security operations

Definition

Security operations refers to the organized activities and procedures a business puts in place to protect its assets, people, data, and property from theft, harm, or unauthorized access. This can include physical measures like cameras and guards as well as digital measures like firewalls and access controls. Courts and contracts often reference security operations when determining whether a business took reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable harm.

Example

If a customer slips past an unlocked restricted area and gets hurt, a court might examine whether your security operations were adequate to prevent that kind of access. Similarly, if a data breach exposes customer information, investigators will look at what security operations you had running to protect that data.

Watch Out

If your business contracts with a vendor or property manager, make sure the agreement clearly spells out who is responsible for security operations, because vague language can leave you holding the bag when something goes wrong.

See which terms appear in your contract?

This definition is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a licensed attorney for legal guidance.