Why do-it-yourself security is risky for small businesses

Small businesses face unique security threats. Commercial properties unoccupied at night or on the weekend are often targeted by criminals. In many cases, the value of theft or damage isn’t high enough to justify the cost of an insurance claim. This can leave business owners facing substantial out-of-pocket costs.

Consider this. The Office for the Victims of Crime (OVC) reports that 28.4 percent of all burglaries happen at non-residential properties. And, as noted by Small Business Trends, on the average small business owners pay nearly $8000 out-of-pocket after burglary or theft incidents – with or without insurance.

Ashley Perkins, Vice-President, Cox Business Oklahoma

What’s the best way to deter this type of activity and reduce potential payouts? Install a reliable small business security system. However, just as some owners are reluctant to make insurance claims given high deductible costs and longer-term payment increases, many wonder about the merits of do-it-yourself (DIY) security systems. Easy-to-install security systems offer the potential for cost savings, for sure. But they may cause more problems than they solve.  A few things to think about when it comes to DIY security include:

Lack of Proper Monitoring

Wireless cameras can now stream video to virtually any mobile device; paired with a low-cost computer system, they can also capture pictures and video for later use. Add in motion sensors and many small business owners would consider this a solid starter security system: after-hours movement can be quickly detected, in turn activating cameras and providing a record of any criminal activity.

In practice, however, things aren’t so simple. Consider a break-in during the early morning hours. Sleeping small business owners may not wake up when notified by their smart device, or they may have it charging in another room. The result? Burglaries can go unnoticed until the next day, lowering the chance of catching those responsible.

On the other hand, professionally monitored systems typically include a 24/7 guarantee. Reputable providers employ multiple monitoring teams to ensure that any alerts are reviewed quickly, with appropriate action taken. This includes everything from notifying small business owners, to calling the police, to warning-off would-be burglars with built-in two-way audio.

Installation – Easier Said than Done

DIY security systems promise easy installation. Find the ideal location for your camera or sensor, plug it in, connect it to your wireless network and you’re protected, right?

Not quite. When setting up your business alarm system, there are a lot questions you need to ask, such as:  How many cameras will provide adequate security? Are there areas of your business that require extra coverage, such as front doors or windows? What about cash registers, safes or lock-boxes? Wiring is also a concern — if criminals can easily spot where cameras are connected, they can simply pull the plug and avoid getting noticed.

Licensed local professionals, meanwhile, have the benefit of security system expertise. This lets them design a custom installation for your business that covers critical areas of concern, including motion or glass break sensors where applicable, along with a thorough testing of your system. In addition, problems or issues with the system itself are typically covered under warranty when installed by a professional. When done DIY, you’re on the hook for repair and replacement.

Vulnerabilities Can Open the Door to Hackers

Many DIY security systems tout professional-grade security and offer multiple anti-hacking measures, such as two-factor (2FA) authentication. During installation, simply create strong, unique passwords, and you’re good to go.

However, there are still a couple of things to think about. First, consumer-grade products may lack advanced encryption and cyber monitoring features used by business-grade devices. Cybercriminals may gain root access to your cameras, allowing them to watch video footage or execute malicious code on your networks. The second problem stems from firmware and patching. DIY solutions rely on the end-user to stay on top of updates and newfound vulnerabilities. Doing so can be time-consuming, and not all equipment manufacturers regularly update support documentation.

Professionally installed systems use commercial-grade products and include an equipment service plan. Moreover, they have a dedicated team of experts in tune with the latest methods used by hackers. Your provider handles firmware updates, ensuring your devices and software are secure.

Videos May Not Meet Court Admissibility Standards

Business owners use security systems to dissuade would-be criminals from illegal activities. But what happens when a crime actually occurs? Taking your case to court should be an open and shut case when it’s backed by video footage.

Unfortunately, not all video footage is admissible in court. Admissibility depends on three factors: Conservation, genuineness, and policy. Courts want unalterable and unambiguous footage that’s stored safely and meets state guidelines. Although your DIY system may be high-tech, some equipment doesn’t encrypt recordings, leaving them open to potential alteration. Plus, promises of HD video doesn’t always live up to the hype. Instead, business users should pay attention to the camera’s resolution, frame, and compression rates.

A business security system provider offers industry expertise that extends to best practices for legal matters. They have policies proving that videos are stored safely and protected from manipulation. Video footage can also feature watermarks to prevent alteration and most offer devices with high-resolution video.

Support On-Demand

What happens when you’ve got questions about your security system? If you’re running a DIY installation, you can try calling the manufacturer directly or searching for online forums that detail your problem. While some camera makers have better-than-average customer service and there are some genuinely brilliant DIY system creators in the market at large, searching for support can be both time-consuming and frustrating, and it may not solve your problem.

Providers in your local area are just that. They’re local. If you have a problem, they have detailed knowledge of your system to help solve it. A quick phone call might be enough to diagnose the issue, or you might need the help of an on-site tech. Either way, you’re not waiting for long, and your security system issue gets sorted out while you conduct day-to-day business.

What Happens When your DIY Business Security Doesn’t Work?

As noted by Inside Small Business, many small business owners are working longer hours than medical professionals. More than a quarter of those surveyed said they work over 50 hours each week. This makes sense. Owners are tasked with everything from high-level business management to ensuring HR compliance, handling payroll, and stepping in when employees are sick or quit. The result? Constant stress. With more than 50 percent of small businesses failing in their first year, the last thing owners need is something else to worry about.

So what happens when DIY security systems stop working? Suddenly, the wireless camera you installed won’t record video, or the motion sensor refuses to recognize any type of movement. What if your wireless network is compromised and hackers gain access to your system from the inside? What’s the first step to locking down your IT infrastructure and getting back on track? Here’s the hard truth: DIY security often creates more work than it saves, forcing small business owners to become security experts when they’d be better off finding new ways to maximize profitability and keep their business in the black

One essential benefit of a professionally installed security system is a worry-free guarantee. Look for a provider that guarantees system uptime, hardware support, software upgrading and provides emergency call-out service as required. You’ve got enough to worry about; don’t add surveillance and security to the list.

The Real Cost of a Security System Failure

The most significant selling point of DIY security? Low cost. Compared to installation, hardware and monitoring fees, this often seems like a simple choice for small business owners already dealing with thin profit margins: Buy basic cameras for cheap, install them quickly and then never pay another dime, right?

But what if the system fails to capture key footage of a robbery or doesn’t record critical video evidence required when claims are made against your business. Suddenly, the “inexpensive” system you installed costs thousands in insurance payouts or legal fees. This can leave a business owner frustrated and financially strapped.

Provider-installed systems aren’t necessarily the lowest cost option, but the prices truly reflect quality and reliability. Think of it as an investment — the potential money lost when DIY systems fail is typically higher than the amount you’ll pay upfront and monthly for long-term, 24/7 peace of mind.

DIY vs. Professional Systems: The Verdict

Do-it-yourself security does offer some benefits for small businesses namely: low cost, easy installation, and total control. The limitation?  They often lack full-service monitoring, customized design, and ongoing assistance.  If something goes wrong, “low cost” can quickly become a financial burden.

Bottom line? When it comes to protecting your small business, the benefits of professional installation and worry-free support far outweigh the risks of DIY. 

Cox Business provides managed cloud, managed technology solutions, and phone, internet and security solutions to businesses of all sizes. If you’re interested in having your place of business reviewed for security and surveillance coverage or gaps, please email [email protected].