The increase of computer breaches and hacker attacks clearly indicates that computer security is a very important realm of expertise. These threats originate from individuals, cultural, social, and political affiliations as a means to manipulate or create havoc.
System security is not an exact science, but is an ongoing process. Many aspects need to be considered to ensure proper and sustainable security. The mantra of security should be aspired to by every one at the broadcast station. Hackers or computer marauders will not discriminate to achieve their goals, every one is a prime target. Security is only as good as the people implementing it. The lack of enforcement of security standards can allow great damage to occur, regardless of how many manuals or memos are created.
Both the computer system hosting the media server and the actual media server software should be considered equally important for maintaining security. A media server or its computer host that can be compromised or breached by unauthorized persons can financially ruin a broadcaster. This situation can also be exploited to discredit the broadcaster or drive away their audience.
Security starts with the individual; make it a habit to be secure and computer conscious.