Free Security Survey
50+ Expert Crafted Security Survey Questions
Measuring your organization's security posture is vital to uncover vulnerabilities before they turn into costly breaches, protect sensitive data, and maintain stakeholder trust. A Security survey gathers targeted insights on risk awareness, compliance, and defense strategies so you can pinpoint weak spots and strengthen your protections. Load our free template - preloaded with example questions - or head to our online form builder to craft a fully customized survey if you need more flexibility.
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Top Secrets for Designing a Bulletproof Security Survey
A Security survey gives you a clear lens into your organization's vulnerabilities and strengths. When you start with a solid framework, you spot gaps before they become crises. This process answers critical questions like "How do I use this survey effectively?" and sets a proactive tone from day one. You'll gain insights that help you tailor training, improve protocols, and boost confidence across teams.
Begin by defining clear objectives. Do you need to assess physical access controls or gauge cybersecurity awareness? A well-crafted Security Survey targets the right audience and asks the right things. For example, "What do you value most about our facility's access controls?" and "How confident are you in our emergency response plan?" drive candid feedback and real change.
Focus on context to boost relevance. As the Guidelines for Improving the Contextual Relevance of Field Surveys show, tying questions to on-the-ground scenarios yields richer data. Imagine you're surveying campus security; reference real buildings or recent drills to make questions more relatable. That approach spurs honest answers and higher completion rates.
Leverage proven methodologies to structure your questionnaire. The National Computer Security Survey (NCSS) offers a solid template for large-scale data collection. Whether you're assessing network vulnerabilities or hardening door locks, sampling and data integrity stay top of mind. This baseline ensures your results reflect true risks and not survey artifacts.
Finally, measure attitudes to shape lasting culture change. Incorporate tools like the SA-13 security attitude inventory to track shifts over time. Consider running a quick poll at the end of each training session for real-time feedback. With each iteration, you fine-tune questions, bolster trust, and turn insights into action.
5 Must-Know Tips to Dodge Security Survey Pitfalls
Even the best Security survey can stumble if you overlook common traps. A classic error: asking vague or double-barreled questions that confuse respondents. When you read back "How secure and easy to use do you find our system?" you see two separate issues. Break it into "How would you rate our system's security?" and "How easy is our system to use?" for clear, actionable answers.
Wishful thinking can skew results. Don't assume employees know every policy detail; testing memory in a vacuum gives misleading data. If you ask "Are you fully compliant with our password rules?" without context, responders may guess. Instead, offer real-world prompts and scenarios for sharper feedback, as recommended in How Effective Is Your Security Awareness Program?
Bias creeps in when you target the wrong crowd. A Cyber Security Survey aimed at non-technical staff can overwhelm and discourage participation. Tailor each questionnaire to your audience's expertise. In a school setting, you might ask teachers about classroom lockdown drills, not firewall rules. This practice mirrors tactics in The Security Survey: Creating a Proactive Foundation for Campus Crime Prevention
Watch for oversight in data analysis, too. It's easy to chase fancy charts and miss the real story. Start by cleaning out incomplete or contradictory responses. Then look for patterns in high-risk areas - broken locks, unclear signage, or software shortcomings. With rigorous review, your next survey becomes a sharper tool, not just a box-checking exercise.
Before you distribute your next questionnaire, pilot it with a small team. Use sample survey questions like "What barriers do you face when reporting suspicious activity?" and "What training topics would help you feel safer at work?" Their feedback will expose hidden flaws. These fixes turn your survey into a reliable compass for security upgrades.
Physical Security Questions
Understanding on-site security measures helps protect assets and personnel. This section of the Security Survey evaluates controls like access management, surveillance, and environmental barriers to ensure a robust security posture.
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How frequently are perimeter security assessments performed?
Regular perimeter assessments help identify vulnerabilities before they are exploited. This ensures effective maintenance of fences, walls, and barriers.
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Are all external doors equipped with access control systems?
Evaluating door controls confirms whether only authorized personnel can enter. It strengthens overall site entry management.
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What procedures exist for verifying visitor identities?
Visitor check-in protocols prevent unauthorized individuals from gaining access. Proper tracking increases accountability for all guests.
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Does the site have 24/7 surveillance camera coverage?
Comprehensive camera placement ensures continuous monitoring of all areas. Recorded footage supports incident review and response.
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How often are security devices (locks, alarms) tested?
Regular testing verifies that locks and alarms function when needed. It reduces the risk of system failures during a security event.
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Are emergency exits clearly marked and unobstructed?
Clear signage and unobstructed pathways enable quick evacuation. This reduces potential injuries during urgent situations.
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Is there a documented key management policy?
A formal key policy controls distribution and access to keys. It prevents unauthorized duplication and misuse.
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Have guards received formal security training?
Trained security personnel are more effective at identifying and responding to threats. Ongoing education reinforces best practices on the ground.
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What measures exist for controlling internal facility access?
Security zones and badge systems limit entry to sensitive areas. This reduces the risk of insider breaches.
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Is there a visitor log that is regularly audited?
Maintaining and auditing visitor records ensures transparency of on-site activity. It also helps trace any security incidents to specific individuals.
Cybersecurity Questions
Securing digital assets and sensitive data is critical in today's threat landscape. This Cyber Security Survey section evaluates network defenses, software policies, and incident response readiness.
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How often are firewall rules reviewed and updated?
Regular reviews of firewall configurations prevent obsolescence and security gaps. This practice helps maintain effective network perimeter defense.
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Do you have an incident response plan for cyber attacks?
An established response plan ensures swift mitigation of breaches. It outlines roles, responsibilities, and communication protocols during security events.
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Is multi-factor authentication implemented for all remote access?
Multi-factor authentication significantly reduces unauthorized access risks. It adds an extra layer of security beyond passwords.
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Are regular vulnerability scans conducted on critical systems?
Vulnerability scanning identifies security weaknesses before attackers exploit them. Scheduling scans ensures continuous monitoring and patching.
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How frequently are software patches deployed after release?
Prompt patch deployment closes security loopholes efficiently. It reduces exposure time to known vulnerabilities.
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Is there a formal policy for acceptable use of corporate IT resources?
An acceptable use policy sets clear guidelines for employee device usage. This reduces the chance of malware introduction and data leaks.
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Do you perform regular cybersecurity awareness training for staff?
Continuous training keeps employees aware of emerging threats like phishing. Informed staff serve as an important line of defense.
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Are critical data backups encrypted and stored offsite?
Encrypting backups protects data integrity during storage and transit. Offsite storage adds resilience against local disasters.
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Is endpoint protection software installed on all devices?
Endpoint protection detects and blocks malware at the device level. Updating definitions regularly enhances threat detection.
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How is access to sensitive data monitored and logged?
Monitoring access logs helps detect unauthorized activities. Regular reviews of logs support early threat detection and response.
Employee Safety Questions
Employee well-being directly impacts productivity and satisfaction. Through this Employee Safety Survey , we explore workplace hazards, training effectiveness, and health protocols to enhance staff protection.
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Are regular ergonomic assessments conducted at employee workstations?
Ergonomic evaluations help reduce injuries related to poor posture. This practice improves comfort and productivity over time.
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Do employees receive training on proper lifting techniques?
Training prevents musculoskeletal injuries by teaching safe lifting practices. It promotes a culture of safety and reduces workers' compensation claims.
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Is there a staffed safety committee that meets regularly?
A safety committee fosters employee involvement in hazard identification. Regular meetings ensure timely communication of safety concerns.
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Are emergency evacuation drills performed at least twice a year?
Drills prepare employees for quick and orderly evacuation during crises. They help identify procedural gaps and improve readiness.
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Is personal protective equipment (PPE) readily available and enforced?
Accessible PPE reduces exposure to workplace hazards. Enforcement ensures compliance with safety protocols.
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Are safety incidents and near-misses documented and reviewed?
Reporting incidents promotes transparency and learning from errors. Reviewing near-miss data prevents future accidents.
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Do employees have access to a confidential method for reporting hazards?
Anonymous reporting encourages honest feedback about safety issues. This helps management address problems before they escalate.
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Is there a clear process for workplace hazard identification?
A defined process ensures systematic evaluation of risks. It supports proactive risk mitigation efforts.
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Are health and safety policies communicated to all new hires?
Early exposure to safety policies sets clear expectations for incoming staff. This reduces onboarding time and confusion.
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Do you maintain records of all safety training sessions?
Training documentation verifies compliance and tracks skill refreshers. It also highlights areas needing additional focus.
Home Security Questions
Protecting residences from intrusion and emergencies builds homeowner confidence. The Home Security Survey addresses alarm systems, surveillance, and neighborhood watch programs to improve residential safety measures.
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Do you have an alarm system installed at your residence?
Alarm systems deter burglars by increasing the risk of detection. They provide immediate alerts when intrusion is detected.
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Are security cameras positioned to cover all entry points?
Full coverage ensures no blind spots around doors and windows. Recorded footage supports investigation in case of incidents.
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How often do you test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors?
Regular testing ensures life-saving devices function properly. It helps protect occupants from fire and gas-related hazards.
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Do you use smart home locks with remote access controls?
Smart locks offer convenience and real-time monitoring of door status. Remote controls allow homeowners to manage access when away.
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Do you participate in a neighborhood watch or community watch program?
Community programs foster collective vigilance against crime. Neighbors looking out for one another strengthen local security.
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Is your landscaping designed to minimize hiding spots?
Strategic lighting and low shrubs reduce concealment areas for intruders. Good landscaping complements other security measures.
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Do you have a written home inventory of valuables?
An inventory facilitates insurance claims after theft or damage. It also encourages secure storage of high-value items.
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Are your doors and windows reinforced with security-grade hardware?
Reinforcements resist forced entry attempts. High-quality hardware extends the time needed to breach barriers.
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Do you receive security alerts on your mobile devices?
Mobile alerts provide real-time awareness of potential threats. They allow prompt action even when you're off-site.
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Have you reviewed your home insurance coverage for security requirements?
Insurance policies often offer discounts for robust security measures. Understanding requirements ensures compliance and potential savings.
Data Security Awareness Questions
Human error often leads to data breaches, making awareness training vital. This Data Security Awareness Training Survey gauges employee knowledge, policy understanding, and phishing recognition skills.
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Have you completed formal data security awareness training in the last year?
Timely training ensures employees are up to date on best practices. It reinforces awareness of new threats and compliance requirements.
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Can you identify common phishing email characteristics?
Recognizing phishing signs reduces susceptibility to credential theft. Informed employees help prevent malware infiltration.
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Are you familiar with the organization's data classification policy?
Understanding classification levels guides proper handling of sensitive information. It minimizes accidental leaks and non-compliance.
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Do you know how to report a suspected security incident?
Clear reporting procedures accelerate incident response. Early reporting limits potential damage from breaches.
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How often do you change your work-related passwords?
Regular password updates reduce the window of vulnerability. It helps protect accounts from long-term unauthorized access.
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Do you use a password manager approved by your organization?
Password managers generate strong, unique credentials for each account. They also safely store and auto-fill login details.
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Are you aware of the company's remote work security policies?
Remote work policies address home office risks like unsecured Wi-Fi. Employee awareness ensures consistent security practices off-site.
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Have you participated in a simulated phishing exercise?
Exercises test employee readiness and improve detection skills. Results inform future training needs and measure awareness progress.
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Do you understand the proper handling of removable media (USB drives)?
Removable media can carry malware across networks. Proper handling policies reduce the risk of cross-system infections.
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Are you confident in identifying social engineering tactics?
Social engineering exploits human error to bypass technical controls. Confidence and knowledge empower employees to resist manipulation.
