Recently,
Alwinco conducted an independent security risk assessment on a farm near Vryheid, where we identified key security risks. Our recommendations focused on practical, risk-specific solutions to enhance security. If you would like to learn more about our assessments or have specific topics you want us to address, please email your suggestions to andre@alwinco.co.za. We will create and publish articles tailored to your interests on our website.
When the hunger monster turns into crime
Hunger is a serious security risk. With rising unemployment in South Africa, desperation drives crime. In a survey of 73 people, all admitted they would steal to feed their families. Each unemployed person supports five others, worsening the crisis. Crime is becoming more organized, with large-scale theft on the rise. Some businesses and homeowners fuel the problem by buying stolen goods, while corruption weakens security further. Growing frustration may lead to conflict between those who have and those who don’t. Relying on law enforcement is not enough. Independent security risk assessments help identify weaknesses before criminals exploit them. Crime won’t disappear, but proactive security measures can reduce risks and protect what matters.
To read the full articles, please click the following link: Alwinco Newsletter 0225 Independent security risk assessment
South African Farm Attacks and Murders.
Another farmer was murdered. Another family is devastated. Another headline that will fade in a few days.
Farm attacks in South Africa are brutal and calculated, yet many farmers still believe it won’t happen to them. They rely on fences, cameras, and armed response, assuming these are enough, but criminals see the gaps long before they do. Security isn’t about luck—it’s about eliminating risks before tragedy strikes. Despite rising farm murders, many farmers resist professional security advice, believing their experience and existing measures are sufficient. However, reactive security solutions such as alarms and armed response only become effective after an attack. Proactive security, through independent risk assessments, is crucial in identifying weaknesses before criminals exploit them. A farm attack isn’t just a robbery—it’s targeted and often brutal. Ignoring security risks only makes a farm an easier target. Just as businesses require audits, farms need independent security assessments to protect lives and livelihoods. The question is: Will farmers act now or wait until it’s too late?
Social media security
Nearly 70% of online information is false, making social media a minefield of hidden risks. Every post, picture, and tag can expose more than intended, often falling into the wrong hands. AI and filters make deception easy, allowing predators to manipulate victims, from children to unsuspecting adults. Privacy settings are crucial, as even innocent posts can be misused. Strangers posing as friends can extract personal information, putting people at risk. Posting locations, identifiable backgrounds, or luxury items makes users easy targets for criminals. Online presence also impacts job opportunities, and fraudulent job offers often lure victims into danger. Caution and research are essential before trusting online interactions. In today’s digital world, safeguarding personal information isn’t optional—it’s a necessity.
Written by Andre Mundell, independent security risk assessor at Alwinco. #Independent security risk assessment.
As Independent Security consultants, we do Security Risk Assessments throughout South Africa. We have a very strong footprint in Gauteng (Pretoria, Johannesburg, Midrand, Sandton, and Centurion), Bloemfontein, Durban, and Cape Town.