Nowadays, organizations and businesses place cybersecurity at the top of their list of concerns. Piggybacking which people call tailgating, is a very common and serious threat. In this article, we’ll explain what tailgating means, outline its dangers and share tips on how to block it at any organization’s entrance.
What Is Tailgating in Cyber Security?
If someone follows a person into a secure area without being allowed or invited, it is called tailgating. In many cases, they manage this by relying on someone’s politeness, rush or trust to break into areas they are not allowed to be in.
Since no computer code or hacking is needed, tailgating Cyber Security relies on people’s natural behaviors and psychology. One might do this by assuming that someone with a box is a member of the staff. Actually, there’s a chance that an individual is a threat actor trying to steal confidential information.
Why Is Tailgating a Serious Threat?
Although tailgating seems insignificant, it can result in major problems.
Unauthorized Access to Data: Unwanted intruders might access critical business systems, servers and furnishings.
- If a person has access to the hardware, they could connect a malicious USB device or modify the network equipment.
- A few tailgaters may pretend to be part of the organization and harm it over time.
- HIPAA, GDPR and PCI DSS regulations set the rules for organizations. However, if their systems allow unauthorized access to happen, these organizations may face legal action.
Common Tailgating Scenarios
Understanding the process of tailgating can assist organizations in getting ready. You can see some typical examples here:
An attacker dressed as a delivery person claims to be making a delivery to the office.
In Rush Hours: During busy days in the morning, a person slips into the facility after a group of individuals passes.
Forgetting the Badge: A criminal asks a worker to hold the door open because they “forgot” their badge.
Someone may pretend: There is an emergency and that they have to meet someone or get something right away.
They dress in line with the company’s dress code to pass as an employee in bigger corporations.
Preventing Tailgating: Tips for Securing Physical Access
Combining physical, training and policy measures helps avoid tailgating.
Put Access Control Systems in place.
Best Practices:
- Ensure that every employee has their own set of credentials.
- Where information is highly sensitive, implement multi-factor authentication (MFA).
- Ensure that access is possible only during working hours.
2. Czechs faced turnstiles and mantras when entering Nazi Germany
Put turnstiles, mantraps or security vestibules where access is restricted. Only one individual can pass through these barriers at once and most of the time, they must also be authenticated.
Advantages:
- Two different people cannot use the same authentication at the same time.
- Deters those who try to simply follow the driver’s vehicle.
3. Security Cameras and Monitoring
In all important entryways, set up surveillance devices.
Enhancements:
- Automate the sending of alerts when unusual actions take place.
4. Train Employees on Security Awareness
Often, tailgating is successful because the employees don’t know what to do. Do not forget to schedule computer security sessions with everyone involved from time to time.
- Being aware of suspicious actions
- Failing to open doors for random individuals
- You should always report individuals who you do not recognize.
- Recognizing why physical security is important.
5. Be sure to have clear signs posted.
Ensure there are signs by entrance doors telling staff not to let anyone follow them through secured doors. what is tailgating in cyber security In places where these types of messages are present, they remind everyone to act accordingly.
6. Reliable Visitor Management Systems should be used.
A good visitor policy helps reduce the chances of tailgating. All people entering should show their identification, use name badges and have someone guide them at all times.
Parts of a Visitor Policy.
- Technologies that allow employees to enter their details digitally.
- One time badges that have a time limit
- The requirement for a member of the staff to escort them.
7. Put in Place a “No Tailgating” Rule
Ensure there is a clear policy on tailgating within your company.
The meaning of tailgating
- Things that can happen if it remains (penalties, infractions)
- Procedures used when stopping tailgating
Include details about physical security in the agreements that you sign with your employees.
8. Effective security staff should be involved in the process.
Their work could include:
- Checking the IDs of those entering
- Keeping an eye on the surveillance videos.
Escorting visitors
- Carrying out random inspections
- Security workers ought to learn how to spot suspicious actions and respond well.
9. Relay solutions to ensure the person you communicate with is who they say they are.
The use of facial recognition, RFID and geofencing can make access control easier.
- Such systems are able to deny unauthorized access to anyone wearing a stolen ID.
10. Run Audits and Penetration Tests as Regularly as Possible
Check your home’s physical security at frequent intervals.
Audit Checklist:
- Do employees take part in challenging new people they do not recognize?
- Are all the details in the visitor log book trustworthy and correct?
Are these systems currently in use?
The Human Factor: How People’s Behavior Changes Over Time
Some of the best systems can still fail if individuals do not pay enough attention. Addressing tailgating is mostly about establishing a culture of security. This involves: Supporting accountability: Let workers challenge people they are not familiar with.
- Recognize employees who obey protocols with a reward.
- Highlight security by using posters, email and holding regular meetings.
Conclusion
Tailgating is considered a danger because it relies on human error rather than on sophisticated technology. Most companies put a lot of effort into digital security, what is tailgating in cyber security though access control of physical areas should not be ignored. Bear in mind, if you let your guard down physically, it can result in big cyber risks. Always close your doors and be careful not to open yourself up to cyber attacks. Address your security from the beginning to ensure all doors and windows are secured.
