10 Holiday Security Tips for Businesses

Top 10 Best Security Practices During the Holiday Season

The holiday season is a critical time for businesses to enhance security measures. Burglary rates and theft incidents peak during this period, particularly for retail businesses. According to Porch.com, approximately 1 million burglaries occur annually in the U.S., with 83,000 (8.2%) happening in December alone (Porch.com).

Below, we outline key holiday security tips to keep your business safe.

1. Secure Your Premises

Businesses are particularly vulnerable during the holidays, with retail establishments facing increased risks of theft. Combined data shows over 400,000 burglaries occur during November and December, specifically during the festive season, highlighting the need for robust physical security (Frontpoint Security).

Actionable Steps:

• Install high-security locks and inspect entry points regularly for vulnerabilities.
• Use motion-sensor holiday lights to deter intruders in poorly lit areas.
• Set up surveillance cameras at all entry points and high-traffic zones.
• Secure cash and valuables in safes after operating hours.

2. Upgrade Access Control Systems

Managing who enters your business is essential during this high-risk season, especially with the increase in temporary staff.

Actionable Steps:

• Implement electronic access control systems, such as keycards or biometrics.
• Regularly update access credentials and remove ex-employees from the system.
• Restrict sensitive areas, like inventory storage or server rooms, to authorized personnel.

3. Protect Valuables and Inventory

The financial impact of burglaries during the holidays can be severe, with losses in California averaging $5,929 per incident in December, significantly higher than other months (Porch.com).

Actionable Steps:

• Secure high-value inventory in locked storage areas.
• Arrange displays to minimize visibility of expensive items from outside.
• Use anti-theft devices and test security alarms regularly.

4. Strengthen Delivery and Shipping Security

Increased shipping activity during the holiday season poses risks of theft or mismanagement.

Actionable Steps:

• Verify all delivery schedules and monitor drop-off areas with security cameras.
• Require identification for package pickups to prevent unauthorized access.
• Lock and monitor loading docks to ensure only authorized personnel can access them.

5. Implement a Holiday Cybersecurity Plan

Cyberattacks spike during the holiday season, targeting retail businesses with phishing scams and ransomware. More than half of small businesses report an increase in theft incidents during this time (Statista).

Actionable Steps:

• Establish a cybersecurity response plan for holiday-specific threats.
• Update all systems with the latest security patches.
• Use Managed Detection and Response (MDR) services to monitor for cyber threats in real time.
• Train employees to recognize phishing scams, especially holiday-themed ones.

6. Limit Access to Sensitive Systems

Unauthorized access to internal systems can lead to data theft and operational disruption.

Actionable Steps:

• Restrict internal network access based on employee roles.
• Implement Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) for remote workers.
• Regularly audit user permissions to ensure appropriate access levels.

7. Monitor Transactions for Fraud

Fraudulent transactions and theft of high-value items, such as jewelry and electronics, are most common during the holiday season (Statista).

Actionable Steps:

• Use secure payment processing systems with integrated fraud detection.
• Monitor for unusual transaction patterns and set alerts for anomalies.
• Regularly reconcile financial records to catch discrepancies early.

8. Train Employees on Security Protocols

Employee awareness is crucial during the busy holiday period. Proper training can prevent both physical and digital security breaches.

Actionable Steps:

• Conduct training sessions on phishing awareness and secure handling of sensitive data.
• Emphasize the importance of locking up valuables and securing access points.
• Create a clear communication plan for employees to report security issues.

9. Enhance Fire and Safety Measures

Holiday decorations and crowded spaces can increase the risk of fire hazards.

Actionable Steps:

• Inspect all electrical cords and decorations for damage before use.
• Limit the number of light strands per extension cord to prevent overheating.
• Test fire alarms, extinguishers, and emergency lighting systems.
• Keep exit routes clear and ensure they are well-marked.

10. Collaborate with Local Security Networks

Working with neighboring businesses and law enforcement can provide added protection during the holidays.

Actionable Steps:

• Join a local business watch program for coordinated security efforts.
• Share holiday schedules and security concerns with nearby businesses.
• Arrange for additional patrols or private security services if necessary.

Why Is it Important to Secure Business During the Holiday Season?

The festive season is a peak time for business activity, but it also brings unique risks. Increased foot traffic, online shopping surges, and temporary staffing create vulnerabilities that criminals often exploit. Understanding these risks is critical to protecting your business during this busy period.

Physical Security Risks

The holiday season sees a notable increase in property crimes, particularly theft and vandalism. Retail businesses are prime targets for criminals seeking high-value merchandise such as electronics and jewelry.

The presence of unmonitored areas and inadequate security measures can leave businesses exposed. Seasonal decorations and overburdened electrical systems also heighten the risk of fires, making proper precautions essential.

Cybersecurity Risks

With the rise of shopping online, cybercriminals ramp up phishing attacks and ransomware campaigns during the holidays. These attacks often target businesses by exploiting customer data, payment systems, or seasonal email promotions.

Hackers may take advantage of businesses using unsecured home Wi-Fi networks or public systems to access sensitive information, putting both operations and reputations at risk.

Fraud and Financial Risks

The festive season sees an increase in fraudulent activity, particularly involving online transactions. Cybercriminals often exploit busy systems to commit payment fraud or steal personal and financial information.

Fraudulent websites or fake holiday deals can also deceive businesses and customers alike, leading to financial losses.

Safety Risks for Employees and Customers

The combination of increased customer traffic, crowded spaces, and seasonal staff can lead to safety challenges. Without clear procedures or functional safety systems like fire alarms, businesses may struggle to respond to emergencies.

Criminals may exploit these vulnerabilities, creating risks for both employees and customers.

Secure Your Business with the Help of Professionals

As the holiday season is in full swing, ensuring your business is secure has never been more critical. The risks of theft, fraud, and safety incidents are heightened during this busy time, and preparation is key to minimizing vulnerabilities. A well-prepared business is not only safer but also better positioned to serve customers confidently during the festive rush.

At Great Valley Lockshop, we help businesses stay ahead of potential threats with expert security solutions. Whether you need high-security locks, access control systems, or surveillance cameras, our professionals deliver tailored services to protect your property and assets.

With years of experience, we understand the unique challenges businesses face during the holidays and are here to ensure you’re ready. We provide uninterrupted and professional service for businesses in Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland and New Jersey.

Don’t wait until it’s too late—reach out to Great Valley Lockshop and let us help you safeguard your business this holiday season. Preparation and professional expertise make all the difference!