Security Issues Facing Home-Based Businesses
By Jacquelyn Lynn
One of the appeals of starting a home-based business is that it can often be done with a minimal investment. However, even if you have not invested a lot of up-front cash in your business, you still have both physical and intellectual property in need of protection. And just because you live and operate your home-based business in a “good neighborhood” doesn’t mean a burglar won’t find you. Be sure your start-up plan includes a security evaluation of your home, and then conduct a security audit once a year to be sure that you’re still protected as your business grows and changes.
Of course, you need to protect your data. Install a computer backup system that will routinely duplicate and store your electronic files away from your office. Be sure your computers are protected with up-to-date anti-virus and spyware software, along with firewalls.
You also need to protect your physical assets, yourself, and any employees and/or clients who may visit your business. Take a look at your operation through the eyes of a criminal. Are you an attractive target? If you’re not sure, contact your local police department and ask if they can help you do a security analysis. Many of the security measures you can take are simple, common-sense steps:
• Install secure locks on all exterior windows and doors—and use them! Keep doors locked even when you are home and keep windows locked unless they are open and you are in the room. Make a habit of locking doors behind you, even when you’re only stepping out for a minute.
• Installing peepholes or one-way viewing glass in doors will let you see who is on the other side without having to open the door or speak. Never open the door to someone you don’t know. Insist on seeing identification from repair people, especially if you’re not expecting them. Don’t be afraid to call the police if any visitor, whether unexpected or not, makes you feel uncomfortable.
• Install a monitored electronic security system that covers all the entryways of your home. Include motion detectors. Talk to your security consultant about zoning the system so that you can arm your business area when you are in other parts of your house. Be sure the system has a distress feature which allows you to alert the monitoring center to a hostage situation without letting the intruder know what you have done.
• One of the most basic deterrents to burglars is exterior lighting, so be sure your house and front and back yard are well-lit. Use motion sensors and timers.
• Landscaping can be an effective security tool. Maintain trees and shrubs in such a way that they do not provide visual shields for someone trying to gain unauthorized access to the house. Consider planting holly bushes under ground-floor windows; the prickly leaves provide an extra deterrent to someone trying to open a window.
• Keep windows covered, especially at night, so that people can’t see and be attracted by what you have.
• If possible, keep your car parked in a garage so it is not apparent to a casual observer whether or not someone is home.
• Arrange for discrete package and mail delivery. Your mail receptacle should be secure. If that’s not possible, receive your business mail at a post office box or through a mail drop service. Be sure delivery drivers know to leave packages in a location that is out of the view from the street.
• Leave a radio or television on when you leave the house so it sounds occupied.
• If you have important documents or other valuables in your possession, keep them in a locked fireproof safe when not in use.
• Post emergency numbers—fire, police, and other critical numbers—in clear view of every telephone.
Much of maintaining a secure home-based business is a matter of practicing common sense and awareness by keeping doors and windows locked, refusing to open your door to strangers, and trying to avoid anything that could make you an attractive target to criminals. If you receive unwanted visitors or other unwanted attention, contact the police, especially if threats or accusations are involved. Be sure your family knows, understands, and follows the security precautions you have implemented.
Of course, in spite of all the best security precautions, you may still be a victim of theft, vandalism, or some other crime. Be sure you have adequate insurance to cover your business losses and remember that your homeowner’s policy may not be sufficient.