You’ve got the apps, alerts, and cloud-based backups. But if someone breaks a window, will your phone notification stop them?
Digital tools, such as mobile alerts, security apps, or Wi-Fi-connected devices, are often mistaken for complete protection.
However, non-physical security measures, such as alarm notifications, software dashboards, or smart home integrations, support your system, but they don’t block entry or prevent a break-in. They can delay your response, lull you into a false sense of confidence, or even fail if the Wi-Fi connection cuts out.
That’s why understanding what’s not a physical security measure is critical to actually protecting your home, not just monitoring it after the fact.
What is a physical security measure?
Physical security measures refer to any tangible technologies or barriers designed to protect people and property from threats such as theft, vandalism, or arson. We can simply call them the tangible elements that can be seen or touched, intended to physically protect the home from intrusions or damage.
Standard physical security measures:
- Locks and deadbolts for securing doors and windows.
- Security cameras (CCTV) are used to monitor and record activity.
- Motion detectors and sensors to detect movement in restricted areas.
- Access control systems include keycards, biometric scanners, and PIN pads.
- Security guards or trained personnel for on-site protection
- Fencing and barriers to restrict unauthorized entry.
- Bollards and gates to prevent vehicle-based attacks.
- Alarm systems for break-in, fire, or unauthorized access.
What is not a physical security measure for your home?
Non-physical security refers to digital and behavioral safeguards, such as strong passwords, app access controls, or network settings, that aren’t visible but play a critical role in your overall protection.
Here we give you a list of digital and behavioral security missteps to avoid:
1. Relying solely on mobile security apps:
That sleek app controlling your alarm isn’t a lock or camera, it’s a remote. And it’s only as secure as your phone and your credentials.
It doesn’t stop intruders on its own; it simply provides you with access to the tools that do. That’s why securing your phone and login credentials is just as important as locking your front door. Here’s how you can protect you mobile app:
- Log out of your old phones.
If your phone is lost, stolen, or hacked, and your app isn’t protected with a PIN, biometric lock, or strong password, someone else could control your home systems with a few taps.
- Log out when you’re done.
If you’re not using the app, log out. It’s a small step that prevents others from accessing your phone if they get in.
- Turn on two-factor authentication.
This adds an extra step, like a code sent to your phone when logging in. Even if someone knows your password, they can’t gain access with it. It requires a second verification.
- Use strong, unique passwords.
Create unique and complex passwords that are difficult to guess. A password manager can help you create and remember them.
We talk about these in the next section:
2. Using weak or reused passwords:
Not all home security measures are visible to the naked eye. While locks, fences, and cameras help protect your space, passwords are the ultimate defense.
If you use smart devices like the following,
- Smart doorbells.
- Wi-Fi cameras.
- Mobile security apps.
- Voice assistants.
- Smart locks and lights.
They rely on your Wi-Fi, and your password is what keeps them secure: Reolink support offers valuable advice when you set passwords for one or all of your devices:
“If your password is easy to remember, it might be easy to hack. Avoid real words, skip the obvious details like birthdays or names, and never reuse the same password twice. One weak link can unlock everything.”
It may not be physical, but a strong, unique password is just as crucial as a locked door. Reusing the same password, skipping two-factor authentication, or keeping the factory default can leave your home vulnerable to digital threats. Burglars don’t need to break-in through your doors or windows; they just need to log in.
Tips for protecting passwords as a security measure:
- Use strong, unique passwords for each device and account.
- Enable two-factor authentication where possible.
- Avoid using the same password across home systems.
- Change default passwords immediately upon setup.
3. Disengaging from community watch or neighborhood alerts:
Overlooking community engagement is one of the most underestimated gaps in home security.
Neighbors can be an extra set of eyes, spotting suspicious behavior, strange vehicles, or unusual activity when you’re not home.
Whether it’s through a local WhatsApp group, a neighborhood watch, or a simple chat over the fence, staying connected helps everyone stay safer.
It matters most during vacations, emergencies, or right after an incident, when real-time awareness can make all the difference. Strong community ties don’t cost anything, but they can add a powerful layer of protection to your home.
4. Ignoring or not reviewing surveillance footage regularly:
Ignoring surveillance means you’re missing one of the most valuable tools to protect your home. CCTV security cameras and monitoring systems let you see what’s happening when you’re not around.
Whether it’s a visitor, a delivery, or something suspicious, without them, you’re left in the dark. A few strategically placed cameras and real-time alerts help identify issues early, and make it easier to respond if something goes wrong. You don’t need a complicated setup, just the right tools in the right places. For example:
- Install security cameras in key areas, inside and outside.
- Choose systems that offer real-time alerts and cloud storage.
- Utilize a monitoring service or app that alerts you to movement or tampering.
- Review and update camera placement regularly to cover new blind spots.
- Test your system often to ensure it’s working properly.
5. Overlooking Wi-Fi network security:
It connects your devices, but it’s not a physical deterrent. Hackers don’t need to step on your lawn to break in if they can access your router from down the block.
Use a strong, unique Wi-Fi password:
Go to your router settings (usually by typing 192.168.1.1 into your browser), log in with your admin credentials, and change the Wi-Fi password. Make it long and random, mixing letters (upper and lowercase), numbers, and symbols. Avoid names, pets, or anything personal.
Rename your network:
In the same router settings menu, find the SSID (network name) field. Change it to something generic, but not your last name, street address, or router brand (e.g., not “SmithHome” or “TP-Link123”). This makes it harder for hackers to identify your setup.
Enable WPA3 encryption:
In your Wi-Fi security settings, check the encryption type. If your router supports WPA3, select it. If not, use WPA2 as a fallback and consider upgrading your router if it’s too old to support newer standards.
Turn off remote access:
Look for “Remote Management” or “Remote Access” in your router’s settings. Turn it off unless you need to access your router from outside your home. This blocks outsiders from trying to log in remotely.
6. Skipping proper firewall configurations:
Whether it’s on a home router or a smart device hub, firewalls help block unauthorized access attempts from external sources.
7. Ignoring app privacy and permission settings:
Most smart devices and apps request access to microphones, cameras, or location. Tightening these permissions is a significant (yet overlooked) digital security step.
8. Neglecting cloud account protection:
Your home security devices often sync with Apple iCloud, Google, or Amazon. If that account is hacked, all devices connected to it are vulnerable to compromise.
Example: If someone accesses your Google account, they could remotely control your Google Nest camera or door lock.
According to FBI crime data, 839,563 burglaries were reported in the U.S. in 2023, that is one every 38 seconds! It means you are missing out on one or more of the non-physical security measures for your homes!
9. Failing to enable mobile device management or remote wiping:
Some apps allow you to remotely wipe data from a lost or stolen phone, especially if it’s connected to your home’s security system.
10. Delaying software updates:
A study shows 50% of people delay updates! Delaying software updates means postponing or skipping system, app, or firmware updates. It affects everything from smartphones and computers to security cameras and routers.
Outdated software leaves devices vulnerable to cyberattacks. Hackers exploit known flaws that updates are designed to patch. Skipping updates is like leaving your digital front door unlocked.
Why non-physical security measures are also crucial:
Real-world example: The June 2025 data breach:
Do you still think your smart camera or doorbell is enough? Here’s a reality check. In June 2025, a record-breaking 16 billion login credentials were leaked from major platforms, including Apple, Google, and Facebook. The same platform that many smart home systems rely on.
If your login was exposed in that breach and you reused passwords or skipped two-factor authentication, your home security setup could be vulnerable, even if no one has stepped foot on your property.
That means cameras can be viewed. Alarms disarmed. Smart locks unlocked. All through the cloud. All without touching a single “physical” thing.
Why it matters even more for businesses?
While this blog focuses on home security, the same principles apply to commercial security, just on a larger scale. A breached camera system, a reused password, or a missed alert can result in thousands of dollars in downtime, theft, or liability.
That’s where professional Remote Video Monitoring comes in. It’s not just about watching cameras.
It’s about trained specialists reviewing live footage, flagging threats in real-time, and helping prevent incidents before they happen. For businesses, it’s one of the most proactive steps you can take to stay secure around the clock.
Live third-party monitoring ensures your non-physical security isn’t compromised by catching camera failures, identifying blind spots, monitoring for network issues, and ensuring every alert is seen and acted upon.
Frequently asked questions:
Is a high fence enough to ensure home security?
A high fence can improve home security, but it’s not enough by itself. For enhanced protection, consider combining it with other physical security measures, such as door locks, motion lights, and security cameras.
What is not a physical security measure for your house?
A strong password is not a physical security measure. It protects smart home devices and alarm apps, but it’s a digital layer of security, not a physical one, such as locks or fences.
What is not an example of physical security?
Smartphone apps and digital passwords are not examples of physical security. They support your home security system, but they don’t physically block intruders.
What is not physical security?
Two-factor authentication, cloud storage, and mobile app controls are not physical security features. They’re digital tools that work in conjunction with physical security systems, such as alarms and locks.
What are 4 examples of physical security measures for homes?
Four standard physical security measures for home protection are:
- Deadbolt locks
- Security cameras
- Motion-sensor lights
- Perimeter fences
These create visible, physical barriers that help prevent break-ins.
Conclusion:
Not everything that makes your home feel secure keeps intruders out. Apps, alerts, and innovative features are helpful, but they’re not a substitute for physical security.
They don’t stop someone from breaking in; they just tell you after it happens.Proper security comes from layering both the physical and non-physical security measures.
Secure your home with both physical barriers and smart digital habits, because if someone can unlock your house from anywhere in the world, then the front door was never the real threat. And for your business, request a free demo today.
