An improved system and method for protecting sensitive electronic equipment or components against unauthorized access, by detecting and also reacting to unauthorized intrusions into the enclosures for the sensitive electronic equipment or components is disclosed. For example, a protective system for protecting sensitive electronic equipment or components against unauthorized access is disclosed that includes a fiber optic cable mesh or network attached to, or embedded in, the walls of the enclosure for the electronic equipment or components. A continuous signal or burst is applied to the fiber optic cable, which is coupled to an optical signal detection device. Thus, any attempt to remove or penetrate the walls of the enclosure interrupts the signal in the fiber optic cable, and the interruption of the signal is detected by the optical signal detection device. In response to the detection of the interruption of the signal in the fiber optic cable, a process can be initiated to erase, destroy or alter sensitive data contained within the electronic equipment or components. Also, a power source for the protective system is disclosed, which can be self-sustaining and contained within the protected enclosure for the sensitive electronic equipment or components.