Protecting Connected Security Systems from Cyber Threats
The biggest risk to your security systems isn’t the technology. It’s assuming they’re already secure.
When organizations think about security, the focus often centers on safeguarding data, ensuring regulatory compliance, and defending against digital threats. But physical security systems, such as video surveillance, access control, and intrusion detection, are equally critical components that are frequently overlooked. They may be assumed to be secure by default or left to third-party vendors with minimal oversight. However, modern physical security technologies are connected to organizational networks, creating new cyber vulnerabilities. If not properly protected, these systems can lead to data breaches, operational disruptions, and reputational damage.
Why Physical Security Is Often Overlooked
Organizations commonly neglect the security of cameras, network video recorders (NVRs), access control, and alarm infrastructure due to several widespread misconceptions:
Assumption of Isolation: Many believe physical security systems operate independently of IT networks, making them immune to cyber threats. In reality, they’re often deeply integrated with organizational infrastructure.
Vendor Reliance: Security management is often outsourced, with the assumption that vendors will manage all cybersecurity responsibilities. However, ultimate accountability still lies with the organization. Without enforcing basic protections (like strong passwords, firmware updates, and network segmentation) organizations are left exposed.
Compliance Blind Spots: Regulatory compliance efforts often prioritize IT systems, while physical security components receive less scrutiny. Yet these components can still introduce compliance risks if not properly secured.
The Risks of Unsecured Security Systems
Modern physical security components act as Internet of Things (IoT) devices and are thus vulnerable to cyber threats. Common risks include:
Unsegmented Networks: Without isolating security devices, cybercriminals can use them as entry points to pivot across the network.
Lack of Encryption: Many surveillance and access control systems transmit unencrypted data, increasing the risk of interception and manipulation.
Outdated Firmware: Unpatched vulnerabilities are easily exploitable.
Default Credentials: Devices deployed with factory-default passwords are easily compromised.
Best Practices for Video Surveillance Security
To protect against unauthorized access and data breaches, organizations should:
Segment Networks: Place security devices on a dedicated network.
Enforce Strong Authentication: Use complex, regularly updated credentials...never defaults.
Update Firmware: Apply patches as soon as they're available.
Control Access to Video Feeds: Limit to authorized personnel and regularly audit access.
Choose Defensible Solutions: Opt for systems with encryption, endpoint protection, and secure remote access.
Check Vendor Support: Ensure ongoing software and technical support.
Strengthening Access Control Systems
Access control systems secure facilities, offices, and other assets, but can become weak links if not upgraded:
Avoid Legacy Technologies: Move away from outdated 125kHz and iClass Classic credentials in favor of encrypted SEOS-based credentials and modern readers.
Use Encrypted Protocols: Implement OSDP (Open Supervised Device Protocol) to prevent eavesdropping and tampering.
Audit Access Logs: Regularly review and remove outdated or unused credentials.
Embracing Cloud-Based Security Solutions
Cloud-based platforms offer a more resilient approach to security by:
Ensuring Automatic Updates: Closing vulnerabilities quickly.
Applying Layered Protections: Including encrypted video storage and multi-factor authentication.
Monitoring Health Proactively: Identifying and addressing issues before failures occur.
Improving Compliance Management: Offering centralized logs, automated reports, and tamper-proof records.
Organizations of all types and sizes must recognize that physical security systems, if not properly managed, can become vulnerabilities. Surveillance cameras, access readers, and alarm components must be secured with the same diligence as any IT system.
By implementing security best practices, adopting encrypted and modern solutions, conducting regular audits, and transitioning to cloud-based platforms, organizations can prevent breaches, ensure operational continuity, and demonstrate compliance.
Protecting the infrastructure that safeguards your people, assets, and data is no longer optional. It's essential.
Ready to take a closer look at your physical security? Let’s help you identify hidden risks, modernize outdated systems, and align your physical security with your cybersecurity strategy.
Contact us today for a no-obligation security review.
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