Gatecrashing, tailgating, and piggybacking are all similar yet different security risks that face secure, gated, or restricted areas, and can lead to an array of criminal activities- including theft, vandalism, data breaches, or several other forms of misconduct.
We’ve covered these issues in previous discussions here on ECAM’s security blog, but let’s briefly revisit what these specific terms mean:
- Gatecrashing: The act of gaining unauthorized access to a building without proper credentials. In physical security, it might involve trespassing through barriers or gates without permission. In cybersecurity it can refer to bypassing security measures to access a protected network or system.
- Tailgating: Tailgating or “tail-following” is when an unauthorized individual follows an authorized person into a secured area without being noticed. Typically, the trespasser takes advantage of the moment a security gate or door is opened by the authorized individual and slips in unnoticed. This is an extremely common issue in secured spaces like office buildings or residential complexes.
- Piggybacking: Like tailgating, piggybacking also occurs when an authorized individual allows access to an unauthorized individual, but rather than inadvertently doing so, in a piggybacking scenario, the authorized individual does so knowingly. I can happen because of politeness, distraction, or even coercion.
In the video below, multiple individuals utilized the first method, gatecrashing, to gain access to a multifamily residential community in British Columbia.
At approximately 11:36 p.m., multiple individuals were spotted by monitoring operators accessing a British Columbia multifamily residential community via the loading gates, breaking into the property. Observing Stealth security professionals immediately contacted local law enforcement dispatchers and provided them with details of the activity in progress. Responding officers arrived onsite quickly, located the individuals off camera, and later confirmed in a follow-up call that one of the suspects was ultimately taken into custody.
Protect Your Multifamily Residential Community from Gatecrashers and Other Trespassers with a Proactive Solution
So, what’s the solution for gatecrashers, piggy backers, and tailgaters? Should you post a security guard at your entrances or gates? That is one way to attempt to solve the problem, but security guards come with their own issues. They may have limited training, they can only be in one physical place at a time, are limited in visibility, and may fall asleep or miss someone attempting to gain access when they take a break. Additionally? They can present security risks of their own.
Security liability can pose a significant risk to multifamily residential communities and other commercial properties. While it’s common practice among many residential properties to employ third-party security guard services, a critical issue often arises when these guards lack the necessary training or equipment to effectively handle criminal encounters or escalating incidents.
Unlike members of law enforcement, who are public servants, security guards have the right to pursue legal action against your property management should negligence result in injury or fatality during their tenure.
In a bid to mitigate security guard liability, an increasing number of commercial properties are turning towards live remote video monitoring as an alternative security solution. This modern approach mirrors many advantages traditionally associated with security guards, but without many of the risks and a significantly lower cost.
At Stealth, we recognize that apartment owners and managers carry an enormous responsibility – providing a secure environment where residents and guests can feel protected day and night.
While on-site security guards offer human presence, this option carries limitations in scope and oversight. For the ultimate in around-the-clock monitoring tailored to your property’s unique needs, Stealth offers an intelligent alternative: live video monitoring by highly trained specialists.
Our remote security experts become an extension of your team, proactively surveilling the property in real time. With their highly trained oversight and rapid response coordination, you can rest assured knowing your community receives maximum protection without the hassle and expense of guards.
If you’re searching for an advanced security solution that combines cutting-edge technology with human insight, it’s time to explore Stealth. Contact us today for a free consultation and quote and learn how you can save up to 60% on security costs when you work with us.
Texas Private Security License Number: B14187
California Alarm Operator License Number: ACO7876
Florida Alarm System Contractor I License Number: EF20001598
Tennessee Alarm Contracting Company License Number: 2294
Virginia Private Security Services Business License Number: 11-19499
Alabama Electronic Security License # 002116
Canada TSBC License: LEL0200704
