A holistic approach to modern threats

Digital and physical infrastructure is increasingly intertwined. This reality is pushing organizations to rethink traditional security practices. The once clear difference between physical security-focused on storing tangible assets and internet security, which protects digital data and networks, is becoming less important as technology advances.

The convergence of physical and internet security is not just a trend; It is a necessity for building a comprehensive security strategy in the future.

Unclear lines between physical security and online security

Historically, physical safety and internet safety have worked in special silos. Physical security teams focus on protecting buildings, people and equipment with methods such as access control, video surveillance and alarms. In the meantime, online security teams focus on storing networks, data and digital assets from virtual threats such as Hakim, Phishing and Malware.

However, in today’s increasingly interconnected world, the lines between these fields are blurred. Many physical safety devices now rely on internet connection and advanced technologies such as IOT and artificial intelligence. Supervision cameras, input control systems and even biometric scanners are no longer independent equipment, but are integrated into wider network systems. While this connection provides greater efficiency and smarter security systems, it also presents new weaknesses to be addressed. A cyber attack that compromises the digital infrastructure of an organization can easily compromise physical security tools, creating a non -problems vector for bad actors.

Jordan Tuchband, Vice President of the Global Rx Group, highlights the rapidly changing landscape: “Over the years, physical safety equipment has progressed to including internet connection, using IOT and machine learning, which creates vectors Young people of the attack.

Why is silent security no longer work

For many organizations, physical security and online security are separate departments, with limited communication between them. But this division often creates weakness. For example, if an online security team reveals unusual network activities, physical security teams may not be notified in time to respond properly. This lack of communication leaves gaps in the security that attackers can use.

Take, for example, a violation of data where attackers gain unauthorized access to a building’s network through compromised credentials. If physical safety systems – such as the access of the main cards – are not properly integrated with the digital network, it becomes easy for attackers to enter the undetected limited areas. Similarly, a cyber attack aimed at a security camera system can make it ineffective, leaving physical security personnel not aware of the intruders.

While Steve Schmidt, VP of Security Engineering and Amazon’s leading security officer, is as good as technology and combined physical access.

Schmidt’s overview underlines the critical importance of the union of physical and digital security in today’s landscape of threat. If an opponent can physically violate security measures, digital defenses can often be overlooked, leaving tangible organizations.

Without a unified approach, organizations risk creating weak points in their security architecture. As Tuchband points out, “If you continue to leave everything silent, you are at much greater risk of creating weak points in your overall security. One group is not talking to the other, and critical information may not be communicated as fast as prevent a violation. ”

Benefits of a Holistic Security Strategy

The most effective protection against modern threats is a holistic security strategy that also integrates physical and online security. Organizations that embrace this integrated approach are best equipped to address complex, multi -layer threats they face today. A holistic strategy allows organizations to:

• Identify and address overlapping weaknesses: Considering physical and digital safety, organizations can detect weaknesses that may have been overlooked in a silent system. For example, an online attack aimed at the software of the physical security system can be prevented if physical and security teams IT are connected and aware of each other’s activities.
• Improve cooperation and efficiency: When physical and internet security teams cooperate, they can share knowledge and intelligence that enhance decision -making and operational efficiency. This collaboration is critical when responding to threats that include both areas, such as when online attackers try to disable physical security equipment or gain unauthorized access through compromised physical security systems.
• Improve the incident response: With a unified security approach, incidents can be detected and responding faster. The integration of physical and digital monitoring systems allows teams to operate faster and more cohesive, minimizing the impact of attacks.
• Foster softening proactive risk: A holistic strategy supports proactive security measures by providing a full view of all possible threats, both physical and digital. For example, security -supported systems and machinery can follow network activity and real -time physical access, allowing security teams to predict and prevent attacks before they occur.

Real World Application: Providing Critical Infrastructure

One of the most pressing reasons for uniting physical safety and the internet is to protect critical infrastructure. The growth of digital technologies has made industries such as energy, transport and health care more vulnerable to internet attacks. A target attack on critical infrastructure can have widespread consequences, especially if physical and digital security measures are not coordinated.

For example, cyber criminals may try to hack on an organization’s network and manipulate a building’s security systems to provide physical access to unauthorized individuals. Similarly, physical sabotage can disrupt digital operations, causing data violations or system failures. An integrated security strategy ensures that these risks are mitigated by providing comprehensive, multi -layer protection that addresses physical and cyberatum threats at the same time.

The Role of ISC West 2025

Security professionals seeking to stay in front of the curve in this converging safety landscape will gather in Las Vegas from March 31 to April 4 for the ISC West’s conference and exhibition. ISC West offers a chance to explore the latest technologies and strategies that connect the gap between these two areas. Participants can learn from industry experts, network with peers and find out how the latest innovations in physical and digital safety can work together to create more resilient protection.

Moving forward: Embracing the future of security

As the threat landscape becomes more complex and interconnected, the need for a unified security approach will only increase. Companies that recognize the importance of integrating physical security and the Internet will be better positioned to protect against current and future threats.

Organizations should focus on building cooperative, inter-functional teams that work together to protect both physical and digital assets. Security professionals by both parties must be trained to recognize interdependence between their fields and act quickly when a threat involves physical and cyberattacks.

The future of security lies in integration. Organizations that adopt a holistic security strategy – one that addresses physical and digital threats – will be better prepared to protect their assets, people and their data. The shift to convergence is the next step in building a safe, safe environment in an increasingly interconnected world.