Awareways Mystery Guest
6 June 2024
Mystery guest reveals growth opportunities in offline security
In this digital world we live in, it’s easy to lose sight of the risks of physical information security. Unlocked screens, scattered information, and unauthorized access pose real risks that we need to address. Our mystery guest set out to raise awareness among employees. Our mystery guest mentions simple measures that already make a big difference.
The protagonist, the unexpected guest and the organization’s employees
The Awareways mystery guest was sent to one of our client’s locations, a banking organization. The mission of the visit? Discover how easy it is to move around freely and obtain confidential information. We’ll give you a brief firsthand report of our mystery guest’s experience.
The mystery guest speaks:
“When I arrived, I pressed the intercom and explained that I had forgotten my pass. The receptionist responded with, ‘It’s Monday, I’ve heard that before.’ At the desk, some questions were asked about where I work and what my first and last name were. I was offered a temporary pass and given the Wi-Fi password multiple times once inside. Some people looked at me suspiciously, but I received no questions or comments, so I could continue my visit calmly. I was pleasantly surprised that day, no unlocked screens and no scattered papers. However, the whiteboards provided me with valuable insights, and an unlocked room offered additional information. Plenty of insights and opportunities for improvement with, in my opinion, minor interventions.
How important is it for an organization to focus on physical information security?
“Very important. If things aren’t right at the front door, you don’t need technical knowledge to obtain confidential information. That saves a lot of time for a malicious actor. For example, if someone doesn’t lock their laptop, you already have access to information. That’s why it’s important for employees to be aware of this. A few simple measures can make a big difference: Address people and don’t hold back, lock your screen when you leave, keep your workspace tidy, and ensure that meeting rooms are left neat. Additionally, gatekeepers need to be extra vigilant. Service and security can go hand in hand.
Just like in the report of this visit, our mystery guests can conduct realistic simulations to expose the vulnerable spots in your procedures. This practical simulation offers the opportunity to test and adjust behavior – a powerful way to achieve awareness and change.
As in the report of this visit, our mystery guests can conduct realistic simulations to expose vulnerabilities in your procedures. This hands-on simulation provides the opportunity to test and adjust behavior – a powerful way to create awareness and change.