Rules are meant to be broken. Or are they? With security and access, controlling who enters a premise in Singapore can be tricky as there will be people failing to adhere to the rules and/or trying to outsmart the system. Below are a few security risks that might arise with access control systems and how to overcome them.

#1 Tailgating

Tailgating, much like on the road, is where a person with access to an area is immediately followed by a person without. Holding the door open for the next person behind us might seem like the polite thing to do, but we might not be able to identify an intruder. Leaving the door open after accessing an area can also increase the risk of a security breach as people without access will then be able to enter and leave as they please. These security risks can be overcome through user-awareness, or through stricter monitoring policies. Users with access should be emphasized the importance of individual entry, while sensors and/or alarms can be used to detect multiple-entries in one access permission. An alarm with a countdown timer can also be used to limit the time an entry point can be left open.

#2 Hacking

Hacking can occur through the internet, where an access control system is overridden. An alternative way would be through ‘copying’ an access card or a pin code or password that is needed for access. Either way, this unauthorised access can be minimized through the use of the multiple – authorisation system to fool proof the security. Multiple-authorisation might include the use of an access card with an additional biometric system. Doubling the verification method for access can significantly increase the level of security.

#3 Overriding the locking hardware

An access control system is linked to an entry point, for example, a door. Through bypassing the access control system, intruders can opt to force their entry through the entry point itself. A way to minimize this risk would be to install layers of additional sensors to the door to prevent such an event from occurring. If mechanical access has been carried out without prior authorisation from the access control system, an alarm could be designed to trip off as an added layer of security.

#4 Emergencies

With all the efforts we put in to keep the wrong people out, we need to ensure that there is a safety plan when emergencies or natural disaster strikes. People inside the premise should be able to exit to safety quickly, whereas people outside the premise (such as firefighters and the police) can be able to enter smoothly. People need to be taught and trained for such situations to ease the flow of traffic during an emergency.

When it comes to picking the access control system that would suit you best, we, Circle Enterprise Pte Ltd in Singapore are willing to listen and help. Let us explain and choose the best unit model for you so that we can put your mind at ease.