Tailgating Attack: A Modern Security Threat

The tailgating attack has become a significant security threat in recent years. This modern form of social engineering involves an unauthorized person following closely behind an authorized individual to gain entry into a restricted area or building. 

While it may seem harmless, tailgating can lead to severe security breaches, putting individuals and organizations at risk. In this article, we'll explore the impact of tailgating attacks and discuss some strategies to combat this growing security threat.

Table of Content (TOC)

1. What is a Tailgating Attack?
2. How Tailgating Attack Works?
3. What's the Difference Between Tailgating and Piggybacking Attack?
4. How to Prevent Tailgating Attacks?

What is a Tailgating Attack?

Tailgating is a type of physical security breach wherein an unauthorized individual gains access to restricted areas by closely following an authorized person or someone with legitimate access. 

Often categorized as a form of social engineering attack, tailgating exploits human behaviour and security vulnerabilities to bypass access controls and enter off-limits locations. Think of a stranger slipping through a door held open by an unsuspecting employee – that's the essence of tailgating. This unauthorized access can pave the way for a range of malicious activities, such as:

• Data breaches: Sensitive information stored on computers, servers, or even paper documents can be stolen by malicious actors. This can expose individuals and organizations to other significant risks, such as reputation damage, compliance violation, etc.
• Malware installation: Malicious software can be introduced into systems, disrupting operations, causing data loss, and even holding sensitive information hostage (ransomware).
• Physical damage: In extreme cases, attackers might physically damage an organization's equipment or infrastructure.

You should also explore: What is a Salami Attack and How to protect against it?

How Tailgating Attack Works?

Tailgating attack involves waiting near the entry point for an authorized person to gain access. Once the authorized person unlocks the door or uses their credentials, the attacker follows closely behind, slipping through before the door closes or authentication times out. 

Sometimes, attackers use social tactics to trick the authorized person into holding the door open, such as pretending to be a delivery person, an employee who forgot their ID, or someone carrying bulky boxes and needing help. Once inside, attackers can steal sensitive data, install malware, disrupt operations, or cause physical damage, depending on their motives.

Also explore: Types Of Hackers To Be Aware Of In 2024

What's the Difference Between Tailgating and PiggybackingAttack?

While both the terms are used interchangeably, they are different. The main difference between these two attacks is that tailgating attacks occur when an attacker follows an authorized user to gain entry to a restricted area without authorization. In contrast, a piggybacking attack occurs when an ex-employee or current employee knowingly provides unauthorized individual access to a restricted area.

Here's a tabular comparison of Tailgating vs. Piggybacking, highlighting their main differences:

Feature	Tailgating	Piggybacking
Intent	Usually unintentional from the perspective of the authorized individual, who might be unaware of the tailgater.	Intentional, as the authorized individual knowingly allows the unauthorized person to enter the restricted area.
Method	Exploits the politeness or inattention of the authorized person.	Involves collusion between the authorized and unauthorized persons.
Security Breach	Considered a security breach due to negligence or lack of awareness.	Seen as a deliberate security breach with potential complicity from the inside.
Prevention	Can be prevented by awareness programs, strict adherence to entry protocols, and physical barriers like automatic doors and turnstiles.	Requires stringent access control measures, ethical training, and strict enforcement of security policies to deter insider assistance.
Detection	Can be difficult to detect without proper surveillance and access control logs.	Easier to detect if access controls and monitoring systems are in place, as there is an interaction between the authorized and unauthorized individuals.
Consequences	Can lead to unintended access to secure areas, data breaches, or theft.	Often results in more severe security breaches since it is premeditated, potentially leading to significant data or asset loss.
Examples	An unauthorized individual entering a building closely behind an employee without the employee noticing.	An employee swiping their access card to let an unauthorized entity into a restricted area.

How to Prevent Tailgating Attacks?

Tailgating attacks, while seemingly simple, can have serious consequences. Luckily, several effective measures can significantly reduce the risk of these attacks:

• Be aware of your surroundings: Don't hold doors open for strangers near secure areas. Be cautious if someone seems overly eager to gain access.
• Verify identities: Before granting access, always verify the identity of individuals, even if they seem familiar. Ask for IDs and inquire about anyone suspicious.
• Report suspicious activity: If you see someone tailgating or acting suspiciously, report it to security immediately. Don't hesitate!! 
• Multi-factor authentication (MFA): This adds an extra layer of security, even if physical access is compromised—Mandate MFA for all sensitive areas and systems.
• Enhanced Access Controls: Implement advanced access control systems, such as biometric authentication and electronic badges, to reduce the risk of unauthorized access.
• Tailgating detection systems: Utilize sensors and cameras to detect unauthorized individuals following closely behind authorized personnel. These systems can trigger alarms or alerts.
• Secure doors and access points: Install mantrap doors, access control systems with two-factor authentication (verification), and security guards for added physical barriers.
• Secure key cards and fobs: Don't share access cards or fobs; report any lost or stolen ones immediately. Consider implementing proximity-based access systems that deactivate when out of range.
• Security awareness training: Regularly train employees on the dangers of tailgating and social engineering tactics. Emphasize the importance of verifying identities and reporting suspicious activity.
• Clear access control policies: Establish guidelines on who has access to specific areas and how access is granted. Also, regularly review and update these policies.
• Incident response plan: Prepare a plan for responding to tailgating attacks and other security incidents. It should outline reporting procedures, containment measures, and recovery steps.
• Limit tailgating opportunities: Avoid holding doors open for long periods, especially near secure areas. Consider using automatic door openers where appropriate.
• Stay informed: Keep up-to-date on the latest tailgating and social engineering tactics by following security resources and attending training sessions.