The Need for Physical Computer Security

Imagine showing up to the office one morning to the chilling reality of having been a victim of theft. Laptop computers are missing, LCD monitors gone and, most disturbingly, the space where the file server is vastly empty. Not only are you faced with the loss of expensive and valuable equipment, but also the critical data you are accountable for has now been compromised. Theft of valuable and sensitive computer equipment can have extreme repercussions and costs to businesses, individuals, and the general public. You hear it all the time but never imagine it will happen to you. Unfortunately, computer theft and tampering is real and occurs more often than most people realize. As technologies improve and computers become even more lightweight and mobile, the risk of theft and security intrusions also increases. Unsecured laptops and other computer equipment are easy targets for theft in any office or public environment. Whether it is a school, private office, airport or library, there is the potential for computer theft and tampering from both external and internal threats.