It always amazes me how businesses spend money on growing their enterprises. What shocks me is how little they spend on securing them! The sad truth about the 21st century is that crime is rife. And thanks to the Internet, cyber crime is also something that will bite hard on any unprepared firm.
I’ve worked with many companies of all sizes over the years. In my experience, many make the same kinds of security faux pas. Are you worried that your business might need to beef up its security? Here are seven typical examples and how to fix them.
#1 – Vulnerable windows and doors
It doesn’t matter whether you operate from commercial premises or a shed in your garden. What does matter is you ensure your place of business has decent physical security. Many people assume their premises won’t get broken into by thieves. But, it’s that complacency that costs them money.
Conducting an assessment of your windows and doors is crucial. Fix any locks that appear damaged. Upgrade exterior locks with stronger ones. And replace damaged panels or glass.
#2 – Burglaries when no-one is there
Let’s face it. You aren’t going to be at your office or workshop 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Still, you need some way of keeping an eye on your premises when you’re not there.
Security cameras are a practical solution to that problem. You can hook them up to a DVR system to record footage. And many CCTV systems can get accessed over the Internet.
#3 – Accessible premises
Do you operate from an industrial unit or workshop? If so, it’s likely you will have easy access to it from the road. Ensure the boundary around your premises is secure by installing perimeter fencing.
#4 – Dodgy employees
The ugly truth about some people might shock you. A criminal past is something all potential employees should declare. But, they won’t do so unless you ask them. You should get their consent to carry out background checks on them.
#5 – Expensive stock that grows legs and runs away
Let’s face it. Your stock won’t move of its own accord. Someone at your premises will have to shift it. To ensure stock stays securely at your warehouse, you need to put control measures in place.
For example, you could store them in secure cages where only a select few have key access. And, of course, you can monitor warehouse activity with security cameras.
#6 – Vulnerable computer data
All modern Australian businesses use computer systems. Most store sensitive information on them, such as client and HR data like salary details. The onus is on you, the business owner, to keep that information secure.
The good news is there are many actionable steps you can take. Examples include securing your network with a hardware firewall. And limiting data access to select groups of employees.
#7 Sensitive data on paper that doesn’t get destroyed
We all long for the paperless office. Sadly, that dream isn’t going to come true anytime soon. There will be times where your business needs to keep confidential information on paper. When that paper is no longer needed, it should get securely shredded. Otherwise, it could end up in the wrong hands.