What is a Tailgating Attack?
A tailgating attack is a type of physical security breach where an unauthorized person gains access to a restricted area by closely following an authorized individual. This is a social engineering attack that takes advantage of trust, carelessness, or normal social behaviors, bypassing security protocols.
How Does Tailgating Work?
The attacker exploits common human behaviors, including:
- Politeness: People often hold doors open for others out of courtesy.
- Trust: Employees may assume anyone following them is authorized.
- Neglect: Security protocols like access cards or badges may not be strictly enforced.
Steps of a Tailgating Attack
- Observation: The attacker identifies a secure area and watches for a suitable time to act.
- Approach: The attacker waits for an opportunity to follow closely behind an authorized person.
- Entry: The attacker enters when the door is held open or stays close enough to avoid detection.
Common Examples
- Office Entry: An attacker follows an employee into a secure building without using an access badge.
- Data Centers: Gaining physical access to restricted server rooms by following IT staff members.
- Event Areas: Entering restricted areas at conferences or large events.
How to Prevent Tailgating ?
- Access Control Measures:
- Install turnstiles or mantraps to restrict entry to one person at a time.
- Badging System:
- Use access cards or biometric scanners for secure entry.
- Visitor Policies:
- Enforce a policy where visitors must sign in and be escorted at all times.
- Surveillance Systems:
- Install CCTV cameras to monitor entrances and exits.
- Physical Security Staff:
- Employ guards to verify identities and credentials at entry points.
- Anti-Tailgating Technology:
- Use sensors or alarms that alert when more than one person enters at the same time.