Which security threat can be mitigated with Physical Access Control?

Which security threat can be mitigated with Physical Access Control?

• A. Burglary
• B. Tailgating
• C. Pharming
• D. Social engineering

Answer: (B)

Physical access control focuses on who can enter a space and uses devices like badge readers, turnstiles, locks, and mantraps to require authentication at entry points. Tailgating—the situation where an unauthorized person slips in by following closely behind an authorized person—directly conflicts with this, because each person should present credentials and be checked as they enter. When entry systems enforce single-person access and verify each individual, tailgaters are prevented from gaining access despite following someone through the door. That direct link is why this threat is best mitigated by physical access controls. Pharming and social engineering are more about cyber redirects and human manipulation, areas that require different safeguards, while burglary is a broader risk that can be mitigated by multiple security layers, with tailgating being the more specific concern addressed here.

Physical access control focuses on who can enter a space and uses devices like badge readers, turnstiles, locks, and mantraps to require authentication at entry points. Tailgating—the situation where an unauthorized person slips in by following closely behind an authorized person—directly conflicts with this, because each person should present credentials and be checked as they enter. When entry systems enforce single-person access and verify each individual, tailgaters are prevented from gaining access despite following someone through the door. That direct link is why this threat is best mitigated by physical access controls. Pharming and social engineering are more about cyber redirects and human manipulation, areas that require different safeguards, while burglary is a broader risk that can be mitigated by multiple security layers, with tailgating being the more specific concern addressed here.