How does physical security impact cyber security

In an ever-changing digital age, the world of cyber security is certainly moving from strength to strength. Although in many companies, having the right precautions in place to avoid unwanted cybercrime is paramount, the physical security of a business does have an impact on cybersecurity, itself. Basic deterrents such as having CCTV security installed or gaining access to the building with a key card can positively impact a business’s cybersecurity and keep digital data safe. 

These two types of high-end security go hand in hand, and in order for utmost efficiency, must be implemented together. Often, companies will spend a lot of money on their encryption software and relevant firewalls, yet neglect the physical security of their business. Unfortunately, it’s frequently overlooked, but the impact of a physical breach can actually be just as damaging as that of cybercrime.

Detrimental effects

A common occurrence during a physical breach of security is when unauthorised personnel walk into a restricted area and freely gain access to private systems and important information. They can then walk out of the area, just as easily as they came in, without being stopped. We’ve heard of cyber criminals gaining access to server rooms, installing remote access devices and even walking out with storage (such as hard drives) that contain sensitive details.

Cyber-attacks come in various forms, but the vast majority have a basic structure and are actually carried out by relatively unskilled individuals. Many companies now have critical data stored electronically, so sustaining and improving data security services is absolutely crucial. Poor cyber security can leave systems open to risk. You’d never leave your front door open all day, and the same logic should be applied to technology. Both physically and through IT, a failure to apply the necessary security protocols means that harm and distress can be caused and in extreme cases, puts lives at risk. Make sure to constantly assess internal threats, within the building, as well as externally, through cybersecurity. Developing a strict security regime will ensure that all assets are protected to the best of your ability. 

Preventative measures

There are many preventative options to look at when it comes to effective physical security. We would always recommend doing some research before investing in your chosen security services. You know your company better than anyone else, so deciding on the right tried and tested security solution is a personal choice.

Security guards

The benefit of physically manning your facility is the assurance of having high-standard security. Having a physical presence in areas of the building ensures both employee and asset safety. Seeing an SIA licensed officer in uniform makes just about everyone tighten up a little. A powerful presence like that in the workplace is an effective deterrent, in itself, even before you find out just how versatile these security guards are.

The Security Industry Authority (SIA) is the UK’s governmental body responsible for regulating the private security industry, nationwide, and specialist training is implemented at the highest standard, ensuring first class service. An SIA license means that guards can legally carry out a variety of protocols, specific to your business. If you’re looking for a versatile and effective security strategy, then SIA licensed security guards are imperative for your facility.

At Stok K9 Security Services, all our deployed personnel conform to the BS7858 security vetting standard. This is an in depth background screening of individuals employed in an environment where the security and safety of people, goods or property is a requirement of the employer and in corporate interest. By operating to the British standard, we can guarantee an elite and bespoke service.

Monitor closely 

It sounds like something that should go without saying, but it’s essential to have the appropriate locks on facility doors. Policies should enforce that when rooms are unoccupied, they should be locked, especially where expensive equipment or machinery is present. Specific key codes or keycard entries should be set up in order to gain access to these rooms.

 Additionally, to maximise physical security, a system should be in place to monitor exactly who goes in and out, and when. Although a logbook can be a good idea, bear in mind that it can be doctored and easily ignored. A better solution would be an authentication system incorporated into the locking devices, so that a smart card or biometric scan is required to unlock the doors and a record is made of the identity of each person who enters. If employees use laptops at their desks, they should take them with them when they leave or secure them to a permanent fixture with a cable lock.

 Not only could items be stolen, but hackers can simply plug a laptop into a hub and use software to capture data travelling across the network. If mobile devices such as laptops, smartphones or tablets are in regular use, they should be monitored to ensure they are not abused or used to retrieve unauthorised data from the network servers. Nothing can be left to chance; keep in mind that any unauthorised access could result in enormous damage.

CCTV security 

CCTV is arguably one of the most efficient and future-proof security methods. It’s not only advisable to assess the location of your remote surveillance before installation, but also to make sure you have the most suitable surveillance for your needs. CCTV is an investment to any business, so take the time to research the high-quality products. Ideally, your camera should be clear enough to pick out key details for evidence, should there be the need. At Stok K9 Security Services, we work with the cutting-edge technology from industry leading suppliers to provide an elite and cost-effective monitoring solution.

Contact Us

 It doesn’t matter how strong your cybersecurity is, if you’re not implementing physical security strategies alongside it, it could put your businesses at risk of common theft, or cybercrime. For ultimate peace of mind, we recommend applying some of these successful security systems alongside each other. If you’d like to find out more about our high end security services, then get in touch! Contact Stok K9 Security Services today on 0800 002 5761 or by emailing us at info@stokk9services.com.

 

Other articles you may also be interested in:

• 10 simple steps to secure your business and protect your assets
• Where should you place your CCTV?
• 7 places that should have manned guarding

The one place where we feel we should always feel truly safe is our homes. They’re our safe havens, the bolthole from which we can shut out the rest of the world should we so desire. The benefits of a safe and secure home aren’t just physical, however – by which we mean the physical security of our most valuable assets (our TVs, smartphones and cars, for example) – it also extends to our overall wellbeing. If your home is demonstrably safe, then you and your family can relax more, stress less and ‘recharge’ properly. The team here at Stok K9 Security Services, who provide an extensive home security service, wanted to look at what you can do to keep your property safe, moving forward.

CCTV

When it comes to home security, probably the best thing you can do is install a CCTV surveillance system. They’re certainly worth the investment, if you’re able, especially when you consider that the average cost (in terms of stolen goods and damages) of a domestic robbery sits at a hefty £1,400 (according to the Crime Survey for England and Wales). You can either opt for single static cameras, several cameras working in tandem with one another, re-adjusting and highly manoeuvrable cameras, the number of options is huge!

Partial to a pooch?

Have you always wanted a furry friend? Well, this might just be the excuse you need to win around your other half. Now, we may of course be a tad biased given that our speciality is canine security, but barking dogs act as one of the most significant burglar deterrents. Numerous interviews and reports with former burglars have found that homes with dogs were much less likely to be targeted than those without. They revealed that, in most instances, it added one layer of difficulty (and risk) too many to make it worth their time.

Video doorbell camera

One of the best things to come about in the world of home security, in recent years, has been the introduction of the video doorbell camera. It’s a misconception that most burglaries happen at night, with properties being far more at risk of break-in during the daytime. A traditional ploy would’ve been for burglars to ring the doorbell, and upon hearing no response or movement, proceed with the break-in. Now, however, video doorbell cameras enable people to see who’s at their property, wherever they might be, from the ease of their smartphone – and even speak to who’s at their door!

Alarm system

Interestingly, the introduction of an alarm system might not have as big as a deterrent effect as you might have initially expected. Some believe, in fact, that counter-intuitively, the presence of a burglar alarm can actually increase the chances of a property being burgled. We err on the side of caution with that theory, however, and would wager that the presence of an alarm system is still preferable to a lack of one.

The reason behind this supposed lack of effectiveness might stem from few areas. Firstly, seasoned burglars are often able to disable them, and therefore don’t seem them as a threat. Secondly, they don’t present the immediate danger that a dog does. Finally, there’s very little an alarm system can do in the event that a burglar be successful. By this, we mean that, whereas if a burglar is caught on CCTV cameras there’s a chance they may still get caught down the line, there’s not much an alarm system can do in the longer-term if a burglar manages to get away from the property.

If you’re on a budget

Of course, alarm systems can be quite costly (especially in the more advanced varieties) and not everyone will be able to afford one. Having questioned their effectiveness, you might not be willing to shell out the kind of money required if you’re able! An alternative, therefore, one which we’d still argue is better than nothing, is to implement a dummy alarm system. If at all possible, however, do try and invest in a working version as the more experienced burglars will be able to distinguish between real and fake offerings.

Other easy additions

There’s lots else you can do that’s easy and cost-effective, in order to bump up your property’s security levels. An upgrade of door locks, for instance, or the addition of a chain on the door. Have you considered motion-activated security lights outside your property? A gate leading to your home? Feeling safe in your own home needn’t cost an arm and a leg, nor should it.

A well-rounded approach is the most effective 

Ultimately (and this has been shown in various reports) the most effective means of protecting your property is to implement a variety of security measures working in conjunction with one another. In fact, utilising a combination of security devices (including burglar alarms, security chains, external lights, etc.) has been found to afford roughly 50 times more protection than those properties with no home security.

Stok K9 security services

What, then, do we offer here at our firm? Our security provision extends beyond solely home security, across many areas, including leisure, construction and energy. In terms of the services, themselves, we offer:

• Trained and vetted dog handlers and canine units.
• State-of-the-art CCTV systems.
• Manned guarding.
• Personal security (HNWI & UHNWI).
• Rapid response.

Contact our home security service

So, if you’d like to find out more about our home security services, then get in touch! Contact Stok K9 Security Services today by calling us on 0800 002 5761 or by sending an email at info@stokk9services.com. 

Other articles you may also be interested in:

• Do you need CCTV monitoring?
• The benefits to having a security dog
• Security gadgets that are worth the investment

 

The power of CCTV

CCTV is a powerful tool, but it’s essential to know how to use it properly. It might seem a simple security solution but there are, unfortunately, lots of hidden downfalls and loopholes which might leave your CCTV strategy somewhat out of kilter. Construction security is vital and by underestimating the complexity of the technology, you’re leaving yourself exposed to a variety of risks. Fortunately, help is at hand!

Here at Stok K9 Security Services, we have extensive knowledge on a wide range of security systems and preventative strategies. We’re experts in elite security and, as one the UK’s leading security services, have the experience to help you take the necessary steps to securing your construction site and utilise CCTV effectively.

Peace of mind

In an increasingly uncertain time, it’s understandable that you’d want peace of mind and reassurance that your business is secure and safe in all circumstances. In fact, there’s never been a better time to ensure your business has the utmost security to optimize growth and success in the future. Maybe you’re curious as to what CCTV measures you should be taking to protect your company? Or perhaps you have had some security issues and know that your current surveillance isn’t quite up to scratch? To help you better understand why you should invest in high quality CCTV, here are some examples of – and solutions to – common CCTV mistakes we’ve seen from industrial site owners, ourselves.

1. Error in judgement

At some point in life, we’ve all had a time when we’ve said “it won’t happen to me”, and then without promise, whatever it is, actually does happen to you. Surprisingly, many construction sites simply aren’t investing in CCTV security, in the first place. As a result of the global pandemic, commercial premises were adhering to the government guidelines of social distancing; unfortunately, it also meant that the more opportunistic thieves were taking their chances, especially when they knew police were already as stretched as they currently were. There were fewer workers on sites, so as a result, the chances of an attempted burglary being physically detected was greatly diminished. In a time where business growth is by no means guaranteed, you definitely don’t want to be forking out for brand-new equipment in the midst of a pandemic. Getting efficient, high-end security will always pay off in the long run.

2. Unreliable quality 

CCTV is one of the most reliable forms of security, but only if it’s done right. If you’re going to invest in it, make sure it’s top-quality. The whole point of CCTV is to protect your workforce and business; failing to invest in HD security could be the mistake that’s leading your construction site astray. All too often, we‘ve seen industrial sites that have bought less than adequate remote surveillance systems and when things go wrong, they’ve unclear evidence to show for it. In the event that someone trespassed on your property, you want a reliable camera to pick up vital details, rather than blur or distort them in any way. We’ve also seen instances where CCTV cameras have stopped working, with no resolution. Instead, they were left simply as physical deterrents, leaving any unwanted circumstance to chance.

To keep your workplace safe, investigate the options available to you. Having the highest quality you can afford will serve you well. The quality must be clear, to the extent that you’d be able to identify a potential suspect. Details such as facial features or clothing become a fundamental part of any crime investigation and having the equipment to pick up this kind of definition is invaluable to your site’s safety. Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry! 

Additionally, consider getting something fully weatherproof. Industrial locations can often be challenging to secure due to their very nature; dirt, dust, potentially dangerous chemicals and other potential hazards are always present. Test your CCTV video placements and locations until you feel assured; you know your site better than anyone else.

3. Specification of CCTV

An industrial site can be a busy place to work; with a high turnover of vehicles driving in and out of the facility, you never know when you may need to look at a vehicle more closely.

There have been reported occasions where thousands of pounds worth of industrial equipment have been taken from construction sites, and either the inadequacy of (or in some cases, the complete lack of) security cameras meant that basic key evidence, such as number plates, weren’t able to be checked or identified.

It’s fundamental that you have the correct surveillance for your site. Consider the versatility of ANPR cameras. These automatically read the number plate of the vehicles passing through and check them in a database of vehicles of interest with the DVSA. This can help target any vehicles to potentially stop check. It also detects any offences, including things like unlicensed operators. It’s always a good idea to know who has access to your site.

4. The importance of a reputable trader

Wherever you obtain your CCTV, it’s important that it comes from a trusted source. Make sure you look at supplier reviews; you want the process to be easy, with impeccable product and service guaranteed.

 There have been instances where site owners, unfortunately, haven’t done their research and have invested in large quantities of poorly manufactured or faulty CCTV cameras. If surveillance isn’t your expertise, then don’t just go with the cheapest option. Look around, ask for some quotes and talk to traders and consumers alike to gain a consensus on the most effective CCTV security for your site.

Our surveillance

Here at Stok K9 Security Services, we design, install and maintain high specification CCTV. We work with cutting-edge technology from industry-leading suppliers to provide you with an effective remote CCTV services monitoring solution, that’s also cost-efficient. Your CCTV system is connected via the internet to a secure monitoring station, sending images from your CCTV cameras direct to our security personnel. The footage can be monitored 24/7 or during selected hours, often outside of normal business hours or when the property will be empty. 

Our smart security systems inform security personnel in the event of an alarm being activated. 

To provide the best view possible, cameras are then re-aligned, zoomed or an alternative viewpoint is selected. Using our state of the art software we draw digital barriers in and around your chosen areas which trigger immediate alerts to our control room. Each business is supplied with a 24 hour monitoring station for staff to use at your perusal. Our professional security personnel then manually monitor the CCTV footage, looking at recent footage as well as live footage to properly assess the situation. If a risk is identified by our Remote Monitoring centre, we react to manage the situation by either communicating directly with the intruders via an inbuilt tannoy system, informing you if required, contacting the emergency services and dispatching our 24 hour response team. 

Contact us for cutting-edge CCTV security 

Ultimately, it’s important to do your research, constantly evaluate your construction site security services and be aware that now more than ever, high quality CCTV is an invaluable investment to your business. A proactive approach to your security method is the best way to start.

If you would like to find out more about our industrial and construction security services, then get in touch! Contact Stok K9 Security Services today on 0800 002 5761 or email us via info@stokk9services.com.

 

Other articles you may also be interested in:

• Do you need CCTV monitoring?
• Where should you place your CCTV?
• How to manage a vacant property

 

CCTV cameras are highly effective security measures, and with almost 2 million reported theft offences in the UK last year, you can understand why many people opt to install them. Investing in CCTV and installing it is all good, but it could be a waste of money if the placement is wrong. What makes CCTV monitoring systems such a fantastic security solution? Find out where to place your security cameras, as well as places to avoid. 

Visible CCTV deters burglars

Thieves know more about home security than the average homeowner! Deterring criminals is the best thing you can do to prevent theft.

A study with past criminals found that CCTV monitoring systems and barking dogs are the biggest theft deterrents. Also, they said most criminals are opportunists, meaning they walk the streets searching for an easy option. Your job is to make them skip your home as it seems too secure.

Where to place CCTV cameras

Make the first floor priority

Studies have shown that 81% of burglars enter via the first floor, so make sure all doors and windows on the first floor are covered. An added security bonus is that the cameras can be used as a digital peephole; check who is at your door before answering. 

Place your cameras above doors and windows, but facing downwards, so the area around them is covered. You can also place CCTV monitoring systems inside windows, facing outwards with a view of the front garden and road. When placing windows outside, you need to make sure they are waterproof and have night vision.

Keep cameras out of reach

When CCTV cameras are accessible, criminals often smash them and then carry out the crime. Thieves have also been known to steal them! So, put them up high when outside, or consider building a wire cage around them to prevent damage.

Placing cameras at least 9 feet high is enough to stop someone 6 feet or less from smashing the camera. Always make sure your cameras are still in eye view so that they continue acting as a deterrent.

Cover stairs & hallways

This is especially important in commercial properties and residential flats. CCTV monitoring systems in hallways and stairwells prevent criminals from accessing multiple building parts and causing further damage. Again, the cameras will act as a deterrent. Security cameras in hallways make the whole building appear to be covered by CCTV.

Driveways & car parks are crucial

Thieves need to sneak through driveways and car parks to access a building, so having a CCTV monitoring system installed here can stop them at the first hurdle. It’s also an excellent spot to give staff and customers peace of mind that their vehicles are safe in commercial properties. After all, vehicles are expensive. And, in 2020, there was a reported 25,017 vehicle crimes in just one month!

No need to neglect indoors!

Indoors are not the best place to put CCTV, as the system won’t necessarily act as a deterrent. Besides this fact, there are benefits to having CCTV indoors. One advantage is that it can be easier for the camera to get a clearer image of the criminal’s face, making it easier to identify if they break-in. Also, the system can record criminals once in the building, meaning you can record any damage that has taken place.

Don’t forget the garage

After failing other entryways, many burglars will go for the garage. It’s often a way for them to access the rest of the house and steal expensive belongings along the way! Consider placing a CCTV camera at your garage door for ultimate security.

Areas where you should never install security cameras

Places which violate your neighbours privacy

Always be mindful of your neighbours. It is not illegal in the UK for your CCTV to cover a neighbours premises, but there are rules you must abide by. You must tell them about it (and put signs up saying you are using CCTV.) Also, ensure you never capture more footage than needed for the purpose.

The law states you must make sure nobody else can access the footage and that you only keep it for as long as you need to. Always ensure the footage is only ever used for the intended purpose. 

Bedrooms & Bathrooms

CCTV monitoring systems in bedrooms & bathrooms not only invade privacy, but there is also a risk of hackers breaking into the system. Sometimes, we want to keep an eye on children and the elderly, but there are other options. Baby monitors and medical alert systems are a much safer bet for these rooms. Luckily, there’s not usually much that people can steal from bathrooms! Criminals prefer TVs to shampoo.

Top tips & tricks for outdoor CCTV cameras

• Install the camera at least 9 feet from the ground, where possible.
• Do not point cameras directly at the sun.
• Ensure they are waterproof.
• Make sure they have night vision.
• Place them somewhere visible to deter criminals.

Contact us today if you want any further guidance around CCTV monitoring systems or any other security measures. At Stok K9 Security Services, our highly trained team provides tailored solutions to protect you and your premises. Your safety is the heart of our business.

It is impossible to remove the risk of theft and break-ins entirely. Still, there are many business security systems you can put in place to reduce the risk massively. Security measures such as CCTV monitoring systems and intruder alarms work as deterrents of crime, as well as enabling you to catch criminals in the act!

Unfortunately, business premises are a big target for intruders and thieves. Business premises often house expensive electrical equipment, cash, and personal data, so criminals view businesses as a good opportunity. 

It is essential to determine the level of risk in your area, then speak to a professional security company to find out the best, tailored security solutions for your business.

Why you need good workplace security

This recent study shows the true extent of crimes committed to businesses in the UK. Researchers estimated that the retail sector reported a whopping 27,400 incidents per 1,000 premises!

Every business premise will hold expensive items such as computers and cash, and sensitive documents/data. Having suitable security measures protects from theft and can also keep insurance costs down. 

Business premises of all kinds need protecting, whether a singular office or a massive business complex. Luckily, professional security companies provide tailored solutions depending on the premises needs.

Take these 10 steps to keep your business safe

1. Check your locks, and make sure they are used

You can opt for a professional security audit, or you can decide to assess your locks yourself. Checking your locks are secure is one of the most effective and cheapest ways to make your business premises secure. 

All external doors need to be fitted with good quality locks, along with all windows. You should also add locks to internal doors, especially doors to offices or storerooms, anywhere with expensive equipment or confidential documents.

Inform your staff on the importance of locking doors and windows at the end of the day. Consider making somebody responsible for this, somebody you can trust!

2. Ensure 24/7 security is available

Business premises are more at risk of theft when they are closed, so you must make sure security measures are in place at all times. CCTV monitoring systems ensure premises are monitored 24/7, and alarm systems inform of intruders when properties are empty. 

Alarm systems can be linked to your smartphone or even straight to emergency services. The faster action is taken, the less damage a criminal can cause on your premises.

3. Install a CCTV monitoring system

Not only are CCTV cameras effective deterrents of crime, but they can spot somebody trying to break into your property. If an intruder does break-in, you can take action. CCTV cameras also capture images of criminals, meaning you could identify the suspect and stop further crimes from occurring! 

Remote CCTV monitoring systems are the best choice for business premises. With remote CCTV systems, cameras can send the footage directly to security personnel who are available 24/7 to monitor your premises.

4. Using lighting strategically

Studies have been conducted regarding the effectiveness of lighting systems to prevent crime. The results found that crime was reduced by an average of 21% in areas with improved street lighting, compared to other areas without lighting! 

Install lighting around all entrances to your property and in corridors inside your property. Prioritise lighting outside rooms that house expensive equipment and stock!

5. Secure any expensive equipment

Tag all of your computers and keep a record of equipment serial numbers. By doing this, you can refer back to your records to check no equipment has been stolen. Large workplaces with a lot of appliances can quickly lose track. You can even consider bolting equipment to the floor; this way, it’s not going anywhere!

6. Keep important documents locked away

Workplaces that hold confidential information need to be careful; you should always lock away these documents in filing cabinets or cupboards. Workplaces also need to make sure they dispose of confidential data correctly.

Never, under any circumstances, leave documents with personal information lying around. A privacy breach could completely ruin your businesses reputation.

7. Install an access control system

Controlling who access your premises by using fobs or cards means you can decide who enters, where and when. You can restrict movement around your premises and keep tabs on who is inside your property. 

Keep a record of who is in your building at all times, and ask guests to sign in and out. Therefore, if anything does go missing, you know who the suspects could be.

8. Place cash in a secure, high-quality safe

Always keep a record of how much money is being held within your workplace. Wherever possible, keep cash locked in a safe. You should choose a safe approved by The Association of Insurance Surveyors Ltd. Whatever you do, never leave cash lying around somewhere visible; this is an invitation for thieves!

9. Keep a close eye on stock

Whatever your business stocks, whether clothing or electrical equipment, keep a record and a close eye on numbers. This way, you can quickly identify any missing items early, stopping repeat offenders. Shockingly, 75% of workers admitted to stealing from their employees at least once! This statistic shows how important it is to have security measures inside, not just outside your property.

10. Stay vigilant and be prepared

Always take references for new employees to ensure you can trust your staff! As your business grows, you also need to monitor and assess your security measures. You could even consider manned guarding on your premises, meaning a trained professional is on-site to watch out for anything suspicious!

Ensure your staff are trained and aware of their security responsibilities, lock windows and doors, and make sure alarms are set. 

Check alarms are regularly working with weekly fire alarm practices and annual fire drills. Look out for your neighbours, and they will look out for you! Think about teaming up with nearby premises to form a business watch.

Find out more about how to keep your business premises safe

Follow the above steps, and you are well on your way to ensuring your business premises are as safe as possible. To find out what else you can put in place, contact us at Stok K9 Security Services. Our highly trained, accredited, professional security team are here to protect your business from criminals.

Investing in property is a rollercoaster, and your building mightn’t have occupants for months at a time. You’re reliant on many factors that aren’t in your control, whether you choose to buy to resell or you’re searching for suitable tenants to rent your property out. As house prices rise and decline, you may find it challenging to secure a return on your investment. While you’re waiting for the next move, vacant property security keeps your building protected. Care is crucial in maintaining any flat or house you’re looking to sell, and there are additional steps you need to take if it’s always empty.

Here is a guide covering how to manage a vacant property. 

Firstly, what risks do you face with vacant property?

Properties without any tenants face a unique set of risks. Considering and addressing these is particularly important if you don’t live near the building and you can’t perform regular security checks for yourself.

Vacant properties are more likely to:

• Be targeted by vandals since there aren’t apparent repercussions. 
• Get burgled if they’re furnished without tenants.
• Become a routine setting for squatters.
• Experience leaks or water damage.
• Suffer electrical faults that result in fires.
• Become overrun by mould.
• Face pest infestations with nests.
• Become damaged by extreme weather.

How to plan to combat vacant property risks

Any management of your property needs to take steps to eliminate risks purposefully. Any costly threats to the investment you’ve made ought to be your biggest concern, and successful management means targeting those first. You can put several strategies in place to monitor your building and guarantee that it is kept as secure as possible no matter where you are. 

Consider CCTV monitoring

CCTV monitoring allows you to check every corner of your property from any distance. External CCTV cameras are an excellent deterrent to criminals since you’re going to catch footage of them if they approach your building. Squatters, vandals and burglaries are much less likely to affect your life if they don’t target you in the first place. Still, cameras provide evidence for use in court if incidents do occur.

CCTV monitoring can also alert you to safety risks like electrical faults since you’ll be able to see if alarms have been triggered. You can then ring the local authorities to attend to your building even if it isn’t occupied. 

Perform regular maintenance

Whether you have occupants or not, it is in your interest to perform regular maintenance on your property. Prepare your building for winter by fitting double glazing and repairing faulty hinges. You’re less likely to need costly repairs completed before you sell. Regular maintenance of your building means severe leaks and water damage are less likely, and you’ll notice pest infestations before they escalate.

Mould is another issue that you can easily combat with regular maintenance. Attending your vacant property a few times a year gives you a chance to turn on central heating and correct the damp atmosphere. Even a couple of hours can make a massive difference to the health of the house. 

Communicate with neighbours

Want to be sure that your windows and your doors are secure? It pays to be friendly with your property neighbours since you can ring them up if your CCTV catches anything suspicious. Nothing beats a physical presence to protect the house, and neighbours can keep an eye and ear out where standard security measures may miss.

For further advice on managing a vacant property, contact us at STOK K9 Security Services. Whether you require void property inspections or you’re simply looking for some friendly advice, we’re here to help.

The safety and security of your property are always worth the investment, and gadgets can help make the job easier. A ‘smart home’ or office is a new, modern concept whereby property owners can use their mobiles to control ovens, CCTV, thermostats, and other areas. While the convenience of wirelessly controlled gadgets is one of their most impressive features, they can also keep any property secure when it’s unoccupied. Specific devices have been developed purely to give you peace of mind out of hours or when you’re on holiday.

Without further ado, here are some security gadgets that are worth the investment. 

CCTV security systems

CCTV cameras are a well-known security gadget, and for a good reason! Whether you’re looking to protect your home, or you want to be able to monitor the workplace you’re responsible for, a CCTV system is almost always a sensible investment. You never know if and when criminals will target your building. Cameras outside your property make it less attractive for a robbery. 

CCTV monitoring also lets you record footage that can help you claim compensation for vandalism or theft if the worst comes to worst. You’ll be able to submit recordings to help catch criminals, and your property insurance will be less expensive all the while.

Smart plugs

Have you ever wished you could turn appliances on and off through your phone? Smart plugs let you do just that. While smart plugs aren’t a security gadget in themselves, you can use them for preventive measures in the home and on your business premises. With the remote control of a smart plug, you’re able to switch lamps on and off without being on your property. Lights give the impression your building is occupied and not an easy target.

Lamps aren’t the only thing that intelligent plugs can control! You can switch air conditioning, speakers and fans on to make noise. You could even turn your computers and your coffee machine on so anybody looking through your windows believes staff or occupants are present. The versatility of remotely activated plugs alone means they’re a worthwhile investment.

Electronic locks

In a world where it is so easy to misplace keys, electronic locks are a lifesaver! Whether you choose facial recognition, a pin, or a fingerprint activated lock, they’re much more challenging to bypass than with a traditional key. Electronic locks can keep vital documents secure in filing cabinets, or you can use them on internal and external doors. Bluetooth buttons are also an option. You can activate or deactivate your lock from a short distance and grant temporary guest access.

Traditional locks can lock you as the owner out of your files or your property if you misplace a physical key. Clever business security systems look to erase that problem! You’re much less likely to forget your phone than your key, so electronic locks are as convenient as they are secure. 

Secure hard drives

Protecting your information online can be just as vital as safeguarding your premises physically. Hacking is an even more likely occurrence than a burglary, so you need to be confident that personal information is stored safely. Keeping customer payment details on ultra-secure hard drives rather than physical paper copies makes your business premises a less appealing target. Fraudsters can’t simply raid filing cabinets to impersonate your customers, so they’re unlikely to break in. Your staff are safer at work with hard drive storage.

Contact us at STOK K9 Security Services for assistance choosing security gadgets that are worth the investment for your event, your business or your vacant property. 

CCTV monitoring is used worldwide in homes and commercial properties. Although it is a popular form of security surveillance, we can’t ignore the fact that it does divide opinions. Studies show that the use of CCTV cameras reduces crime by 51%. Some people argue that these cameras don’t actually work as they can’t step in to stop a crime, but the many positives of using CCTV cameras means that in a lot of circumstances, it is highly effective, if not essential. 

 

Advantages of CCTV monitoring

Acts as a deterrent 

Possibly the most significant advantage of implementing CCTV is that it can stop criminals in their tracks. The fact of the matter is that criminals do not want to be caught, especially by a camera that would hold undeniable footage as evidence against them. So, ensure your cameras are clearly visible and that you have signs on display to inform passers-by that CCTV cameras are in use. 

 

Maintains records

CCTV cameras keep footage in a database that you can access at a later date. This can come in handy for multiple reasons, one being compensation claims. If a customer fell in your store and claimed against your business, having no cameras installed means that it’s their word against yours, and you could end up out of pocket. Having cameras installed means you could watch the footage and determine whether the claim is legitimate. If it is, then you know to take precautionary measures so it does not happen again.

 

Available 24/7

A massive advantage of CCTV cameras is the fact that they are always watching. No toilet breaks, no distractions. If a crime takes place on your premises, the camera will see it. In addition, many cameras now offer remote monitoring; you no longer need to monitor the footage in real-time. You can even set up instant alerts to your smartphone, ensuring nothing will slip by unnoticed.

 

Makes people feel safe

Properties and the people inside are less likely to fall victim to crimes when cameras are in place. Therefore it is no shock that the presence of CCTV cameras makes us feel protected. In a commercial property, it shows your employees and customers that you care about their safety. Cameras are also important in domestic properties. We all want to keep our families and property safe, so you can relax in the courage that your cameras will deter any potential intruders.

 

Monitors staff performance

There are two main factors in monitoring staff with CCTV: ensuring they are getting stuff done and protecting staff from potential problems. For example, maybe you think a staff member is lying about their working hours. Cameras mean you can keep track of when they enter and leave work. 

Although we can see the above example as a positive, this leads us to a potential problem. So, carry on reading to find out about the disadvantages of CCTV cameras.

 

Disadvantages of CCTV monitoring

Violation of privacy

Many people disagree with the use of CCTV cameras in certain areas due to feeling like it violates their privacy. For example, in the workplace, staff could feel like they are being spied on. It is legal to use CCTV in commercial areas and workspaces, but you must declare that the cameras are in use.

When using in domestic properties, you must make sure you install your camera correctly so that it does not violate your neighbour’s privacy. 

 

Can be expensive

Installation can be pricey. Also, you need to make sure you invest in a good quality camera as bad quality images don’t provide good evidence when used concerning a crime. Cheap cameras can also be relatively easy to hack, which is a huge disadvantage as you want to look back at footage when needed. 

 

Can’t stop a crime

An argument against CCTV cameras being effective is that they can’t step in to stop a crime. For example, if a fight broke out, a security guard could intervene and break it up before anything escalates. When there’s no guard present and only cameras, people may act without taking the camera into account in the heat of the moment. Nobody is there to step in, and somebody could be injured.

 

The burning question: are CCTV cameras worth it? Yes, the positives outweigh the negatives. They might not be able to break up a fight, but they can and do often stop a fight from starting in the first place.

Hopefully, after reading this article, you agree that CCTV cameras are a positive addition to commercial and domestic properties. If you are considering CCTV monitoring, contact Stok K9 Security Services today. Call us on 0800 002 5761 or send us an e-mail. Fast reply time guaranteed. Your safety is our priority.