Vance, a global investigation and security firm, today issued its top tips for business executives to consider to protect their homes as advances in the ability to find personal information on the Web increasingly make private residences attractive targets for criminals. Key employees who work in controversial business that may be affected by activists and others are finding themselves subject to protest or risk at their residences. There are various industries that come to the attention of activists for one reason or another and a recent tactic in these industries is to visit the homes of key employees and create disruptions. Vance is urging businesses to assess the risks of residential threats in their industry and to help employees who may find themselves the targets of such threats to implement security plans.
"Companies have improved security in the workplace in the wake of 9/11 and heightened awareness of security issues," says Ray O'Hara, CPP, senior vice president of Vance. "Unfortunately those improvements have made private residences a more attractive and lucrative target for criminals. In this age, it is easy for people to get access to other people's personal information, including data about their homes and personal lives. Thus, it's important that companies think about the personal risks their employees may face and take steps to protect them from these threats."
While companies should assess work related risks to employees, Vance recommends executives consider implementing the following steps to proactively guard against threats at home:
- Develop a security plan and emergency procedures with family members
- Get an unlisted phone number
- Use a P.O. Box or other address to receive personal mail
- Use alternate routes to go home each day so that people cannot learn your daily routine
- Install an alarm system in your home and place spotlights with motion-sensing devices strategically around your house
- Make sure your floor plan is not accessible over the Web. This includes ensuring that realtors do not post any floor plans if your house is for sale
- Never admit strangers or solicitors into your home. Screen all visitors carefully
- Report suspicious activities in your neighborhood and encourage neighbors to be vigilant
- Keep all doors and windows locked and secure at all times. Install deadbolt locks and check them frequently
