Physical Security Program Legitimacy: The Role of Certifications and Attestations

Introduction

It felt like a high-stakes meeting—one of those where every comment feels like it might tip the scale.

I sat with one of our corporate security vendors, our Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), and a few others from the team. The vendor was proposing to integrate their product into our internal communications platform, but the room felt tense. Questions swirled about cybersecurity risks, data exposure, and trust.

Then, everything shifted. Calmly, our CISO said, “I’ve reviewed your certifications online. Your cybersecurity practices look solid.” Just like that, the tension broke.

I leaned in, curious. What had he seen that gave him such confidence? As it turned out, he had simply visited the vendor’s website and found their posted certifications—SOC 2, SOC 3, HIPAA, GDPR, ISO 27001. In seconds, he recognized what each badge represented: rigorous standards, verified controls, and institutional maturity.

What struck me wasn’t just how fast he found the information, but how much those symbols meant. With a few well-known attestations, trust had been established, without another word.

That moment stuck with me—not just because it diffused the tension in the room, but because it revealed something powerful: certifications aren’t just technical milestones. They’re trust signals. They give decision-makers the confidence to move forward. And as I’ve learned since, that confidence isn’t accidental. Behind each acronym—SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA—is a rigorous process that companies invest in, not for vanity, but for validation.

Core Proposition

The cybersecurity industry has dedicated certifications and attestations that CISOs and leaders can obtain for their organizations. These attestations, with one single badge or within five words or less, provide proof to outsiders, e.g., customers, potential customers, third parties, business partners, and anyone else who cares, that their cybersecurity program is comprehensive and well-maintained.

This isn’t just for potential business partners; this is even useful as a declaration to bad actors looking for an easy target. I’ve heard this phrase so many times in the physical security world: “You don’t need to have the most security in the world, you just need more than the guy down the street.” During the reconnaissance phase, bad actors looking for an easy target see the cybersecurity certifications on the company website and move on to the next potential victim. This is security deterrence. Isn’t that one of the three “D’s” in physical security?” Deter, Detect, Delay.

Cybersecurity has an entire business cycle for this very thing. There are internal employees who specialize in these certification areas to help become compliant, external auditors who verify and attest to meeting the requirements, and companies that offer this service as part of their business model.

Why don’t we have the same for physical security? Why don’t we have a simple way to showcase to the world on our company website that we have robust physical security programs in place, across physical, technical, and procedural countermeasures, and that our programs are continuously maintained? I propose that moving our industry in this direction can produce a transformative shift, where physical security becomes as recognizable and trusted as cybersecurity. By creating a similar certification process for physical security programs, we can enhance credibility, foster industry-wide collaboration, and create a baseline of security practices that can be easily assessed by all stakeholders, whether they’re potential partners, investors, or simply those looking to mitigate risk. This could lead to not only better security outcomes but also a more resilient and prepared industry overall.

Objective and Disclaimer

This is a thought exercise and not a comprehensive roadmap for developing a physical security certification or attestation. My goal is to raise awareness, promote curiosity, and spark conversations that may contribute to the growth of this area within our industry. I welcome feedback and am looking forward to the opportunity to have more discussions on this topic.

It’s likely that some certifications like this exist in the physical security industry, of which I am not aware, for example, UL 2050. UL 2050 applies to National Industrial Security Systems (NISS) and is required when a facility is handling classified materials under the oversight of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) or other federal agencies. This is a niche requirement when working with the United States government and does not apply to all industries.

I’m also aware that there are cybersecurity frameworks, like NIST 800-53 or ISO 27001, that reference physical security as one component of the larger framework, but these do not meet the classification of this article. The references to physical security are extremely minor and almost always centered on physical access control only.

We have certifiable ratings from some physical security hardware that we use, such as physical barriers, high security fencing, ballistic walls or glass, or vehicle ramming protection. We also have ratings for fire doors and walls. These are all components of a physical protection system, but what about the assurance that the company has deployed and is maintaining an effective security department?

Cybersecurity Attestations and Certifications

Before jumping into physical security examples, let’s look at a couple of existing cybersecurity-focused certifications/attestations that exist now. As you read this next section, think about how this could apply to the physical security industry. Think of the standards, attestations, and certifications for security program legitimacy.

SOC 2

SOC 2 compliance is not a certification, but an attestation issued by an independent auditor. It helps businesses demonstrate their commitment to data security and can be a key differentiator in industries handling sensitive information. The result of becoming SOC 2 compliant is getting a SOC 2 report provided by a third-party auditor. 

The cost of a SOC 2 audit can range from $10,000 to $80,000 or more, depending on factors like company size, the scope of the audit, and the type of report – SOC 2 Type 1 or SOC 2 Type 2. While SOC 2 Type 1 is the review and audit of how controls are designed and operating at a specific point in time, SOC 2 Type 2 covers how effectively the controls are operating over a period of time, typically six or 12 months. SOC 2 Type 2 assures that a company is actually running its cybersecurity program. It would be possible for a company to get a good SOC 2 Type 1 report, but then completely fail to follow through on their commitments and recurring controls. The SOC 2 Type 2 assessment process is longer and more in-depth, making it more costly. But it’s also more valuable in the eyes of your clients and stakeholders, and is often considered the gold standard of compliance.

What are the benefits of getting SOC 2 compliant? Why would companies pay so much for this attestation? Companies pursue SOC 2 compliance because it builds trust, opens doors to enterprise clients, and proves they have strong data security and internal controls. It's often required in competitive sales environments and signals maturity to customers, investors, and regulators. While the process is costly, it reduces risk, accelerates deals, and provides a clear competitive advantage, making it a smart investment for growth-focused, data-driven businesses. These and other factors help to justify and offset the cost of SOC 2 compliance.      

What does SOC 2 measure? The SOC 2 Trust Services Criteria are a set of five principles used to evaluate a service organization's security controls. These criteria are Security, Availability, Processing Integrity, Confidentiality, and Privacy. While Security is a mandatory criterion for SOC 2 audits, the other four are optional and can be included based on the organization's needs and business model. 

GLBA

GLBA (Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act) compliance is not something a company can achieve through a formal certification or third-party attestation like SOC 2. Instead, it’s a legal requirement for financial institutions to establish and maintain safeguards that protect consumer financial information. At its core, GLBA compliance involves implementing a comprehensive information security program, delivering clear privacy notices to customers, and allowing them to opt out of certain types of information sharing. A key component is the internal certification process, where a senior executive must annually attest that the organization meets the requirements outlined by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). While this attestation is not externally verified, many institutions engage internal or third-party auditors to assess their programs and ensure readiness in the face of regulatory inquiries or investigations.

Though it lacks a formal badge or audit framework, GLBA compliance is critical—non-compliance can result in severe consequences, including monetary fines, criminal charges, and loss of license to operate. For financial institutions, demonstrating GLBA compliance is more than a legal checkbox; it reflects a commitment to protecting sensitive data, maintaining customer trust, and sustaining long-term business integrity. As the financial industry continues to face rising cybersecurity threats and evolving privacy expectations, GLBA compliance remains a cornerstone of sound risk management.

ISO 27001

ISO/IEC 27001 is a globally recognized standard for information security management systems (ISMS), and unlike GLBA or SOC 2, it results in a formal certification issued by an accredited third-party body. Organizations pursue ISO 27001 certification to demonstrate that they have a comprehensive, risk-based framework in place for managing and protecting sensitive data. The standard outlines requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving an ISMS, covering everything from security policies and asset management to access controls, incident response, and supplier relationships.

Achieving ISO 27001 certification involves a rigorous multi-stage audit process. First, an organization must develop and document its ISMS in alignment with the standard. Then, external auditors assess both the design and the effective implementation of security controls. Certification is typically valid for three years, with surveillance audits conducted annually to ensure ongoing compliance.

Companies invest in ISO 27001 certification because it provides independent validation of their security posture, making it especially valuable when working with international clients, government entities, or industries with high data sensitivity. It helps reduce risk, improve internal governance, meet regulatory requirements, and boost customer trust. For many organizations, ISO 27001 serves not only as a strategic differentiator but also as a foundational framework for aligning cybersecurity practices with global best practices.

Three different examples, among so many others to choose from. Interestingly, these three are all different in their certifiability. SOC 2 is not a certification, but an attestation by a third-party. GLBA is not certifiable in the sense that you get a certification for being compliant. The GLBA has certain requirements for financial institutions, and a senior executive has to formally declare the company’s compliance, but it is not a third-party verification. Lastly, ISO 27001 is certifiable and issued by an accredited third-party body.

Opportunity for Physical Security Program Certification - Cannabis Industry

Let’s take what we have discussed so far and apply it to a physical security program instead of cybersecurity. I am not a security expert in the cannabis industry, but since it already has a recognized standard from ASIS International, I think it’s an example that works well.

As the cannabis industry evolves, so do expectations for professionalism, compliance, and operational resilience. Security is a strategic necessity. To support this, ASIS International introduced the Cannabis Security Standard, offering a risk-based framework for building and improving Cannabis Security Programs (CSPs).

Rather than focusing solely on compliance, the standard emphasizes using risk assessments to guide the Basis of Design (BOD), ensuring physical protection systems (PPS) are purpose-built to address real threats. It promotes a tailored, scalable approach using tools like access control, video surveillance, intrusion detection, and barriers—all selected based on risk, not just regulation.

Annex A adds practical guidance on designing PPS components with clear reasoning, helping cannabis businesses invest in smarter, more effective security.

The Case for Certification or Attestation

While the ASIS Cannabis Security Standard is not currently mandated or enforced through a formal certification body, the industry is primed for a third-party attestation or certification model, and the benefits could be significant. This designation does not currently exist, but it could. There is ample room here to introduce an industry-specific certification, with companies or individual auditors who are certified to conduct the evaluation. In this case, the audit wouldn’t be a checklist to verify that a single location (or multiple) has a set of prescribed of physical security controls, but that the security program as a whole has identified company assets, the threats to those assets, potential security and business risk, and has implemented proportionate security countermeasures. The audit would review security department governance, maintenance, and the effectiveness of the PPS.

Imagine a dispensary, grow operation, or distribution center that could present a verified "Cannabis Security Standard Compliant" certificate, much like ISO 27001 in cybersecurity or GMP in pharmaceuticals. Such a designation would carry weight with:

• Regulators and State or Federal Licensing Authorities: Demonstrating adherence to a respected, industry recognized security standard can improve a company’s standing during license application or renewal. It signals maturity, accountability, and proactive risk management.

• Insurers: A certified security posture could reduce premiums, streamline underwriting, and even open access to coverage that might otherwise be unavailable to cannabis operations perceived as high-risk.

• Investors and Financial Institutions: For those assessing risk and long-term viability, attestation to a globally respected security standard provides assurance that the company is well-managed and forward-thinking.

• Business Partners and Distributors: Security risks in one part of the supply chain can ripple through others. Demonstrating formal compliance helps build trust and strengthen B2B relationships.

• Consumers: In an age of socially responsible consumption, customers increasingly care about the ethics, transparency, and legitimacy of the brands they support. Visible commitment to safety and compliance could influence purchasing decisions and loyalty.

As the cannabis sector grows more competitive, businesses that demonstrate operational excellence, especially in areas like security, are likely to stand out. Security certification could become a key differentiator and even a requirement in the future, particularly as larger corporations, institutional investors, and federal-level regulators enter the conversation.

Other Potential Physical Security Program Certifications

Let’s stick with this train of thought. What are some other industries where there is potential for similar certification processes?

1.      Data Centers & Micro-Data Hubs

As cloud services expand, smaller data centers are popping up in remote or urban areas without consistent physical security infrastructure. These often store sensitive data locally. A standardized security certification (covering access control, video, physical layout, etc.) would provide assurance to enterprise clients and enable competitive differentiation.

2.      Private Aviation & Fixed Base Operators (FBOs)

These facilities often serve VIPs, celebrities, or high-value cargo, yet are not held to the same security standards as commercial airports. Risks include theft, espionage, and unauthorized access. A physical security certification would appeal to insurers, clients, and regulators, ensuring the safe operation of high-value assets and enhancing reputational trust.

3.      Hospitals & Medical Institutions

Healthcare facilities handle highly sensitive patient information, expensive medical equipment, and pharmaceuticals. They face risks from theft and physical security breaches. Additionally, the rising threat of active shooter incidents and workplace violence creates vulnerabilities. A formalized physical security certification could help hospitals demonstrate a commitment to patient safety, data protection, and operational integrity. It would appeal to regulators, insurers, and patients, enhancing trust and helping institutions secure better insurance rates and compliance with healthcare regulations like HIPAA.

4.      K–12 Schools and Higher Education

Schools are increasingly vulnerable to active shooter incidents, vandalism, and community-based threats. Yet security standards vary wildly between districts and institutions. A certification standard could raise the baseline of school safety, provide objective validation for parents and staff, and support grant funding or insurance incentives. It would also create a roadmap for upgrading physical security infrastructure in a scalable, risk-informed way.

5.      Luxury Retail & Jewelry Stores

These stores face increasing threats from smash-and-grab robberies, internal theft, and organized retail crime. Traditional mall security measures are often insufficient. A voluntary certification program could validate advanced security measures (e.g., panic protocols, smart safes, layered access), helping to reduce insurance premiums and improve community safety partnerships.

Where Can We Go From Here?

Developing a credible and effective physical security certification or attestation model, akin to the ISO 27001 or SOC 2 certifications in the cybersecurity field, would require thoughtful strategy, collaboration, and a commitment to continuous improvement. This initiative isn't just about ticking regulatory boxes—it’s about setting a benchmark for excellence in security practices, gaining trust, and ensuring that the physical security sector is seen as resilient, trustworthy, and professionally credible. Here are some ideas to help establish this foundation, from defining a comprehensive standard to building industry-wide recognition.

1. Develop or Adopt a Credible Standard

Begin with a comprehensive, well-structured standard that outlines best practices and industry-specific security needs. This could be a new standard tailored to physical security or an adaptation of existing frameworks from other sectors.

This process may involve forming a coalition of industry professionals, security experts, and organizations to author a unified standard. The standard must be practical, risk-based, and grounded in the realities of physical security operations, not just a regulatory minimum. It should address critical areas such as access control, physical security, intrusion detection, video surveillance, employee training, incident response, procedures, and program governance.

2. Define the Attestation or Certification Framework

Clearly define what it means to be “compliant” with the physical security standard. Does it require self-attestation from companies, third-party verification, or annual audits? Establish whether there are different levels of certification (e.g., Bronze/Silver/Gold) or a simple pass/fail model.

Develop criteria, documentation requirements, and guidelines to verify compliance. Create a framework that is scalable and achievable for organizations of all sizes. It should also be flexible enough to accommodate real-world variations in physical security needs while still ensuring high standards of practice.

3. Design the Brand & Badge

Establish a recognizable brand for the certification or attestation, including a name, logo, and marketing language. Develop a digital badge, certificate, and physical signage that organizations can proudly display on their websites, marketing materials, and at their facilities. The badge should become synonymous with trust, quality, and effective security practices. It must be recognizable to customers, partners, regulators, and even competitors as an indication of high standards in physical security.

4. Build the Infrastructure for Verification

Set up a system for verifying compliance, either through internal auditors or certified third-party evaluators. This may involve forming partnerships with accredited auditing organizations to conduct site visits and assessments. Develop training materials for auditors to ensure consistent application of the security standard. Provide clear guidelines for conducting audits and creating templates or checklists that streamline the evaluation process.

The verification process must be scalable and credible, ensuring a consistent approach across organizations. The system should promote confidence in the certification process while being practical for companies of all sizes.

5. Drive Adoption and Industry Recognition

Once the certification model is established, the next step is to drive industry adoption. This includes promoting the designation to regulators, insurers, investors, and consumers.

• Regulators: Position the certification as a demonstration of industry-leading security practices, exceeding basic compliance requirements.

• Insurers: Highlight the risk-reduction benefits, possibly leading to premium discounts or preferential underwriting.

• Investors: Market the certification as a way to de-risk operations and improve overall business continuity.

• Consumers & Partners: Showcase the certification as a mark of trust and a reliable indicator of security excellence.

Engage with industry trade groups, present at conferences, and leverage early adopters to showcase the badge. Establish the certification as a competitive advantage that becomes an industry standard, creating a network effect where recognition and demand for the certification grow over time.

6. Maintain & Evolve the Program

As the security landscape changes, the certification standard must evolve. This requires regular updates to the certification criteria and auditing practices to keep pace with emerging threats and technologies. Set a cadence for periodic reviews (e.g., annual or biennial), gather feedback from certified organizations, and create an advisory council to guide updates and revisions to the standard. Ensure that the certification program remains relevant, respected, and effective in mitigating evolving risks, maintaining its legitimacy as a mark of security excellence.

Creating a physical security certification model won’t happen overnight—but it’s a step our industry needs to take. It’s not just about badges or compliance; it’s about proving our value, earning trust, and raising the bar for everyone. With collaboration, clear standards, and a shared commitment, we can build something that strengthens both our profession and the organizations we protect.

Conclusion

If a few well-placed acronyms can instantly convey credibility, maturity, and trust in cybersecurity, like it did for the CISO in the meeting, why not in physical security? It’s time we built similar mechanisms to demonstrate that our programs are not only operational, but exemplary.

We already have the expertise, standards, and critical mission. What we lack is the ability to clearly show others—whether they’re business partners, customers, or adversaries—that we take physical security seriously and that we’ve proven it through structured, ongoing evaluation. Not because we’re chasing vanity, but because we’re building trust. We need a trust that stakeholders can see, bad actors can’t ignore, and our teams can stand behind.

Imagine a future where a simple emblem on your company’s website signals: our physical security program is real, robust, and ready. That future doesn’t build itself. It starts with conversations, collaboration, and a shared willingness to raise the bar.

I’m not claiming to have all the answers, but I am extending an invitation to continue the conversation. Let’s gather the right voices—practitioners, industry groups, auditors, and leaders—and begin to explore what physical security attestations or certifications could look like.

If this vision resonates with you, reach out. Let’s build something that strengthens not only our individual programs but the credibility and future of our industry. Let’s lead the way.

Acknowledgements

These ideas aren’t mine alone. I’m grateful to the many colleagues and peers who have explored this topic with me over the past couple of years, especially Landon Jones, CPP, PSP, PCI, Christopher Martini, Carsen Ebert, April Renner, and Ted Pope for their insights, questions, and thoughtful conversations that helped shape the thinking in this article. I also leaned on AI tools to support research and brainstorming during the writing process. I’m lucky to be surrounded by such smart, generous people.