As modern businesses adopt more advanced technologies, it’s more important than ever to know how to manage internal security systems and what common access control mistakes to avoid.
Industry workers often refer to modern commercial security systems for professional access control in their business. The transition to mobile and cloud-based applications could mean more opportunities for businesses to have their security structure violated. Ensure the safety of your business by exploring the most common access control mistakes to avoid and the penalties of not securing internal business operations.
1. Email Credentials
Sending email credentials like usernames and passwords to others compromises the authentication model of your business. Ensure a password change is mandated whenever employees use a default password for the first time.
2. Third-Party Access
It’s possible to suffer a security breach via a third party gaining access to your network and credentials. Be firm about not providing these credentials because your business will be accountable if an issue in an outsourcing arrangement occurs.
3. Shared User Accounts
A user account holds an assigned individual accountable for what happens on it. If you have shared user accounts, the assigned individual can’t be held accountable for making an error. Avoid shared user accounts to maintain audit trails of user actions.
4. Undeleted User Accounts
Leaving the account of a former employee or another worker open allows for unsolicited access by outside parties. Disable user accounts that are no longer in use from access control systems to prevent unsolicited access. Ensure the HR team has a system for immediately removing credentials after a user retires from an account.
5. Allowing Too Much Access
Taking shortcuts for access control makes it easier for the wrong people to gain access to your business. Securely provision each use, give information on a confidential basis, and assign access privileges according to an employee’s role and function. Be mindful of granting access to system administrators or other employees with a title they could use to justify browsing through your entire network.
