Security: The Human Factor

CHAPTER 5: PEOPLE ARE HELPFUL AND TRUSTING

‘You may be deceived if you trust too much, but you will live in torment if you don’t trust enough.’Frank Crane

It is natural for staff to trust people they encounter in the course of their work – especially those who are, or who seem to be, colleagues, customers or suppliers – and to try to assist them if they need help.

We are taught at our mother’s knee that it is polite to hold open the door for the person following. Even if we can’t see their pass, then it’s probably under that jacket, or in a pocket.

But that well-dressed businessman in a hurry, tailgating his way through the security door, could well be intent on industrial espionage. And what about that group in overalls, who just arrived carrying ...