“Physical security measures needed to combat subversive attacks” states G4S

Across Europe, security services are on high alert in relation to a potential increase in subversive attacks following a spate of arson and sabotage strikes on infrastructure and businesses in the Baltics, Germany and here in the UK.

Recent examples include a fire at a homeware store in Lithuania in May, which the Polish Prime Minister suggested may have been started by a foreign saboteur. Further, investigators alleged an arson attack in London showed signs of overseas involvement. An inferno destroyed Poland’s biggest Shopping Centre, while there was also an attempted sabotage on a military facility in Germany.

Noah Price, international director at the G4S Academy, explained: “The anticipated rise in subversive threats across Europe signifies a critical juncture for corporate security. These threats are becoming increasingly more prevalent. On that basis, businesses must adopt a proactive and comprehensive approach towards safeguarding their operations and assets.”

Price continued: “Businesses must invest in physical security measures such as Artificial Intelligence-enabled surveillance systems, multi-layered access control and also fire suppression systems. Such measures should be put in place in conjunction with cyber security and, in tandem, there needs to be the fostering of a work culture underpinned by vigilance and security awareness.”

Confronting the threat

Companies of all sizes can play a crucial role in preventing subversive threats against their organisation and securing their country’s national infrastructure. Best Practice here includes enhancing the cyber security infrastructure, making physical security enhancements, putting in place training and awareness programmes for employees, incident response planning, conducting regular risk assessments and evaluating security in the supply chain.

In terms of enhancing the cyber security infrastructure, it’s prudent to invest in advanced cyber security technologies and ensure that systems are regularly updated to protect against the latest threats. Implementing multi-factor authentication, encryption and regular security audits will be key.

In addition to cyber security, it’s Best Practice to enhance physical security measures such as surveillance and access control and secure facilities to protect them against sabotage and espionage.

Regular training sessions to educate employees about the latest security threats, phishing schemes and safe online practices will be a ‘must’. Awareness is the first line of defence against subversive activities.

Developing and maintaining a robust incident response plan is vital. This should include procedures for identifying, containing and mitigating security breaches, as well as communication strategies for internal and external stakeholders.

Regular risk assessments

It’s a good policy to conduct regular risk assessments that will identify potential vulnerabilities. Appropriate mitigation strategies can then be implemented. This should cover both physical and digital assets.

Ensure that third party vendors and suppliers adhere to stringent security standards. A compromised supplier can be a weak link that exposes the organisation to subversive threats. Engaging with security experts and participating in information-sharing networks is beneficial. Collaboration with industry peers and security experts can provide valuable insights and enhance threat detection and response capabilities.

In conclusion, Noah Price observed: “Proactively incorporating as many of these physical and cyber security measures as possible will deter saboteurs and threat actors before they strike. A preventative approach is the best approach and one that all organisations must look to foster both now and into the future.”

*Further information is available online at www.g4s.com