It is a firm belief that the better the quality of risk control implemented on any system, the lesser are the security risks. But, we cannot limit ourselves to just thinking about reducing security risks on computer systems. There are a number of other places where entry control is essential. In this broad spectrum, we can include any place that is frequently visited by people, such as airports, museums, libraries, shopping malls and other public places.
Defense installations and government installations have excellent entry control systems in place. They have these installed to minimise security risks. You would not want an ordnance depot or a nuclear installation to be unsecured. That would be like placing your valuables on display and leaving the doors and windows open. Any possible security risk has to be reduced and appropriate measures should be taken to protect it.
We all know that there is risk of viruses, worms and other similar faulty programmes floating around on the internet trying to crash or break into anyone’s computer. These demented, misplaced people do it just for fun as they don’t really gain monetarily from such acts. That’s why anti virus software companies keep updating their software almost on a daily basis to protect those who are using their protection software.
Any business place, home, research facility and workplace are at risk and therefore require good quality access control. But, the good quality access control also needs to be constantly updated. Security risks keep changing and therefore, the access control systems also need to be updated.
Large organisations employ teams of people or hire companies who specialise in evaluating safety risks. They not only examine current safety risks but also forecast future safety risks. They then decide which access controls are best and would fulfill the requirements. Evaluating safety risks and designing quality access control systems have become a big business now.
Governments employ security forces; install security systems to protect their sensitive information and people. That is why installing security cameras have become so popular and a common practice. Jamming radio signals, using spy satellites are all techniques employed for reducing security risks. The more sensitive the location, the better access control systems would be deployed.
After 9/11, the world had changed phenomenally in its concepts of security risks. Americans in their wildest dreams could not imagine that their homeland is vulnerable and could be attacked. But all that has changed now in the aftermath of the attacks. Access control systems have become more advanced, newer technologies deployed to reduce security risks. But the threats to security still lurk in the shadows.
Governments, organisations and people are trying to use the best entry control methods to reduce security risks. But, no matter how good these systems are designed and used, they must be monitored and updated regularly. Like burglars keep thinking of new ways to conduct a break in, similarly access control systems have to be updated to reduce and thwart security risks.