What is tailgating in cyber security?

In cyber security, tailing refers to a social engineering approach whereby an unauthorized person physically enters a facility or restricted area by closely trailing an authorized person.

This dishonest strategy gets around access restrictions and jeopardizes the security of valuable data and assets by taking advantage of people's natural desire to keep doors open for others and their confidence in others. Though cyber security typically focuses on digital dangers, it is crucial to comprehend the significance of physical security measures in avoiding data breaches and unauthorized access.

Understanding tailgating

Tailgating occurs in two scenarios, authorized and unauthorized access.

In the first scenario, an employee with legitimate access unknowingly gives access to an unauthorized individual by any means, such as holding the door for him to enter a room with authorized officials allowed only.
In the second scenario, an outsider intentionally gains entry without proper authorization, taking advantage of a moment of opportunity or exploiting the social dynamics of the environment.

Risks and impacts of tailgating

Tailgating has several risks and impacts on cybersecurity, which include:

Data breach and unauthorized access: Once a malicious person gets access to the restricted area, he can steal sensitive data, compromise systems, or even plant malware, leading to substantial financial losses and reputational damage. This leads to data breaches and unauthorized access to the company's private information.
Compromised physical security: Tailgating compromises access to the restricted area and undermines the company's physical security, making it easier for unauthorized individuals to exploit weaknesses.
Relevance to cyber security: Cyber security is interconnected with physical security. Breaching physical barriers can lead to cyber threats, primarily when attackers aim to compromise sensitive data, intellectual property, or critical infrastructure.

Common scenarios and techniques

Different social engineering strategies and scenarios can lead to tailgating:

Tailgating at access points: This takes place at employee entrances or places where entry is only permitted for authorized individuals. When someone with authorized access enters or departs, unauthorized people take advantage of the situation.
Piggybacking in public locations: Tailgating is expected at public locations, such as corporate offices and airports, where people may blend in with the crowd and enter by abusing low-security measures.
Tailgating using social engineering: Criminals may pose as authorized employees, contractors, or maintenance workers, or they may adopt various strategies to feign urgency or sympathy to convince staff members to provide entry.

Real-life examples of tailgating attacks

Different scenarios could lead to tailgating attacks. Some real-life examples of such attacks are given.

Corporate espionage (case study 1): The assailant pursues a worker via a protected entry while disguising himself as a delivery person carrying a big box. Once inside, the intruder has access to confidential information and proprietary material.

Data center breach (case study 2): A malicious person stealthily follows a system administrator via a data center door, jeopardizing crucial infrastructure and stealing priceless information.

Insider threats (case study 3): Insider threats, when displeased workers abuse their access to do harm or divulge private information to other parties, are a sort of tailgating.

Preventing and mitigating tailgating attacks

To prevent and mitigate tailgating attacks, organizations can take the following actions.

Implementing physical security measures: Preventing unauthorized access requires access control systems like key cards, biometric authentication, and security guards at entrance points.
Employee awareness and training: By making workers aware of the dangers of tailgating and fostering a culture of awareness, it is possible to lessen the possibility that an assault would be effective.
Utilizing technology: The ability to spot and stop tailgating efforts is improved by implementing cutting-edge security technology like face recognition and surveillance systems.

Best practices for tailgating prevention

Access control policies and procedures: Establishing strict access control policies, including tailgating awareness, reporting procedures, and consequences for violating security protocols, could help prevent tailgating.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Implementation of MFA solutions to add an extra layer of security beyond traditional passwords or access cards.
Visitor management systems: Adopt visitor management systems to track and control access for guests and contractors. This will help monitor the visitors and prevents such attacks from occurring.
Regular security audits and assessments: Periodic security audits can help to identify vulnerabilities and ensure that physical security measures remain effective.

Tailgating vs. insider threats

Tailgating often overlaps with insider threats, as malicious insiders can exploit their knowledge of the organization's routines and social dynamics to gain unauthorized access. Organizations should adopt stringent background checks and continuously monitor employee behavior to identify potential insider threats.

Conclusion

Tailgating in cyber security presents a tangible threat to organizations, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive security approach combining physical and digital defenses. Organizations can significantly reduce the risk of tailgating attacks and enhance their overall security posture by implementing robust access control measures, raising employee awareness, and leveraging technology solutions. Regular security assessments and proactive threat detection are essential to stay ahead of potential risks and safeguard sensitive data and critical assets.

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