If you’ve never done a business security audit, it is likely your organization has multiple vulnerabilities. In order to conduct one of these audits, you will need to ensure your business has a set standard of guidelines for both cybersecurity and physical security.

All staff in leadership positions should be involved in creating and assessing security measures. Working with an experienced security and IT company will help during this process. Here are some other tips to think about.

1. Start with the equipment

This is the easiest place to start because it encompasses much of your business’s physical and cybersecurity. Not only will you need to consider computers, smartphones, and laptops, but a variety of other equipment. Here’s a small list of what needs to be added to your audit.

• Access control (the security equipment that lets employees have access to the building)
• Safety alarms (burglar, fire, and carbon monoxide)
• Security systems (including cameras and monitored alarms)
• Routers and other networking equipment
• POS systems
• Printers and copiers (These connect to the internet too!)

2. Find out the threats to your business

Once you know what equipment you need to evaluate, you can start thinking about the possible threats and holes in security that you may face. Consider the following.

Network security

When it comes to keeping your network secure, there are many things to pay attention to, not just antivirus software (though this is important). Be sure that you involve your IT team if you have one, as well as any management that should be involved when discussing network security. Make sure to think about the aspects of cybersecurity below.

1. The security measures you already have in place (VPNs, malware education, etc.)
2. Which employees have access to what
3. Staff usernames, passwords, and other passcodes (like fingerprint ID)
4. Data backup methods and recovery methods

Physical security

As with cybersecurity, you need to consider every aspect of physical security you are currently using (or not using) for your business. Here are some questions to talk about when planning your audit.

1. Is your surveillance system up-to-date and does it function properly?
2. Are all cameras placed in the right spots?
3. Are access points secured?
4. Do you save video footage and back it up?
5. Do employees have identification cards or fobs and keep them secure?

Prepare to conduct your audit

The final step is preparing a plan for your audits. You will need to figure out roles and responsibilities and determine a schedule for conducting evaluations. It is important to document everything so that whenever you need to make changes to your security audits, you can do so easily.

Training is another important part of preparing your security audits. You will need to ensure that everyone knows what their duties are and what security is in place. All staff should be trained in security measures, not just those involved in the audits. You can seek education from an IT company if you aren’t sure what you need to learn.

Improving your security after an audit

When your audits are done, you will have a better idea of what can be improved. You may need more security options or even be able to shift the focus somewhere else to save money and resources. You can also see what steps in your audit may need to be changed.

Ways to enhance physical security

There are many ways to do this, but you should focus on what the audit shows is most vulnerable first. Here are some good places to start increasing the physical security of your business.

• Check your cameras: If you have cameras, they may not be in the best places. Make sure you place them in high traffic areas, near entryways and exits, and in more hidden locations at your location that criminals may take advantage of.
• Add features: Look for additional features that can enhance your security system. These include moveable cameras, cloud storage, infrared LEDs for good night vision, window alarms, digital locks, and remote access capabilities.
• Ask staff if they notice anything odd: Your team is onsite every day and may catch things you don’t. This includes gaps in fencing, broken windows or locks, and strange people on the property.
• Limit access to your building: This can be as simple as adding a keypad with PIN code access to the front door. You could also add the same type of locks to offices and storage areas within the building itself.

How to update your cybersecurity

Updating your cybersecurity after an audit can be a little more difficult than enhancing your physical security. This is because there are usually more variables to consider. Whether your audit shows you need a lot of improvements or not, here are some ways you can upgrade your security.

• Limit access to data: Not everyone needs to access stored payment information or the personal data of clients. Make sure these are stored securely.
• Use better authentication procedures: This means adding stronger passwords to files and accounts. You should also strengthen antivirus programs and ensure no one outside of your organization can access your networks.
• Keep all data safe: You can do this by not only storing it correctly but by destroying it properly and protecting it while in transition through your network. Don’t forget about email safety too!
• Add and VPN: This type of network is especially safe for businesses that have remote workers.

Work with an experienced IT and security company

The team at Andrews & Associates has over 250 years of combined experience and a comprehensive list of Services to help your business stay safe and run securely! Our sister company, Premier Alarm Solutions, focuses on business and home security options. Call us at (806) 242-1088 or Send us an Email to learn more about cybersecurity.