BQT Solutions CCTV Software  (1)

Recently, the European Parliament called for a ban on police use of facial recognition. In the US, too, some cities have restricted police use of facial recognition. The first question that comes to mind is - why ban police from using technology that is allowed to private companies? Point of difference The key difference between the way police use facial recognition and the way commercial facial recognition products work is that: The police get a picture of a suspect from a crime scene and want to find out: "Who is the person in the picture?" That requires as wide a database as possible. Optimally - photos and identities of all the people in the world. Commercial facial recognition products such as those used by supermarkets, football stadiums, or casinos answer different questions: "Is the person in the picture on the employees' list? Is the person in the picture on a watch-list of known shoplifters?" To answer these questions doesn't require a broad database but rather a defined list of employees or a watch-list of specific people against whom there is an arrest warrant or a restraining order. Use of facial recognition AnyVision helps organisations leverage facial recognition ethically to identify known persons of interest "Facial Recognition Apps Should Be Provided to the Police with an Empty Database". This is exactly the subject of the open letter sent by AnyVision, to the British Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner, Prof. Fraser Sampson, titled: "Facial Recognition Apps Should Be Provided to the Police with an Empty Database". AnyVision recently raised $235M from Softbank and another leading VCs is a visual AI platform company that helps organisations across the globe leverage facial recognition ethically to identify known persons of interest, including shoplifters, felons, and security threats. Ethical use of facial recognition AnyVision CEO Avi Golan wrote, "The ethical use of facial recognition is a thorny one and requires a nuanced discussion. Part of that discussion has to explain how facial recognition works, but, just as important, the discussion must also involve how the technology is used by police departments and what checks and balances are built into their processes.” “We recommend building their watchlists from the ground up based on known felons, persons of interest, and missing persons. Some facial recognition solution providers have scrapped billions of photos and identities of people from social networks, usually without their consent." "Unfortunately, this method of facial recognition has justifiably angered privacy groups and data protection agencies around the globe and damaged the public trust in accuracy and reliability of facial recognition systems.” Preventing invasion of citizen’s privacy We believe an unjustified invasion of citizens' privacy can be prevented, false arrests can be reduced" “We believe that lists of suspects should be limited and justified. In this way, unjustified invasion of citizens' privacy can be prevented, false arrests can be reduced and public confidence in technology can be increased.” Golan added: "AnyVision is willing to share its industry insights and best practices from our vast research experience with leading global players, including name-brand retailers, global hospitality and entertainment companies, and law enforcement agencies from around the world.” Balancing public order and crime prevention “If the regulations set forth by Surveillance Camera Code of Practice are committed to the principles outlined above, then law enforcement agencies can strike the right balance between the need to maintain public order and prevent crime with the rights of every person to privacy and non-discrimination before the law." Recently Clearview AI CEO told Wired; the company has scraped 10 billion photos from the web - 3 times more than was previously known.

Cyber threats hit the headlines every day; however digital hazards are only part of the security landscape. In fact, for many organisations - physical rather than virtual security will remain the burning priority. Will Liu, Managing Director of TP-Link UK, explores the three key elements that companies must consider when implementing modern-day business surveillance systems.  1) Protecting more than premises Video surveillance systems are undoubtedly more important than ever before for a huge number of businesses across the full spectrum of public and private sector, manufacturing and service industries. One simple reason for this is the increased use of technology within those businesses. Offices, workshops, and other facilities house a significant amount of valuable and expensive equipment - from computers, and 3D printers to specialised machinery and equipment. As a result, workplaces are now a key target for thieves, and ensuring the protection of such valuable assets is a top priority. A sad reality is that some of those thieves will be employees themselves. Video surveillance system Of course, video surveillance is often deployed to combat that threat alone, but actually, its importance goes beyond theft protection. With opportunist thieves targeting asset-rich sites more regularly, the people who work at these sites are in greater danger too. Effective and efficient surveillance is imperative not just for physical asset protection, but also for the safety From this perspective, effective and efficient surveillance is imperative not just for physical asset protection, but also for the safety of colleagues as well. Organisations need to protect the people who work, learn or attend the premises. A video surveillance system is, therefore, a great starting point for companies looking to deter criminal activity. However, to be sure you put the right system in place to protect your hardware assets, your people, and the business itself, here are three key considerations that make for a successful deployment. 2) Fail to prepare, and then prepare to fail Planning is the key to success, and surveillance systems are no different. Decide in advance the scope of your desired solution. Each site is different and the reality is that every solution is different too. There is no ‘one-size-fits-all solution and only by investing time on the exact specification can you arrive at the most robust and optimal solution.  For example, organisations need to consider all the deployment variables within the system’s environment. What is the balance between indoor and outdoor settings; how exposed to the elements are the outdoor cameras; what IP rating to the need? A discussion with a security installer will help identify the dangerous areas that need to be covered and the associated best sites for camera locations. Camera coverage After determining location and coverage angles, indoors and outdoors, the next step is to make sure the cameras specified are up to the job for each location. Do they have the right lens for the distance they are required to cover, for example? It is not as simple as specifying one type of camera and deploying it everywhere. Devices that can use multiple power sources, Direct Current, or Power over Ethernet well are far more versatile You have to consider technical aspects such as the required level of visual fidelity and whether you also need two-way audio at certain locations? Another simple consideration is how the devices are powered. Devices that can use multiple power sources, Direct Current or Power over Ethernet as well are far more versatile and reliable. Answers to these questions and a lot more need to be uncovered by an expert, to deliver a best-of-breed solution for the particular site. 3) Flexibility breeds resilience Understanding exactly what you need is the start. Ensuring you can install, operate and manage your video surveillance system is the next step. Solutions that are simple to install and easy to maintain will always be favoured - for example, cameras that have multiple sources of power can be vital for year-round reliability. Alongside the physical aspect of any installation, there is also the software element that needs to be considered. The last thing organisations need is a compatibility headache once all their cameras and monitoring stations are in place. Selecting cameras and equipment with the flexibility to support a variety of different operating systems and software is important not just for the days following the installation, but also to future-proof the solution against change.  Easy does it Once the system is up and running, the real work of video surveillance begins. Therefore, any organisation considering deploying a system should look to pick one that makes the day-to-day operation as easy as possible to manage. And again - that is all about the set-up. Cameras can also provide alerts if they have been tampered with or their settings changed The most modern systems and technology can deliver surveillance systems that offer smarter detection, enhanced activity reporting so you learn more about your operations, and also make off-site, remote management easy to both implement and adjust as conditions change. For example, camera software that immediately notifies controllers when certain parameters are met - like motion detection that monitors a specific area for unauthorised access. Cameras can also provide alerts if they have been tampered with or their settings changed without proper authorisation. Remote management of HD footage What’s more, the days of poor quality or unreliable transfer of video are long gone. The high-quality HD footage can be captured, stored, and transferred across networks without any degradation, with hard drives or cloud-based systems able to keep hundreds of days of high-quality recordings for analysis of historical data. Finally, the best surveillance solutions also allow for secure remote management not just from a central control room, but also from personal devices and mobile apps. All this delivers ‘always-on’ security and peace of mind. The watchword in security Modern video surveillance takes organisational security to the next level. It protects physical assets, ensures workplace and workforce safety, and helps protect the operations, reputation, and profitability of a business.  However, this is not just an ‘off-the-shelf purchase’. It requires proper planning in the form of site surveys, equipment and software specifications, as well as an understanding of operational demands and requirements. Investing time in planning will help businesses realise the best dividends in terms of protection. Ultimately, that means organisations should seek to collaborate with vendors who offer site surveys - they know their equipment best, your needs, and can work with you to create the perfect solution.

From analogue to digital, from stand-alone to interlinked, building systems are in a state of transition. Moreover, the rate of change shows no sign of slowing, which can make it difficult to keep up to date with all the latest developments. If asked to pinpoint the single biggest driver of this revolution, one could point out the growing clamour for platform convergence. A security guard in a building doesn’t want to use different systems to check video cameras, fire alarms or if someone has entered a restricted area: – it simply isn’t efficient. For similar reasons, a building manager wants a single interface to control heating and lighting to match fluctuating occupancy levels, particularly in a hybrid working model. Applying the digital glue The demand from end-users for system convergence is growing, but to achieve full interoperability you still need to apply some ‘digital glue’ and that requires expertise. Yet bringing together disparate systems from different manufacturers can be problematic. Just as you get things to work, someone upgrades their solution and your carefully implemented convergence can start to come unstuck. Managing an implementation can quickly become more complicated, today’s quick-fix can become tomorrow’s headache This is one of the principal issues with all types of new technology; not everyone will choose the same path to reach the desired goal – it’s the old VHS/Betamax argument updated for building management and security systems. Managing and maintaining an implementation can quickly become more complicated than it first appears and without proper oversight, today’s quick-fix can become tomorrow’s technical headache. Effective support for a hybrid workforce Today’s hybrid workforce is a response to the pandemic that looks set to become an established part of working life for many companies across the world. Security systems have a massive role to play in facilitating this transformation that goes beyond simple intrusion detection, access control, and video monitoring. They can identify the most densely populated areas in a building to comply with social distancing guidelines and provide efficient use of space. The insights gathered from a security system can also be used to identify patterns of behaviour, which can then be used for planning and directing the use of building space to help create the best possible working environment while also minimising heating, lighting, and air conditioning expenditures. Identity credentials can help manage compliance with industry regulations by limiting access to certain areas Similarly, identity credentials – either biometric or mobile-based – can help manage compliance to industry regulations by limiting access to certain areas only to approved employees. Creating and maintaining the appropriate level of functionality requires a combination of innovative solutions and industry experience. The complete security package It’s not just physical security that’s important – cybersecurity is a major focus, too. Bringing together both the physical security and cybersecurity realms is increasingly becoming a ‘must have’ capability. What is evident is that the pace of technological change is faster than ever. Today’s functionality simply wouldn’t have been possible just a few years ago, while today’s leading-edge developments may seem commonplace in five years.

Ava Group (AVA), a provider of security risk management services and technology will be showcasing its portfolio of security solutions at ISC West - Las Vegas, booth 25103. ISC West is the largest converged security industry trade show in the US with the exhibition taking place from April 10-12th. The event provides a major platform for professional networking, sourcing new suppliers and introducing new products and technologies, encompassing everything from access control to unmanned vehicles. ISC West also includes the SIA Education@ISC conference programme, running from April 9-11th. Risk management services Ava Group’s technology division incorporates two well established security risk management companies - Future Fibre Technologies (FFT) and BQT Solutions, both of which will be on the booth this April. As a provider of risk management services and technologies, Ava Group offers a portfolio of complementary solutions encompassing both fiber optic intrusion detection as well as high security access control and locking. Ava Group is proud to present the latest solutions from its technology division, namely the Orca lock and latest enhancements to the Aura Ai-2 controller Ava Group is proud to present the latest solutions from its technology division, namely the Orca lock and latest enhancements to the Aura Ai-2 controller. The enhanced Aura Ai-2 from Future Fibre Technologies features unrivalled high-sensitivity detection, location accuracy, cut resilience capability and the industry’s longest linear range. Outdoor locking solution This product features new ultra-low noise optical detection electronics. This ensures a single controller can cover a distance up to 110 kilometers, accurately detecting, locating and reporting multiple disturbances to just +/- two meters. BQT Solutions will be demonstrating the new high-strength Orca lock (YG80) – providing ultimate security for all environments. Building on the success of the award winning YG10, the Orca lock is designed for securing gates, roller doors, shipping containers and any other large door or entryway. Alongside the Orca’s impressive physical attributes, a unique feature is its ability to fully integrate into an access control system, surpassing any other solutions available in the market. Orca is fully monitored, weatherproof, and user configurable - providing the perfect indoor and outdoor locking solution. Real-world projects The Ava Group team will be on hand to explain how its solutions are being used in real-world projects to address the latest threats As well as getting to know the product range, the Ava Group team will be on hand to explain how its solutions are being used in real-world projects to address the latest threats. Newly appointed Chief Operating Officer, Scott Basham commented, “We’ve seen continued growth in demand for our products in the US market and returning to ISC West provides us with a perfect platform to showcase our broad range of capabilities and explain to visitors how our product range can be applied to meet their particular needs. We always welcome the opportunity to be face-to-face with our customers worldwide and thoroughly enjoy being able to engage directly with the market in this way.” Fiber sensing technology Alongside their presence in the exhibition hall, Ava Group’s CTO – Technology, Dr Jim Katsifolis will be presenting ‘Fiber Optic Perimeter Intrusion Detection Systems (PIDS): Trends, Myths and Realities Revealed’ 10:15 am on April 9th, Sands 302. This presentation promises to cover how best to select appropriate fiber sensing technology products when specifying, as well as how to assess the true performance of such PIDS systems. With over 1,000 exhibitors and brands and an anticipated 30,000 security professionals, ISC West is a must-visit for anyone in the security risk industry.

Ava Group (AVA), a provider of security risk management services and technology will be showcasing its portfolio of security solutions at Intersec Dubai 2019, stand S3-C48. Intersec Dubai features a rich selection of exhibitors in Security, Safety & Fire Protection, attracting visitors from the Middle East, Africa, the Indian subcontinent and well beyond. Ava Group will be presenting the latest exciting solutions from its technology division - which incorporates Future Fibre Technologies (FFT) and BQT Solutions. As a provider of risk management services and technologies, Ava Group offers a portfolio of complementary solutions encompassing both fibre optic intrusion detection and high security access control and locking. Increased investment As a key event for the region and beyond, Intersec Dubai is the perfect way for security providers and buyers to start 2019" Mark Horton, Global Sales & Marketing Director commented, “As a key event for the region and beyond, Intersec Dubai is the perfect way for security providers and buyers to start 2019. Our solutions offer the very latest in security technology and the highest levels of protection, key benefits that we know are always well-received by visitors at the event.” Mark continued, “Over the last couple of years we have seen a significant growth in demand for our products in the Middle East, with increased investment in infrastructure across the region as a whole. Because of continued growth in the market, we have also invested in the expansion of our Dubai-based office and regional support team to ensure we are perfectly placed to supply and service our customers.” Reporting multiple disturbances Future Fibre Technologies will be showcasing its enhanced Aura Ai-2 controller. Featuring unrivalled high-sensitivity detection, location accuracy, cut resilience capability and the industry’s longest linear range - this product features new ultra-low noise optical detection electronics. This ensures a single controller can cover a distance up to 110 kilometres, accurately detecting, locating and reporting multiple disturbances to just +/- two metres. Also on stand S3-C48, BQT Solutions will be demonstrating the new high-strength Orca lock to the middle east market Also on stand S3-C48, BQT Solutions will be demonstrating the new high-strength Orca lock to the middle east market. Building on the success of the award winning YG10, the Orca lock is designed for securing gates, roller doors, shipping containers and any other large door or entryway. Alongside the Orca’s impressive physical attributes, a unique feature is its ability to fully integrate into an access control system, surpassing any other solutions available in the market. Security risk management Orca is fully monitored, weatherproof, and user configurable - providing the perfect indoor and outdoor locking solution. As well as the products themselves, the Ava Group team will be on hand to explain how its solutions are being used in real-world projects to address the latest threats. Mark concluded, “We are looking forward to discussing recent key examples of our technology in action, including a major military closed data network where our data network infrastructure protection solution is protecting against tapping and tampering. These projects illustrate the depth of our expertise in security risk management and highlight the level of protection which we achieve to client’s assets and infrastructure. If you are visiting the event come and have a chat with our friendly and expert team on Stand S3-C48 about your specific security needs.”

BQT Solutions, a provider of high security card and biometric readers and locks, has launched its new Orca weatherproof lock which provides industry-leading strength, unparalleled environmental durability and seamless access control integration for securing gates, roller doors, shipping containers, and any other large door or entryway. Matthew Nye-Hingston, CTO of BQT Solutions Locking division commented, “Orca is the ultimate weatherproof lock, providing the complete combination of strength, security and convenience in one solution. It encompasses the features found in premium electronic locks, with the physical strength and function required to secure doors of any shape, whatever size.” Integration into access control system Key features such as an IP67 rated design and built-in heater enable the Orca to withstand extreme weather environments including hot and cold climatesOrca lock is the latest generation of roller lock from BQT Solutions, building on an impressive portfolio that includes the YG10 – winner of the SIA New Product Showcase Award in the Lock Systems and Secure Storage Containers category presented at ISC West 2018. Along with its highly impressive physical attributes, Orca’s ability to integrate into an access control system is what elevates its abilities well beyond anything else on the market. Orca is fully monitored and user-configurable, whilst being impervious to weather or environmental challenges making it perfect for deployment indoors or outdoors. Orca’s standout features include: High Security Performance - With a holding force in excess of 50,000N, 18mm diameter stainless steel bolt pin and reinforced strike design, the Orca lock ensures the most sensitive sites remain protected from even the most vigorous methods of attack. Fully Weatherproof - Key features such as an IP67 rated design and built-in heater enable the Orca to withstand extreme weather environments including hot and cold climates, marine and desert conditions. Highly Configurable - Orca can be adapted to suit a wide range of application requirements, with user selectable fail safe/fail secure modes and three user selectable control methods. Complete Monitoring - Orca can truly become a part of the access control system, with a range of output signals including: bolt locked and unlocked position, door position, and tamper detection. Versatile Installation - A symmetrical design means Orca can be installed both horizontally and vertically, giving greater flexibility to installers looking for optimum positioning. Low Cost Running - With the heater disabled, Orca offers low current consumption, drawing as little as 30mA in standby and only 300mA in operation at 12VDC. Long-term Reliability - A high quality low voltage motor is the key to the Orca’s reliability while stainless steel and wear resistant plastic components ensure complete peace of mind for any security operator. Optimal heavy-duty monitored lock BQT Solutions is a specialist in the development, manufacture and supply of high quality, high security card and biometric readersMatthew added, “Orca is the perfect heavy-duty monitored lock for any integrated security solution. Our highly-skilled team in New Zealand has worked hard to ensure we bring a product to the market that we truly believe is the best of its kind. With several exhibitions lined up in the new year, we are looking forward to showing more customers how Orca can secure their installations.” An Ava Group company, BQT Solutions is a specialist in the development, manufacture and supply of high quality, high security card and biometric readers, electromechanical locks and related electronic security products. The company provides a wide range of both off-the-shelf solutions and purpose tailored solutions. Working with major system integrators, security consultants and end users, BQT Solutions develops tailored access control solutions to fulfil a range of access control requirements. From standalone units to fully integrated enterprise solutions, BQT access control systems are designed to provide maximum security, maximum value – and a migration path to meet present and future needs.