Physical Security Countermeasures
Security Events | Countermeasure |
Destruction of Hardware | Theft or vandalism of devices can cause data loss and operational problems. To reduce this risk, servers, switches, and routers should be physically safeguarded. This can be accomplished by keeping them in locked cabinets or restricted-access areas. Electronic card readers and biometric locks can protect authorized personnel. |
Electrical Problems | Install surge protectors and generators.
Electricity surges and blackouts can destroy hardware and interrupt operations (Mo). Surge protectors protect sensitive equipment from voltage surges. Backup generators also keep critical systems running during long outages. |
Environmental/Physical Security Threat | Install environmental monitors and physically secure assets.
Temperature changes, humidity extremes, and water leaks can damage equipment and data. Sensor-equipped environmental monitoring systems can notify staff of these hazards in real-time. Damage and data loss can be avoided with prompt action. |
Essential Hardware Failure | Using redundant hardware.
Organizations can use redundancy to prevent critical hardware failure. This involves copying power supply, storage devices, and network connections. If one component fails, the redundant one takes over, maintaining continuity. |
Essential Software Failure | Backup and maintain software regularly.
Bugs or corruption can cause critical software systems to fail. Organizations should periodically backup software configurations and data to reduce risk. Systems need routine maintenance and software updates to stay reliable and secure. |
Facility or Equipment Fire | Install fire suppression and detection.
Facilities and equipment are at risk from fires. Early detection is crucial; smoke detectors can alert staff about fires (Mo). Sprinklers or clean agents and fire suppression systems can quickly extinguish fires, decreasing damage. |
Liquids | Containers should be waterproof and spill-resistant.
An inadvertent or planned liquid leak can harm equipment and cause data loss. Storage of critical equipment and documents in watertight, spill-resistant containers is a measure to avoid this threat. This physically protects against liquid dangers. |
Malicious Acts by an Employee | Internal threats, including employee malice, might pose security issues. Role-based permissions and user access audits prohibit unwanted access. Employee training on security regulations and best practices can also enhance awareness and decrease malicious behavior. |
Malware | Use antivirus/malware software.
Viruses, ransomware, and Trojans can damage data and systems. Network antivirus and anti-malware software should be robust. Malware detection and mitigation require regular viral definition and security patch updates. |
Masquerading as an Authorized User | Strong authentication.
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) should be used to prevent unwanted access by impersonators. MFA requires many kinds of identification, making unwanted access harder. |
Natural Disaster | Create recovery and evacuation strategies.
Earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, and wildfires can damage and impair operations. Companies should create disaster recovery plans for data backup, recovery, and business continuity. Disaster evacuation preparations are essential for staff safety. |
Programmer Error | To prevent programming errors, organizations should implement code reviews and testing techniques (Mo).
Software vulnerabilities and defects caused by programmers can represent serious security hazards. Code reviews, testing, and quality assurance can find and fix mistakes before deployment, minimizing security. |
Security Event | Monitor cameras and alarms.
Security cameras and alarm systems can detect and respond to security events like unwanted access attempts. Guards may monitor these systems in real-time and respond quickly to alerts by locking down access or calling the police. |
Temperature/Humidity Extremes | Use data center climate control.
Extreme temperatures and humidity can harm delicate equipment, especially in data centers with exact environmental conditions. Air conditioning and humidity control avoid equipment overheating and damage. |
Terrorist Actions/Civil Disorder | Control and monitor access.
Facilities should use access cards and biometric systems to prevent terrorism and civil unrest. To detect and respond to threats, entrances and public areas should be monitored by surveillance cameras. |
Vandalism | Implementing security cameras and access controls.
Vandalism disrupts business and damages property. Security cameras can deter and document events. Vandalism can be reduced by restricting access to susceptible sites. |
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Question
For each of the following physical security threat categories or events,
identify the countermeasure you would apply to prevent any harm that could result from it.
Security Events
Destruction of Hardware
Electrical Problems