Carnegie Mellon University

Hamerschlag Hall

April 08, 2019

Sekar on automated visitor security systems

Vyas Sekar was interviewed by NBC News about the safety and privacy of automated visitor security systems, which are replacing receptionists and security guards in businesses, schools, hotels, and hospitals. An IBM X-Force Red study revealed that five different systems are vulnerable in previously unknown places, making not only individuals’ information susceptible, but also company information if connected to a wider network. “An attacker always looks for the weakest link, so if they find one of these systems that collects personal data and is network-connected, it’s like a goldmine for them,” Sekar said. “If these systems are not secured and a company does not have the right security practices in place, then that’s a big security risk.” Read the article here.