CSS Security Technology & Systems Flashcards

What is the purpose of a duress alarm (panic button) in a security system?

Answer: To allow officers or staff to silently signal for help during a threat or attack

Duress alarms allow officers or employees under threat to discreetly signal for assistance without alerting the aggressor.

Which of the following best describes a 'layered' approach to electronic security?

Answer: Combining access control, CCTV, and intrusion detection so each layer compensates for weaknesses in the others

Layered electronic security integrates multiple systems so the failure of one does not leave the facility unprotected.

A CSS supervisor is considering upgrading the facility's access control. Which factor is most important to evaluate first?

Answer: The current vulnerabilities, specific access control needs, and integration with existing systems

Access control upgrades should be driven by a needs assessment that identifies current gaps and integration requirements.

Radio communication systems used by security officers should be encrypted primarily to:

Answer: Prevent unauthorized interception of sensitive security communications

Encrypted radio communications prevent adversaries from monitoring security transmissions and gaining advance knowledge of officer responses.

Which term describes the ability of a security system to continue operating when one component fails?

Answer: Redundancy or fault tolerance

Redundancy or fault tolerance ensures that backup components or pathways activate when a primary system component fails.

A supervisor discovers that access logs show an employee badge used to enter a restricted area at 2 AM, but the employee claims they were not on site. This anomaly most likely indicates:

Answer: A potential badge cloning, unauthorized use of a credential, or a compromised account requiring immediate investigation

Unexplained access log entries may indicate cloned credentials, stolen badges, or insider threats and require prompt investigation.