Connect

Piggybacking occurs when an unauthorized individual follows a UVA Health team member through a secured door without properly badging in. While often the result of politeness or inattention, piggybacking can expose UVA Health facilities to serious risks — including theft, data loss, workplace safety incidents, and compliance violations. Threat actors often exploit social norms like courtesy and urgency to bypass access controls designed to protect people, assets, and sensitive information.

How You Can Help Prevent Piggybacking

• Badge every time. Always use your own UVA Health badge to enter secure areas and never share your badge with anyone else, for any reason.
• Don’t hold the door. Politely ask others to badge in separately, regardless of their appearance or perceived authority.
• Challenge respectfully. If someone cannot produce their badge, direct them to UVA Health Security or reception for assistance.
• Escort visitors at all times. Make sure all UVA Health guests have a badged escort and discourage them from piggybacking to gain entry to secured buildings or rooms.
• Report concerns. Notify the UVA Health Security Office if you notice suspicious behavior or tailgating.

Physical security is everyone’s responsibility. 

By remaining alert and following facility access procedures, UVA Health team members continue to play a critical role in keeping our organizational resources safe and secure.