Bridging the gap between physical and cybersecurity to build a unified defense against evolving ... [+] threats in an interconnected world.gettyDigital and physical infrastructures are increasingly intertwined. This reality is driving organizations to rethink traditional security practices. The once-clear distinction between physical securityfocused on guarding tangible assetsand cybersecurity, which protects digital data and networks, is becoming less relevant as technology advances.The convergence of physical and cybersecurity is not just a trend; it is a necessity for building a comprehensive, future-proof security strategy.The Blurring Lines Between Physical and CybersecurityHistorically, physical security and cybersecurity have operated in separate silos. Physical security teams focus on protecting buildings, people, and equipment with methods like access control, video surveillance, and alarms. Meanwhile, cybersecurity teams focus on safeguarding networks, data, and digital assets from virtual threats like hacking, phishing, and malware.However, in todays increasingly interconnected world, the lines between these domains have blurred. Many physical security devices now rely on internet connectivity and advanced technologies like IoT and artificial intelligence. Surveillance cameras, access control systems, and even biometric scanners are no longer standalone devices but are integrated into broader network systems. While this connectivity offers greater efficiency and smarter security systems, it also introduces new vulnerabilities that need to be addressed. A cyberattack that compromises an organizations digital infrastructure could just as easily compromise physical security tools, creating a seamless attack vector for bad actors.Jordan Tuchband, group vice president at RX Global, highlights the rapidly changing landscape: "Over the years, physical security devices have advanced to include internet connectivity, using IoT and machine learning, which creates new attack vectors. There needs to be a level of upscaling between both physical and cyber security to combat these types of threats."Why Siloed Security No Longer WorksFor many organizations, physical security and cybersecurity are separate departments, with limited communication between them. But this separation often creates vulnerabilities. For example, if a cybersecurity team detects unusual activity on the network, physical security teams might not be notified in time to respond appropriately. This lack of communication leaves gaps in security that attackers can exploit.Take, for example, a data breach where attackers gain unauthorized access to a buildings network through compromised credentials. If the physical security systemssuch as key card accessare not properly integrated with the digital network, it becomes easy for attackers to access restricted areas undetected. Similarly, a cyberattack targeting a security camera system could render it ineffective, leaving physical security personnel unaware of intruders.As Steve Schmidt, VP of security engineering and chief security officer at Amazon, put it when I spoke to him in December at the AWS re:Invent conference, "I learned a long time ago, when I was in the FBI, that logical security is only as good as the technology and the physical access combined. So basically, if an adversary can get physical access to your systems, it's unlikely you're going to prevent logical access."Schmidt's insight underscores the critical importance of merging physical and digital security in todays threat landscape. If an adversary can physically breach security measures, digital protections can often be bypassed, leaving organizations vulnerable.Without a unified approach, organizations risk creating weak points in their security architecture. As Tuchband points out, "If you continue to leave everything siloed, you're at much greater risk of creating weak points in your overall security. One group isnt talking to the other, and critical information might not be communicated fast enough to prevent a breach."The Benefits of a Holistic Security StrategyThe most effective defense against modern threats is a holistic security strategy that integrates both physical and cybersecurity. Organizations that embrace this integrated approach are better equipped to address the complex, multi-layered threats they face today. A holistic strategy allows organizations to:Identify and Address Overlapping Vulnerabilities: By taking both physical and digital security into account, organizations can spot vulnerabilities that may have been overlooked in a siloed system. For example, a cyberattack that targets the physical security system's software can be prevented if physical and IT security teams are aligned and aware of each other's activities.Enhance Collaboration and Efficiency: When physical and cybersecurity teams collaborate, they can share insights and intelligence that enhance decision-making and operational efficiency. This cooperation is critical when responding to threats that span both domains, such as when cyber attackers attempt to disable physical security devices or gain unauthorized access through compromised physical security systems.Improve Incident Response: With a unified security approach, incidents can be detected and responded to more quickly. The integration of physical and digital monitoring systems allows teams to act faster and more cohesively, minimizing the impact of attacks.Foster Proactive Risk Mitigation: A holistic strategy supports proactive security measures by providing a complete view of all potential threats, both physical and digital. For instance, AI and machine learning-powered security systems can track both network activity and physical access in real time, allowing security teams to anticipate and prevent attacks before they occur.Real-World Application: Securing Critical InfrastructureOne of the most pressing reasons for merging physical and cybersecurity is the protection of critical infrastructure. The rise of digital technologies has made industries such as energy, transportation, and healthcare more vulnerable to cyberattacks. A targeted attack on critical infrastructure can have far-reaching consequences, especially if physical and digital security measures are not coordinated.For example, cybercriminals might attempt to hack into an organizations network and manipulate a buildings security systems to grant physical access to unauthorized individuals. Similarly, physical sabotage could disrupt digital operations, causing data breaches or system failures. An integrated security strategy ensures that these risks are mitigated by providing comprehensive, multi-layered protection that addresses both physical and cyber threats simultaneously.The Role of ISC West 2025Security professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve in this converging security landscape will gather in Las Vegas from March 31 to April 4 for the ISC West conference and exposition. ISC West offers a chance to explore the latest technologies and strategies that bridge the gap between these two areas. Attendees can learn from industry experts, network with peers, and discover how the latest innovations in both physical and digital security can work together to create a more resilient defense.Moving Forward: Embracing the Future of SecurityAs the threat landscape becomes more complex and interconnected, the need for a unified approach to security will only grow. Companies that recognize the importance of integrating physical and cybersecurity will be better positioned to defend against current and future threats.Organizations should focus on building collaborative, cross-functional teams that work together to protect both physical and digital assets. Security professionals from both sides must be trained to recognize the interdependencies between their domains and to act quickly when a threat spans both physical and cyber security.The future of security lies in integration. Organizations that adopt a holistic security strategyone that addresses both physical and digital threatswill be better prepared to protect their assets, people, and data. The shift toward convergence is the next step in building a secure, safe environment in an increasingly interconnected world.