Tailgating office doors: The hidden security risk

Swiping a key card to enter an office is a standard security measure, but it can be undermined by tailgating. This occurs when an unauthorized person follows someone through a secured door without using their own credentials. Often overlooked, tailgating is one of the more common security risks businesses face today. 

This simple breach of etiquette can open the door to significant threats, from theft to data breaches. We will explore what tailgating office doors really means, why it’s a problem, and what you can do to stop it. Protecting your workspace starts with understanding the risks that sneak up right behind you. 

What is tailgating in physical security? 

In physical security, tailgating is when an unauthorized person follows an authorized individual into a secure area. It’s the real-world equivalent of a hacker piggybacking on a legitimate user’s network credentials. Instead of a password, the “key” is your access card, and the “secure area” is your office. 

The person tailgating might not look like a threat. They could be a delivery person, a former employee, or just someone who looks like they belong. They rely on social norms and human kindness to get past security checkpoints. Most people will hold a door open for someone behind them; we’re taught it’s polite to do so. Attackers exploit this courtesy to bypass access control systems that you’ve invested in to keep your property safe. 

Examples of office tailgating (and how it happens) 

Tailgating can happen in many ways, often without anyone realizing a security breach has occurred. The methods are usually simple and prey on our natural tendency to be helpful. 

• The friendly stranger: Someone approaches the door at the same time as an employee, smiles, and walks in right behind them. The employee might assume the person works there or is an expected guest. 

• The delivery person: A person in a uniform carrying packages may look official. An employee will often hold the door for them, assuming their entry is legitimate. 

• The group entry: During busy times, like the start of the workday or lunch hour, a group of employees might enter together. It’s easy for an unauthorized individual to blend in with the crowd and slip through unnoticed. 

• The forgotten key card: An individual might stand by the door and pretend to fumble for their access card. A kind employee will often scan their own card and let both of them in. 

These scenarios are effective because they don’t involve breaking locks or disabling alarms. They rely on simple social engineering, which manipulates human psychology rather than technology. 

Why tailgating is a serious security risk 

Allowing an unauthorized person into your workspace, even for a moment, can have severe consequences. Once inside, a malicious actor has access to valuable assets and sensitive information. 

• Theft of physical assets: Laptops, phones, wallets, and proprietary equipment are all easy targets for someone who has gained unauthorized entry. A quick walk through an office can yield thousands of dollars in stolen goods. 

• Data breaches: A person could access an unattended computer, plug in a USB drive with malware, or take photos of confidential documents left on a desk. This can lead to the loss of customer data, financial information, or trade secrets. According to a report on data security, insider threats (which can originate from a successful tailgating attempt) are a growing concern for organizations. 

• Workplace violence: Allowing unknown individuals into the office puts your employees at risk. A disgruntled former employee or a stranger with harmful intent could cause physical harm. 

• Damage to reputation: A security breach can damage your company’s reputation and erode customer trust, especially if sensitive client information is compromised. 

The costs associated with these risks—from financial losses to legal liabilities—are often far greater than the investment required to prevent them. 

How to prevent tailgating in office entryways 

Preventing tailgating requires a combination of technology, policy, and employee education. No single solution is perfect, but a layered approach can significantly reduce your vulnerability. 

First, create a clear security policy that explicitly prohibits tailgating. Every employee should understand that they are responsible for ensuring the door closes securely behind them and that no one follows them in. 

Second, train your team. Education is your strongest defense. 

• Teach awareness: Help employees recognize potential tailgating attempts. Role-playing different scenarios can be an effective training tool. 

• Empower your staff: Encourage employees to politely challenge people they don’t recognize. Provide them with scripts they can use, such as, “I’m sorry, I don’t recognize you. Could you please check in at the front desk?” 

• Foster a “no-fault” culture: Make it clear that it’s better to politely inconvenience a legitimate guest or a coworker who forgot their badge than to let a threat enter. Ensure no one is punished for enforcing the security policy. 

Finally, upgrade your physical security. Technology can help enforce your policies and take the burden off your employees.  

Video security 

Video cameras are a crucial tool in preventing tailgating. They act as a powerful deterrent to would-be intruders and provide real-time monitoring of sensitive entry points. If a tailgating incident does occur, video footage provides invaluable evidence to identify the unauthorized individual and review the security breach. When integrated with access control and alarms, video security offers a comprehensive solution for round-the-clock protection and ensures you always have eyes on your doors. 

Access control 

Access control systems ensure that only authorized individuals can enter restricted areas. These systems require credentials such as key cards, PIN codes, or biometric scans, which act as a first line of defense. By incorporating features like two-factor authentication and anti-passback mechanisms, access control helps maintain strict security. When combined with video monitoring, access control creates a robust framework, making it significantly harder for unauthorized individuals to follow others into secure spaces undetected. 

Bay Alarm solutions to prevent office tailgating 

At Bay Alarm, we understand that controlling facility access is the cornerstone of an effective security strategy. We offer a range of solutions tailored to your workspace to stop tailgating for good. 

Visit bayalarm.com to learn how we can help secure your business.