When discussing security, it could refer to any number of aspects. For instance, cybercrime is one of the biggest threats to businesses and individuals. According to Motif Investing, as of 2012, cybercriminals claimed 12 victims per second. The average victim cost is rising by 50%, totaling $113 billion in a span of 12 months. This is especially alarming as cybercriminals have found their way into PCs and laptops as well as mobile devices like tablets and smartphones. The source added that 85% of executives said that cyberattacks were at the top of their concerns.
Meanwhile, closely related to cyber threats is physical security. A breach in physical security, especially in large businesses that have assets like servers and laptops, can mean millions of dollars lost and can lead to data theft. Physical security is not just essential to protect facilities, sensitive information and personnel from physical harm and threats—it plays a big role in protecting the public’s lives. For example, places such as hospitals should require the strictest form of physical security as they are prone to theft, crime and violence.
Investing in security companies could be a smart move. It is a rapidly growing sector, and by doing so, you would be supporting advancements within the security and defense category. Here is a short list of worthy security companies to consider investing in:
Cybersecurity
BAE Systems (OTC:BAESY)
BAE Systems has a rich history of over 40 years in the data and security industries, as well as in the manufacturing of traditional defense such as aircraft, submarines and weapons. The company is also keeping up with the times by branching out into cyber protection by securing intelligence and capital. In 2014, the company acquired SilverSky, a commercial cybersecurity services provider.
Cyberark Software Ltd (NASDAQ:CYBR)
Offering a cybersecurity method for privileged accounts, Cyberark monitors accounts that have permissions to execute different commands and prevents those accounts from being used by cybercriminals. The company had an IPO in 2014. Cyberark has seen a healthy share increase since then.
NetScout Systems Inc (NASDAQ:NTCT)
NetScout Systems Inc. mainly focuses on distributed denial of service (DDOS) prevention and specializes in network performance management. The company is reported to have a customer base of all U.S. federal agencies and top banks.
Secureworks Corp (NASDAQ:SCWX)
SecureWorks developed an early warning system that prevents cyberattacks with its five Counter Threat Operations Centers, which process 180 billion cyber events on a daily basis. The company was a subsidiary of Dell and became the first tech IPO of 2016.
Physical Security
American Science & Engineering
Specializing in threat and contraband detection, American Science & Engineering (NASDAQ: ASEI) is used by ports, borders, military, law enforcement and aviation. The company provides X-ray inspection systems to fight terrorism, drug smuggling, illegal immigration and trade fraud.
FLIR Systems (NASDAQ:FLIR)
Even if FLIR Systems’ shares are down 30% due to budgetary concerns, the company still has prospects for growth from an investing perspective. The company produces thermal imaging systems and its detection division creates instruments to detect biological, chemical, nuclear and radiological threats to homeland security.
Patriot One Technologies Inc (OTC:PTOTF)
Backed up by academic research conducted at McMaster University in Canada and the first company to develop a Cognitive Microwave Radar (CMR) technology to detect concealed weapons on moving targets is Patriot One Technologies Inc. The company’s game-changing technology provides first responders and security personnel valuable time in active threat scenarios.
Home Security
ADT Corp.
ADT (NYSE: ADT) focuses on home security and businesses and is the world’s largest home security company. Serving millions of customers, the company is also a publicly traded corporation.
Ascent Capital Group Inc (NASDAQ:ASCMA)
Offering home security services, Ascent Capital Group Inc. owns Monitronics, a home security company that has operations in Canada and the United States. According to the source, the company may be small but has a $1 billion market cap.
Stanley CSS
Owned by Stanley Black & Decker Inc (NYSE:SWK), Stanley Convergent Security Solutions has become one of the key players in the home security industry. The company also delivers security-related services like locks and guard services.