Physical Security

Physical security primarily addresses the accessibility concern—the ability to physically access a machine—and attempts to minimize the potential for system loss. The physical security of computer installations and equipment is particularly important. Sometimes white-collar criminals and irate employees resort to blue-collar crimes, such as arson and the willful destruction of property. When this happens, these blue-collar crimes may be classified as being commercial or economic in nature. There are also new categories of computer crimes defined by most states and the federal government. Everyone needs his or her awareness raised of both the potential risks to security and how security prevents losses.