In the world of cybersecurity, where threats are ever-evolving, one area that often goes unnoticed is the audiovisual (AV) system. These systems, which are integral to modern workplaces, can be a significant vulnerability, especially when they are connected to enterprise networks and the internet. As Dr. Maiendra Moodley, Institute of Information Technology Professionals South Africa Professional CIO (Pr.CIO), points out, AV systems are among the most overlooked attack surfaces in enterprise cybersecurity. This is a critical issue, as these systems are not just confined to boardrooms; they now extend to digital signage, media players, wireless presentation devices, and various other edge devices, all of which can create vulnerabilities if not properly secured.
The misconception that AV is separate from IT is a major mistake. Once these devices connect to a network, they become part of the organization's cyber attack surface. As Jesse Bosch, Head of Commercial at Prosirius, notes, "AV is not just in the boardroom; it's in every digital signage, media player, and wireless presentation device." This interconnectedness means that organizations must treat AV security as a critical component of their overall cybersecurity strategy.
The challenge lies in accountability and governance. AV systems often fall between facilities, IT, operations, and security, creating accountability gaps that attackers exploit. Historically, security and usability have been viewed as competing objectives, but Dr. Moodley argues that they should not be. As the complexity and interconnectedness of AV systems increase, along with the rapid uptake of AI, organizations need specialized expertise or collaboration between traditional AV and traditional IT systems to collectively tackle this risk.
The solution lies in adopting security-by-design principles. Manufacturers should ensure that authentication, encryption, secure update mechanisms, vulnerability management, and supply chain assurance are incorporated throughout the product life cycle. At the same time, organizations should focus on designing secure environments where strong authentication, access controls, device management, and monitoring operate behind the scenes. "Security can no longer be treated as a feature to be added later," Dr. Moodley emphasizes. "It must be embedded from the outset."
The Institute of Information Technology Professionals South Africa (IITPSA) is a strategic partner of Mediatech Africa 2026, which will be held at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit and International Convention Centre from June 30 to July 2. This event is a crucial platform for AV integration, unified communications, broadcast, streaming, studio and production, pro audio, lighting, staging, and display solutions. By attending Mediatech Africa, organizations can gain insights into how AV integrators align with security standards, ensuring that their solutions are secure and reliable.
In conclusion, the AV environment is a critical aspect of cybersecurity that cannot be overlooked. By adopting security-by-design principles and collaborating with specialized experts, organizations can better secure their AV systems and protect their networks from potential threats. As the technology landscape continues to evolve, it is essential to stay ahead of the curve and ensure that our AV systems are not just functional but also secure.
