How to Prevent Physical Security Breaches in the Workplace

Much attention is rightly given to cyber security incidents. Cyber attacks are increasing at an alarming rate, with ransomware attacks against UK businesses doubling in the past year alone. However, cyber threats are only part of the picture. Physical security breaches remain a significant and often overlooked risk, and they are frequently linked to wider cyber security incidents.

Understanding common physical security risks — and how to prevent them — is essential for protecting sensitive data, maintaining compliance, and safeguarding your organisation’s assets.

5 Ways to Prevent Physical Security Breaches in the Workplace

Below are five of the most common physical security threats and practical steps to reduce the risk.

1. Unauthorised Access to Servers

Server rooms are the backbone of an organisation’s IT infrastructure. They house critical business data, sensitive information, backups, and costly hardware. Standards such as ISO 27001 physical and environmental security require strict control and monitoring of server room access as part of a wider Information Security Management System (ISMS).

If unauthorised individuals gain access — whether disgruntled employees or external intruders — the consequences can include equipment theft, deliberate damage, or the direct installation of malware.

How to Prevent Unauthorised Server Access

• Secure server rooms with high-security locks and role-based access controls.
• Implement biometric authentication where appropriate.
• Restrict access rights using the principle of least privilege.
• Support technical controls with regular security awareness training for IT staff.

2. Tailgating

Tailgating is a form of social engineering that exploits human behaviour in physical spaces. It occurs when unauthorised individuals follow employees into restricted areas without proper authentication.

Popular culture has highlighted this tactic, most notably in the film Catch Me If You Can, based on the exploits of Frank Abagnale. In reality, tailgating remains a common and effective method used by criminals today.

How to Prevent Tailgating

• Educate employees on how tailgating works and why it is dangerous.
• Train staff to challenge unfamiliar individuals politely but confidently.

You can explore this threat in more detail in our MetaCompliance blog on tailgating.

3. Documents Left Unsecured

Physical documents, post-it notes, and unattended printouts often contain sensitive information. Printers pose a particular risk, especially when employees forget to collect documents or work remotely.

A Quocirca report revealed that 68% of organisations experienced data loss due to print security issues.

How to Prevent Document-Based Breaches

• Implement and enforce a clean desk policy aligned with ISO 27001.
• Educate employees on the risks of poor document handling.
• Use secure pull-printing solutions with user authentication.

4. Unauthorised Visitors (“Stranger Danger”)

Unaccounted visitors present a serious threat to both physical and cyber security. A Health and Safety Executive report found that strangers were responsible for 60% of workplace violence incidents.

Beyond personal safety risks, unauthorised visitors may steal devices such as laptops or mobile phones, leading to data exposure.

How to Manage Visitor Risks

• Ensure all external visitors are registered and escorted.
• Keep doors locked and access points monitored.
• Use swipe-card access and visitor logging systems.

5. Lost or Misused Employee IDs

Employee ID cards and biometric systems are only effective when used correctly. Sharing access credentials — even with good intentions — undermines physical security controls.

Criminals frequently exploit helpful behaviour through social engineering, persuading employees to grant access to restricted areas.

How to Prevent ID Misuse

• Provide ongoing security awareness training focused on access control.
• Clearly communicate policies around ID usage and reporting lost cards.

Key Takeaways: Preventing Physical Security Breaches

1. Train employees to recognise physical security threats.
2. Use robust access controls for sensitive areas.
3. Monitor and log building entry and exit.
4. Maintain an up-to-date device inventory.
5. Ensure security policies address physical breach scenarios.

Learn More About MetaCompliance Solutions

Preventing physical security breaches requires more than policies alone — it demands continuous awareness, behavioural change, and real-time risk insight. MetaCompliance supports organisations in reducing human risk and strengthening both physical and cyber security through a unified approach.

Our Human Risk Management Platform brings together the tools needed to address the human element of security, including:

• Automated Security Awareness
• Advanced Phishing Simulations
• Risk Intelligence & Analytics
• Compliance Management

To see how these solutions can strengthen your organisation’s security posture and reduce the risk of physical and cyber breaches, contact us today to book a demo.