The Benefits of Biometrics in Physical Security

Biometrics is defined as the application of statistical analysis to biological data in the Oxford dictionary and uses unique physical or behavioural traits to verify the identity of an individual. Biometrics is not a new concept.

Police have been using fingerprint identification since the 1800s, however the advancement of computer technology has allowed companies to use biometric devices to increase their security immensely. Biometrics have allowed companies to move away from less secure practices such as passwords and pin numbers to practices that are harder to hack such as fingerprints, iris scanners and even voice recognition devices. Some companies even utilize multi-factor authentication to log in to a computer.

The most popular usage of biometric data in security is a fingerprint reader. What used to be something seen only in science fiction movies is now used in every day life. Many people even use this this technology on a daily basis and a lot of people even use this technology to gain access to their mobile phones. The same technology is a great option for companies to incorporate into their security plan. Now the technology is widely available, the cost is relatively low, especially compared to other forms of biometrics such as iris scanners and facial recognition.

Here we discuss the benefits of using biometric security devices as part of an overall security plan.

•    Biometric security devices remove some need for passwords. Unlike passwords, biometrics are not easily shared or hacked. Password security issues account for many data breaches within companies.

•    Biometric security devices can be used to avoid cyber and physical security breaches- Modern devices are extremely versatile as they can not only be used to prevent hacking and other data breaches but are regularly used for access control and authorization. Unlike keys and proximity cards, biometrics cannot be stolen which makes them great addition to your physical security.

•    The technology is becoming cheaper over time. Although facial and iris recognition is still expensive, fingerprint recognition continues to decrease in price, making them a realistic option for many businesses.

•    Fingerprint recognition is more accurate than voice recognition.

•    They can increase convenience- biometric security devices are extremely efficient and convenient as an employee do not need to remember anything in order to access the building or information, only biological features such as fingerprint or are needed.

•    Can be incorporated seamlessly with other methods of security- You can team biometrics with many aspects of your existing security and doesn’t necessarily need to replace anything, it can be used in addition.

•    Biometrics are accurate- Although they are not perfect, biometrics are a lot more accurate at identification than the use of passwords or access cards. If you work in a high-risk sector, then biometrics are a perfect choice.

•    Biometrics can also help with accountability. If any security breaches take place, a biometric security system will provide data that is easy to analyse and confirm how the breach took take and by whom.

Are there any drawbacks to biometrics in security?

Despite its many benefits, there are still some areas of concern that businesses should consider. Biometric security devices can sometimes be slower in practice due to the time it takes for people to apply their finger to the device and for the reader to process the information. If you have an extremely high trafficked area, you should consider whether biometric security devices would effect building access in high-volume periods such as the beginning or end of shifts.

Although biometrics cannot be lost like access cards can, this does not mean that there are no ways to gain access to someone’s fingerprint. If a security breach does happen, you can easily replace an access card but when we are talking about someone’s fingerprint, it is another story!

The important thing to remember is that despite how beneficial biometric security devices could be, you should not rely on them as your only method of security as despite its many benefits, biometrics remains imperfect. Consider implementing multifactor security system, regardless of the advances in technology.  By teaming up biometrics as part of your overall physical and cyber security strategy, you can ensure your end to end security is as strong as possible and it can help to enhance physical security systems immensely.

To find out more about how biometrics can be incorporated into your physical security plan, please contact us on 01522 682255 for a free, no-obligation quotation and feasibility survey to assess your perimeter security equipment.

Securing Your Premises For The New Year

Ensuring your business premises are as secure as possible is vital. However, even if you bought the latest security equipment, technology advances quickly so it is important to carry out annual audits to see what ways you can strengthen your premises for the year ahead.

Here we discuss 6 best practices to consider when carrying out a security audit.

1.    Start with a risk assessment

Before any security decisions can be made, a full risk assessment should be carried out. A business that has experienced security breaches should use the experience to identify weaknesses. A security risk assessment should be thorough with each potential scenario given consideration. Third part security companies will be able to offer professional advice or even carry out the risk assessment. Areas that require particular attention include side or rear entrances, loading bays, windows and roofs in addition to the more obvious main entrances.

2.    Secure your premises

A thorough risk assessment will identify areas of weakness. Perimeter security can be improved by installing gates or barriers. 

3.    Secure your equipment

A combination of cyber security and physical security will reduce the risk of theft. Considerations could be made to CCTV, access control systems and internal security forming a high-level security program.

4.    Train your staff well

A security induction can be implemented to ensure staff are all provided with the same knowledge as well as ensuring that staff are all aware of the organisation’s security concerns and efforts. Identifying suspicious behaviour or even areas of weakness could prevent a future security breach.

5.    Keep staff safe

It’s important to take measures that improve the security of your staff. Bollards, speed ramps and adequate lighting can be considered to ensure the workplace is safe.

6.    Carry out regular checks

Carrying out regular audits will help maintain a high level of security. Security requires continuous attention and effort to remain proactive.

To find out more about how you can improve the security of your business, please contact us on 01522 682255 for a free, no obligation quotation and feasibility survey to assess your perimeter security equipment.