In a world where safeguarding sensitive information and critical infrastructure is paramount, Prometheon, a leading Canadian IT and Security Consulting Firm, has discovered a concerning trend. Despite their expertise in designing and securing networks, access control, and CCTV for government organizations, defense contractors, and Fortune 500 companies, they’ve identified a critical vulnerability trending in many supposedly secure facilities.
Prometheon has been at the forefront of securing networks and implementing cutting-edge access control and CCTV systems for high-profile clients. However, their recent observations shed light on a pervasive issue within the industry: a disproportionate focus on investing funds into IT systems or direct hardware for CCTV and access control, such as cameras, servers, and licensing.
While these components are undoubtedly essential, the oversight lies in neglecting the holistic security of the networks that run these systems. Security integrators, often specialists in their field, historically did not interface with IT systems. These control networks, governing everything from CCTV to building access and automation, are frequently left vulnerable due to a lack of hardening against common threats and attack vectors.
Hans Study, the founder and principal consultant of Prometheon, emphasizes that many security integrators face challenges in ensuring the robustness of these networks. “Having seen the way most of these networks are set up, it shows that there is still a very plug and play attitude,” states Study. “The effort and know-how required to properly secure and ensure the integrity of these networks unfortunately isn’t usually provided as the integrators are overwhelmed.”
Study underscores the critical nature of these networks by highlighting the potential risks. Threats like ransomware and unauthorized access can have disastrous consequences, especially when these systems lack regular backups or proper security controls. Additionally, there exists a fine balance between network performance and security, both being critical to proper operation. Striking this balance is essential for ensuring the efficacy and reliability of these security systems.
Prometheon stresses the importance of regular security auditing and maintenance for these systems, urging security integrators and organizations with CCTV and access control systems to address their security comprehensively. https://prometheon.net/top-10-security-controls-for-cctv-and-access-control-networks/
Hardware and software manufacturers like Genetec and Axis Communications have taken a proactive stance in the industry. They have demonstrated initiative by focusing on the cybersecurity aspect of physical security, publishing hardening guides for their products, and addressing security issues head-on. This collaborative effort between security consultants and manufacturers is crucial for building a more resilient and secure infrastructure.
In conclusion, Prometheon’s insights reveal a pressing need for a paradigm shift in how organizations approach the security of their facilities. It’s not just about the physical hardware; it’s about treating these systems as control networks that demand specialized attention, proper training, and ongoing maintenance to fortify against emerging threats in an increasingly digital age.
Prometheon is a leading provider of comprehensive IT and Security consulting services, network design solutions, and enterprise IT services with a strong focus on security, based in South-Western Ontario, Canada serving the GTA, southwestern Ontario and surrounding areas. For more information please visit https://www.prometheon.net/
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Company Name: Prometheon Inc
Contact Person: Hans Study
Email: Send Email
Phone: 18778071423
Country: Canada
Website: https://www.prometheon.net/