Independent Security risk assessments are too often like incomplete news stories reporting the who, where, what, and when but leaving out the how and why. It’s a familiar pattern, one that often leaves critical gaps. Let me be clear: If your security assessments don’t provide a comprehensive view, you’re not fully understanding the situation. And that, in the world of security, is a massive risk.
We recently conducted an independent security risk assessment for a corporate office park in Port Elizabeth, where we uncovered several risks that are often missed by conventional assessments. Our independent perspective enabled us to recommend effective measures to strengthen the overall security of the premises and protect the people who work there.
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The Reality of Confidentiality
I’ve had a number of individuals apply for positions at my security consultancy over the years. Some of them go the extra mile by including past assessments they’ve worked on. It’s here where I see a glaring problem: a complete disregard for confidentiality. Now, let me be clear: confidentiality is sacred. As a security risk consultant with over 40 years of experience in the security industry, I’ve never and will never use past clients’ details to secure future business. Doing so would be a breach of trust and a direct risk to the client. At Alwinco, we hold to a simple but firm principle: a non-disclosure agreement never expires. Whether we did your security risk assessment 20 years ago or 20 days ago, your information is safe with us. Trust is everything, and we never compromise on it.
The Lack of Substance in Many Reports
When reviewing the assessments sent by applicants, I often see a familiar trend: minimal detail. I’ll receive reports that are only a few pages long, often with just some photos and vague risk points. The most concerning aspect is the absence of the “why,” “how,” and “who” in these reports. Why is this a risk? What can be done to address it? Who is responsible for making the change? Without these crucial insights, the assessment is useless. It’s not just a matter of lack of knowledge sometimes; it’s because the assessor doesn’t think the details are important enough to include. But I’ll tell you this: that’s a serious mistake. Clients deserve clarity, and without it, the assessment doesn’t provide any value.
Are You Dealing with a Salesman or a Risk Manager?
Another common red flag in security assessments: the “assessors” who are more focused on pushing products than identifying real security risks. We’ve all seen it: an assessment that’s little more than a sales pitch for security gadgets. But let’s be honest: that’s not a security risk assessment; it’s a product assessment. A true assessor isn’t trying to sell you a product; they’re analyzing your security landscape, identifying vulnerabilities, and offering actionable recommendations. When an assessor’s primary goal is to make a sale, you’re not getting a proper risk assessment; you’re getting a sales presentation wrapped in a report.
The Purpose of an Independent Security Risk Assessment
A true, independent security risk assessment isn’t about selling products. It involves thoroughly understanding your property and identifying potential risks that criminals might exploit. Security isn’t about probabilities; it’s about eliminating the chances for crime before it even begins. A proper risk assessment goes beyond simply identifying what might be risky and where those risks are located. It digs deeper into how and why those risks exist and who is responsible for addressing them. This is why an independent security risk assessment isn’t a quick checklist; it’s a comprehensive, researched security plan. The assessment should provide clear guidance on how to tackle risks, whether that means upgrading your perimeter, changing procedures, or investing in technology. A true assessment equips you to make informed decisions and implement solutions that are right for your unique needs.
The Bottom Line: Only Half the Truth Isn’t Enough
You wouldn’t settle for half the information in a news story, so why would you accept half the truth in a security risk assessment? If all you’re getting is the “what” and the “where,” you’re missing out on the critical “how,” “why,” and “who.” Anything less than the full picture is inadequate. That’s the challenge I throw out to you, the security writer, assessor, or business owner: Tell the whole truth. Don’t leave out the uncomfortable details.
When it comes to security, transparency is key, and your clients deserve nothing less. Always read through your security risk assessments.
Click here to read about the different types of assessments.
Written by Andre Mundell, Alwinco. # Security risk assessments # Independent Security risk assessments
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