Data and Physical Security

American Discovery is an industry leader in providing secured data and review facilities. Our Quad Core™ security process ensures that client confidentiality is rigorously protected by employing several redundant security processes incorporating physical security, computer and data security, personnel security, and additional safeguard protocols.

American Discovery’s data center is ISO 9001/SAS 70 compliant, has multiple layers of physical security biometric access controls, and is staffed 24x7x365. Our electronic security also includes several layers of authorization and tracking. American Discovery’s security includes a high availability firewall solution, intrusion prevention systems with external monitoring, and regularly scheduled vulnerability assessments.

The following security measures are in place in our review facilities to safeguard client information and maintain a protected environment.

Physical Security

• Biometric access controls at all access points. Entry and exit locks are keyed to individual reviewers to monitor access. Additional badge identification is in place.
• Audit trail records to identify the circumstances under which particular information has been accessed
• Time and location information access restrictions
• Escort program for visitors
• Visual and motion detection surveillance
• Data Security
• Secure web access incorporating Proxy/Firewall NAT and Port filtering
• Each individual client team works on a local subnet based on a client/server architecture with a Citrix or other X-Windows platform
• Redundant data storage in separate secure locations
• Information securely maintained and hosted on all review platforms
• PCs with biometric access tracking, limited user rights, and disabled media drives and USB/printer ports
• Individual PC firewall and antivirus protection
• Network monitoring and tracking

Personnel Security Measures

• Comprehensive background checks
• Staff security training
• Full time security personnel on site

Other Security Protocols

• Review team may not use cell phones, cameras, or PDAs in client project areas
• No paper or writing instruments are permitted except as necessary for the project
• Paper shredded and writing instruments are collected at the end of each work session
• All reviewers and personnel are required to execute confidentiality and nondisclosure agreements upon hiring