10 Ways to Secure Your Retail Business Against Cyber-Physical Attacks
In cyber attacks, hackers may get access to sensitive personal information or credit card numbers. But cyber-physical attacks take the problem into the real, physical world. In a cyber-physical attack, criminals may get access to computer systems to affect or shut down business operations in the real world – causing huge losses to business owners.
That’s why taking steps to combat cyber-physical attacks is crucial for any retail business. Here’s how.
1. Training in security procedures
All workers need to be trained on security protocols so that cyber and physical safety steps become a habit. Without this key first step, many other efforts to protect a business’s security may fail.
2. Intruder alarms
Intruder alarms around windows, exterior doors and other potential entry points are a must-have – because a stolen physical laptop or key card can become a gateway to a business’s internal systems and data.
3. Access control
Internal doors can be just as important as external ones when it comes to cyber-physical security. Most employees of a business don’t need to have access to all areas of the premises. And controlling who can access what area can prevent security breaches from the business’s own staff.
The same applies to access control in the virtual world. IT administrators should ensure that permissions are properly set to prevent workers from inappropriately accessing data or system functions that aren’t necessary for their jobs.
4. Scam awareness
Some bad actors get into computer systems without any hacking at all. They simply trick or persuade a trusting worker to breach security – such as by disclosing information or allowing them into a workers-only area of the business.
So, all employees of a retail business need to be taught about common scams. Computer systems should also have safeguards in place, such as two-factor authentication and admin approval, that can prevent scammers from succeeding.
5. Safety steps for employees coming to work or leaving, especially at night
Criminals can also get what they need for a cyber-physical attack by obtaining ID cards, security cards or keys from employees who are coming to or from the retail business’s premises.
Good lighting control around the entrance and exit points of a building can help keep employees safe as they wait outside for the business to open or close up at night. And that keeps the business safer, too.
6. Firewalls and antivirus software
How about cyber-physical attacks that start with a breach of internet security? Firewalls and antivirus software are critical features to promote online safety in any industry, including retail.
7. Timely software updates
Sometimes, software updates don’t come at the most convenient time. Still, they may be necessary to patch a security vulnerability, so businesses need to install updates speedily once they come out.
8. Video surveillance
Security cameras can help business owners discover who’s responsible for security breaches – and AI security cameras can even potentially prevent crime by alerting retail business owners to unusual activity around their premises, like loitering after hours.
9. Password security
Weak or obvious passwords can be a massive vulnerability. So can passwords that are written on post-it notes on workers’ desks. Employees need to know that strong passwords are a must –
10. System maintenance
Lastly, regular maintenance helps keep your business secure day to day. For example, security cameras may need to be cleaned, and your employees will need refresher training on security once in a while.
Turn to professionals in retail business security
Cyber-physical attacks are just one of the many risks that retail businesses face. Get help from us at Selectron with today’s best commercial security CCTV cameras, intruder alarms, access control and more to protect your business.
Want to know more, or ready to get started boosting your retail business’s security? Get in touch with us by phone at +1 441 236 4181. Alternatively, you can get a fast quote online.
Selectron Ltd
At Selectron our solutions help you meet the increased challenges of today’s security and surveillance, enabling you to improve safety by reducing and preventing security breaches and accidents. Find out more about us >>
