5 Ways an Organization Can be Compromised by a Cyber Attack on Its Physical Security System

Introduction to physical security system cyber attacks

In today's digital age, cyber security has become a top priority for organizations worldwide. However, many organizations tend to overlook the connection between their physical security systems and cyber security. As technology evolves, physical security systems are becoming more interconnected and dependent on digital networks. This increased connectivity creates opportunities for cyber attackers to compromise an organization's physical security systems, putting both the organization's assets and employees at risk.

In this article, we will discuss the importance of understanding the connection between physical and cyber security and explore 5 ways an organization can be compromised by a cyber attack on its physical security system. We will also discuss strategies for mitigating these risks and the importance of a comprehensive security approach.

Understanding the connection between physical and cyber security

Physical security refers to the protection of an organization's assets, such as buildings, equipment, and people, from physical threats like theft, vandalism, and natural disasters. On the other hand, cyber security focuses on protecting an organization's digital assets and networks from cyber threats, such as hacking, phishing, and malware attacks. While these two security domains may seem distinct, they are becoming increasingly interconnected.

As organizations adopt more advanced security technologies, physical security systems are often connected to digital networks and the internet. This interconnectivity allows organizations to monitor and control their physical security systems remotely and in real-time, improving overall security effectiveness. However, this interconnectivity also exposes physical security systems to the same cyber threats that target an organization's digital assets and networks.

As the line between physical and cyber security continues to blur, organizations must adopt a comprehensive security approach that considers both domains. By integrating physical and cyber security strategies, organizations can better protect their assets, employees, and reputation from a wide range of threats. Additionally, a comprehensive security approach enables organizations to identify and address potential security vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by cyber attackers.

The impact of compromised physical security on an organization

When an organization's physical security system is compromised, the consequences can be severe. In addition to the potential theft or destruction of physical assets, a compromised security system can also lead to a loss of data, intellectual property, trust, and reputation among clients, partners, and employees. Furthermore, a successful cyber attack on a physical security system can expose an organization to legal and regulatory penalties, particularly if the attack results in a data breach or the compromise of sensitive information.

5 ways an organization can be Cyber compromised Through Its Physical Security Systems

1. Unauthorized access through security systems

One of the primary goals of a physical security system is to control access to an organization's facilities. However, cyber attackers can exploit vulnerabilities in these systems to gain unauthorized access to sensitive areas. For example, a hacker could potentially bypass an access control system by intercepting and mimicking the communication between a card reader and the access control panel. Similarly, an attacker could exploit weak authentication protocols or vulnerabilities in the software controlling the access control system to gain unauthorized entry.

2. Manipulation of surveillance cameras

Surveillance cameras are a crucial component of any physical security system, as they provide real-time monitoring of an organization's premises. However, if a cyber attacker successfully compromises a surveillance camera system, they can manipulate the video feeds to hide an intruder's activities or create false evidence. This could be achieved by gaining access to the camera's software or firmware and modifying the video stream or by intercepting and altering the video feed as it is transmitted over the network.

3. Disabling alarms and access control systems

Alarms and access control systems are essential for alerting an organization to potential security breaches and preventing unauthorized access. However, a cyber attacker could potentially disable these systems by exploiting vulnerabilities in their software or communication protocols. For example, an attacker could gain access to an alarm system's control panel and disable it remotely, or they could tamper with the system's sensors to prevent them from triggering an alarm.

4. Hijacking smart devices and IoT systems

As organizations adopt more internet-connected devices and IoT systems, the potential attack surface for cyber attackers expands. Cyber attackers can exploit vulnerabilities in these devices to gain unauthorized access to an organization's network or use them as a launching pad for further cyber attacks. For example, an attacker could hijack a camera, card reader, intercom, smart thermostat or lighting system and use it as a gateway to compromise the organization's network or launch a distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attack.

5. Data breaches through physical security infrastructure

Physical security systems, such as access control systems and surveillance camera systems, often store sensitive data, such as employee credentials, video footage, and security logs. If a cyber attacker gains access to this data, they could use it for malicious purposes, such as identity theft, corporate espionage, or blackmail. Additionally, an attacker could potentially exploit vulnerabilities in the physical security system's communication protocols or storage infrastructure to exfiltrate this data.

PRO TIPS: 5 Strategies for mitigating physical security system cyber attacks

To protect against cyber attacks on physical security systems, organizations must take a proactive and comprehensive approach to security. This includes:

1. Regularly updating and patching software and firmware for all physical security devices, including access control systems, surveillance cameras, and IoT devices. Be sure you have a robust system maintenance plan in effect. Manufacturers update software and firmware on a regular basis to keep up with cyber threats.
2. Implementing strong authentication protocols for all security systems, such as multi-factor authentication and robust password policies. Has your organization started talking about Zero Trust yet?
3. Encrypting all data transmitted between physical security devices and their control systems. Does your existing system provide the most current capabilities for secure transmission?
4. Conducting regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing of physical security systems to identify and remediate potential weaknesses. Aside from penetration testing, are you verifying that your system is up to date when it comes to changes to your environment? Have trees grown near the parking lot? Have doors been repurposed to be more often or less often used? 
5. Implementing a robust incident response plan to quickly detect, contain, and recover from cyber attacks on physical security systems. 
   
   

Conclusion and recommendations

It is crucial for organizations to recognize the connection between physical and cyber security and the potential risks posed by cyber attacks on physical security systems. Organizations can take proactive steps to protect their assets and employees. By implementing a comprehensive security approach and employing best practices for mitigating physical security system cyber attacks, organizations can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to these increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.

What Next?

Contact the Theseus Professional Services team for a comprehensive security risk assessment to ensure that your solution is cyber secure and ready to deter and detect the next physical threat to your organization.

BONUS: DOWNLOAD OUR FREE IN-HOUSE SECURITY RISK ASSESSMENT CONSIDERATIONS GUIDE

Security professionals are constantly looking for innovative ways to secure their facility and provide a safe environment within their budget. And, they are also constantly looking for resources to help them achieve that mission while expert advice is hard to come by. 

Fortunately, we have released a considerations guide that will help security professionals perform their own in-house security risk assessment. 

What's Inside?

This guide is intended to assist you with performing an in-house physical security risk assessment. In many cases, assistance from a third-party expert, like Theseus Professional Services, is required.

Identification of missing or inadequate physical security measures that safeguard assets (people, property, and information) and critical business functions is of paramount importance. The findings of a security risk assessment are used to measure and communicate the level of risk to the organization.

• Process Evaluation
• Threats
• Vulnerability Assessment Highlights
• Electronic Security Systems Considerations
• Site Considerations
• Building Entrances and Exits
• Common Functional Areas
• Building Envelope
• Utilities and Building Services
• Building Systems

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