While some of the most challenging tasks for a business might be thought to be issues stemming from employees or customers, the hardest challenge to manage always comes in the form of crime and criminal threats targeted toward a business. Failure to defend against any type of criminal activity can result in an organization having to pay out of pocket to fix the issues. Despite understanding that crime can have such an impact, few organizations are actually prepared to defend against these attacks. With the help of this post, organizations should be able to become better informed on the types of crime that can negatively impact their business, in addition to the ways currently available to deflect this crime appropriately.
When most customers think of crime, their mind immediately goes to retail organizations. They think of crimes such as shoplifting, burglary and vandalism. It’s true, these are some of the most common forms of crime across the business landscape. That said, there security tools and measures available to limit the impact these types of activities can have against an organization. With the installation of security tools such as cameras, alarms and even shoplifting detection instruments, stopping these criminals in their tracks becomes much easier.
For larger scale corporations, they tend to employ a strategy known as close monitoring. Whether it be done with on-site security personnel, or offered as a third-party security service, these organizations receive comprehensive protection from individuals who don’t belong on any company premises. This is accomplished through limiting the amount of access through sophisticated systems operating via access codes, card readers or fingerprint readers for central entry and exit points. Requiring ID badges for access to buildings and offices can also help keep unwarranted people from the premises. With an enhanced and highly prominent defensive system, a business may no longer be considered a target and disregarded by would-be criminals.
Once all of these exterior threats are identified and dealt with, organizations are left with defending themselves against internal threats. For example, fraud remains a serious issue in the professional atmosphere. Nearly 47% of companies have experienced fraud over the past two years. Mostly through forms of customer fraud, cybercrime and asset misappropriation. Both internal and external parties can contribute to this fraud, in addition to colluding with each other to gain even further.
Internal fraud stems from employees gone bad. Even with hiring managers doing their jobs to the best of their abilities, employees can go bad to the point of acting out various internal crimes. These crime extend to stealing cash, merchandise and much worse than both of the aforementioned, some employees are willing to indulge company trade secrets and intellectual property. When the right data is put into the wrong hands, an entire business can be put in jeopardy. In fact, nearly 30% of bankruptcies reported by businesses can be attributed to employee theft.
With the forms of internal fraud continuing to evolve, it’s important for businesses to be prepared for the imminent cybersecurity threats. The right cybersecurity measures will make all the difference in protecting against these attacks. Even methods as simple as stronger passwords can help employees avoid becoming a target for identity theft, social engineering attacks and other exposures. The same can be said for upgraded firewalls and antivirus software that should be installed on all organizational computers.
Every business is at risk of facing the forms of crime detailed within this post throughout their time within the space. It’s being prepared for these threats that makes the difference in which organizations will withstand the test of time. To be sure your organization is receiving the best care and is amply protected against these threats and more, take a moment to consult the infographic for the types of services third-party security companies can offer. Infographic courtesy of Cancom Systems.
