Uniformed Protection: A Low-Tech Approach To High-Tech Security

Feb 1, 2003 12:00 PM

           

Responsible organizations are aware that comprehensive computer network security includes both high-tech and low-tech components. High-tech components include firewalls, anti-ping devices, virus protection software, and the personnel trained to use them. Low-tech components include two-way radios, handcuffs, flashlights, clipboards and highly-trained personnel capable of using them to protect a company's data.

In one recent attack, it took less than nine seconds for an unauthorized visitor to take over an entire computer network, erase the primary and secondary databases, and plant a “Trojan horse” program, allowing unlimited remote access at any point in the future. Thus, physical protection should be foremost in a responsible network security plan.

Technology alone is not the solution. Presence of physical security measures — including uniformed security officers — likely prevents a breach of network security. First, the uniformed security officer serves as a deterrent. Few Internet Service Providers employ security officers to protect their hosting centers, so those who do present a particularly unsavory target for would-be thieves, especially considering the relative wealth of unprotected targets. Criminals, even sophisticated ones, will almost always choose an unprotected target before a protected target.

Next, the presence of uniformed security officers is likely to thwart even a determined attack because the officer's key role is to prevent unauthorized access. Illegal entry to hosting facilities is often gained by ruse or intimidation; a confident imposter is likely to fool or even bully an unsuspecting attendant, but not a professional security officer. The professional officer has the ability to limit access to approved personnel and, with proper protocols in place, can verify claims of access from unknown personnel. In addition, the professional security officer has the ability to monitor activities inside the protected unit and can prevent illicit activity. Controlling access to your network facility can reduce or even eliminate the risk of thieves gaining access to steal configurations or saboteurs gaining unfettered control of your network.

In short, comprehensive high-tech security cannot exist without its comparatively low-tech partner — the uniformed security officer. Consider that the next time someone asks, “is your computer network safe?”

Contributed by Joseph Ricci, senior consultant and CEO of Ricci Communications, a provider of strategic marketing consulting to the security industry.

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