Securing a business involves implementing both physical and electronic security measures to protect assets, data, and personnel. Here are some best practices for each as identified by the experts at National Protective Services, Inc.
Physical Security Practices
- Access Control:
- Implement key card or biometric systems to restrict access to authorized personnel only.
- Use security officers to monitor entry points and verify identities.
- Maintain a visitor log and issue temporary badges for guests.
National Protective Services, Inc. provides an affordable, customizable and comprehensive security program coupled with 24/7 personalized service for property managers and business owners who want to deter crime, reduce liability, and have peace of mind. We provide armed security guards, unarmed security guards, plainclothes security guards and patrol services to clients throughout the Northern Virginia Corridor, including Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria, Woodbridge, Dale City, Manassas, Stafford, Fredericksburg, and Spotsylvania.
- Surveillance Systems
- Install cameras in strategic locations like entrances, exits, and high-value areas.
- Ensure cameras are visible to deter criminal activity, but also place some covertly to catch any incidents.
At National Protective Services, Inc. we provide you with the security surveillance program you need for complete peace of mind. Our comprehensive Managed Surveillance Program ensures you will have 24/7 access to secure, high quality, live and recorded video footage of your property. Schedule your free, no obligation consultation today.
- Alarm Systems
- Use burglar alarms that trigger when unauthorized access is detected.
- Install motion sensors, glass break detectors, and panic buttons.
- Lighting
- Ensure all exterior areas, especially entry points, are well-li to deter intruders. Allow the experts at NPS to point out areas of vulnerability.
- Use motion-activated lights to conserve energy and alert security to movement.
- Physical Barriers
- Install fencing, gates, and barriers around the property.
- Use security film on windows to prevent break-ins.
- Employee Training
- Train staff on security protocols and emergency procedures.
- Conduct regular drills and refresher courses.
- Secure Storage
- Use safes and locked cabinets for sensitive documents and valuables.
- Secure backup storage areas with additional locks and surveillance.
- Identifications and Badging
- Issue ID badges to all employees and require them to be worn at all times.
- Use color-coded badges to indicate different levels of access.
Electronic Security Practices
- Network Security
- Use firewalls, antivirus software, and intrusion detection/prevention systems.
- Regularly update software and firmware to patch vulnerabilities.
- Data Encryption
- Encrypt sensitive data both in transit and at rest.
- Use secure communication protocols like HTTPS, VPNs, and encrypted email.
- Access Control
- Implement strong password policies ad multi-factor authentication (MFA).
- Use role-based access control (RBAC) to limit data access based on job functions.
- Regular Audits and Monitoring
- Conduct regular security audits to identify and address vulnerabilities.
- Monitor network traffic and system logs for suspicious activity.
- Backup and Recovery
- Regularly back up data and ensure backups are stored securely, preferably offsite
- Develop and test a disaster recovery plan to quickly restore operations after a security incident.
- Employee Awareness and Training
- Conduct regular cybersecurity training sessions.
- Educate employees about phishing attacks, social engineering, and safe online practices.
- Patch Management
- Keep all systems and applications up to date with the latest security patches,
- Automate patch management where possible to ensure timely updates.
- Incident Response Plan
- Develop and maintain an incident response plan to quickly address security breaches.
- Conduct regular drills to ensure staff are prepared to respond effectively.
- Secure Wireless Networks
- Use strong encryption protocols like WPA3 for Wi-Fi networks.
- Implement separate guest networks to protect the main business network.
- Remote Work Security
- Provide secure VPN access for remote workers.
- Ensure Remote devices have up-to-date security software and are configures with security policies.
Combining these physical and electronic security practices can significantly enhance the overall security posture of your business. Regular reviews and updates to security measures are essential to adapt to evolving threats.
National Protective Services, Inc. is an experienced private security services company, based in Fredericksburg, VA. NPS specializes in physical and electronic security services, including guard services, marked vehicle patrols, and surveillance system design, installation and live monitoring. At NPS you’re not just another client, you’re part of the NPS family! Honesty, integrity, professionalism, and service are at the heart of everything we do. Our mission is to promote safety in the communities we serve by providing our clients with effective, tailored security services and unparalleled customer care. NPS clients enjoy the best in professional security services, including 24/7 access to NPS ownership. Schedule your fee, no obligation consultation today. At NPS, we don’t just secure your property, we protect you like family.