Tailgating Is: Types

and How to Prevent It

What Is Tailgating in Cyber Security?

Tailgating is a social engineering technique that attempts to gain access to restricted areas or systems. Typically, they follow and exploit the access of legitimate users.

In cybersecurity, tailgating isn’t just about opening physical doors—it also involves penetrating device or network defenses through manipulating human behavior.

Its nature, which relies on user negligence or lack of verification, makes tailgating a serious threat. To prevent it, you must raise awareness and implement strict procedures within your company.

Types of Tailgating in Cybersecurity

To counter this attack, we first need to recognize its types. This will allow you to prepare a more adaptive and comprehensive security system.

1. Physical Tailgating

This type occurs when an intruder follows an employee or individual with legitimate access into a building or restricted space.

They typically pretend to be in a hurry or carrying a lot of items so that the target is reluctant to close the door or ask questions. This method relies heavily on human error, not technological system failure.

2. Piggybacking

This type is similar to physical tailgating, except that the targeted insider intentionally grants critical access to an unauthorized individual. This can occur due to personal relationships, compassion, or even collusion.

While seemingly polite, piggybacking can be very damaging if the stranger abuses the granted access.

3. Cyber Tailgating

In this form, the perpetrator exploits access to devices or systems that have not been properly closed—such as computers left logged in, open Wi-Fi networks, or application sessions that have not been logged out.

They can gain access to a company’s internal systems without physically entering the building.

4. RFID Tailgating

Perpetrators use technology called Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) to infiltrate access systems without official ID. They also use RFID readers to duplicate the signal from a legitimate access card and then use it to open doors or systems.

This type is more sophisticated and requires specialized equipment. However, the risk is increased due to the large number of companies using this technology.

5. Insider Tailgating

This is one of the most dangerous forms of attack because it is carried out with the help of an insider. They will help the perpetrator infiltrate a system or restricted area.

Typically, this occurs for personal gain or to exert pressure. This form of attack is difficult to detect, and strict internal monitoring is required.

How a Tailgating Attack Works

Here’s an explanation of how a tailgating attack is carried out by the perpetrator:

1. Waiting and Observing Access Doors

First, the perpetrator will observe the entrance or access to the restricted area during busy times, such as in the morning or during breaks.

They look for the right moment—when someone authorized to open the door—to sneak in undetected. Observing employee patterns and habits helps the attacker determine the right time to launch their attack.

2. Following Closely When the Door is Opened

When an employee with access opens the door, the perpetrator immediately follows them quickly to keep the door open. Often, victims don’t realize that a stranger has entered because the perpetrator acts normally, such as walking with documents or dressing like an employee.

3. Disguise to Appear Convincing

Tailgaters often disguise themselves as new employees, technicians, couriers, or official company guests to avoid arousing suspicion. To appear more convincing, they may wear fake uniforms, carry fake ID cards, or carry other supporting devices.

4. Lack of Verification and Strict Standard Operating Procedures

Tailgating attacks are easy to occur in companies that do not implement strict verification procedures. This often leads employees to neglect to verify the identity of those entering or to fail to implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) regarding securing physical access.

5. Exploiting Access to Carry Out Further Actions

After successfully gaining entry, the perpetrator will carry out various malicious activities—such as stealing sensitive data, stealing devices, installing malware, or accessing systems that should be protected.

The Impact of Tailgating on Cyber and Physical Security

Tailgating attacks are more than just minor breaches. They can have a significant negative impact on critical aspects of your company’s security.

1. Access to Sensitive and Confidential Data

When attackers gain access to a specific area, they can directly access devices or servers that store sensitive information. This can lead to the theft of financial data, business strategies, and personal customer information within minutes.

If left unchecked, this data leak can damage your company’s reputation with customers and other business partners.

2. Theft of Devices or Documents

Tailgating can also open the door to physical theft, such as laptops, hard drives, or important documents left unattended. The potential for such losses can be significant, especially if the devices are unencrypted or have access to internal systems.

3. Malware Attacks from Foreign Devices

Tailgaters can insert USB drives containing malware into office devices. In many cases, the malware spreads throughout the network within minutes. This can lead to data corruption and information theft.

Furthermore, some of them will also implement ransomware, which encrypts systems and demands a large ransom.

4. Compromise Security Systems

Once attackers enter a restricted area, the company’s entire security system can be compromised. They can access the server room, damage the IT infrastructure, or disable alarm systems and CCTV. In the long term, this vulnerability increases the likelihood of further attacks.

How to Prevent Tailgating in Cyber Security

To maintain your company’s physical and cyber security, you need to develop appropriate preventative measures. Implement the important steps below!

1. Internal Education and Outreach

First, provide regular training to all employees about the dangers of tailgating and how to prevent it. This education should also include real-life examples so they can better understand and relate it to the work environment.

2. Require Identity Verification

Ensure everyone entering the restricted area has official identification that can be verified—such as an ID card, biometric system, or security surveillance. Avoid tolerant individuals who do not carry identification or who ask to join authorized users.

3. Encourage a Culture of Prompt Reporting

Start a security culture with simple steps, such as encouraging employees to report suspicious activity. Don’t forget to provide easy and secure communication channels so they don’t hesitate to report.

4. Install Posters and Visual Warnings

Use informative posters at specific access points, such as entrances, elevators, and stairwells. Strong visuals and clear warnings will serve as effective reminders for everyone to always be alert to potential threats.

5. Use a Multi-Layered Security System

Finally, you can use several technologies such as an access control system, CCTV cameras, monitoring software, and professional security staff. An integrated and multi-layered security system will minimize the chance of tailgating attacks and speed up response times if an incident occurs.

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