With only 7% of stolen goods recovered from domestic and residential burglaries, security is a serious issue for businesses of all sizes. However, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) often don’t have the luxuries big companies can afford, like 24/7 security monitoring services. But times are changing and technology is enabling more businesses to remain secure on an affordable budget. And of course, old-style common sense is still available for free.
Whether you’re moving offices, ensuring all your security options are up to date, and not forgetting the importance of online security, these expert tips for preventing theft in the UK will help to ensure you keep your small business safe.
Check out the latest smart technology
Smart systems can now enable you to bring together a complete system including CCTV both inside and outside as well as motion detectors, door sensors and remote cameras.
It’s important to have a system that covers every possible angle and also one that will alert you as soon as something goes wrong so it can be fixed before more damage is done.
Install cameras near entrances or exits
If you have a more restricted budget then as a minimum, cameras should be installed near entrances and exits, especially if they are the only ones for that business. Having cameras watching those spots will help you catch any criminals in action and also figure out how exactly they were able to enter, making it easier for police investigations later on.
Cameras should never be hidden because this defeats their entire purpose. Business security cameras act as much as a deterrent as a crime-solving unit. This means you can’t place them behind anything or try to cover them up with other objects because criminals will know exactly where they are and how to avoid getting caught on film.
Change or rekey your door locks
With all this new technology around it is easy to forget the basics. Over 50% of movers do not change their locks when they move to a new property, research shows. It is very important that you replace or rekey your main entry door lock as one of the previous owners, or even workmen may still have a key to the property. For peace of mind and top security, it is best you change or rekey your locks.
With an accredited locksmith, small businesses can make the most of their existing lock by changing the keys. Alternatively, the locksmith might recommend a completely new one.
Security alarms can save you money in the long-term
While locks are a great form of security, burglar alarms can provide an effective extra layer. Their appearance alone can be effective in stopping potential criminals say the National Security Inspectorate (NSI) on burglar alarm types.
Though they are often associated with large costs, a study of small and medium-sized business owners found that over 51% of businesses are targeted by crimes costing up to £ 2 million, with each crime being worth around £2,625. Thus, it may be worth the expense if you have particularly expensive equipment in your premises.
Organise a recovery plan for possible cyber attacks
A report by the insurance company Zurich found that 875,000 SMEs across the UK have been affected by a cyber attack over the last 12 months. Just over a fifth of the companies in question reported that it cost more than £10,000 and 1 in 10 companies said the cyber attacks cost them more than £50,000.
With such potential of such a substantial financial loss for SMEs by cyber attacks, it can not be stressed enough how important cyber security is to a small business.
An SME is not expected to have a fully equipped team of IT specialists to hand if an attack did occur. Thus, it is advisable to prepare a strong cyber security response plan and clarify who would be in charge if an incident did occur. Other questions to consider include: How should HR handle employee communications if emails and intranets go down and will you notify customers?
Endnote
These are just a few expert tips to help you protect your business from crime. There are other areas to think about as well, including financial fraud. And it is important to remember that, especially when it comes to technology, criminals are always changing their tactics and new solutions are always emerging. So keep on top of security trends, stay ahead and stay safe.