Published on: 26 October 2018
Last Updated on: 18 November 2021
Whether you have a small- or medium-sized business such as a restaurant, a convenience shop, a retail shop, or a bank, your business could well be a target for intruders and those who are criminally inclined. Security should be a top priority, and for good reason, especially if your business is in an area that has had its share of security issues. The need for security guard is huge when you want to ensure the safety of your business.
The good news, however, is that you can make use of a security guard to enhance security for your premises, and security guards are not just there to provide protection, either – they can also assist your employees and customers. So how else can a security guard benefit your business? Here are the top reasons why your business needs a security guard.
Reasons Why Your Business Needs Security Guard
These are some of the factors that you have to take care of while you want to make choices to achieve your objectives for making the use of a security guard.
1. Enhanced security and protection
One apparent reason why you need a security guard for your business is enhanced security and protection. If you have a security guard present at your business, they can enhance your peace of mind as well as the peace of mind of your employees along with your customers. Employees who work in an area with a high risk of security breaches can be more productive because they need no longer worry about theft or break-ins and their personal safety. Your customers will also be assured by the knowledge that you have taken substantial steps to ensure their security while they are on your premises. This is especially true if you have highly-valuable merchandise or if your business is in an area with a high incidence of crime.
2. An invaluable deterrent
Just the simple fact that you have a security guard at your premises is often enough to deter criminals from breaking in or steal something from your premises. A thief or burglar will think twice before they target your business if they can see a professional security guard at your premises. Aside from this, professional security guards are specially-trained to identify and detect suspicious behaviour or activities. They can assess a specific situation and take the necessary steps to ensure that no security breaches occur. A security guard is also a better deterrent than a camera or a standard system for security, as they are highly visual.
3. Improve your service to customers
With a static security guard such as one from specialists in security in Oxford like Securipol Ltd, you can improve your service to your customers. The security guard can assist your customers and man a desk or reception area, and they can also serve as a sentry in order to control access to a specific sector of your premises. A security guard can act as an escort for employees and customers who are trying to locate their cars in the parking lot, and they can help your customers reach their destination within your premises.
4. A thorough way of dealing with criminal incidents and other situations
Security guards often receive different levels of professional training in regards to responding to an incident or a crime. Some guards can note down specific details of a situation and then get in touch with the police. Others can detain intruders and suspects. Most will also know how to handle difficult situations (such as fights and disturbances). With a security guard, you can be sure that any problematic situation will be dealt with in the proper manner.
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Data breaches have become an increasingly prevalent issue for businesses across the globe, with the potential to compromise sensitive information and inflict significant reputational and financial damage. Organizations must adopt robust measures to safeguard their data assets in the face of evolving cyber threats. This article delves into proactive strategies that businesses can employ to fortify their defenses against data breaches, emphasizing the integration of cutting-edge solutions and adherence to best practices in cybersecurity.
Understanding The Threat Landscape
Before diving into prevention strategies, businesses must grasp the breadth and complexity of the threat landscape. Cyber threats can emanate from various sources, including malicious hackers, insider threats, and accidental disclosures. The methods used by attackers are equally diverse, ranging from sophisticated phishing schemes and malware attacks to exploiting software vulnerabilities and conducting brute force attacks.
Leveraging Data Protection As A Service (Dpaas)
One of the cornerstone approaches for enhancing data security involves leveraging Data Protection as a Service (DPaaS). DPaaS offers a comprehensive suite of services that cater to the critical needs of data backup, recovery, and security. By adopting DPaaS, businesses can benefit from scalable, cloud-based solutions that provide robust encryption, threat detection capabilities, and continuous monitoring of data assets. This service simplifies the complexity of data protection efforts and ensures compliance with regulatory standards and best practices in data security.
Establishing A Culture Of Security Awareness
A proactive data breach prevention strategy is complete with fostering a culture of security awareness among employees. Human errors remain a significant vulnerability that can lead to data breaches. Therefore, conducting regular training sessions on cybersecurity best practices, phishing awareness, and secure handling of sensitive information is imperative. Encouraging employees to adopt strong password practices, recognize suspicious emails, and report potential security incidents can significantly reduce the risk of data breaches.
Implementing Strong Access Control Measures
Effective access control is a critical component of data breach prevention. Businesses should adopt the principle of least privilege, ensuring that employees have access only to the information and resources necessary for their job functions. Implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds a layer of security, requiring users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access to systems or data. Such measures drastically reduce the likelihood of unauthorized access, even if login credentials are compromised.
Regular Updating And Patching Systems
Cyber attackers often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software and systems to gain unauthorized access to data. To combat this, businesses must implement a rigorous schedule for regularly updating and patching their IT infrastructure. This includes operating systems, applications, and network devices. Organizations can close security gaps and protect against known exploits by ensuring that all components are up to date.
Employing Advanced Threat Detection And Response
Advancements in technology have enabled the development of sophisticated tools for threat detection and response. Utilizing artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms, these tools can analyze patterns, detect anomalies, and identify potential threats in real time. Automated response mechanisms can be activated in a suspected breach to contain and mitigate the impact, minimizing damage and facilitating a swift recovery.
Conducting Regular Security Audits And Assessments
Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments are vital for identifying weaknesses in an organization’s cybersecurity posture. These evaluations should encompass all aspects of the IT ecosystem, including network infrastructure, applications, and end-point devices. By conducting these assessments, businesses can gain insights into vulnerabilities and implement corrective measures to strengthen their defenses.
Developing A Comprehensive Incident Response Plan
Despite the best efforts to prevent data breaches, the possibility of an incident cannot be eliminated. Therefore, having a comprehensive incident response plan is critical. This plan should outline the steps to be taken in the event of a breach, including the immediate containment of the breach, assessment of the impact, notification of affected parties, and measures to prevent future incidents. Regular drills and simulations ensure the response team is well-prepared to act swiftly and effectively in a real-world scenario.
Utilizing Secure Cloud Storage Solutions
The swiftness towards cloud computing has offered businesses flexibility and scalability in managing their data. However, it also introduces new security considerations. Secure cloud storage solutions, equipped with end-to-end encryption, regular security audits, and compliance certifications, provide a robust framework for protecting data stored in the cloud. Businesses should carefully select cloud service providers that adhere to stringent security standards and offer transparency in their security practices.
Engaging In Threat Intelligence Sharing
Threat intelligence sharing involves exchanging information about emerging threats, vulnerabilities, and attack strategies with other organizations and security entities. This collaborative approach enhances the collective ability to anticipate, identify, and respond to cyber threats more effectively. By participating in industry-specific threat intelligence sharing platforms or joining cybersecurity consortia, businesses can gain insights into the latest threat landscape, adapt their defense mechanisms accordingly, and contribute to a broader cybersecurity ecosystem.
Investing In Cybersecurity Training And Education
Continuous education and training programs for IT staff and employees are vital in keeping pace with the latest cybersecurity trends, threats, and prevention techniques. Specialized training for cybersecurity teams ensures they are equipped with the knowledge and skills to implement advanced security measures and respond to incidents effectively. For the wider workforce, regular awareness sessions can help in recognizing and mitigating the risks associated with social engineering attacks, phishing, and other common cyber threats.
Adopting Zero Trust Security Architecture
The Zero Trust model operates on the principle that no entity, whether inside or outside the network, should be automatically trusted. This security approach requires verification for every access request, irrespective of its origin. Implementing Zero Trust involves segmenting networks, enforcing strict access controls, and continuously monitoring and validating user and device activity. This model significantly reduces the attack surface and limits the potential impact of a breach.
Enhancing Data Privacy Measures
Beyond protecting data from unauthorized access, it's essential to focus on privacy aspects. This includes implementing data minimization practices, where only the necessary amount of personal data is collected and stored. Furthermore, ensuring transparency in data processing activities and providing users with control over their data enhances trust and complies with privacy regulations. Data privacy measures, coupled with security practices, create a robust framework for safeguarding sensitive information.
Regularly Reviewing And Updating Security Policies
Cybersecurity is not a set-and-forget endeavor. As technologies evolve and new threats emerge, security policies and procedures must be regularly reviewed and updated. This includes revising access controls, data encryption protocols, and incident response plans to address new vulnerabilities and compliance requirements. A dynamic approach to policy management ensures that the organization's security posture remains strong in the face of evolving cyber threats.
Final Thoughts
The importance of a comprehensive and proactive approach to data breach prevention cannot be overstated. By embracing a culture of continuous improvement and integrating advanced security measures, organizations can not only protect their valuable data assets but also build trust with customers and stakeholders. The journey towards enhanced cybersecurity is ongoing, requiring vigilance, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence in safeguarding information in an ever-changing threat environment.
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Security software is a must for any business. Your systems contain a lot of important company information, as well as the personal information of your employees and your customers. A security leak or a hacker can be devastating to your business.
However, you shouldn’t make the mistake of thinking that just because you have security software that you don’t have anything to worry about. You have to know what to do, or what not to do, to make sure that software keeps you as secure as you think.
You can also look for a network security company that will help secure your business.
Choose the Right Software
The first step is choosing the right software. You have to choose software that provides your business with the features you need, but you also have to choose a trusted name.
You need to make sure that your planning begins by finding the correct network security company. Look for credibility, experience, and reputation in the field. Make sure that you are confident of their abilities.
A SOAR vendor, which stands for security orchestration, automation, and response, is a good choice for many businesses. The right system can provide you with end-to-end security operations management, which means the program covers every security concern with thorough protection.
Choosing an experienced, full-service vendor also means you always have access to a customer service associate who can answer your questions and make modifications to your program to ensure it works for your specific business.
Check Your VPN
Your virtual private network (VPN) is important because it guards your internet traffic. No one can gain access to the information on your network unless they are provided with direct access to the network. Even if a device is using an outside internet connection, with a VPN, not even the owner of that connection can access your information. That includes information about the security of your virtual systems.
The problem is, just having a VPN isn’t enough. It could be leaking your IP address, giving hackers a way into your system.
To make sure your VPN isn’t leaking:
Turn off your VPN.
Conduct a Google search for, "What is my IP address."
Engage your VPN.
Search Google for your IP address again.
When you check your VPN these ways, you should see that the address is different. If it isn’t, you have a problem with your VPN.
You can also use an exit server to check your VPN. When you check your IP address, it should match your address and the country you selected.
Allow Authorized Cell Phone Use Only
It’s normal for employees to access company platforms and information on the go. It’s so convenient that many employers encourage it. You can even access your desktop from a tablet or phone, which means you can continue working, even when you’re not in the office.
Unfortunately, using other devices can compromise security. Apple devices are relatively secure, but Android devices are not. No matter what kind of device your employees have, they should be updated with the latest security software.
This can be a difficult thing to police. If working at home is expected of employees, provide them with company devices that you have control over updating.
Assign Authorized Users Carefully
Not everyone should have access to your company’s personal information. Not all employees should have access to certain systems and programs either. They only need access to the information and systems that are relevant to their job description.
Assign authorized users carefully to help prevent information leaks. Although most employees have pure intentions, they can still make mistakes with important company information. That includes accessing information from unsecured systems or accidentally sharing the information with someone else who shouldn’t have access to that information.
It’s especially important when someone leaves the company. As part of the exit process, it’s important to unauthorize access to all company systems.
Schedule Continuous Training
Training and development are important to any business but don’t think your job is over as soon as the initial training is over. Security systems are changing all the time, as are the needs of your business. It is important to continually train your staff to ensure your systems are secure.
It includes refresher training on basic security information, like proper password selection, as well as specific training on how to use the actual security program. Partnering with a quality provider enables you to use them as a resource when planning your trainings, and in some cases, they may even be able to provide you with training led by one of their associates.
Don’t think that just because you have security software that your system is actually secure. There are a lot of things you can do to make sure your company’s information stays safe.
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Health and safety in the workplace should always be a topic that is high on your agenda if you are working in any sort of industrial environment, and if you can achieve a good safety record it should also contribute to greater productivity too.
Here is an overview of what sort of typical safety hazards you need to guard against and what steps to take to avoid an accident, plus a look at some of the main basic safety measures you should adopt in order to keep the production line rolling and workers as safe as possible.
Understanding the hazards:
A good starting point would be to make a checklist of the main hazards you are likely to have to deal with in your workplace, as a working knowledge of these dangers will help you to take counteractive measures.
You can categorize industrial hazards under a number of broad headings.
Physical threats to the safety of workers are a key issue and there are numerous challenges to account for in your safety procedures, such as slip and trip hazards, inadequate lighting, the risk of exposure to noise and poor air quality, plus the danger of fire, amongst others.
You can take steps to manage these specific threats, such as maintaining good air quality throughout the building, for example, which you can read about on this page.
Other key hazard categories include biological and chemical threats, injuries sustained through poor ergonomics and building design, and even the mental health aspect of working in a challenging or hazardous situation on a regular basis.
A good suggestion would be to conduct a thorough health and safety review where you take a detailed look at the layout of your building and what specific dangers workers face every time they clock on.
Make a comprehensive checklist of all the potential hazards that are relevant to your particular industry and then look to create a health and safety plan that deals with those issues in the best way possible.
Dealing with fire risk:
The risk of fire is a constant potential threat to every building and that risk is enhanced when you have machinery, chemicals, and other potentially hazardous sources all under the one roof.
There are many different ways for a fire to start and electrical faults, chemical spillages, and a lack of safety awareness amongst workers, can all create a fire risk in an instant.
You can’t always avoid a fire starting when an accident occurs through an unforeseen set of circumstances, but you can at least have a robust set of fire safety procedures in place to help deal with the situation and limit the potential damage.
A good quality fire alarm warning system needs to be installed and regularly tested and maintained, and a sprinkler system might also be necessary, once you have carried out a fire risk assessment.
Fire extinguishers installed at regular intervals around the building will allow immediate action to be taken to try and reduce the spread of fire and hi-spec smoke detectors provide a decent early warning of a fire or smoke hazard.
Emergency lighting:
All workers need to be fully briefed on what to do in the event of an emergency and how to evacuate the building in the quickest and safest way possible.
One of the threats to a successful and safe evacuation of the building is when power in the building is lost and it becomes dangerous to walk around in the dark.
Power cuts are always a possibility in an industrial setting for a number of plausible reasons and a lack of adequate lighting greatly heightens the prospect of an accident happening.
The way to counteract this threat is to install emergency lighting that lights up the building to make it safer to see where you are going and minimize the risk of an accident.
Falls are a leading cause of accidents and deaths:
One of the main causes of death and injury in the workplace falls, and it should be noted that a worker doesn’t have to fall from a great height to suffer a bad or fatal injury.
Nearly half of all fatal falls in an industrial setting occurred when the person fell from a height of fewer than 20 feet. More than 10% of recorded fatal falls were from a height below six feet.
Some industries have a higher incidence of falls than others, and it should not be a surprise to learn that the construction sector is considered one of the most hazardous workplace environments for falls.
It is reasonable to surmise that a very high percentage of these recorded fatalities and injuries could have been prevented with adequate risk assessment procedures in place and with the right use of safety equipment and adequate training.
Large numbers of workers are treated for fall-related injuries each year but with the right precautionary measures and by raising awareness of the potential dangers, many of these accidents could have been avoided.
Know your limits:
Pushing your body to its limit and beyond is another leading cause of accidents in the workplace and overexertion is cited as the cause of about a third of all work-related accidents according to the National Safety Council.
Every worker should be encouraged to assess and know their limitations before undertaking a task that might lead to an injury through overexertion.
Ergonomic injuries are when you do something like tear a tendon, damage your spine, or overreach when attempting to lift an object that is too heavy, or is not being lifted and handled correctly.
Every worker needs to have health and safety training that highlights and talks about the dangers of ergonomic injuries and provides guidance on how to work safely and know your physical limitations.
It is not just physical jobs that create injuries and office workers can also suffer injuries if they don’t set up their work environment in an ergonomically efficient way and don’t take regular breaks away from their desk.
These are some of the main causes of accidents but with some basic safety training and an ongoing risk assessment program, it is possible to significantly reduce the prospect of an accident happening in your workplace.
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