Connley Walker Security Consulting Blog: How to Bypass Security with a Vest

The Pulkovo International Airport is not the only victim to the Hi-Vis vest trickery. A recent trend with hundreds of online videos have been poking fun at comprehensive security controls being easily bypassed by a simple vest. A simple tactic such as this one catches many organizations and security managers red faced. It is not uncommon for stakeholders to be misled into thinking that comprehensive security equipment and staffing is the solution to a successful security management system. The issue with this common belief is that is often overlooks the importance of security awareness in the workplace. The Hi-Vis vest trend ultimately comes down to mocking the security awareness of a workplace. An organisation can spend hundreds of thousands on extensive CCTV systems, intrusion detection systems and staff however, what would be the purpose if an adversary could purchase a three dollar Hi-Vis vest and walk straight past any and all security controls?

So, the question boils down to how do we improve and maintain an appropriate level of security awareness? The answer to that question depends on a number of factors such as the type of adversary or threat an organization faces as well as their assets. While each organization is different, its important to never underestimate the power of security awareness. Maintaining staff training and re-enforcing security awareness in the workplace could be the difference to a breach and successfully protecting your assets.