Elevator Security Vulnerabilities

Believe it or not, there are a lot of security susceptibilities that exist when using elevator access control. Meaning that there are a couple ways that an intruder can compromise elevator security.

 The first is called tailgating. This is when an intruder simply enters an elevator at the same time as an authorized passenger does. Thus, giving them access to secured floors. Entering and exiting an elevator with other people is completely natural and doesn’t seem suspicious. Thus, making this problem intensify with the busyness of an elevator. 

Intruders are also able to just, ‘wait for the right time’ when riding an elevator. People don’t find it suspicious if there is another individual in the same elevator as them, they simply believe that they are on their way to a certain floor just like them. When something like this happens, an intruder has access to his desired floor by simply waiting for another passenger to call the elevator to their desired floor. 

 Another common form of elevator security being breached is sharing card swipes. Most access and elevator control systems are one way only. Once a passenger swipes their access card, the elevator will allow them a couple seconds to select their desired floor. If an intruder happens to be sharing an elevator with someone with an access card, the intruder can simply push the button for his/her desired floor in those couple seconds after a card is swiped. 

 When an elevator is in “Fire Service Mode”, security controls are over-ridden. There are only a select few people who should have a fire service key to an elevator, with that key, that person will have access to all floors. Something that makes this even worse is that most fire service keys are easily available for purchase. 

 Security cameras and other forms of security can help prevent this but, it is almost impossible to stop. Being aware of these vulnerabilities will help building owners, and companies, to be more aware.