In hybrid work environments, digital cybersecurity tools such as firewalls, encryption, and cloud security, are rightfully the focus, but one vital layer that is often overlooked is physical security. While it seems counterproductive to focus on physical defenses as most collaboration happens online, the devices, data, and networks your business depends on still exist in the physical world where there are real, physical threats to your business.
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, so there’s no better time to reassess your cybersecurity posture and check your physical defense measures. Let’s take a look at why these components are still critical even in a remote or hybrid work environment.
Why physical security measures still matter in hybrid work settings
Employees in hybrid work environments split their time between office spaces, coworking hubs, and home environments. While this flexibility improves productivity and work-life balance, it also creates new opportunities for cybercriminals to penetrate your network.
Every device connected to your business network is an entry point for cybercriminals. A stolen device, an unsecured home office, or a misplaced access card can provide easy access for a cybercriminal to compromise your data. For instance, employees working from cafés can easily lose an unsecured laptop.
No firewall or antivirus programs can protect you if the attacker has a physical access point. Protecting the physical layer of your cybersecurity framework is therefore just as important as strengthening your digital one.
Which physical security measures keep your network safe
Every work environment has different security needs, so you need to implement the right measures to reduce the likelihood of theft, tampering, or unauthorized access to your systems and data.
Implement these five effective physical security measures:
Secure devices and endpoints
Company-issued laptops, phones, and tablets should always be secured with end-to-end encryption, password protection, and automatic screen locks. If you have the budget, many devices can be physically secured with biometric locks. Encourage your employees to store devices in safe, locked locations when not in use, and install mobile device management tools with remote wipe capabilities to protect data if a device is lost or stolen.
Physical access controls for offices
Hybrid offices are typically not fully staffed, so there are fewer eyes watching out and more unfamiliar faces. Limit access to your office location and IT infrastructure with smart keycards, ID badges, or biometric systems. Restrict server rooms and networking equipment to authorized personnel only, and maintain access logs to track activity and identify any breaches.
Protect home workspaces
Hybrid work means extending security beyond the office. Require your employees to set up home offices in private, lockable areas and avoid working in public spaces for extended periods. Confirm their home Wi-Fi is secure, along with locked and encrypted endpoints and physical files or papers secured in locked cabinets.
Manage hardware disposal and maintenance
When equipment reaches the end of its life cycle, it must be securely wiped and disposed of. Criminal rings are known to salvage discarded IT, sifting for data they can sell to cybercriminals. Old hard drives, external storage devices, and even printers can contain residual data that can easily be exploited. Partnering with IT disposal professionals ensures data is permanently destroyed.
Combine physical security with cyber awareness
As with digital measures, if your employees don’t know how to maintain physical security, it doesn’t matter which tools you buy. Train employees to recognize how physical risks can lead to cybersecurity incidents. Your cybersecurity awareness training must include the proper way to secure devices and drives, how to spot and report suspicious visitors, and the importance of disposing of IT equipment properly.Investing in physical safeguards this Cybersecurity Awareness Month helps to prevent expensive security incidents in your hybrid digital work environment year-round. Contact SpectrumWise today for a FREE cybersecurity assessment. Our experienced consultants will provide a custom plan to protect your company’s hybrid work environment.