices.
Employees can also provide feedback to management during these security training sessions. Encourage your associates to ask questions if they identify any gaps or areas of weakness. Remind them that everyone in the workplace is accountable for making it safe and secure.
Security procedures are constantly changing
Scammers, thieves, and hackers develop new strategies and practices, so physical and digital security risks are continually changing. Keep in mind that securing your organization takes ongoing attention and reevaluation to ensure the safety of your information, workers, customers, and assets.
