Protecting customers: Businesses are experiencing a prolonged period of security threats. According to CNN, stores have said that shoplifting is now a crisis, and although statistics don’t represent a specific financial threat, there is still a clear growing issue over business physical security. In other reports, attacks against service centers – for instance data hubs – are reported. There is clearly a need for businesses to step up their security provisions, but at a time of economic volatility, it can feel like a secondary issue; an examination of the risks posed by on-site incidents should help to provide a basis for action.
Protecting customers and partners
There are broad legal protections in place for visitors to a business. Where injuries, mental or physical, emerge from inadequate lighting; forced entry by malicious actors; inadequate security around the premises; and slips, trips and falls, there is likely to be broad culpability on the part of the business. This, in turn, will become apparent when the customer looks to speak with an experienced attorney. As the legal dictionary, Nolo, highlights, a successful claim will result in significant damages against the business and reputational harm. There may be punitive measures put into place, or orders to update and amend the property to make it safe. With repeated issues, OSHA and similar agencies may have cause to undertake repeated inspections, with enforced closure and further sanctions at hand. While a small issue may seem just that – small – it can quickly spiral.
Updating the system smartly
Fortunately, security options are easier to obtain than they ever have been before. Thanks to the advent of smart tech and integrated security systems, there is a quick and easy way to improve security systems and have an assured digital backup. This bypasses the expense of hardwired security systems and the analog systems they require. Beware, however – as CNBC highlights, IoT devices are being put in the crosshair by online criminals. It’s very important that your data and cybersecurity systems reflect the level of scrutiny and quality given in the physical security sector, otherwise there will be a massive gap.
Protecting the supply chain
You can also protect your customers by observing the supply chain. As the International Society of Automation notes, there have been a number of physical threats and attacks against that most important of modern supply partners – data centers. With modern integrated security, this can cause a significant amount of damage to businesses at the operational side. Checking in with delivery partners and logistics professionals and looking to expand physical security measures past the business premises and into key related fields will help to protect the business and protect your customers.
With burglary up, attacks on properties up, and the cybersecurity system behind them also under pressure, businesses need to pause and reassess. Protecting the physical nature of their businesses, and protecting customers, reputation is preserved and customers remain safe. Bringing in smart security – with equally rigorous digital assurance behind it – is a good way for businesses to up their game.