Enterprise Security Risk Management: Common System Oversights

One of the primary goals in enterprise security risk management is to eliminate failure in electronic security installations. Unfortunately, it’s common to overlook this goal in the face of more immediate risks like reducing workplace accidents or internal theft. Through automation driven by integration, individuals can resolve common system problems and reduce their overall risk.

Common oversights in enterprise security risk management

Most security installation failures are a result of reactive risk management. Those in charge of monitoring an enterprise’s security don’t correct the problem until the issue is widespread and expensive to fix. Common faults in electronic security systems stem from:

• Database bloat. Access control systems and employee credential programs are entirely dependent on the databases that serve them. Without a reliable process for updating these listings, it’s possible for them to become bloated with outdated information. This problem builds on itself until the database is so unwieldy it creates a risk of security breaches by outsiders using credentials which should be void but aren’t.  
• Poor data management. The data delivered via critical communications systems and surveillance cameras is essential for investigating issues and resolving problems. Unclear footage or poor voice connections may not be noticeable until these investigations are underway, leading to the loss of crucial evidence.
• Isolated systems. Security systems may not be integrated, which limits their effectiveness. There may be different points of contact for access control, surveillance, employee credentials and other systems. Such disparate systems make getting services and resolving issues problematic.
• Outdated/unmaintained devices. Proactive maintenance is necessary for ensuring the efficacy of a system but is overlooked in the face of other priorities. Enterprises may not even know their devices require maintenance or updating as they don’t have a central place to monitor their status.
• Unstructured installation. Often, enterprises take an “as needed” approach to adding new security devices. This approach creates a fruit salad of various tools and softwares which don’t work together as well as they should. Critical steps like installing surge protectors or establishing proper cabling protocols may not happen as the installer is unaware of their necessity.

Security installation failure is costly, as it may be difficult to pinpoint issues with the system until after multiple service calls and replacements. The best route to eliminating the risk of security installation failure is to establish a robust plan with the assistance of an integrator.   

Tips for Improving Risk Management in Your Enterprise

Integration is critical to improving security installations as it creates a centralized hub to manage all devices and the data they produce. Integrators will also develop specific processes to resolve common causes of installation failure to include:

• Automated database management. It’s possible to connect access control systems and credentialing programs directly to human resource databases and automate changes. When an employee leaves the company, as an example, HR will have to update this system information. Having that information immediately transfer into the credential program and shut off their keycards prevents database bloat and eliminates redundant steps.
• Digital blueprints. Blueprints for all systems and their cables can be established to allow personnel to understand the security infrastructure and determine which areas require updates. These blueprints also make the process of adding devices much more accessible, as it’s simple to see where they fit into the overall infrastructure.
• Proactive device management. When integrated, it’s possible to monitor the status of all devices in one place. This process allows individuals to keep systems updated and watch for issues which would take them offline. It can even simplify service ticketing by allowing individuals to make service calls directly from the computer program.

Enterprise security risk management should include ways to mitigate the risk of security installation failure. This is accomplished by automating tasks and integrating the system. By creating a strong security infrastructure connected to a central monitoring program, organizations reduce their risk of device failure and cut overall security costs.