In this age of computerization, data security has become a significant concern. Compromise on data security can be costly to any corporate or individual, especially in cases where such data is maliciously used. As organizations and persons working towards achieving data security, electronic means of data security seem to be overemphasized at the expense of physical security mechanisms. Experts, however, emphasize the need to undertake physical security measures as the primary means of securing data from theft.
Physical Access
Implementing a layered security framework when safeguarding corporate and personal data implies that physical security becomes part of the prioritized measures. Physical security initiatives have to do with controlling physical access to data-holding equipment such as laptops and the access to such premises that house the equipment. Neglecting to achieve sufficient data security measures from a physical perspective gives unauthorized access to persons with ill-intent.
Electronic Security
One of the core reasons as to why physical security has been overlooked is the increased levels of trust upon the electronic security measures put in place. The use of dual authentication techniques to control data access seemingly gives most people complacency that no one would gain access to their data. Being complacent to this effect implies that data-holding equipment is kept at high risk of being stolen.
Third Party Security
Secondly, persons also tend to assume that physical security measures put by other third persons are sufficient to maintain security over their data equipment. For instance, workers often fail to prevent theft of laptops by leaving them over their unlocked desks and even fail to lock the office assuming that the building would be locked down at the main entrance. Failing to oversee and implement even the simplest of the physical security initiatives implies a general reduction in physical security, therefore increasing the overall risk of security breaches.
Money and Assets
Lastly, there is always an assumption that physical security is not highly needed in protecting data as much as it is needed in protecting money and assets. This assumption makes data owners feel that they are safe from being infringed upon since their offices do not hold any tangible cash or assets of high value. This notion overlooks the fact that the theft of laptops could consequently incur huge financial and reputation loss if the data contained therein is used maliciously.
In conclusion, the concept of data security requires multiple levels of both physical and electronic-based protection measures. Most people tend to assume that electronic data protection measures would be more suited to protect electronic data. Whereas securing data electronically is an important part of the whole concept of data security, physical security is often disregarded and can be costly.
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