6 security vulnerabilities businesses often overlook
Credit: Pexels
Many of us have the basics covered when it comes to business security. However, there are a few vulnerabilities that can often get overlooked. Below are some of the weaknesses that can often catch businesses out – and how you can fix them.
No exterior lighting
Burglars are more likely to target unlit buildings. This is because there’s less chance of getting seen while attempting a break in.
Adding some exterior lighting outside your office will make thieves think twice before attempting a break in. It’s worth installing motion sensing lighting – this will only turn on when motion is detected, saving you energy compared to permanent lighting.
Poorly maintained security cameras
Security cameras can help to detect all kinds of crime from theft to vandalism. A visible camera can sometimes be enough of a deterrent against crime. That said, you still want to make sure that your camera is working so that if a crime is committed, you have some evidence to help you find the culprit.
Make sure that you’re regularly checking your cameras to ensure that they’re working properly. Clean away any cobwebs so that the picture isn’t obstructed and make sure that there are no technical issues that need to be fixed such as freezing or reduced image quality.
No visitor policy
You may want to consider enforcing a visitors policy in some buildings. This can ensure that the wrong people aren’t being allowed into your building, where they could be getting access to sensitive information.
You could hire security in order to control access to visitors – this could include outdoor security or a manned reception desk. Alternatively, you could control access using a buzzer system.
Lack of candidate screening
In some businesses, there have been cases of criminals pretending to be job applicants in order to gain access to sensitive information.
When hiring candidates, it’s important to put a thorough screening process in place. This includes doing criminal background checks and asking for official ID (such as a passport or driving license) to check candidates are who they say they are.
Old unchanged passwords
While many companies understand the importance of using strong passwords, a lot of companies don’t regularly change passwords. It’s important to change passwords at least once per year in case information leaks out. There are huge amounts of login details already available for sale on the dark web – by changing passwords regularly, you can prevent hackers who buy this information from gaining access to your private data.
Insecure networks
You’re more likely to get your data stolen while using an insecure network. While many companies invest in secure private networks, the rise of remote work has led to many people working from insecure public networks or home networks.
Encouraging you and your employees to use a VPN (virtual private network) can be a way of keeping your information private when using a weaker network. You can compare VPNs online.
