Access Control
& Security Systems

Investigators from the General Accounting Office (GAO) say they easily breached security at four Atlanta Federal buildings in February and March.

The agents forged identification badges and papers and fooled guards at the buildings into giving them authentic security passes and after-hours access codes. By obtaining the passes, agents were able to pass briefcases and other packages through the building without having to submit them for X-ray and other screening checks.

"[The agents] were able to move freely and extensively throughout these facilities during both day and evening hours," said GAO Office of Special Investigations acting managing director Ronald Malfi.

Immediate steps were taken to rectify the problems, but the report, given at a House of Representatives hearing, has brought greater attention.

"Technology isn't a cure-all for security. Money isn't a cure-all for security," Malfi said. "Due diligence is really the most vital factor."

This month in Access Control

• Targeting The Customer
• Electronic Pedigrees
• One Hero Among Many
• Who? What? When? Where? Why?
• More from September's issue