What Is the Security Industry?

The security industry is made up of companies that manufacture and sell security products to the world. The industry also includes licensed security agents, as well as associations that regulate security agencies, services and products. Such products include home security, as well as commercial security technology intended to protect computing systems against cyber attacks.

Throughout the world, the safety and security of various infrastructures are at constant risk due to cyber crimes. These crimes threaten to destroy personal lives, as well as corporate and government security, through the disruption of technology, the destruction of data and the release of highly classified and sensitive information. While several countries operate individual security industries, most are also committed to working with associations and governing bodies in other countries in a collective effort to protect global security interests.

For decades, security industry professionals have consistently studied the risks to private, corporate and government security in an effort to best define ways of providing increased protection. Individual organizations also exist as a way to ensure that the highest level of security standards are met by security providers, and that training is consistently available to keep providers abreast of cutting-edge developments within the industry. Without a strong and organized collective, transportation industries, manufacturing industries, government institutions and a wide range of other critical infrastructures are at risk for security crimes.

The private security industry in the United Kingdom is regulated by the Security Industry Authority (SIA), which also provides licensing to those working in various facets of the industry. Reporting directly to the Home Secretary in that country, the SIA also manages licensed contractors to assure that a certain level of quality assurance and ethical standards are maintained. Through licensing, accreditation and independent reporting, the organization exists primarily to reduce the number of technological crimes committed against the commercial security industry as well as the home security industry within the United Kingdom. While a large focus is placed on technological security, the SIA also provides licensing for security consultants, private investigators and other personal security agents.

In the United States, the Security Industry Association, which is also known as the SIA in that country, stands for the professional interests of companies that manufacture and distribute security products. The American SIA conducts research, provides targeted education and advocates favorable legislation on behalf of the commercial and private security industry. This particular association also hosts industry conferences and training events throughout the United States and Canada.