The physical security of IT assets is a cyber security first line of defense. The effect of a stolen laptop or a piece of paper can be damaging to an organization. As a result, cybersecurity safeguards need to be complemented by other security measures, such as security systems.
On the other hand, Physical security systems are no exception to internet of things (IoT). They are integrating internet as a communication mean. They also use internet for remote access. Consequently, they are not safe regarding cyber hacking.
This article explains how physical security and cyber security converge. And how they complement each other.
Physical security and Cyber security definition
Physical security and Cyber security fall into different fields and call on different expertise. Thus, the link is often minimized.
Cyber security may not pay attention to physical protection vulnerabilities. On the other hand, physical security players avoid this area.
Physical security is the implementation of measures preventing access to a property. The measures may include natural persons. Electronic equipment. Or Mechanical means.
Cyber security is the protection of an enterprise’s cyberspace (computers. Servers. Computer programs. Mobile device. Networks and databases) against theft or malicious controlling or destroying. It covers several categories: Network security, the security of information stored and sent. IT applications and programs security against intruders.
How physical security and cyber security converge ?
It is necessary to understand cybersecurity as an enterprise-wide risk management issue, not only an IT issue. Whether an organization aims to protect its assets from cyber or physical threats it needs to adopt the same practices .
- Identify which assets need securing and identify the threats and risks they are facing.
- Protect assets with the appropriate safeguards.
- Detect intrusions, breaches, and unauthorized access.
- Identify plausible vulnerabilities that threats may exploit (the likelihood)
Two complementary areas for absolute security
Physical security and Cyber security are different. However, they are largely linked and complementary.
Electronic security systems are intelligent systems. They consist of panels connected to servers or data loggers. They increasingly rely on IP technology for data transfer. As a result, they need cyber protection.
These systems can filter access to only authorized persons. Moreover, if the intrusion occurs, they alert. In addition, cameras start recording. Therefore, they are an effective means for security and valuable tool for security teams making their work efficient.
Protecting information systems should be an enterprise-wide problem that requires an interdisciplinary approach. In fact, a safe approach to an organization must include the protection of sensitive places. For example, the server rooms. Malicious people need to be stopped at later stages of their tasks. Sometimes it is easier for criminals if they have physical access to the hardware. Indeed hacking could start with a simple search of a trash can.
6 things you need to protect a server room
- Access control: To filter access to authorized persons and record access history.
- Installation of flood detector.
- Smoke or heat detector: To prevent fires.
- Temperature detector: The temperature of a computer room must not exceed 23 °. A temperature sensor could be connected to the air conditioning system to trigger it automatically. Or the alarm system to alert.
- Video surveillance: The video surveillance system deters the bad guys. It also allows you to record what is happening in the room or in its passages.
- Anti intrusion system (motion detector). It is used to alert in the event of movement in the server room
In the end, no one is safe from attack. Therefore, no one should limit his investments to make the two security cooperate to ensure protection for his home or organization against intrusions from any angle.
Read our article Cybersecurity maintenance checklist
