The rise of remote and hybrid work environments has also complicated the security landscape. Devices like IP cameras, smart sensors, and employee endpoints now function as potential entry points for cyber threats
As organisations continue to digitalise operations, security experts are witnessing an accelerated convergence between cyber and physical security. This shift is forcing enterprises to adopt a unified strategy that addresses risks across both domains—something traditional models have struggled to accommodate. In a recent industry discussion hosted by Infopercept, leaders highlighted how emerging technologies, from cloud systems to generative AI, are intensifying this need.
Blurring Lines Between Cyber & Physical Security
“The convergence of physical and cyber systems has turned security into a hybrid issue,” said Jitendra Chauhan, Head of Security at Arvind Limited. “You can no longer treat physical threats and cyber threats as separate incidents. They’re interconnected, and the response must be too.”
Organisations are increasingly integrating their Building Management Systems (BMS), access controls, and surveillance tools with IT networks. However, this integration has introduced new attack surfaces. “A breach in a smart lock or a surveillance camera is not just a physical threat anymore—it becomes a cybersecurity concern as well,” noted Sanjay Bavisi, President of EC-Council.
Collaborative Risk Management & Access Control
Experts argue that the convergence of cyber and physical domains requires collaboration between IT, OT, and physical security teams. “It’s about building a security ecosystem,” said Jitendra Chauhan. “An integrated dashboard and command centre can help organisations monitor risks in real time, whether it’s a firewall breach or an unauthorised physical entry.”
Shivani Thapar, Security Consultant at Infopercept, noted that organisations must move beyond traditional compliance and instead focus on dynamic risk governance. “Access control is no longer about who enters the building. It’s about who accesses data, systems, and physical infrastructure—both remotely and on-premises,” she said.
Securing Remote Work, IoT, & Surveillance Infrastructure
The rise of remote and hybrid work environments has also complicated the security landscape. Devices like IP cameras, smart sensors, and employee endpoints now function as potential entry points for cyber threats. “When your workforce is decentralised, the risk perimeter is everywhere,” said Bavisi. “You need to monitor remote access, identity management, and endpoint integrity all at once.”
In this environment, frameworks like Zero Trust and the use of advanced AI are becoming increasingly relevant. While experts acknowledge the promise of generative AI in automating threat detection and response, they caution against over-reliance. “AI can help close the skills gap, but it also introduces new vectors that must be secured,” warned Bavisi.
As cyber-physical convergence continues to reshape enterprise security, the message from experts is clear: only an integrated and proactive approach can keep pace with the evolving threat landscape.