Pyramid Series Proximity Access Control Cards, Tags & Fobs

Today’s security industry technology standards create a common framework for achieving predictable performance. Systems are made more secure and easier to install, use and integrate with other devices. Standards are also intended to be living documents, open to continual refinements to benefit manufacturers, integrators and end users. An excellent example is the Open Supervised Data Protocol (OSDP), which is now the industry’s gold standard for physical access control installations. It was designed to offer a higher level of security with more flexible options than the aging defacto Weigand wiring standard. Updating OSDP-readers simultaneously One recent addition enables end users to push firmware and software updates to thousands of OSDP-enabled card readers simultaneouslyOSDP, first introduced in 2011 by the Security Industry Association (SIA), continues to evolve with significant manufacturer input. One recent addition enables end users to push firmware and/or software updates to a few or thousands of OSDP-enabled card readers simultaneously. Weigand technology requires updates to be made one at a time at each reader. Regularly changing reader encryption keys is an excellent way to enhance facility security. It’s easy using the OSDP file transfer capability and the latest DESFire EV2 credentials containing multiple encryption keys. You can transfer the next code on the card to all readers and the job is done. And there’s no need to create a new card for each user or reprogram each individual reader. AES-128 encryption ensures cybersecurity It’s time to migrate entirely away from Weigand technology. If greater security, convenience and reduced labour from the latest OSDP updates isn’t reason enough, here are a few more things to consider. The 40-year-old Weigand protocol provides no signal encryption, making it easy for hackers to capture the raw data transmitted between cards and readers. OSDP readers support AES-128 encryption while providing continuous monitoring of wires to guard against cybercriminals. Weigand reader installations require homerun cable pulls from the control panel to each peripheral device. OSDP readers can be daisy chained, providing additional savings on cabling and installation time. Weigand technology is simply too slow to work with today’s most versatile and secure card technologies. OSDP readers work with virtually all modern access control cards. The OSDP standard also works with biometric devices; Weigand does not. Meeting requirements of FICAM guidelines SIA is pushing to make the latest OSDP version a standard recognised by the ANSI, a move to enhance the global competitiveness of U.S. security businessesAlso, OSDP is becoming a must-have standard for organisations demanding the highest security levels. The standard meets requirements of the Federal Identity, Credential and Access Management (FICAM) guidelines that affect how the access control industry does business with the federal government. SIA is pushing to make the latest OSDP version a standard recognised by the American National Standard Institute (ANSI), a move to enhance the global competitiveness of U.S. security businesses. There’s still a large worldwide reader installation base that works solely with the Weigand protocol. Admittedly, changing them all at one time may be prohibitively expensive; however, standards should be viewed as a journey, not a destination. That’s why a measured migration is the right choice for many organisations. Begin by securing the perimeter. Replace only the outside-facing Weigand readers. As long as the walls are secured, the inside can remain a softer target until OSDP-compatible readers can be added indoors. The case for moving to OSDP as a standard is compelling. It offers our industry the opportunity to design access control software and products that provide what end users want most – greater security, flexibility and convenience.

It’s not surprising that people are nervous about the security of newer technologies, many of which are part of the Internet of Things (IoT). While they offer greater efficiency and connectivity, some people still hesitate. After all, there seems to be a constant stream of news stories about multinational corporations being breached or hackers taking control of smart home devices. Both of these scenarios can feel personal. No one likes the idea of their data falling into criminal hands. And we especially don’t like the thought that someone can, even virtually, come into our private spaces. The reality, though, is that, when you choose the right technology and undertake the proper procedures, IoT devices are incredibly secure. That said, one of the spaces where we see continued confusion is around access control systems (ACS) that are deployed over networks, particularly in relation to mobile access, smartcards, and electronic locks. These technologies are often perceived as being less secure and therefore more vulnerable to attacks than older ACS systems or devices. In the interest of clearing up any confusion, it is important to provide good, reliable information. With this in mind, there are some myths out there about the security of ACS that need to be debunked. The fact that these devices communicate with an ACS via Bluetooth or Near Field Communication (NFC) leads to one of the main myths we encounter Myth #1: Mobile credentials are not secure The first myth we have to look at exists around mobile credentials. Mobile credentials allow cardholders to access secured doors and areas with their mobile devices. The fact that these devices communicate with an ACS via Bluetooth or Near Field Communication (NFC) leads to one of the main myths we encounter about the security of credentialed information. There is a persistent belief that Bluetooth is not secure. In particular, people seem to be concerned that using mobile credentials makes your organisation more vulnerable to skimming attacks. While focusing on the medium of communication is an important consideration when an organisation deploys a mobile credentialing system, the concerns about Bluetooth miss the mark. Bluetooth and NFC are simply channels over which information is transmitted. Believing that Bluetooth is not secure would be the same as suggesting that the internet is not secure. In both cases, the security of your communication depends on the technology, protocols, and safeguards we all have in place. So, instead of wondering about Bluetooth or NFC, users should be focused on the security of the devices themselves. Before deploying mobile credentials, ask your vendor (1) how the credential is generated, stored, and secured on the device, (2) how the device communicates with the reader, and (3) how the reader securely accesses the credential information. When you deploy smartcard technology as part of your ACS, you should choose the latest generation, such as MiFARE DesFIRE EV1 or EV2 and HID iCLASS SEOS Myth #2: All smartcards are equally secure The question “how secure are my smartcards?” is a serious one. And the answer can depend on the generation of the cards themselves. For example, while older smartcards like MiFARE CLASSIC and HID iCLASS Classic offer better encryption than proxy cards and magstripe credentials, they have been compromised. Using these older technologies can make your organisation vulnerable. As a result, when you deploy smartcard technology as part of your ACS, you should choose the latest generation, such as MiFARE DesFIRE EV1 or EV2 and HID iCLASS SEOS. In this way, you will be protecting your system as well as your buildings or facilities. Some traditional readers and controllers can also pose a serious risk to your organisation if they use the Wiegand protocol, which offers no security. While you can upgrade to a more secure protocol like OSDP version 2, electronic locks are a very secure alternative worth considering. It is also important to understand that not all smartcard readers are compatible with all smartcard types. When they are not compatible, the built-in security designed to keep your system safe will not match up and you will essentially forego security as your smartcard-reader will not read the credentials at all. Instead, it will simply read the non-secure portion—the Card Serial Number (CSN) —of the smartcard that is accessible to everyone. While some manufacturers suggest that this is an advantage because their readers can work with any smartcard, the truth is that they are not reading from the secure part of the card, which can put your system and premises at risk. Using electronic locks can help protect facilities and networks through various security protocols, including encryption and authentication Myth #3: Electronic locks are more vulnerable These days, there are still many who believe that electronic locks, especially wireless locks, are more vulnerable to cybercriminal activity as compared to traditional readers and controllers. The concern here is that electronic locks can allow cybercriminals to both access your network to get data and intercept commands from the gateway or nodes over the air that would allow them access to your buildings or facilities. The reality is that using electronic locks can help protect facilities and networks through various security protocols, including encryption and authentication. Additionally, because many of these locks remain operational regardless of network status, they provide real-time door monitoring. This means that many electronic locks not only prevent unauthorised access but also keep operators informed about their status at all times, even if a network goes down. Outdated technology and old analogue systems are more vulnerable to attacks When it comes to deploying electronic locks, it is important to remember that, like any device on your network, they must have built-in security features that will allow you to keep your information, people, and facilities safe. Be prepared to unlock future benefits Ultimately, the information in your IP-based ACS is at no greater risk than any other information being transmitted over the network. We just have to be smart about how we connect, transmit, and store our data. In the end, maintaining the status quo and refusing to move away from old technology is not a viable option. Outdated technology and old analogue systems are more vulnerable to attacks. The reason it is so important to debunk myths around ACS and, at the same time, get people thinking about network security in the right way is that network-based systems can offer an ever-increasing number of benefits. When we deploy new technology using industry best practices and purchase devices from trusted vendors, we put ourselves and our networks in the best possible position to take full advantage of all that our increasingly connected world has to offer.

The basic principles of access control are well established: only authorised people should have access to secure areas, only at times that can be defined in advance, and only within a system that can identify exactly who went where, and when. Traditional mechanical lock-and-key systems cannot accomplish this — at least, not without loading a huge admin burden onto security staff. But modern, electronic wireless access control has the flexibility to achieve it. What criteria determine the right sort of access control for your organisation? It makes sense to assess what is desirable against what is affordable or available in the electronic access control market today. Asking yourself these 5 questions will lead to a wise investment in the right technology: Wireless locks like Aperio work seamlessly with existing systems from over 100 different access control providersDo you want to extend your existing system, or begin from scratch? You are not stuck with locks chosen by a previous management team. Security needs change. Wireless locks like Aperio, for example, work seamlessly with existing systems from over 100 different access control providers, integrated online or offline. You will save time and money extending your current system with a technology like Aperio and users can continue with their existing credentials. Going forward, it makes sense to choose locks built using open architecture, for added flexibility and to future-proof your next investment. Who are the site users and what kind of credentials suit their needs? In many industries, access to premises is required by permanent staff and short-term contractors: your access system needs to be flexible. Different systems offer credentials stored on cards and fobs, or on programmable, battery-powered keys. For example, the new Openow app for SMARTair wireless locking converts a user’s smartphone into a virtual key. You issue and revoke user keys using the intuitive software, an efficient, flexible mobile management solution. What is the structure of the site (or sites) you protect? You will need different locks for high-traffic and low-traffic doors, indoor and outdoor use. Almost everywhere, wireless locks are much easier to install and to maintain than traditional wired magnetic locks — and more cost-effective to run. Certified wireless security locks provide extra protection for sensitive areas needing stringent standards. If you have a mobile workforce or manage dispersed sites, consider the credential management practicalities. For example, programmable keys that are easy to update with a Bluetooth-enabled smartphone app — like ASSA ABLOY’s CLIQ Connect solution — will save your staff time and money. For outdoor access points, you will need gate locks or padlocks certified for operation in extreme conditions Do you want to secure more than just doors? Some wireless systems have locks for cabinets, machines, windows and even server racks (handy if you want an extra layer of control over co-located servers). There will be workflow advantages in monitoring these ‘non-doors’ — medicine stores, for example, or car parks or lifts — from the same admin interface as your doors. Site users will appreciate the convenience of carrying one credential for every access need. For outdoor access points, you will need gate locks or padlocks certified for operation in extreme conditions. For example, CLIQ mechatronic padlocks are currently deployed outdoors at utility sites in Scandinavia and supermarkets in East Africa. Do you need real-time capabilities? Choose an Online system and you can manage and amend access control doors at any time and from anywhere, using the admin software. You can monitor sensitive areas like medicine stores remotely and in real time, and can revoke access rights if a user credential gets lost. In an emergency, remote locking or unlocking of an entrance could be critical. Aperio wireless locks, for example, are integrated with online electronic access and real-time monitoring systems in hospitals, manufacturing plants and student halls of residence. With some systems, including SMARTair, you can combine ‘Update on Card’ and Online updating for different doors within the same installation. The CLIQ Connect app and programmable keys make real-time control over remote sites or teams possible. Wireless access control offers a compelling mix of audit compliance, easy installation, cost efficiency, and seamless integration. It makes life easier for security managers, and is deployed in premises as diverse as power plants and co-working spaces; museums and care homes; banks, schools and skyscrapers.

Farpointe Data, the access control industry's OEM for RFID credentials and readers, announces that its Conekt mobile smart phone access control identification solution now integrates advantages that Apple iOS 12 delivers, such as 3-D touch, Widget and Auto-Unlock, into the Conekt Wallet App, version 1.1.0. All new improvements create increased user convenience. “These improved Wallet App features let access control system manufacturers, integrators and dealers provide their customers with the simplest to use mobile access credentials in the market,” explains Scott Lindley, general manager of Farpointe Data. Mobile access control “Our Conekt solution provides the easiest way to distribute mobile credentials with features that include allowing the user to register only once and requires only the handset's phone number. We need no portal accounts or activation features. By removing these and additional information disclosures, we've also addressed privacy concerns that have been slowing adoption of this technology.” The newly improved Widget lets the user make up to three mobile access control credentials as widgets For instance, the newly improved Widget lets the user make up to three mobile access control credentials as widgets. This saves time by allowing quicker access to credentials supporting divergent building systems such as payroll, parking and cafeteria systems, directly from the smartphone's home screen. Biometric defences With 3-D Touch, a new pressure-sensitive feature, the user simply pushes on the Wallet App to select from up to three of the most commonly used mobile credentials. Each user can choose their own combination. For example, a delivery driver may gain entrance to the van parking area while the vice president gets access to the boardroom. Lastly, Auto-Unlock lets a user select a MAC as their favourite. Once designated, a little star appears in the upper right corner of the mobile access credential. As the favourite, it is transmitted immediately whenever the Wallet App is selected. All new Wallet App features are available immediately and will continue to operate securely behind the smart phone's PIN code and biometric defences.

Sielox LLC is demonstrating its portfolio of layered security systems at ISC West 2019 in booth #13109, which address the complexity of providing the right combination of features and configurations to best accommodate specific applications and needs. Featured solutions include: the new release of Pinnacle v.10.4 access control solution; Sielox CLASS crisis lockdown alert status system; AnyWare browser-based access control platform; and the company’s highly-touted 1700 Intelligent Controllers. Sielox access control systems Sielox access control and emergency notification systems are also ideal for stand-alone operation Designed for seamless integration with one another, Sielox access control and emergency notification systems are also ideal for stand-alone operation and are scalable for future expansion. “Sielox has always operated under the principle of continuous technology and process improvement in order to consistently deliver solutions that deliver the performance and functionality required to meet our customers’ evolving security and operational challenges,” said Karen Evans, President, Sielox. “Our innovative layered security solutions provide users with a high degree of flexibility when configuring the systems, they need today and tomorrow.” Sielox solutions on display at booth #13109 at ISC West 2019 include: The newly-released Pinnacle v.10.4 access control platform that allows users to seamlessly access the features of Allegion’s Schlage Engage WiFi locks enabling them to be easily integrated with Pinnacle Schlage WiFi access platform feature. Additionally, Allegion Schlage wireless locks can now receive firmware updates through Sielox’s 1700 Controllers, which can save integrators tremendous amounts of time and money when upgrading and maintaining large systems. Additional enhancements in Pinnacle v.10.4 include: Transport Layer Security (TLS 1.2) that establishes an encrypted communication path between two applications, "wrapping" the entire application protocol inside the secure link; and Pinnacle LDAP Sync Service (Lightweight Directory Access Protocol), that simplifies administration by dynamically importing and verifying user and cardholder data through data synchronisation. Sielox CLASS (Crisis Lockdown Alert Status System) Administrators or any designated initiator can issue an emergency alert to notify responders The Sielox CLASS (Crisis Lockdown Alert Status System) emergency notification and response solution provides vital emergency status details to responders so they can best manage events. Administrators or any designated initiator can issue an emergency alert to notify responders of conditions in real time while communicating status via one of five programmable color-coded alert levels. Occupants within a facility can then report status at their specific location enabling responders to view detailed facility maps with compiled room-by-room color-coded conditions that update in real time as the situation evolves. A chat feature enables two-way communications between occupants and first responders to exchange detailed information or instructions. CLASS can also issue messages with response instructions specific to each alert level via email or text and override any PC on the network to ensure the highest visibility of alert status. Sielox AnyWare browser-based access control  The Sielox AnyWare browser-based access control platform features a variety of enhancements that make it faster, easier and more scalable for small to mid-sized businesses to take access management mobile. The intuitive and easy-to-use AnyWare solution features a capacity increase from 8 up to 40 doors, allowing for an increased number of controllers and readers. Other features include; custom fields allowing users the ability to add additional information to the cardholder record including the card holder images, multiple card type formats, reader block and privilege access levels. Sielox 1700 Intelligent Controller No personal data is required or collected from the user or integrator The Sielox 1700 Intelligent Controller is an intelligent fully-distributed controller ensuring decisions even if communications have been interrupted. New I/O series boards provide a flexible, cost-effective means to expand the input and output functionality of the access control solution, a next-generation access control panel, utilising 32-bit technology with real-time operations for speed, performance and reliability. The new series have the same footprint and mounting as the Sielox 1700 controller; are backwards compatible with Sielox Pinnacle and AnyWare systems; and are cost-effective, not requiring a separate backplane and power module. Integrated with Sielox’s 1700 Controller and the AnyWare and Pinnacle software platforms, Conekt mobile credentials and readers from Farpointe Data use Bluetooth to enable communication between smartphones and readers. No personal data is required or collected from the user or integrator, and multiple credentials can be stored on the app.

Farpointe Data, the access control industry's OEM for RFID credentials and readers, announced that end-users, dealers, integrators and system providers can assess how easy it is to convert from card access control to mobile access control though a quick trial provided by Farpointe Data. By simply clicking on a link or accepting a bar code via their smart phone, individuals can obtain a free mobile credential. Access control systems "What implementers will quickly find when moving from card to smartphone-based access credentials is that many legacy access control systems require the use of back-end portal accounts," explains Scott Lindley, Farpointe Data general manager. "However, newer solutions provide an easier way to distribute credentials with features that allow the user to register their handset only once and need no other portal accounts, activation features or hidden fees." Sensitive end-user data For hackers, these portal accounts have become rich, easy to access caches of sensitive end-user data. These older mobile systems also force the user to register themselves and their integrators for every application. The bookkeeping alone can be confusing. For instance, who signs you up, hidden fees, who is in charge of security and who is ultimately responsible can all be questions left unanswered. "Today, all that should be needed to activate the new mobile credentials system is the phone number of the smart phone," emphasises Lindley.