Genetec Inc., a global enterprise physical security software company, is marking Data Protection Day by sharing best practices for safeguarding sensitive security data. The company aims to help organizations protect information while maintaining effective security operations.

Physical security systems generate large volumes of data, including video footage, access control logs, and license plate information. As this data becomes increasingly central to daily operations and investigations, organizations face growing pressure to manage it responsibly. They must navigate evolving privacy regulations, rising cyber threats, and higher expectations for transparency.

“Physical security data can be highly sensitive, and protecting it requires more than basic safeguards,” said Mathieu Chevalier, Principal Security Architect at Genetec. “Some approaches treat data as an asset to be shared beyond its original purpose. That creates real privacy risks. Organizations should expect clear limits on data use, strong controls throughout its lifecycle, and technology that respects privacy by default.”

Observed every year on January 28, Data Protection Day reminds organizations that protecting personal data is an ongoing responsibility. For physical security teams, clear strategies, resilient technologies, and trusted partners can help ensure privacy and security remain aligned as regulations and risks evolve.

Genetec recommends starting with a clear data protection strategy. Organizations should assess the data they collect, why they collect it, where it is stored, how long it is retained, and who has access. Documenting these practices reduces unnecessary exposure and helps support compliance. Transparency builds trust with employees, customers, and the public.

The company also emphasizes privacy-by-design. Organizations should limit data collection to defined security purposes, apply data minimization, and enforce strong encryption and access controls. Privacy-enhancing technologies like automated anonymization can protect identities while preserving the operational value of data.

Maintaining strong cyber defenses is crucial. Regular system updates, vulnerability management, and continuous monitoring help address emerging threats. Treating privacy and cybersecurity as ongoing operational responsibilities strengthens overall security.

Cloud-managed solutions can support resilience and compliance. They help organizations stay current with patches, privacy controls, and regulatory requirements while reducing operational burdens. Flexible deployment models can balance scalability, control, and data residency across on-premises and cloud systems.

Finally, Genetec urges organizations to choose partners committed to privacy and transparency. Evaluating vendors on data governance, clear usage limits, and independent security standards such as ISO/IEC 27001 or SOC 2 Type II can reduce privacy risks. Organizations should also assess vendor practices around AI, transparency, and human-led decision-making when handling personal data.

By following these best practices, organizations can strengthen data protection across physical security systems and uphold privacy, aligning with the spirit of Data Protection Day.

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