Top ten expert panel roundtable discussions

2021’s most popular expert panel roundtable discussions

The very most clicked-on Expert Panel Roundtable discussion in 2021 considered the positive and negative effects of COVID-19. The second most popular was trends in perimeter security technology.

Smart video solutions

Here is a roundup of the Top 10 Expert Panel Roundtable discussions posted in 2021, along with a ‘sound bite’ from each discussion and links back to the full articles. Thanks to everyone who contributed to Expert Panel Roundtable in 2021 (including the quotable panelists named and linked below).

The pandemic has impacted security in many ways, some we are just now realising"

What are the positive and negative effects of COVID-19 to security?

“The pandemic has impacted security in many ways, some we are just now realising. On the negative side, integrators were limited in their ability to access customer locations, posing significant challenges to supporting customers. Innovation was also halted in many sectors – such as AI and edge computing in healthcare. However, the pandemic increased awareness regarding the need for smart solutions that can aid in these types of crises. Smart video solutions have been identified repeatedly in the media as a potential pathway to better customer experience and increased safety.” – Alexander Harlass.

Reducing false alarms

What are the latest trends in perimeter security technology?

“What’s really important in perimeter security is the minimisation of false alarms, not simply the potential detection of what might be an unauthorised person or object. In light of that, many systems now include alarm validation that can confirm an alarm event using a camera. The utilisation of AI-based technologies can further validate the accuracy of the alarm, making it as accurate and precise as possible. I anticipate seeing more cross-technological integrations to reduce false alarms, so that personnel in an alarm center spend as little time as possible in validating an alarm.” – Leo Levit.

What will be the biggest security trends in 2021?

“2021 will see artificial intelligence (AI) become more mainstream. There will be increased deployment in edge devices, including cameras, thermographic cameras, radar and LIDAR sensors, entry point readers, etc. Additional algorithms will be developed, greatly expanding the use and function as video surveillance transitions from a forensic tool to real-time analytics. This increases the value of these systems and helps create ROI cases for their deployment.” – Tim Brooks.

Access control solutions

Investments in tools and platforms to drive digital interactions have accelerated"

What will be the security industry’s biggest challenge in 2021?

“The security industry is traditional in the sense that it relies heavily on face-to-face interaction to do business with customers and partners alike. COVID-19 has put a hold on in-person meetings, trade shows, etc., and this trend is likely to extend throughout 2021. Virtually recreating these personal touchpoints, while cultivating and strengthening internal and external relationships, will continue to be both a challenge and opportunity for the security industry. Investments in tools and platforms to drive digital interactions have accelerated.” – Robert Moore.

What are the challenges and benefits of mobile access control?

“Mobile access control solutions are an exciting innovation in a market where the day-to-day user experience hasn’t changed much in the last 20 years. One area that has clear benefits and challenges is in improving the user experience. On one hand, physical credentials are expensive and a hassle to administer; however, they work reliably, quickly, and predictably. Mobile credentials are convenient in that everyone already has a smartphone, and you don’t have to admin or carry cards; however, when you’re actually standing at the door they need to work as well or better than physical credentials, or the benefits are lost.” – Brian Lohse.

Attacking critical infrastructure

What are the security challenges of protecting critical infrastructure?

“It seems so often we hear about a new threat or cyber-attack in the news. Because of the rapid growth in technology over the last few years, cybercriminals are getting bolder and discovering new ways to attack critical infrastructure. One of the biggest challenges boils down to the capabilities of the operating security system and whether the organisation is aware of the current risks they face. Because there are so many points of entry for cybercriminals to target within critical infrastructure, it is vital that the security solution be prepared for attacks at every level.” – Charles (Chuck) O’Leary.

They are more aware when they make physical contact with doors and interfaces"

Which security technologies will be useful in a post-pandemic world?

“People have become more sensitised to crowds and personal space. They are more aware when they make physical contact with doors and interfaces. As the pandemic subsides, these habits will likely remain for a majority of people."

"Utilising AI-based cameras to accurately monitor the number of people in a room or in a queue will enable staff to take action to improve the customer experience. For example, AI-based analytics can quickly notify security or operations when people are waiting at a door and initiate 2-way audio for touchless access.” – Aaron Saks.

Central monitoring station

What is the potential of deep learning in physical security and surveillance?

“Deep learning, a subset of artificial intelligence, enables networks to train themselves to perform speech, voice, and image recognition tasks."

In video surveillance, these networks learn to make predictions through highly repetitive exposure"

"In video surveillance, these networks learn to make predictions through highly repetitive exposure to images of humans and vehicles from a camera feed. That ability is ideal for use with drones patrolling perimeters seeking anomalies or in software that significantly reduces the number of false alarms reported to central monitoring station operators. Through use, the software continues improving its accuracy.” – Brian Baker.

Valuable audit trail

How soon will access control cards become extinct and why?

“Access control cards will go the way of the dinosaur, but they still have some life left in them. For the short term, they have plenty of utility in minimum security use cases and leave a valuable audit trail. But for companies that are more technology-centric, particularly those with high value assets, we’re seeing demand for next-generation access control, which includes increased integration with video surveillance systems and professional monitoring services.” – Sean Foley.

Which security markets are embracing touchless and contactless systems?

“Touchless technology is not a new trend, but contactless systems and transactions have surged since the COVID-19 pandemic. Even after the pandemic is over, it is likely public perception of what is hygienic and acceptable in public spaces will have changed. [We are] seeing an uptick in touchless access control systems in the education and flexible office space markets.” – Brooke Grigsby.

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Larry Anderson Editor, SecurityInformed.com & SourceSecurity.com

An experienced journalist and long-time presence in the US security industry, Larry is SourceSecurity.com's eyes and ears in the fast-changing security marketplace, attending industry and corporate events, interviewing security leaders and contributing original editorial content to the site. He leads SourceSecurity.com's team of dedicated editorial and content professionals, guiding the "editorial roadmap" to ensure the site provides the most relevant content for security professionals.

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What change would you like to see in security in 2022?

Here’s a news flash: 2022 will be a pivotal year for the security industry. As we enter the new year, continuing change is a safe prediction for any fast-moving, technology-driven marketplace. Recent history confirms the ability of the security industry to shift and adapt to changing conditions and to provide an ever-expanding menu of technology solutions to make the world a safer place. Given that the new year will bring change, what will that change encompass? More to the point, what should it encompass? We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the biggest change you would like to see within the security industry in 2022?

Topics that dominated our website’s Expert Panel Roundtable articles in 2021 included the effects of COVID-19, the benefits of mobile access, the upcoming potential of deep learning, and the future of access control cards. Our website’s Expert Panel Roundtable discussions in 2021 reflected some of the most timely and important topics in the industry. The very most clicked-on Expert Panel Roundtable discussion in 2021 considered the positive and negative effects of COVID-19. The second most popular was trends in perimeter security technology. Smart video solutions Here is a roundup of the Top 10 Expert Panel Roundtable discussions posted in 2021, along with a ‘sound bite’ from each discussion and links back to the full articles. Thanks to everyone who contributed to Expert Panel Roundtable in 2021 (including the quotable panelists named and linked below). The pandemic has impacted security in many ways, some we are just now realising" What are the positive and negative effects of COVID-19 to security? “The pandemic has impacted security in many ways, some we are just now realising. On the negative side, integrators were limited in their ability to access customer locations, posing significant challenges to supporting customers. Innovation was also halted in many sectors – such as AI and edge computing in healthcare. However, the pandemic increased awareness regarding the need for smart solutions that can aid in these types of crises. Smart video solutions have been identified repeatedly in the media as a potential pathway to better customer experience and increased safety.” – Alexander Harlass. Reducing false alarms What are the latest trends in perimeter security technology? “What’s really important in perimeter security is the minimisation of false alarms, not simply the potential detection of what might be an unauthorised person or object. In light of that, many systems now include alarm validation that can confirm an alarm event using a camera. The utilisation of AI-based technologies can further validate the accuracy of the alarm, making it as accurate and precise as possible. I anticipate seeing more cross-technological integrations to reduce false alarms, so that personnel in an alarm center spend as little time as possible in validating an alarm.” – Leo Levit. What will be the biggest security trends in 2021? “2021 will see artificial intelligence (AI) become more mainstream. There will be increased deployment in edge devices, including cameras, thermographic cameras, radar and LIDAR sensors, entry point readers, etc. Additional algorithms will be developed, greatly expanding the use and function as video surveillance transitions from a forensic tool to real-time analytics. This increases the value of these systems and helps create ROI cases for their deployment.” – Tim Brooks. Access control solutions Investments in tools and platforms to drive digital interactions have accelerated" What will be the security industry’s biggest challenge in 2021? “The security industry is traditional in the sense that it relies heavily on face-to-face interaction to do business with customers and partners alike. COVID-19 has put a hold on in-person meetings, trade shows, etc., and this trend is likely to extend throughout 2021. Virtually recreating these personal touchpoints, while cultivating and strengthening internal and external relationships, will continue to be both a challenge and opportunity for the security industry. Investments in tools and platforms to drive digital interactions have accelerated.” – Robert Moore. What are the challenges and benefits of mobile access control? “Mobile access control solutions are an exciting innovation in a market where the day-to-day user experience hasn’t changed much in the last 20 years. One area that has clear benefits and challenges is in improving the user experience. On one hand, physical credentials are expensive and a hassle to administer; however, they work reliably, quickly, and predictably. Mobile credentials are convenient in that everyone already has a smartphone, and you don’t have to admin or carry cards; however, when you’re actually standing at the door they need to work as well or better than physical credentials, or the benefits are lost.” – Brian Lohse. Attacking critical infrastructure What are the security challenges of protecting critical infrastructure? “It seems so often we hear about a new threat or cyber-attack in the news. Because of the rapid growth in technology over the last few years, cybercriminals are getting bolder and discovering new ways to attack critical infrastructure. One of the biggest challenges boils down to the capabilities of the operating security system and whether the organisation is aware of the current risks they face. Because there are so many points of entry for cybercriminals to target within critical infrastructure, it is vital that the security solution be prepared for attacks at every level.” – Charles (Chuck) O’Leary. They are more aware when they make physical contact with doors and interfaces" Which security technologies will be useful in a post-pandemic world? “People have become more sensitised to crowds and personal space. They are more aware when they make physical contact with doors and interfaces. As the pandemic subsides, these habits will likely remain for a majority of people." "Utilising AI-based cameras to accurately monitor the number of people in a room or in a queue will enable staff to take action to improve the customer experience. For example, AI-based analytics can quickly notify security or operations when people are waiting at a door and initiate 2-way audio for touchless access.” – Aaron Saks. Central monitoring station What is the potential of deep learning in physical security and surveillance? “Deep learning, a subset of artificial intelligence, enables networks to train themselves to perform speech, voice, and image recognition tasks." In video surveillance, these networks learn to make predictions through highly repetitive exposure" "In video surveillance, these networks learn to make predictions through highly repetitive exposure to images of humans and vehicles from a camera feed. That ability is ideal for use with drones patrolling perimeters seeking anomalies or in software that significantly reduces the number of false alarms reported to central monitoring station operators. Through use, the software continues improving its accuracy.” – Brian Baker. Valuable audit trail How soon will access control cards become extinct and why? “Access control cards will go the way of the dinosaur, but they still have some life left in them. For the short term, they have plenty of utility in minimum security use cases and leave a valuable audit trail. But for companies that are more technology-centric, particularly those with high value assets, we’re seeing demand for next-generation access control, which includes increased integration with video surveillance systems and professional monitoring services.” – Sean Foley. Which security markets are embracing touchless and contactless systems? “Touchless technology is not a new trend, but contactless systems and transactions have surged since the COVID-19 pandemic. Even after the pandemic is over, it is likely public perception of what is hygienic and acceptable in public spaces will have changed. [We are] seeing an uptick in touchless access control systems in the education and flexible office space markets.” – Brooke Grigsby.

Identity and access management in 2022 - what will the future look like?

As we enter into 2022, there is still a level of uncertainty in place. It’s unclear what the future holds, as companies around the world still contend with the COVID-19 pandemic. Remote working has been encouraged by most organisations and the move to a hybrid working system has become ‘business as usual’, for the majority of businesses. Some have reduced their office space or done away with their locations altogether. Following best security practices With all this change in place, there are problems to deal with. According to research, 32.7% of IT admins say they are concerned about employees using unsecured networks to carry out that work. Alongside this, 74% of IT admins thought that remote work makes it harder for employees to follow best security practices. This need to manage security around remote work is no longer temporary. Instead, companies have to build permanent strategies around remote work and security. The coming year will also create a different landscape for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs). Here are some key predictions for next year and what to start preparing for in 2022: The reality of SMB spending around security will hit home SMBs had to undertake significant investments to adapt to remote working SMBs had to undertake significant investments to adapt to remote working, especially in comparison to their size. They had to undertake significant digital transformation projects that made it possible to deliver services remotely, during the COVID-19 pandemic. We’ve seen a shift in mindset for these companies, which are now more tech-focused in their approach to problem solving. According to our research, 45% of SMBs plan to increase their spending towards IT services in 2022. Around half of all organisations think their IT budgets are adequate for their needs, while 14.5% of those surveyed believe they will need more, to cover all that needs to be done. Identity management spending to support remote work For others, the COVID-19 pandemic led to over-spending, just to get ahead of things and they will spend in 2022, looking at what they should keep and what they can reduce their spending on. Areas like identity management will stay in place, as companies struggle to support remote work and security, without this in place. However, on-premise IT spending will be reduced or cut, as those solutions are not relevant for the new work model. Services that rely on on-premise IT will be cut or replaced. The device will lead the way for security We rely on our phones to work and to communicate. In 2022, they will become central to how we manage access, to all our assets and locations, IT and physical. When employees can use company devices and their own phones for work, security is more difficult. IT teams have to ensure that they’re prepared for this, by making sure that these devices can be trusted. Wide use of digital certificates and strong MFA factors Rather than requiring a separate smart card or fingerprint reader, devices can be used for access using push authentication There are multiple ways that companies can achieve this, for example - By using digital certificates to identify company devices as trusted, an agent, or strong MFA factors, like a FIDO security key or mobile push authentication. Whichever approach you choose, this can prevent unauthorised access to IT assets and applications, and these same devices can be used for authentication into physical locations too. Rather than requiring a separate smart card or fingerprint reader, devices can be used for access using push authentication. Understanding human behaviour Alongside this, it is important to understand human behaviour. Anything that introduces an extra step for authentication can lead to employees taking workarounds. To stop this, it is important to put an employee education process in place, in order to emphasize on the importance of security. The next step is to think about adopting passwordless security, to further reduce friction and increase adoption. Lastly, as devices become the starting point for security and trust, remote device management will be needed too. More companies will need to manage devices remotely, from wiping an asset remotely if it gets lost or stolen, through to de-provisioning users easily and removing their access rights, when they leave the company. Identity will be a layer cake Zero Trust approaches to security Identity management relies on being able to trust that someone is who they say they are. Zero Trust approaches to security can support this effectively, particularly when aligned with least privilege access models. In order to turn theory into practical easy-to-deploy steps, companies need to use contextual access, as part of their identity management strategy. This involves looking at the context that employees will work in and putting together the right management approach for those circumstances. For typical employee behaviour, using two factor authentication might be enough to help them work, without security getting in the way. How enterprises manage, access and store identity data There will also be a shift in how enterprises manage, access, and store that identity data over time For areas where security is more important, additional security policies can be put over the top, to ensure that only the right people have access. A step-up in authentication can be added, based on the sensitivity of resources or risk-based adaptive authentication policies might be needed. There will also be a shift in how enterprises manage, access, and store that identity data over time, so that it aligns more closely with those use cases. Identity management critical to secure assets in 2022 There are bigger conversations taking place around digital identity for citizenship, as more services move online as well. Any moves that take place in this arena will affect how businesses think about their identity management processes too, encouraging them to look at their requirements in more detail. Overall, 2022 will be the year when identity will be critical to how companies keep their assets secure and their employees productive. With employees working remotely and businesses becoming decentralised, identity strategies will have to take the same approach. This will put the emphasis on strong identity management as the starting point for all security planning.

Mobile access articles

3xLOGIC simplifies installation with all-in-one cameras

3xLogic's all-in-one offering removes the need for an on-premise server and simplifies the installation process. When using the VISIX V-Series Setup App (iOS/Android), installers can easily configure and set up cameras to get up and running quickly. Cameras can then be brought into VIGIL Client, View Lite II Mobile App (iOS/Android) to view live and recorded video. In addition, vital health information can be gathered in VIGIL Central Management (VCM). This also offers an interim step with these serverless cameras that put users into a ‘per camera’ world. This provides the flexibility to transition to cloud solutions later if required.

Uponor unveils ‘Flexible First’ employee-centric model to redefine office workspaces

As companies continue to explore how to safely return office staff in a post-pandemic environment, Uponor North America (Uponor) is giving its office employees the flexibility to work their own way. The Apple Valley, Minnesota-based PEX pipe manufacturer is introducing Flexible First, an employee-centric model that empowers staff to choose the working pattern that works best for them. Flexible First offers three ways for office staff to work, called ‘personas’: Resident – Employees working in an Uponor office, at least four days a week. Hybrid – Employees who may come into the office, up to three days per week. Remote – Employees that work from locations that aren’t near an Uponor office. Flexible First The company built its Flexible First model, after more than 100 hours of employee-led focus groups The company built its Flexible First model, after more than 100 hours of employee-led focus groups, panel discussions, and the development of a culture team. Using this data, the company established a multi-phased plan for introducing the future of office work at the company. Jen Hauschildt, the Vice President of Human Resources, Uponor North America, said “As we plan for our post-pandemic world, it is essential to evolve with the changing times that are defining what the future of work looks like.” Offering employees more flexibility She adds, “For most people, going back to a traditional work environment doesn’t make sense. Employees want more flexibility. By working with our employees to define a new way of working that fits for them and for our business, we are showing our strong commitment to both the employee and customer experience.” Since the month of March of 2020, the majority of the company’s office-based employees has been working remotely and has demonstrated a high level of productivity. The company has determined that Flexible First will be its ‘new’ normal for work indefinitely. Redesigned office space Jen Hauschildt further stated, “No matter what our working environment looks like, Uponor employees embrace our core values of Connect, Build and Inspire. These values define and motivate how we work with each other, our customers, and our communities.” Uponor is planning to introduce a redesigned office space in late 2022 or early 2023 Flexible First goes into effect in early 2022. Uponor is planning to introduce a redesigned office space in late 2022 or early 2023 that will feature ‘neighbourhoods’ or shared spaces for functional teams to collaborate, while in the office. Workspace reservation through scheduling system Hybrid employees, including leaders, will reserve a hoteling workspace through a scheduling system, for the days they plan to work onsite, rather than having a dedicated workspace. The company has also developed an intranet site that provides resources, to help guide employees with this new way of working. Jen Hauschildt concludes, “Implementing a Flexible First work approach is the right thing for us to do to deliver a great employee experience, retain and recruit key talent, and keep Uponor moving forward into the future.”

AlertEnterprise solves the healthcare visitor problem with Visitor Identity Management (VIM)

Security is of the utmost importance in the healthcare setting so that patients and staff alike can focus their attention on improved clinical outcomes. Unfortunately, visitors are often a contributing factor to safety incidents and the burden on hospital staff has increased exponentially since the onset of the pandemic. Let’s review the current state of healthcare workplace safety and how an automated, cyber-physical approach can help eliminate the administrative hassle and strengthen safety protocols. Global pandemic adds undue strain The ongoing global pandemic has placed enormous strain on healthcare systems and people are only beginning to understand the impact in terms of both patient outcomes and healthcare worker wellbeing. A recent analysis by Press Ganey revealed an increase in patient safety events of all types during 2020. In late 2021, the Johns Hopkins Centre for Health Security released a new report sharing survey results from 1,189 healthcare workers in which 47 percent reported feelings of burnout. Workplace violence in healthcare Incidents of serious workplace violence are four times more common in healthcare than in private industry Even before the current stressors placed on healthcare systems by the pandemic, hospitals were a relatively dangerous place to work. While a high level of danger is expected from industries like construction or manufacturing, healthcare presents a more high-risk environment than both. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, incidents of serious workplace violence are four times more common in healthcare than in private industry. And in 2019, U.S. hospitals recorded 221,400 work-related injuries and illnesses, which amounts to 5.5 work-related injuries and illnesses for every 100 full-time employees. Visitors play a role According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, violence is among the top five causes of injury among hospital workers. Those acts of violence stem from a mix of patient and visitor aggressions. Among the most common acts committed against nurses, which are shouting and yelling, swearing, and grabbing, visitors account for 35.8, 24.9, and 1.1 percent of incidences according to the American Nursing Association. From 2013-18, roughly 33 percent of nurses reported verbal abuse by visitors and 3.5 percent reported physical abuse. The pandemic has only increased these types of incidences. A Missouri hospital, for example, recently installed panic buttons on their badges to summon hospital security as needed. Fully automated visitor identity management can help VIM software integrates with the Epic HL7 interface to retrieve patient and visitor data A cyber-physical approach to visitor management that incorporates automation can both strengthen vetting protocols and relieve the administrative burden on staff. The Visitor Identity Management (VIM) software, for example, automates the entire visitor identity lifecycle from pre-registration to check-in, on-site experience, and check-out. And compliance never comes into question, since VIM software integrates with the Epic HL7 interface to retrieve patient and visitor data. Here’s how it works: When a patient is admitted to the hospital, Epic generates an HL7 message that processes the event and creates a patient profile. VIM syncs this information, pulling patient information like the patient’s name, department, MRN unique identifier, and more The system pushes back HL7 messages for discharge and updates using the same interface Benefits of VIM Here’s where the practical benefits start to set in. The software creates a visitor profile associated with the appropriate patient. From there, visitors can check-in and out on their own through a self-service kiosk app. Or, staff can issue visitor stickers, technology badges, or advanced mobile credentials using lobby workstation software. VIM automatically vets visitors against internal and third-party watch lists before issuing an approved profile Beyond automation efficiencies, VIM also ensures the highest level of safety and security for everyone in the building. The software automatically vets visitors against internal and third-party watch lists before issuing an approved profile. Additionally, VIM software integrates with physical access control systems so that a visitor’s physical access would remain limited to only approved areas of the hospital. By leveraging both systems, healthcare facilities with heightened security needs, such as children’s hospitals, can create a much more controlled environment for patients and staff. Manage new vaccination and testing data Another major challenge facing the healthcare system complies with the emergency temporary standard issued by OSHA, which requires adequate personal protective equipment, timely exposure reporting, and more. In a survey of over 5,000 registered nurses conducted by National Nurses United (NNU), just 23 percent said their employer reported COVID-19 exposures promptly. Using VIM software, healthcare providers can automate workflows related to COVID-19 health and safety compliance, as well as vaccination checks, to expedite the management and flow of critical health data. And with a secure record of all visitor comings and goings, healthcare systems have one more reliable, auditable data point to conduct contact tracing. Cyber-physical approach An automated, cyber-physical approach to managing the visitor experience increases the number of checks and balances available to secure an already stressful working environment. In short, visitors get a better experience and staff have more time to focus on higher-value work. Meanwhile, automated workflows for vaccination and physical access can help expedite compliance with new requirements and contact tracing in the event of an exposure. Due to the integration with Epic software, an organisation can reap these benefits using the systems they already have in place

Motorola Solutions to showcase their integrated technology ecosystem at Intersec 2022

The global pandemic fuelled the need to use technology to overcome challenges and support safety. An expansive global study has revealed that 88% of citizens globally now want to see public safety transformed through the use of advanced technology. Additionally, 71% consider technologies such as video cameras, data analytics, and cloud solutions as necessary to address the challenges of the modern world. At Intersec 2022 (Jan 16-18, Dubai), Motorola Solutions will showcase its integrated technology ecosystem that unifies voice, data, video security, and access control solutions. Highlights will include video cameras and analytics software, advanced mission-critical broadband push-to-talk services, and digital radio solutions. Accelerating business productivity Motorola Solutions will share the following innovations at Intersec 2022: M500 in-car video system: On display for the first time in the Middle East, the new M500 in-car video system is enabled by artificial intelligence (AI). It features new backseat passenger analytics that automatically starts the in-car camera recording as soon as an individual enters the back seat of a police car. This is a major step forward in automating an everyday policing challenge to ensure that the presence of an individual in a police vehicle is securely recorded and the video evidence is automatically tagged and saved to the incident record. This software solution connects individuals and groups over a carrier's network Mission-critical broadband push-to-talk (PTT) solution: This software solution connects individuals and groups over a carrier's network to improve operational efficiency, accelerate business productivity and enhance customer service. It offers a broad set of multimedia services, such as push-to-video, push-to-text, geo-location and geo-fencing, device sharing, and operational status messages. The solution can be easily scaled to support new staff or third-party partners, enabling rapid response to developing situations or changing needs. Additional vehicle information L5M mobile Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) camera system: The high-performance ANPR solution is designed to accurately capture number plates and additional vehicle information, such as the car model, even when moving at high speed. The software also identifies vehicles of interest by providing officers with real-time alerts and quick searches to boost insight and awareness. H5A rugged PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) camera: This camera combines high-resolution imaging, 360-degree views, and up to 36x zoom with an extremely robust design to perform reliably in the harshest environments. Its wide dynamic range captures critical details in very bright and dark areas and its optional infrared and white light illuminators can also provide ideal brightness in low-light scenes. Simplified device management The VB400 is designed to improve responder safety and increase transparency between police and citizens MXP600 compact TETRA radio: The MXP600 radio is small, lightweight, and extremely rugged. It features intelligent microphone technology for high-performing noise cancellation and simplified device management via over-the-air programming (OTAP). VB400 body-worn camera and VideoManager Software: The VB400 is designed to improve responder safety and increase transparency between police and citizens. It offers long battery life of up to twelve hours and a pre-recording function, allowing events to be documented up to two minutes before manual recording starts. This enables police officers to record unexpected situations without missing the start of an incident. Remote management capabilities Cloud-based access control software solution: Openpath’s cloud-based access control platform is a scalable and reliable solution that offers touchless access, remote management capabilities, and a suite of safety and wellness features designed to improve safety and security while reducing friction for end-users. Openpath’s triple-patented ‘Wave to Unlock’ technology offers touchless access for doors, elevators, or turnstiles. Openpath also offers occupancy management capabilities to comply with social distancing, health-check, and fever detection enforcement. The Video Reader Pro can easily integrate with many third-party video management systems Openpath Video Reader Pro: Combining the heightened security of a built-in, high-resolution camera with the form factor of a mullion door reader, the Video Reader Pro automatically associates video footage with access events, alerts, and motion and visually monitors entries in the Openpath Control Center. Designed with open video standards, the Video Reader Pro can easily integrate with many third-party video management systems. Access control solutions Compass Decision Management System: This intuitive operational interface supports the decision-making process for control room security operators, as well as provides a structured response to incidents with custom standard operating procedures. "The public's expectation for and acceptance of the use of technology to ensure their safety and security has never been greater," said Patrick Fitting, regional Vice President of Middle East and Africa at Motorola Solutions. "Customers are accelerating technology deployments, particularly when it comes to the adoption of easy-to-use PTT services offering greater interoperability between systems, cloud-based software, video security, and access control solutions. Motorola Solutions is connecting these technologies into truly integrated workflows to unlock new levels of collaboration between workgroups and provide access to information in real-time to help make the world safer.”

Safeture AB and Falck Global Assistance sign a four-year framework agreement with the European Central Bank (ECB)

The globally renowned Software as a Service (SaaS) company, Safeture AB, based in Lund, Sweden, has won, together with its partner, Falck Global Assistance, a public procurement for a four-year framework agreement, regarding travel risk management for the European Central Bank (ECB), located in Frankfurt, Germany. Four-year framework agreement The four-year framework agreement also opens up the opportunity to join other institutions, such as the Central Banks of the Eurosystem and other members of the Eurosystem Procurement Coordination Office (EPCO). The total contract value depends on how many employees will use the service The total contract value depends on how many employees will use the service and which of the other national central banks and institutions join. With this partnership agreement, the European Central Bank has access to Safeture’s unique platform for managing employee safety, no matter where they are. Business model based on collaboration with partners Magnus Hultman, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Safeture, said “The fact that we have won a prestigious assignment in fierce competition testifies to the strength of our offer. It also shows that our business model, which is based on collaboration with leading partners, such as Falck Global Assistance, works well.” Magnus Hultman adds, “The framework agreement contributes to strengthening our position in the important German market and holds great potential with other central banks as potential customers.”

Johnson Controls launches Tyco Software House iSTAR Ultra G2 door controller, which offers cyber resiliency and faster processing speed

Johnson Controls, the globally renowned company in smart, healthy and sustainable building solutions, has launched Tyco Software House iSTAR Ultra G2, a next generation door controller, which is designed for cyber resiliency, providing customers with faster processing power, advanced enterprise functionality and the building blocks needed for future expansion. iSTAR Ultra G2 door controller Ideal for mid-size to large scale deployments in higher education, healthcare, government, data center, industrial and manufacturing facilities, the iSTAR Ultra G2 is a highly flexible door controller, supporting both wired and wireless locksets, with expanded memory capacity, to ensure the device grows with customer needs. It can manage up to one million credentials, for up to 32 doors. Advanced enterprise features such as dual GigE network ports using TLS 1.3 network authentication and cluster-based anti-passback provide the power to handle the most demanding access control applications. Advanced hardware-based cyber security protection Its advanced hardware-based cyber security protection using Trusted Execution Environment (TEE) means that the iSTAR Ultra G2 assures confidentiality of code and data, to help combat the most sophisticated hackers. The TEE guards against cyber-attacks, while the OSDP Secure Channel communication standard provides encrypted two-way communication between devices, including readers and controllers. The addition of the iSTAR Ultra G2 expands our portfolio of door controllers" “The addition of the iSTAR Ultra G2 expands our portfolio of door controllers, to include one of the most expandable solutions, available in the market,” said Rick Focke, the Director of Product Management, Enterprise Access Control, Security Products at Johnson Controls. Rick Focke adds, “This device is an important solution for customers who need a highly scalable and cyber-resilient solution that serves as the heart of the access control system, connecting readers, sensors, software and locking devices.” Onboard Public Key Infrastructure authentication services Onboard Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) authentication services mean that the iSTAR Ultra G2 door controller is a self-contained, high-assurance solution and does not require third-party devices for authentication, thereby saving money and installation time. Global and peer-to-peer anti-passback technology prevent consecutive entries from single access control cards, to keep multiple people from using the same credential. iSTAR Ultra door controller has been built using the Johnson Controls’ ISASecure certified development process, in accordance with the ISA/IEC 62443 control systems security standard and includes a back-up communication path, in the event of a primary network failure, so as to eliminate system downtime. Additionally, iSTAR Ultra G2 uses the same form factor as other iSTAR door controllers, so it fits easily into existing control panel boxes.

SureCloud announces the release of their cloud-based Internal Audit Management solution

SureCloud, a globally renowned provider of Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) solutions and cyber security services, has announced the launch of its Internal Audit Management solution. Combined with its tools for managing enterprise risk, IT risk and compliance, SureCloud now offers customers the ability to implement the full ‘three lines of defence’ as recommended in the Institute of Internal Auditors’ model for effective and efficient governance, risk management and control. This widely used model is designed to coordinate risk and control management across the organisation, by mapping out responsibilities for day-to-day management (the ‘first line’), monitoring and oversight (the ‘second line’), and independent assurance (internal audit; the ‘third line’). Internal Audit Management cloud-based solution Internal Audit Management is a cloud-based solution designed to help organisations manage the audit process Internal Audit Management is a cloud-based solution designed to help organisations efficiently manage the entire audit process, from planning, risk assessments, and fieldwork to findings, issue management, and reporting. With Internal Audit Management, organisations gain total oversight and visibility. Utilising pre-built work papers, workflow, and notifications, Internal Audit Management streamlines and accelerates audit engagements, removing the need for manual and repetitive tasks. Real-time reporting, with built-in business logic, helps organisations identify which areas are at risk so they can act quickly to mitigate them. Effective management of audit workload “We worked with our clients to understand their needs and designed a solution that will help any organisation become more effective at managing its audit workload. Organisations face an audit burden that is increasingly difficult to implement, execute and evidence, to ensure they meet their regulatory requirements,” said Alex Brown, the Vice President (VP) of Product at SureCloud. Alex Brown adds, “Too many still manage their processes inefficiently, using documents, spreadsheets, and email chains. Now, more than ever, it’s vital that organisations take an agile and streamlined approach to internal audit management that is fully scalable and flexible, enables accurate and comprehensive reporting and ultimately, will support the business now and into the future.”

Getac launches 10" Android rugged tablet, ZX10 for range of applications in tough environments

Getac announced the launch of its ZX10 fully rugged tablet, a versatile new 10-inch device built around the Android 11 operating system (OS). The ZX10 will sit alongside Getac’s popular ZX70 fully rugged 7-inch Android tablet, giving customers in industries such as public safety, utilities, energy, transport & logistics, manufacturing, automotive, and defence more options when choosing rugged Android devices that best suit their operational needs. Powerful operational efficiency The ZX10’s combination of Android 11 OS, Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 Mobile Platform, and Adreno™ 512 GPU delivers a seamless user experience, enabling efficient workflow in a wide range of field scenarios. LumiBond® sunlight-readable display with rain and glove touch capability helps maintain productivity Dual hot-swappable batteries ensure full-shift operation, while the LumiBond® sunlight-readable display (boasting 800nits of brightness) with rain and glove touch capability helps maintain productivity in a range of weather conditions. The ZX10 also has options of up to 6GB LPDDR4 RAM and 128GB storage to help customers prepare for future industry demands. Excellent field communications An 8MP front camera and best-in-class 16MP rear camera deliver exceptionally high-quality photo/video capture, while dual integrated microphones filter out loud background noise for enhanced audio quality. Elsewhere, Wi-Fi 802.11 ac, Bluetooth (v5.0), dedicated GPS and an optional 4G LTE module offers rapid data transfer and location positioning capabilities in remote field locations. Dual LTE SIM card slots allow field workers to quickly switch between two 4G network carriers. The support to CBRS private network further increases operational flexibility. Rugged reliability ZX10 is still only 17.9mm thick and weighs just over 1kg, offering excellent portability and mobility Like all Getac devices, the ZX10 is built rugged from the ground up to provide exceptional reliability and peace of mind. MIL-STD-810H and IP66 certification mean it can easily withstand drops of up to six feet, shocks, rain, vibration, dust, and liquid spillages. Furthermore, an operating temperature range of -29°C to 63°C (-20°F~145°F) delivers year-round usability. With all these built-in rugged features, the ZX10 is still only 17.9mm thick and weighs just over 1kg, offering excellent portability and mobility in the field. Ideally suited to key industry applications The ZX10 is designed to meet the needs of public safety, utilities, energy, transport & logistics, manufacturing, automotive, and defence professionals who utilise Android-based devices. As part of Getac Select®, it is available in a range of industry-specific builds that combine different features, accessories, and software utilities to help customers quickly solve everyday challenges. Below are some example use cases: 1) Data capture and ePCR access for emergency first responders Optional barcode/RFID and smart card readers help verify IDs and ensure patient confidentiality Emergency first responders require real-time access to electronic patient health records (ePCRs) to deliver the appropriate care and medication, often in high-pressure environments. The ZX10’s powerful connectivity options allow them to quickly access this information, while optional barcode/RFID and smart card readers help verify IDs, check operational procedures, and ensure patient confidentiality. 2) Rugged, full-shift reliability for field utility engineers When conducting outdoor activities like GIS mapping, utility engineers need devices they can rely on in a variety of weather conditions. Furthermore, a lack of access to charging facilities while working in remote locations means long battery life is vitally important. The ZX10’s fully rugged design, dedicated GPS, versatile LumiBond® display with rain and glove touch capability, and dual hot-swappable battery design gives field engineers the peace of mind they need, wherever their duties are taking them. 3) Remote communications and asset maintenance Energy workers must regularly inspect and maintain assets in the field, but often require remote support from experts to do so effectively. The ZX10’s mobile connectivity, best-in-class 8MP front camera, and 16MP rear camera, and dedicated GPS lets workers interact with colleagues around the world in real-time, quickly share/exchange information, and complete tasks at the first time of asking. Dual LTE SIM card slots also let them quickly switch between two different carrier networks without having to swap SIM cards and staying connected conveniently. 4) Optimising efficiency for warehouse employees ZX10 can seamlessly transition between multiple environments without fear of damage or disruption Warehouse employees and forklift drivers need to collect and move goods between multiple different environments, ranging from internal cold storage and climate-controlled areas to external yards that are exposed to the weather and elements. The ZX10’s compact yet rugged design and wide operating temperature range means it can seamlessly transition between these environments without fear of damage or disruption. Additionally, the optional barcode/RFID reader and range of programmable buttons make it quick and easy to identify/process items in a matter of seconds. Versatile Android solutions “As Android continues to gain popularity, a growing number of organisations are looking for rugged Android solutions that enable them to enjoy the versatility it has to offer, even when working in harsh and/or challenging environments,” says Rick Hwang, President of Getac Technology Corporation. “The ZX10 does exactly that, expanding our line-up of Android-based solutions and helping customers optimise their operational efficiency, while also hitting the all-important total cost of ownership targets.” The ZX10 is available in March 2022.

IDIS showcases complete line of NDAA-compliant surveillance solutions

In its latest tech round-up video, IDIS highlights its complete lineup of NDAA-compliant cameras and recorders. Featuring HD and UHD network cameras, plus powerful NVR and enterprise-class PC servers that connect seamlessly to a choice of VMS, IDIS’s end-to-end, NDAA-compliant solutions are being chosen for a growing list of projects in sectors ranging from education, retail, hotels, data centres, and commercial office space. Dome, bullet, and IR cameras The updated IDIS camera line-up, designed for a wide range of settings and environments, includes a range of 2MP, 5MP, and 8MP domes, bullets, and turret cameras, plus the company’s best-selling and award-winning 5MP and 12MP IR Super Fisheyes. The new NDAA-compliant models come with IR, True WDR, IDIS Smart Failover, alarm in/out, and two-way audio and vandal resistance options. Network video recorders Multi-site users can choose PC servers that come pre-installed with IDIS Solution Suite VMS New NDAA-compliant recording is enabled with 16- to 32-channel network recorders (NVRs), featuring built-in PoE switches, incoming throughput of up to 370Mbps, and allow 960ips UHD real-time recording. Large and multi-site users can choose PC servers that come pre-installed with IDIS Solution Suite VMS and support up to 256 Full HD cameras in real-time. With redundant power and equipped with RAID 5 & 6, they offer mission-critical reliability and feature a two-rack-mount chassis for easy maintenance and options for sliding rails and cable management. Both the NVRs and PC servers are powered by Intel chipsets, and support H.264/H.265 dual codec, allowing users to utilise existing monitors, making premature screen, smartphone, or tablet upgrades unnecessary. IDIS DirectIP® plug-and-play technology All IDIS equipment is backed by the IDIS Ultimate Warranty and benefit from IDIS DirectIP® plug-and-play technology, enabling easy and fast installation, streamlined cybersecurity, and simple maintenance and firmware updates. Customers can choose to seamlessly connect to the cost-free IDIS Centre VMS for applications encompassing up to 1,024 devices or the enterprise-class and modular IDIS Solution Suite to manage an unlimited number of sites and devices. The flexible end-to-end solution, combined with forwarding and backward compatibility, results in a compelling low total cost of ownership (TCO). NDAA-compliant range U.S. President Joe Biden recently signed the Secure Equipment Act of 2021, which requires the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to establish rules stating that it will no longer review or approve any authorisation application for equipment that is on the list of covered communications or services. “The IDIS NDAA-compliant range follows the rules imposed by the U.S. government,” says Andrew Myung, President, IDIS America. “All IDIS products are designed and manufactured in South Korea, bringing the reassurance needed for enterprises that have businesses in the U.S. or plan to enter the market in the future.”

Inner Range's Inception makes returning to the office affordable

As people slowly emerge from the coronavirus pandemic and businesses begin planning a return to the office, it is a good time to consider whether the access and security system needs a rethink too. Inner Range's entry-level integrated access control system, Inception, offers small businesses and single sites excellent security and intruder detection, as well as remote access, integration with Milestone Access CCTV, and the ability to manage and control occupancy levels, all at an affordable price. Security and intruder detection All Inner Range systems, including Inception, provide intruder detection certified as Grade 3, according to European Standard EN5013-1. This robust protection gives clients peace of mind and is the level required by most insurance companies for business cover. Remote access In addition, the app provides access to a ‘review’ log of actions or events on the system Inception is unusual among Entry-level access control products because it allows users web browser access any time, any place including via tablets and mobile phones. In addition, Sky Command App is a proprietary cloud service allowing very secure access to the system, providing security managers with interactive control and live status of areas, inputs, doors, and outputs as well as simple or multimode area arming options. It means if someone forgets to set an alarm, this can be done remotely. In addition, the app provides access to a ‘review’ log of actions or events on the system, for example, if alarm sensors have been triggered. Security managers can see if any faults have been registered and take appropriate action to correct these if need be. Milestone XProtect Access Integration with video management platform Milestone XProtect Access, means door and other access controls are seamlessly linked with CCTV via one centralised interface. The integration means security managers can control full door, area, and output states and keep track of activity with a live digital site map and icons that provide ‘at a glance’ information on whether doors are locked, in-use, or may have been forced. Alerts can trigger live CCTV footage, and/or it is easy to retrieve relevant archive footage, offering security managers much more – and immediate – information to help them manage access and security issues. The integration also allows for automatic syncing of user credentials across the systems and multiple Inception controllers can be added. Managing occupancy Limiting the number of users on-site, or in a particular area, can help to build managers ensure social distancing measures are maintained. Inception allows building managers to count users in and out of specific spaces and restrict access once a set occupancy threshold has been reached. Occupancy thresholds can be set for: The whole building A specific area Individual offices or rooms Car parking Lifts Once the level is reached, further users’ permissions are suspended until the occupancy count has a spare space. All information about occupancy can be transmitted to the site health and safety manager for real-time monitoring and alerts. Affordable By offering reliable protection in a scalable system, customers can enjoy flexibility and only pay for what they need. They’ll also be pleased to discover that we’re competitive on price about similar products on the market. Installation is fast and fuss-free Inner Range will provide a step-by-step commissioning guide, including checklist prompts to help set up and run the client’s system quickly and easily.

The Master Lock company announced as new official lockbox partner of Mibor Realtor® Association

With decades of experience serving the real estate community with innovative security products, The Master Lock Company is announcing a new partnership to become the new official electronic lockbox provider of MIBOR REALTOR® Association, the professional association representing central Indiana's REALTORS®. Citing integrations with BrokerBay, strong brand reputation, and expertise in the global supply chain, MIBOR will offer Master Lock’s Bluetooth-enabled lock boxes and Master Lock Vault Enterprise software to its Broker Listing Cooperative beginning in 2022. Electronic lockbox solution provider “As technology evolves, we must move together, forward, and consistently review the products and services we provide to ensure we are offering best-in-class solutions to meet our members’ needs,” said MIBOR’s Chief Executive Officer, Shelley Specchio. “With this as our motivation, MIBOR is pleased to partner with Master Lock as our electronic lockbox box solution provider.” MIBOR and Master Lock represent two of the most venerated names in real estate and security Together, MIBOR and Master Lock represent two of the most venerated names in real estate and security. MIBOR, founded in 1912, is an association dedicated to providing its members with leading tools, training, and technology. Master Lock, founded in 1921, has been the longtime leader in security and safety products, continuously updating their lockbox products to serve the real estate industry. Meeting integration needs “We’ve spent years interviewing key contacts across organised real estate, to better understand their product and integration needs,” said Brian Smith, Master Lock Connected Products Business Development Manager. “This latest partnership with MIBOR, a top-40 MLS, is proof-positive that we are meeting the needs of the industry at a critical time. With experience in global supply chain management, our expertise in technology integrations, and our truly flexible, secure product line, we are confident that Master Lock will continue to be the preferred vendor for leading MLSs across the U.S.” The Master Lock advantage After much consideration, Master Lock was identified as the best solution for MIBOR’s growing marketplace. Master Lock’s real estate solution includes a variety of features and integrations that enable REALTORS® to run their businesses more efficiently and securely. Showing solution integration With the option to fully integrate with popular showing solutions including BrokerBay, Master Lock offers a simplified experience for MIBOR’s members, who can use one convenient solution to manage the entire property showing process, from scheduling to accessing properties. Flexible, secure access With Master Lock, REALTORS® can access listings via Bluetooth-enabled technology or manual keycodes provided by the listing agent. This allows the lockbox to work even if there is a technology failure, spotty service, or if the lockbox needs to be accessed by someone without Bluetooth or app access. Expertise in supply chain management As global supply chain issues continue to affect the production and issuance of many items, including lockboxes, MIBOR stated that Master Lock’s reliability and experience in global distribution and supply chain management was a primary factor in the newly announced partnership.

Yeastar and Bluechip announce a VoIP products and Unified Communications solutions distribution partnership in Australia

Yeastar, a provider of SME PBX systems, and Bluechip Infotech, a specialist provider focused on delivering the latest IT products to a wide channel base, jointly announced a new distribution partnership in Australia. Yeastar welcomes this new partnership with Bluechip Infotech to provide the full line of innovative VoIP products and Unified Communications solutions to resellers and businesses throughout Australia. “We are thrilled to bring Bluechip Infotech on as a distribution partner and will work with Bluechip Infotech to meet SME's needs with flexible, reliable, and powerful communication solutions consistently,” said Alan Shen, CEO of Yeastar. “Through this new partnership, we strongly believe that Bluechip Infotech will help us expand our presence in Australia and we pledge our continued commitment to enabling success for our partners and their customers.” Strengthening unified communications portfolio Bluechip Infotech will distribute the complete range of Yeastar innovative and high-performance VoIP products “Yeastar’s addition to the Bluechip Infotech portfolio will strengthen our overall offering in the Unified Communications and reinforce our position and ability to service the Australian SMB and mid-market business sector,” Bluechip managing director Johnson Hsiung said. “We are also excited about the market opportunity which Yeastar will provide to both our direct and in-direct partner who is always looking for innovative, new, and easy to deploy IP PBX solutions to meet changing customer demands.” As a distributor of Yeastar solutions, Bluechip Infotech will distribute the complete range of Yeastar innovative and high-performance VoIP products including: S-Series VoIP PBX: Easy to manage, configure, and install, the feature-rich S-Series unleashes the power of unified communications and meets the growing needs of SMEs. Yeastar Cloud PBX: A robust, flexible and easy-to-use hosted business phone system. VoIP Gateways: A complete portfolio of VoIP Gateways that covers the business need of connecting FXS, FXO, GSM/3G/4G, ISDN PRI to VoIP.

Cyber security boost for Inner Range with 2FA

Figures show one in ten employees will have their security username or password compromised by cybercriminals. For people operating access and security systems, preventing this kind of cyber breach is even more important. Tim Northwood, director of Inner Range, discusses how Two Factor Authentication (2FA) provides an extra layer of cyber security for customers. Benefits of 2FA Two Factor Authentication (2FA), which is offered by Inner Range’s intelligent integrated access and security management system, Integriti, ensures operators must present their usual username and password as well as an additional security credential. This includes extra security passwords or memorable information, biometrics such as thumb or fingerprints and facial scans, or a code received on a registered device, such as via an app on a mobile phone. Using 2FA means customers can rest assured that any potential rogue users with stolen usernames and passwords will still be denied access. Easy company-wide setup If anyone forgets their device needed to generate 2FA codes, a system administrator can provide a single-use login token The initial set-up for company-wide use of 2FA within Integriti can be completed within a few minutes by activating 2FA and adding it to a security policy that makes 2FA a requirement for system operators. Operators are then asked to enroll in 2FA at their next login. For this, they are prompted to scan a QR code using a compatible authenticator app on a mobile phone or another device and enter the 6-digit code provided. Enrolled operators need to enter the code provided by the authenticator each time they log in. The codes time out after 30 seconds to ensure maximum security. If anyone forgets their phone or device needed to generate 2FA codes, a system administrator can provide a single-use login token. Robust cyber strategy Inner Range is proud of its 30+ years with not a single reported cyber breach. In 2020, it announced a new coordinated cyber strategy to ensure the most robust security for customers. This included forming a cross-functional cyber security governance committee that brings together senior representatives from research and development, production, technical support, and IT as well as the executive leadership team. They manage and update cyber security policies and procedures affecting all Inner Range activities consistently and holistically. It also ensures all networked products undergo penetration testing by independent accredited laboratories to assess security and probe for vulnerabilities. Cyber threat assessment and installation Inner Range offers cyber hardening installation guidelines to integrators and end-users Cyber threat assessment is included at every stage of Inner Range’s product development process. Aside from penetration testing, strict access control permissions are allocated to source code to ensure only relevant staff have access to code repositories. Inner Range only deploys hardened cyber security technologies. For example, cloud services Multipath and SkyCommand are hosted in an industry-pioneering cloud hosting environment that offers redundancy and load-balancing across multiple locations and comes with certifications from ISO/IEC, CSA, ITAR, CJIS, HPIAA, and IRS 1075. Finally, it offers cyber hardening installation guidelines to integrators and end-users to ensure systems are installed and managed securely. The guides include recommendations around security, network access control, firewalls, identity management, and vulnerability management.

Connect ONE® cloud-hosted management interface releases major upgrades

Connected Technologies LLC, the maker of the award-winning Connect ONE® cloud management platform that controls intrusion, access control, video surveillance, critical environmental monitoring, and energy management systems, recently completed a comprehensive update to its application. Starting with a fresh new look that offers an improved sense of intuitiveness and ease of use, especially in mobile applications, users will find more detailed information in an easier-to-locate interface screen. Dealers can still rely on the same functionality and general layout of actionable buttons for a consistent experience without re-training necessary. Connect ONE® platform updates Other features of the newly improved platform include: 1) A new card layout style that shows all relevant record information at a glance. 2) If the original list style is preferred it can be toggled at the bottom of the page, choosing either the new or former list layout view. 3) Users can retain their viewing preference across sessions and save that choice as default. Dealers can set a default for all customers and/or individually per customer. 4) Improved dark mode support, which reduces the amount of blue light for an upgraded experience. 5) Expansion of automated reports via scheduled task rules – now many more reports can be delivered on a schedule: Event Activity Report (List all selected activities in chronological order) Site Occupancy Report (List users who accessed each site and calculate total occupancy) In/Out by User (List user in and out times for each area and calculate total time in an area) Exit Exception (List users who have logged in but not logged out) Asset Status List (List assets with the selected status such as return overdue) User Status List (List users and their last activity such as all users not active in the last 90 days) User Safe Passage Status List (List users and their Safe Passage status, such as all users with unapproved status) System Code Expiration List (List all system codes and authority levels, including expiration status) Environmental Zone Historical Data Report (List and graph environmental zones with associated alarm status for regulatory compliance) Thermostat Historical Data Report (List and graph HVAC status recorded from the thermostats) 6) In addition, since incoming events can trigger task rules to activate, the report can also be delivered in response to certain critical events occurring. For example, a fire alarm event can trigger an Exit Exception report to be delivered. The report will show who has accessed the building but not exited (exit readers required to detect if the person left, otherwise the report will include all entries for the reporting period). Frictionless entrance control Along with the award-winning Safe Passage module for access control user authorisation and ScanPass® mobile credential for frictionless entrance control, dealers and their customers have the latest services to manage multiple locations through a single Connect ONE user interface. Connect ONE works with Bosch B and G, DMP XR/XT, ELK M1, and Honeywell Vista Turbo security and access control panels. It also integrates with ASSA ABLOY Aperio® wireless locks as well as Digital Watchdog, OpenEye, ExacqVision, and Eagle Eye Networks video technologies.

Matrix Comsec confirms participation in Intersec 2022

Matrix has announced that it will be participating in the prestigious and the world’s premier trade fair for Security, Safety & Fire Protection, Intersec 2022. The expo is in the Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai from 16th to 18th January 2022. Matrix will be launching its new door controller and exhibiting its time-attendance, access control, and IP video surveillance solutions at the event. About Matrix Comsec Matrix is well-known for its indigenous and innovative range of solutions for IP video surveillance, access control, time-attendance, and unified communications. The solutions are specifically designed for large, multi-location enterprises, SME, and SMB organisations. Matrix Comsec continuously works towards keeping abreast with the constantly upgrading technology by designing and manufacturing solutions that are equipped with the latest technology. Matrix will be presenting some of its indigenously engineered Security solutions at Intersec 2022 in Dubai. Face recognition software COSEC face recognition software enables it to be the best security product with awe-inspiring features In INTERSEC 2022, Matrix looks forward to proudly presenting - COSEC ARGO FACE. A Stalwart among its products and pinnacle of world-class technology, it imbibes various contactless credentials. This includes face, smart cards, PIN, mobile phone using BLE. This product has been created with security, elegance, and performance in its make. With Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, PoE, and USB, top-class certifications such as IP65 and IK08, COSEC ARGO FACE is an engineering feat. It adapts to all challenging and outdoor environments. Supporting this marvellous piece of tech is COSEC face recognition software that enables it to be the best security product with awe-inspiring features. Cloud-based management solution This event would also be seeing Matrix presenting COSEC VYOM - a cloud-based management solution. This solution makes use of cloud technology to operate applications, hardware, and infrastructure unified into one. This provides the best of time-attendance, access control, and its dependent solutions to all its users. This solution revamps organisational working and works on improving productivity, enhancing security, and increasing efficiency. All the while, it stays cost-effective, keeps area-secure, and provides on-demand network access with minimal hardware needs. Live demonstrations Matrix will do a live demonstration of two of its unique and innovative solutions: COSEC VYOM – Solution experts will discuss how COSEC VYOM assists users in using applications, hardware, and software as a service. COSEC ARGO – Solution experts will discuss at length its differentiating features and how they make the device the next-gen door controller when it comes to Access Control. IP video surveillance products and solutions Matrix Range of IP Cameras - A diverse range of IP cameras available in 2MP, 5MP, and 8MP resolutions available in bullet, dome, PTZ variants. Apart from this, a new range of Turret series and ruggedised series of IP cameras are designed to meet the needs of modern enterprises. Core Technologies like STARVIS series sensors, image optimising technologies, intelligent video analytics ensure that a persistent performance is delivered. ENTERPRISE NVR: Matrix would be showcasing their new range of network video recorders that are designed for medium and large enterprises. A turnkey solution that has been designed by embedding a VMS application with the hardware. A complete solution for enterprises that are looking for an integrated solution. The product is designed to combine all the three functionalities of surveillance i.e. video management, recording, and storage in one device. SATATYA SAMAS: Centralised video management solution that has been designed on an open platform. A scalable video management solution that has a versatile integration range with ancillary devices and other security systems such as access control systems and perimeter security systems. Designed to optimise existing resources as well as establish proactive security by real-time notifications. A comprehensive video management solution that automates video management, monitoring, and security. Authority comment “INTERSEC is an ideal platform for unveiling the latest innovations from Matrix. We look forward to meeting new customers as well as system integrators to give them a hands-on experience of technologically advanced security solutions”, Kaushal Kadakia - Marketing Manager, Matrix Comsec. To learn more about innovative solutions and how they can aid in resolving the enterprise security challenges, visit and talk to the experts at the Dubai World Trade Centre, from 16th to 18th January 2022 at S1-H19 Intersec 2022.