Banking & finance security applications

Corps Security has won a three-plus-two-year contract to provide security services to French international bank BNP Paribas in London. The integrated security partnership involves manned guarding and event guarding services together with close protection services and systems monitoring from Corps’ monitoring centre in Glasgow.  Manned guarding, event security BNP Paribas operates in 77 countries and is the world’s seventh largest bank by assets and properties. It was formed by the merger of Banque Nationale de Paris and Paribas in 2000, but its history stretches back to its first foundation in 1848 as a national bank. More than 40 Corps Security colleagues will work across four different BNP Paribas bank sites in the capital, including three in the City together with Harewood Avenue in Marylebone. BNP Paribas – Corps Security partnership Mike Bullock, CEO of Corps Security, said: “BNP Paribas was founded in 1848, just 11 years before Corps Security. We’re delighted to be working in partnership with one of the most established names in the banking world to deliver a truly innovative security offering.”

Booth number: 14039 Dahua Technology USA Inc. will display video surveillance solutions, access control and intercoms at ISC West. Q: What was the first year your company exhibited at ISC West? Please share your remembrances of that experience. The first year that we exhibited at ISC West was in 2012. That was before we had a local US operation. The market started to pick up our brand and was surprised that we offer extensive product portfolios. In 2014, we registered our US office and continued to participate in ISC West. Through our presence at the show, customers get to know us better and understand that we are not just a product manufacturer but can also support them from the service and operation standpoints. We are local here and help our customers to grow their business and increase their satisfaction with us. A trade show is not just for marketing; ensuring the best ROI requires work by several parties in an organisation Q: What strategies do you use to get the most out of exhibiting at ISC West? A trade show is definitely a lot of investment within a few days. Therefore, how we create the best ROI and meet the right customers are very important. A trade show is not just for marketing; ensuring the best ROI requires work by several parties in an organisation, including products and technical expertise as well as the sales team. We use an internal and highly coordinated plan with the team to get a better result. We make sure everyone is on the same page in terms of the products/technology we are going to present and have the people with the best knowledge to present to customers who visit our booth. Therefore, a highly coordinated team strategy is required. Q: How do you quantify your success at ISC West? What ROI do you receive from the show? Every company has their ways to follow up with the leads and evaluate the ROI from the show. The way we are using is to upload all our leads to our software and track all these leads afterwards. If they are not already buying from us, our goal is to convert them to become a registered dealer. Customers get to know us better and understand that we are not just a product manufacturer but can also support them from the service and operation standpoints If they are already our registered dealers, we seek to grow their business by using our latest technology solutions. In general, all marketing activities in business today require a clear ROI, and it has to tie into the sales numbers. From our experience, the ISC West show provides the best ROI among other shows in the North American market. Q: What company activities (outside the show floor) does your company organise each year? We have a partner event and invite our value-added dealers and partners. We’ve been hosting this event since 2015. Q: What sets ISC West apart from other trade shows on the calendar? As I mentioned, ISC West provides the highest ROI among other shows in the North America market. This show also brings many of our customers and partners to the city as well. I guess people value this opportunity to meet and discuss the technology, the industry trends, and the business to figure out how we can grow together. Other trade shows might be smaller than ISC West and targeted at different markets or address different scopes of the industry need. Every show we attend in 2019 plays a strategic role for us to communicate with the market and find the customers we are looking for.

Booth number: 8045 Costar Technologies, Inc. is a public company that designs, develops, manufactures and distributes a full range of products for the video surveillance and machine vision markets. Costar consists of five operating companies: Arecont Vision Costar, CohuHD Costar, Costar Video Systems, Innotech, and IVS Imaging. The combined product portfolio consists of surveillance cameras, video surveillance systems, recorders, monitors, lenses, cables, accessories, and cloud-enabled services. For more about their presence at ISC West, we contacted Jeff Whitney, Vice President of Marketing for Arecont Vision Costar, a Costar Technologies, Inc. business unit. In 2005, the technology was extremely new and unproven to the typically risk-adverse security industry Q: What was the first year your company exhibited at ISC West? Please share your remembrances of that experience. One of our companies, Arecont Vision, exhibited in ISC West booth 17147 in 2005, a tiny space on which the hopes of the company rested. At the time AV was focused on pioneering IP megapixel surveillance cameras, but today we are part of Costar Technologies, offering cameras, VMSs, and recorders. In 2005, the technology was extremely new and unproven to the typically risk-adverse security industry. Talking with those who were with the company at time, the enthusiasm of the booth team reached the security dealers and systems integrators who were attending, helping bring megapixel cameras to a much wider audience. Q: What strategies do you use to get the most out of exhibiting at ISC West? The Costar companies have a very deep portfolio of products for the security market, and we bring our latest products from each business unit to ISC West. Attendees come in part to see the latest tech, and we drive our development cycle to have exciting new products to unveil on the show floor. We also have meeting space in the booth to provide one-on-one time with our executives and sales team, while sponsoring free admission to the expo for all who want it. Q: How do you quantify your success at ISC West? What ROI do you receive from the show? Unveiling our latest products and solutions to existing customers and partners is key to a successful event, and ISC West’s large impact on the industry ensures that many will attend. Perhaps even more important is informing those attending of the strength of the Costar product portfolio, including many Made in USA products and services that others don’t deliver. Both help to drive leads for projects in which we can really benefit our partners and end user customers. Each of our companies will participate in meetings, dinners, and events with our customers and partners throughout the days of the show Q: What company activities (outside the show floor) does your company organise each year? A large show like ISC West brings many of the Costar business units together, providing an excellent opportunity to continue bonding as a team, as well as to participate in events beyond the show floor. Each of our companies will participate in meetings, dinners, and events with our customers and partners throughout the days of the show. Q: What sets ISC West apart from other trade shows on the calendar? ISC West brings a very large number of interested, security-focused systems integrators, dealers, consultants, and end user customers all to one place for a three-day expo. That audience and opportunity to share our message validates the investment any large show requires from Costar or others. While some industry events have struggled to find and maintain their audiences, ISC West continues to deliver quality, knowledgeable attendees from across the Americas and around the world.  The show differs from other events we do, which are typically regional in attendance or focused more on specific vertical markets.

Booth number: 12089 At this year's ISC West, VIVOTEK USA, Inc. will be showcasing their 180⁰/360⁰ product line plus other general form factors with new features and benefits, including a cybersecurity application embedded onto the cameras, crowd detection, smart motion detection, tailgating, and many more. In addition to IP cameras, VIVOTEK will display a comprehensive product line that also includes NVRs, video receivers, video servers, PoE switches, and video management software. Q: What was the first year your company exhibited at ISC West? Please share your remembrances of that experience. We have come a long way from a little-known surveillance manufacturer with a small booth size VIVOTEK has been an exhibitor at ISC West for many years now. Looking back, we have come a long way from a little-known surveillance manufacturer with a small booth size to one of the global providers in the security industry with a recognisable and trusted brand. Now, we are well-known in the industry and are proud of our accomplishments, but we feel greater things are still in front of us. Q: What strategies do you use to get the most out of exhibiting at ISC West? Each year, we want our booth to tell our stories – who we are, what we do and what we are capable of, and where we are heading. We do not want to just be another camera manufacturer who only promotes and displays products; we want to be the solution provider that customers are looking for. In addition, we have very knowledgeable sale managers who can assist visitors at our booth who are looking for surveillance, whether it’s an upgrade or a totally new solution. Q: How do you quantify your success at ISC West? What ROI do you receive from the show? Gain industry knowledge and perspective as to where surveillance security industry is heading Like any trade show, it is difficult to quantify success. We attend ISC West to promote the VIVOTEK brand, meet and discuss with customers and gain industry knowledge and perspective as to where surveillance security industry is heading. If we achieve these, then ISC West is a success for us. Q: What company activities (outside the show floor) does your company organise each year? Our main focus each year at ISC West has always been the interaction with customers and potential customers on the show floor. We pride ourselves in the products and technology we offer, and there aren’t any other trade shows in North America to showcase our capabilities than ISC West. Q: What sets ISC West apart from other trade shows on the calendar? ISC West is the industry standard of security trade shows in North America. Since we are a security surveillance manufacturer, ISC West is the one show that all manufacturers in this industry must attend.

Booth number: 26041 March Networks is a global provider of video surveillance and video-based business intelligence solutions. Their product portfolio is end-to-end, ensuring that customers can deploy comprehensive solutions designed to help them address real business challenges and improve performance. At ISC West this year, March Networks will be showcasing new hosted services, new PTZ cameras and additional offerings. Attendees will also be encouraged to discover their solutions for banking, retail, cannabis and transportation – all of which help organisations transform video into business intelligence through the integration of surveillance video, analytics, and data from business systems and IoT devices. For more about their presence at ISC West, we contacted Peter Strom, President and CEO, March Networks. And not surprisingly, the technology was a lot less sophisticated compared to what we see today Q: What was the first year your company exhibited at ISC West? Please share your remembrances of that experience. I believe March Networks first exhibited at ISC West in 2001. I did not join the company until 2003, however I had been working in the industry for several years already, and can recall that the exhibitions back then had a much different feel. For one thing, there weren’t the very large companies we see today dominating a lot of the landscape. And not surprisingly, the technology was a lot less sophisticated compared to what we see today. Anyone who has worked in physical security for a long time can attest to the remarkable shift we have seen over the years, first with the transition from analogue to IP video and all that entails, to security analytics, to today’s truly advanced business intelligence applications, hosted solutions, and artificial intelligence, computer vision and similar content analytics. Q: What strategies do you use to get the most out of exhibiting at ISC West? Our most effective strategy by far is scheduling our business meetings in advance of ISC West. Our sales team does a very good job of planning meetings with enterprise end users and channel partners ahead of time, so we’re hitting the ground running even before the doors open on Day 1 of the event. In addition, our channel partners are also very well organised, and know which organisations they are going to bring to our booth during ISC West. This pre-planning saves us a tremendous amount of time and ensures that we make the most of the opportunity to meet face-to-face with the many decision-makers who have travelled to the show. The quality and quantity of our planned business meetings is definitely how our company measures the success of our ISC West participation each year Q: How do you quantify your success at ISC West? What ROI do you receive from the show? The quality and quantity of our planned business meetings is definitely how our company measures the success of our ISC West participation each year. Of course we do track the number and quality of the leads we capture as well; however, our face-to-face meetings with end user organisations and channel partners are the primary measures of our ROI. Q: What company activities (outside the show floor) does your company organise each year? The activities we organise outside of the show floor vary from year to year. We have hosted customer appreciation events and roundtable events. We will typically organise an internal sales meeting as well to take advantage of the fact that many of our salespeople and product managers are in the same location. Q: What sets ISC West apart from other trade shows on the calendar? The timing of ISC West is good for most people, as it is still early enough in the budget cycle for most customers to leverage the show to help make decisions – particularly in our banking, retail, cannabis and transit target verticals. Holding the event consistently in Las Vegas is also beneficial, as it makes it easier for people and exhibitors to plan in advance. The city itself is well equipped to handle large exhibitions, offering everything from a central conference space at the Sands to the convenience of nearby accommodations, restaurants etc. Travel is typically convenient as well. In our opinion, ISC West is the premier industry show in North America and appears to be gaining momentum each year.

Booth number: 18037 Hikvision will showcase a wide-range of its video surveillance solutions and security products such as its DarkFighterX dual-sensor with patented bi-spectral fusion technology for low light color imaging; thermal technology for critical perimeter applications, as well as preventive maintenance through temperature alarming and fire detection; specialty solutions for vertical markets including retail, education, gaming and commercial real estate with tailored products and valuable business intelligence analytics; TurboHD (HD over coax) for high resolution video using existing cabling; PanoVu and multi-sensor cameras. We will also feature Hikvision’s central management system, HikCentral, which provides a highly-scalable, reliable, and efficient centralised system management. We bring the latest and greatest in technology and a knowledgeable workforce to meet our customers and partners Q: What was the first year your company exhibited at ISC West? Please share your remembrances of that experience?  Hikvision has exhibited at ISC West since 2006. Our presence has grown considerably since then. Each year we showcase Hikvision’s latest technologies and the evolution of the brand through ad campaigns: “Heartbeat of Security” (2016), “Art of Video Surveillance” (2017), and “Achieve Extraordinary” (2018). At ISC West, Hikvision enjoys re-connecting with existing customers and developing new partnerships. Over the years, Hikvision has demonstrated growth and strength within the industry and will continue to support its partners through the dedicated workforce that makes up Hikvision North America.  Q: What strategies do you use to get the most out of exhibiting at ISC West? The strategy is simple. We bring the latest and greatest in technology and a knowledgeable workforce to meet our customers and partners. With our latest products displayed at our booth and our team of product managers, vertical-market leaders, and other technical gurus readily available in one place, it’s a great opportunity to connect with our current and future partners. Of course, we also have one-on-one client meetings in our meeting rooms throughout the show. And, we also host interactive experiences including trivia games, product demonstrations, and other technical presentations at the Thought Theater in our booth.  Q: How do you quantify your success at ISC West? What ROI do you receive from the show? Hikvision quantifies its success with a variety of metrics including traffic throughout the booth, attendance at educational sessions we host, the number of meetings we conduct with customers, and responses from our sales team on the engagement with integrators and end users after the show. We also measure the feedback we receive from our advertising campaigns whether it’s through our signage at the show or coverage in publications.  Q: What company activities (outside the show floor) does your company organise each year? We host a Hikvision Partner Celebration @ ISC West, an invitation-only event to celebrate Hikvision Dealer Partners, distribution, technology and design partners We host a Hikvision Partner Celebration @ ISC West, an invitation-only event to celebrate Hikvision Dealer Partners, distribution, technology and design partners, and end users. We consider it a fun way for us to say thank you to our valued partners in a casual setting. We’re also an enthusiastic sponsor of the Mission 500 Security 5/2K. Hikvision is fielding a running team, and we’ve begun our fundraising in earnest. Corporate social responsibility is part of our DNA at Hikvision, and the Security 5/2K is a wonderful way to join with our security industry colleagues to make a difference in kids’ lives and give back. Q: What sets ISC West apart from other trade shows on the calendar? Hikvision attends a variety of important conferences and trade shows throughout the year, but ISC West is the big show that attracts international attendees that everyone looks forward to. We wouldn’t miss it.

The jury is in: traditional security is out — and it’s being replaced with service-based solutions. The bottom line is: if you’re not embracing it, you’ll soon be left behind. XaaS — the collective term referring to the delivery of anything as a service — includes all services made possible through the use of the cloud. Security-as-a-Service (SaaS), which encompasses any type of system from access control to video surveillance, has paved the way for users to gain significant functionality and scalability not previously experienced with more traditional methods. Complicated IT functions SaaS allows manufacturers to provide numerous benefits to their customers As such, there is a marked transition for manufacturers from simply designing and building products to providing a service rooted in a partner- and customer-centric focus. This change hasn’t come easily. Some are still holding out and waiting for the “fad” to pass. However, the potential advantages for all parties involved far outweigh the perceived negative points. First and foremost, SaaS allows manufacturers to provide numerous benefits to their customers. An “as-a-service” model shifts the burden of data maintenance and infrastructure spending to an integrator/dealer partner or service provider. This relieves the end user of the expertise necessary to implement complicated IT functions to keep networked and on-premise solutions up-to-date. Traditional security systems Additionally, end users demand solid customer service. For some end users, traditional security systems are so similar in features and functionality that the key differentiator is the ability of the integrator or manufacturer to provide exceptional customer service and training. This is made possible through the service-based model, where customers appreciate a strong relationship with their integrator or manufacturer that provides them with additional knowledge and assistance when necessary. The cloud has proven to be  highly functional, flexible, and convenient for organisations Everyone also wants convenience. In the consumer market, we invest in things like meals that are pre-measured, prepped, and ready to be cooked, or companies that auto-ship dog food to our door each month. This ease-of-use translates over to the B2B market, where time is money and systems that save valuable resources are highly regarded. The role of the cloud The cloud has proven to be a highly functional, flexible, and convenient method for organisations to leverage as part of their strategies to protect and modernise their facilities. And the service-based nature lends itself well; forward-thinking integrators and dealers can diversify their product arsenal while still capitalising on a recurring monthly revenue model (RMR). But then why has there been so much resistance to this change? Over the last 10 to 15 years, the cloud has gotten a bad rap for a myriad of reasons, including usability, management, and unreliability. However, that view of the cloud is changing for the positive as the technology becomes more advanced and innovators learn more about what it means to design a product or service with security at its core. "As-a-service” platform For example, one of the biggest misconceptions that plagues the cloud is the idea that it is not secure. However, the security of public cloud service providers is integral to their success because their business depends on it. Developing an ongoing and trustworthy relationship with customers can only be made possible through the assurance that their services are safe and the customer’s data is protected. As such, they’ve embraced the service-based model that is, at its core, the future of the business world as we know it. There isn’t a person, manufacturer, or integrator partner out there today who isn’t somehow touched or influenced by an “as-a-service” platform. And it’s about time the service-based model that leverages the public cloud reaches the masses.

Today, the world is connected like never before. Your watch is connected to your phone, which is connected to your tablet and so on. As we’ve begun to embrace this ‘smart’ lifestyle, what we’re really embracing is the integration of systems. Why do we connect our devices? The simplest answer is that it makes life easier. But, if that’s the case, why stop at our own personal devices? Connection, when applied to a business’ operations, is no different: it lowers effort and expedites decision making. Integrating security systems Systems integration takes the idea of connected devices and applies it to an enterprise Systems integration takes the idea of connected devices and applies it to an enterprise, bringing disparate subcomponents into a single ecosystem. This could mean adding a new, overarching system to pull and collect data from existing subsystems, or adapting an existing system to serve as a data collection hub. Regardless of the method, the purpose is to create a single, unified view. Ultimately, it’s about simplifying processes, gaining actionable insights into operations and facilitating efficient decision-making. Although integration is becoming the new norm in other areas of life, businesses often opt out of integrating security systems because of misconceptions about the time and resources required to successfully make the change. So, instead of a streamlined operation, the various security systems and devices are siloed, not communicating with each other and typically being run by different teams within an organisation. Time-intensive process When systems are not integrated, companies face a wide range of risks driven by a lack of transparency and information sharing, including actual loss of property or assets. For example, a team in charge of access control is alerted to a door being opened in the middle of the night but can’t see what exactly is taking place through video surveillance. Without integrated systems they have no way of knowing if it was a burglar, an equipment malfunction or a gust of wind. Without integration between systems and teams, the ability to quickly put the right pieces in front of decision makers is missing. Instead, the team would have to go back and manually look for footage that corresponds with the time a door was open to figure out which door it was, who opened it and what happened after, which can be a time-intensive process. Integrating access control and surveillance systems Theft and vandalism occur quickly, meaning systems and users must work faster in order to prevent it This slowed response time adds risk to the system. Theft and vandalism occur quickly, meaning systems and users must work faster in order to prevent it. Security systems can do more than communicate that theft or vandalism occurred. Properly integrated, these systems alert users of pre-incident indicators before an event happens or deter events altogether. This gives teams and decision makers more time to make effective decisions. Integrating access control and surveillance systems allows for a more proactive approach. If a door is opened when it’s not supposed to be, an integrated system enables users to quickly see what door was opened, who opened it and make a quick decision. Integrated solutions are more effective, more efficient and help drive cost-saving decisions. Ideally, companies should establish integrated solutions from the start of operations. This allows companies to anticipate problems and adjust accordingly instead of reacting after an incident has occurred. Security camera system Although starting from the beginning is the best way to ensure comprehensive security, many companies have existing security systems, requiring integration and implementation to bring them together. Typically, companies with established security systems worry about the impact to infrastructure requirements. Is additional infrastructure necessary? How and where should it be added? What financial or human resources are required? These concerns drive a mentality that the benefits gained from an integrated solution aren’t worth the costs of implementation. Thankfully, this is becoming less of a problem as security providers, like Twenty20™ Solutions, work to offer adaptable solutions. With flexible options, operators don’t worry about adding or replacing infrastructure to align with a provider’s model. This allows users to monitor camera footage and gate traffic from one system If a company has an existing security camera system, but identifies a need for access control, a modern integrated solution provider can supply the gates for access points and equip the gates and cameras with the technology to connect the two. This allows users to monitor camera footage and gate traffic from one system. This model also spares operators additional costs by using a sole vendor for supplemental needs. Overall management of security While a single, unified system is beneficial for cost saving, it can also help the overall management of security. The ability to view all operating systems in one dashboard allows security personnel to manage a site from any location, reducing the expense and effort required to manage a system. The mobile world today means security directors no longer need to be in a centralised operations center to see alerts and make decisions. This simplifies processes by allowing users to quickly see an alert, pull up a camera, delete a user or check an access log from a phone. Modern networks are secure and accessible to those with permissions, without requiring those users to be physically present. Consolidating security systems is the first step companies can take toward streamlining work, information and costs. The next step is integrating all sites, both remote and on-grid. Energy and communication technology The integration of sites and systems turns mountains of data and information into actionable intelligence Traditional methods demanded two systems: one for on-grid facilities and another for off-grid locations. With advancements in energy and communication technology, the need for multiple systems is gone. Data from remote sites can be safely and securely fed into an existing system. These remote locations may gather, distribute and manage data in a different manner than a connected system due to the cost of transmission via remote connections (i.e., cellular or satellite connection). The end result, however, is a consistent and holistic view of operations for the decision maker. The integration of sites and systems turns mountains of data and information into actionable intelligence. With connected devices monitoring occurrences at individual sites, as well as events across locations, the data tells a story that is unhindered by operational silos or physical space. Identifying patterns and trends Instead of providing 10 hours-worth of footage that may or may not be relevant, system analytics can provide users with the specific set of information they need. Incidents once discarded as ‘one-off’ events can now be analysed and data-mapped to identify patterns and trends, directing future resources to the most critical areas first. Consumers are increasingly expecting everything they need to be right where they need it – and businesses are right behind them. The current generation of security professionals are increasingly expecting the simplicity of their everyday personal tasks to be mirrored in enterprise systems, which means giving them the ability to see what matters in one place. A unified system can provide just that, a single view to help simplify processes, promote cost saving and accelerate decision making.

The statistics are staggering. The death tolls are rising. And those who now fear environments that were once thought to be safe zones like school campuses, factories, commercial businesses and government facilities, find themselves having to add the routine of active-shooter drills into their traditional fire drill protocols. The latest active shooter statistics released by the FBI earlier this year in their annual active-shooter report designated 27 events as active shooter incidents in 2018. The report reveals that 16 of the 27 incidents occurred in areas of commerce, seven incidents occurred in business environments, and five incidents occurred in education environments. Deadly active-shooter events Six of the 12 deadliest shootings in the country have taken place in the past five years Six of the 12 deadliest shootings in the country have taken place in the past five years, including Sutherland Springs church, Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, the San Bernardino regional center, the Walmart in El Paso and the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, which have all occurred since 2015. Although these incidents occurred in facilities with designated entry points common to churches, schools and businesses, the two most deadly active-shooter events since 2015 were the Route 91 Harvest music festival shooting in Las Vegas that left 58 dead and the Pulse nightclub killings in Orlando where 49 perished. As Christopher Combs, special agent in charge of the FBI field office in San Antonio, Texas, said during a news conference following the August 31 mass shooting in Odessa, Texas that claimed seven lives: “We are now at almost every two weeks seeing an active shooter in this country." Active shooter incidents Between December 2000 and December 2018, the FBI’s distribution of active shooter incidents by location looks like this: Businesses Open to Pedestrian Traffic (74) Businesses Closed to Pedestrian Traffic (43) K-12 Schools (39) Institutions of Higher Learning (16) Non-Military Government Properties (28) Military Properties—Restricted (5) Healthcare Facilities (11) Houses of Worship (10) Private Properties (12) Malls (6) What the majority of these venues have in common is they all have a front entrance or chokepoint for anyone entering the facilities, which is why any active-shooter plan must include a strategy to secure that entry point. Situational awareness in perimeter and door security Preventing people with the wrong intentions from entering the space is the goal" According to Paul Franco, an A&E with more than 28 years of experience as a consultant and systems integrator focusing on schools, healthcare and large public and private facilities, that while active shooter incidents continue to rise, the residual effect has been an increase in situational awareness in perimeter and door security. “Certainly, protecting people and assets is the number one goal of all our clients. There are multiple considerations in facilities like K-12 and Healthcare. Preventing people with the wrong intentions from entering the space is the goal. But a critical consideration to emphasise to your client is getting that person out of your facility and not creating a more dangerous situation by locking the person in your facility,” says Franco. High-security turnstiles “Schools today are creating a space for vetting visitors prior to allowing access into the main facility. Using technology properly like high-security turnstiles offer great benefits in existing schools where space constraints and renovation costs can be impractical.” What steps should they be taken when recommending the proper door security to ensure the building is safe As a consultant/integrator, when discussions are had with a client that has a facility in a public space like a corporate building, government centre or industrial facility, what steps should they be taken when recommending the proper door security to ensure the building is safe and can protect its people and assets? For Frank Pisciotta, President and CEO of Business Protection Specialists, Inc. in Raleigh, North Carolina, a fundamental element of his security strategy is making appropriate recommendations that are broad-based and proactive. Properly identifying the adversaries “As a consultant, my recommendations must include properly identifying the adversaries who may show up at a client’s door, the likelihood of that event occurring, the consequences of that event occurring, determining if there are tripwires that can be set so an organisation can move their line of defence away from the door, educating employees to report potential threats and creating real-time actionable plans to respond to threats. A more reactionary posture might include such thing as target hardening such as ballistic resistant materials at entry access points to a facility,” Pisciotta says. Veteran consultant David Aggleton of Aggleton & Associates of Mission Viejo, California recommends that clients compartmentalise their higher security areas for limited access by adding multiple credential controls (card + keypad + biometric), along with ‘positive’ access systems that inhibit tailgating/piggybacking such as secure turnstiles, revolving door and mantrap if your entrances and security needs meet the required space and access throughput rates. Integrated solution of electronic access control Defining a single point of entry in some public facilities is becoming the new standard of care according to many A&Es and security consultants, especially in a school environment. This approach allows a concerted effort when it comes to staffing, visitor monitoring and an integrated technology solution. The bottom line remains: most buildings are vulnerable to a security breach A proactive stance to securing a door entryway will use an integrated solution of electronic access control, turnstiles, revolving doors and mantraps that can substantially improve a facility’s security profile. The bottom line remains: most buildings are vulnerable to a security breach, so it’s not a matter of if there will be a next active shooter tragedy, it’s only a matter of where. Enhancing access control assurance “There is no easy answer to this question,” says Pisciotta referring to how a secured entrance can deter an active shooter. “There have been at least two high-profile incidents of adversaries shooting their way into a facility through access control barriers. So, if the threat so dictates, a ballistic resistant might be required.” He concludes: “There is obviously no question that turnstiles, revolving doors and man traps enhance access control assurance. Electronic access control is easy to integrate with these devices and providing that credentials are secure, approval processes are in place, change management is properly managed and the appropriate auditing measures in place, access control objectives can be met.”

Could millions of burglar and fire alarm control units be recalled by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission? That could be the upshot when the independent agency of the U.S. government rules on a 'Complaint of Non-Conforming Products' investigation requested on behalf of a consultant/forensic expert who says he has identified non-compliance dangers and vulnerabilities related to the devices.   Breaching security standards Jeffrey Zwirn, an alarm and security forensic expert, says he has identified problems with the alarm devices and has posted online a series of videos confirming that they do not operate in conformance with Underwriters Laboratories (UL) 985 and 103 and NFPA 72 (National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code) Standards. Specifically, the single data-bus circuits of the hardwired devices can be short-circuited and become either fully or partially non-functional. The U.S. Consumer Safety Product Commission is tasked with promoting the safety of consumer products by addressing “unreasonable risks” of injury, such as risk of fire, chemical exposure, electrical malfunction or mechanical failure.The U.S. Consumer Safety Product Commission is tasked with promoting the safety of consumer products Typically, the CSPC evaluates such requests and determines what corrective action, if any, is appropriate, in this case possibly by the end of the year. IDS Research & Development Inc. (Zwirn’s company) and Connaughton Group LLC, a product integrity consulting firm, sent a request to the CSPC on Sept. 20 asking for an investigation of products across the North American household fire and burglar alarm control units and commercial burglar and fire alarm control panel category. Recalling alarm control units The request estimates that “hundreds of millions” of the units were sold and installed across the United States. They include products sold under brand names such as Honeywell, DSC, NAPCO, ELK Products, and Interlogix. If the recall were to happen, it would be the largest recall in the history of the alarm industry. The request states: “It is our expert opinion that these non-conforming control panels present a foreseeably dangerous and serious public safety hazard and risk to all of the unsuspecting consumers, their families and business owners who have these control panels installed in their homes and businesses.”These non-conforming control panels present a foreseeably dangerous and serious public safety hazard" Zwirn has also submitted the products for investigation by UL and Intertek Testing Services Inc., which respectively provide the UL and ETL certification marks and are Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories (NRTL). Outcomes of those investigations are forthcoming. Jeffrey Zwirn also promotes and sells a product, The Interceptor, that would address the vulnerability. It is a microprocessor designed to protect the data-bus and auxiliary power output wiring installed throughout a protected premises.

Private video systems are offering new sources of evidence for police investigations. Growing popularity of private camera registration schemes are facilitating police department access to video captured by cameras in homes and businesses for use in their investigations. Camera registration programmes are organised locally by individual police departments but have common features and operation. By registering their camera systems, citizens and business people provide information to a confidential database listing any cameras police can quickly access in the event of a crime. Knowing which cameras may be near a crime scene avoids police having to go door-to-door in search of possible video footage. Because perpetrators are more careful and aware of possible video coverage in and around a crime scene, video to solve a crime may also come from a camera several blocks away. The best evidence may not be of the crime scene itself but video of nearby pathways and streets. Today’s camera systems also provide information such as location, date and time that can help an investigation Ability to record and retain video Access to cameras can also provide additional viewing angles to provide police new leads such as type of car, clothing, etc. Another benefit is possible use of a camera’s view to help locate lost children, elderly or disabled persons. In addition to actual video, today’s camera systems also provide information such as location, date and time that can help an investigation or be used as evidence in court. Basic requirements for participating video systems are exterior-facing cameras and the ability to record and retain video. It is important to note that registering a camera system with a local police department does not provide active surveillance or a “live feed” of video. Video is only shared after a crime has been committed and when the police request specific video as possible evidence. Registration of camera systems is voluntary Registration merely enables a police department to know where accessible cameras are located. Police then arrange viewing of video footage after the fact by communicating with the camera owners; if a police visit to a residence might pose an additional risk for any reason, camera video today can often be accessed remotely. Registration of camera systems is voluntary; a state-wide proposal in New Jersey in 2015 calling for mandatory camera registration faced privacy backlash and was later amended to make registration voluntary. Collected information is typically the name of the camera owner, contact information, an address where the cameras are located; how many cameras are at the location, the area recorded by the cameras and how the footage is saved. Police arrange viewing of video footage by communicating with the camera owners Residential security camera Portland, Oregon, launched its CrimeReports camera registration programme in 2017, part of its wider effort to get residents involved in fighting crime. In Philadelphia, the police department has been registering cameras since 2011 under its SafeCam programme. The Philadelphia Department of Commerce offers a payment, up to $3,000, to reimburse business owners who install cameras and register them with the police. Camera registration is yielding results. Baltimore’s Citiwatch camera registration system has had a direct impact on criminal apprehension. The San Luis Obispo, California, Police Department reports a high success rate identifying suspects in cases where additional video evidence exists because of the camera registration programme. In Fort Worth, Texas, last May, a residential security camera played a role in capturing a kidnapping suspect. Privacy concerns and community feedback Many of the camera registration schemes have localised branding or acronyms, such as the S.C.R.A.M. (Security Camera Registration and Mapping) programme of Milton, Georgia; the C.A.P.T.U.R.E. (Community and Police Team Up to Record Evidence) programme of New Braunfels, Texas; or the RockView programme of Rockville, Maryland. The idea is based on willing participation of public citizens in helping law enforcement do their jobs Privacy concerns and community feedback prompted Vancouver, Washington, to suspend a camera registration programme for weeks until it could be re-launched earlier this year. Although cities seek to protect information about the locations of cameras, it might be subject to disclosure because of public records laws. Law enforcement and crime prevention Registration of cameras is another aspect of involving the community in law enforcement and crime prevention, not unlike the commonplace Neighbourhood Watch programmes. The idea is based on willing participation of public citizens in helping law enforcement do their jobs. Making video footage available provides important evidence in much the same way a witness to a crime would hopefully testify if asked. By multiplying the availability of cameras that could view elements of a possible crime, the idea is also akin to the modern concept of “crowdsourcing” – the practice of obtaining information or input by enlisting a large number of people. Local jurisdictions stipulate that registrants in the programme should not be construed as agents and/or employees of the police department. There is also a crime prevention element to the programmes, in addition to helping police do their jobs better and more efficiently. Some camera registration programmes provide stickers or yard signs to let the neighbourhood know that their security cameras are helping to fight local crime.

The healthcare market is rife with opportunity for security systems integrators. Hospitals have a continuous need for security, to update their systems, to make repairs, says David Alessandrini, Vice President, Pasek Corp., a systems integrator. “It’s cyclical. Funding for large projects might span one to two years, and then they go into a maintenance mode. Departments are changing constantly, and they need us to maintain the equipment to make sure it’s operating to its full potential.” The experience of Pasek Corp. is typical of the opportunities available for security integrator companies in the healthcare vertical. A single large hospital system can supply a dependable ongoing source of revenue to integrator companies, says Alessandrini. Hospitals are “usually large enough to provide enough work for several people for an extended length of time.”  Healthcare customers in Pasek’s service area around Boston provide the potential for plenty of work. “We have four major hospitals, each with in excess of 250 card readers and 200 cameras, in the Boston area,” Alessandrini says. One appeal of the healthcare market for North Carolina Sound, an integrator covering central North Carolina, is the breadth of possible equipment they can sell into the healthcare market, including access control and video, of course, but also other technologies, such as audio-video systems in a dining room. North Carolina Sound has also installed sound masking in some areas with waiting rooms to protect private patient information from being overheard. Locking systems on pharmaceutical doors are another opportunity. Data capture form to appear here! IP based networked video systems A facility’s IT folks must be convinced an IP solution will function seamlessly on their network Among North Carolina Sound’s customers is Wayne Memorial Hospital, Goldsboro, N.C., which uses about 340 video cameras, with 80 percent or more of them converted to IP. The hospital is replacing analogue with IP cameras as budget allows, building network infrastructure to support the system. The healthcare market tends to have a long sales cycle; in general, sales don’t happen overnight or even within a month or two. In fact, the period between an initial meeting with a healthcare facility and installation of a system could stretch to a year or longer. A lot happens during that time. Healthcare systems involve extensive planning, engineering, and meetings among various departments. Physical security systems that involve the information technology (IT) department, as do most systems today, can be especially complex. Installation of networked video systems based on Internet protocol (IP) requires deep and probing discussions with the IT team about how a system fits into the facility’s network infrastructure. A facility’s IT folks must be convinced an IP solution will function seamlessly on their network. Compatible with the network They must vet the technology to ensure the devices and solutions will be compatible with the network, and must sign off on technology choices. And even more important is determining if the security system will adhere to cyber security requirements of the facility. A complete solution that integrates nearly any system that lives on or uses a facility’s network is ultimately what the healthcare vertical is moving toward, says Jason Ouellette, General Manager – Enterprise Access Control & Video, Johnson Controls. Healthcare security professionals are early adopters of technology, implementing the best technology available” “We are hearing more and more from customers across industries that they want to be able to use their security systems and devices for more than just security: they want added value,” says Ouellette. Many want to use access control, video surveillance and other data sources to assess their business operations and/or workflows with the goal of improving efficiency. Upgrade cost-effectively Historically, three factors have prevented many organisations from moving forward with new technologies: lack of money, proprietary systems, and the need to “rip and replace” large parts of the installed systems, says Robert Laughlin, CEO and Chairman, Galaxy Control Systems. "Today, while funding is almost always a limiting factor at some level, the progression of industry standards and ‘open’ systems has made a big positive impact on the ability of organisations to upgrade cost-effectively,” he says. Despite any obstacles, healthcare customers generally welcome new innovations. “I would say healthcare security professionals in general are early adopters of technology and like to implement the best technology available,” says Jim Stankevich, Global Manager – Healthcare Security, Johnson Controls/Tyco Security Products. “For most, rapid implementation is limited by budgets and available funding." Missed part one of our healthcare mini series? Click here.

“It’s obvious that a prominent bank like BNP Paribas has to take processes like security extremely seriously", said Alan Ford, Security Manager at BNP Paribas. Spread over several office buildings, more than 4000 staff make daily use of the AEOS Security Management Platform to enter the restricted areas for which only they have been authorised. BNP Paribas needs be certain that they can rely on their access control system. Even though their previous Nedap WinXS system did just that, in 2011 they chose to migrate to Nedap AEOS as WinXS had come close to the end of its development cycle. Hassle-free migration BNP Paribas’ Security Management team had worked with their previous WinXS system for more than 13 years. It was so familiar that Security Manager Alan Ford said: “It was like riding a bike.”  For this reason the decision to make a transition to a new security management platform wasn’t an easy one. However AEOS had been tried and tested in the market and offered even higher security features and easier management, so it was an obvious candidate. This, combined with a safe, hassle-free, seamless migration pathway coordinated by Nedap and its certified Business Partner, made the choice easier. Security stress test To make sure that AEOS would achieve the same level of security as WinXS, the security platform was tested thoroughly. Alan Ford, “Before implementing AEOS, we asked an independent IT company to try to break into our IT systems. They used a little device with which they normally could ‘clone’ access cards without actually touching them. They had to admit that the AEOS encryption was so advanced, they didn’t have the technology to hack into the system. This is what we wanted to hear. It may not have been our main reason for selecting AEOS, but it certainly gave us the reassurance that AEOS would boost our security to a higher level.” Customised access control AEOS was installed at head office and nearby locations to access security for staff, catering staff and contractors In addition to security itself, BNP Paribas has to take the security management seriously, with over 4000 people entering and leaving their buildings daily. AEOS is in use at both the head office and its nearby locations for access security for staff, flex workers, catering staff, contractors and cleaners. Given the large numbers and different types and levels of staff, ease of management and flexibility are two essential requirements for those managing the security platform. AEOS can be set up to produce any form of pass for individuals or groups based on location, security level, clock time and duration. For example, at BNP Paribas, cleaners only access the building after working hours, so their passes have restricted time and area access. Contractors work for fixed periods, and need to be visually identified; they are given different passes and their access is automatically blocked on the day their contract is finished. Employees need to be able to access their offices, the restaurant, the gym and specific rooms or departments; this can be set up for a specific role or group. If a pass is lost or mislaid, it can be blocked immediately and a new pass quickly generated. All these tasks are centrally managed at BNP Paribas, reducing the need for specialised AEOS management users at remote locations. Unobtrusive, clever security Another important requirement for BNP Paribas was that, although security has to be high, it mustn’t be too obtrusive, impeding staff movements or visitor comfort. Even though the speed gates and security officers at the reception desk make it obvious that visitors are entering a high secure area, AEOS meets these demands by operating easy and efficiently. The building’s design glass doors are fitted with elegant steel door handles. Cleverly and unobtrusively these handles contain a long distance card reader so that staff and guests never notice that they are entering a high security area. Effective, intuitive managementEfficiency of access control is further improved by AEOS’ extremely intuitive user interface. This not only saves time, it takes the stress out of managing access passes for large numbers of diverse user needs. “This makes it possible to get people into the building quicker, giving them more time to make money”, Alan Ford noted. “Besides, having a system that is really easy to pick up and really quick to use also saves a lot of time for the security management team. So, for what we need to do, it’s a perfect system”, Gitka Randackova, controlling operative, added. "Here again we will use AEOS for access control. Implementing AEOS in the new building was an easy decision as we have already invested in AEOS" Saving time and money from 2014 on, BNP Paribas will start using their new offices on the other side of the street, where AEOS has also been implemented. “Here again we will use AEOS for access control. Implementing AEOS in the new building was an easy decision as we have already invested in AEOS. It was logical to stick to the same platform as we’re satisfied with its capabilities. We’re happy in the knowledge that we’ll be able to expand our use of the system in the future – both in user numbers as well as in functionality. Besides, when implementing AEOS across the road, we’ll still be able to have one central administration for all locations. This saves time and manpower, decreasing investments on several levels.” Towards a high secure future BNP Paribas are more than happy with AEOS, its current ease of use and flexibility for access control, as well as the inbuilt opportunities it offers for expanding use and improving security to an even higher level. They know that their access control is in secure hands, now and in the future.

As technology continues to catapult forward at a significant pace in the 21st century, banks are increasingly facing new security challenges to safeguard their buildings, staff, customers, and financial operations. Because of this, it is critical that banks invest in security systems that meet the complex and unique requirements of the financial environment. Vanderbilt’s SPC provides this solution through advanced, dedicated intruder detection features and products for banking applications. SPC offers versatile operation and comprehensive alarm management functionality. With the support of cloud services, end-user apps, and a dedicated software suite, this puts SPC at the forefront of modern intrusion detection. Credito Cooperativo consortium Italy’s Credito Cooperativo (BCC) consortium of banks are found throughout the length and breadth of the country and have served local communities for the past 134 years. There are 317 mutual not-for-profit organisations comprising over 4,300 branches, all of which work together to guarantee a range of products in keeping with the values and identity of a cooperative. Vanderbilt’s SPC is a true hybrid intrusion detection system that meets EN 50131 standards and has unmatched flexibility and scalability Headquartered in Cesena, Banca di Cesena e Banca di GATTEO Credito Cooperativo S.Coop is the first member of the BCC to initiate a new security infrastructure. The bank wanted a system that offered integrated between access control and intrusion detection as well as being reliable, easy to install and future proof. Hybrid intrusion detection Vanderbilt’s SPC is a true hybrid intrusion detection system that meets EN 50131 standards and has unmatched flexibility and scalability. SPC5000 and SPC6000 control panels are being installed at each branch, with the former able to be expanded per specific customers and project needs with up to 128 zones, 128 outputs, 16 system keypads, 16 doors and eight verification zones. SPC6000 expands upon this functionality with up to 512 zones, 512 outputs, 32 system keypads, 64 doors and 16 verification zones. SPC Connect offers the ability to customise how data is viewed by setting up a feature that allows Smart Security to manage and control access rights to individual panels and groups of panels. This means that tasks such as configuration management, troubleshooting, and regular maintenance can be carried out remotely, saving massive amounts of time and money, and enabling a swift resolution to any issues. SPC Connect integration The control panels are being fully integrated with Vanderbilt’s pioneering SPC Connect system – a cloud-based solution that allows Smart Security to monitor, manage and control the SPC control panels remotely from any location. Personal security devices, such as the SPC Wireless Personal Alarm, increase the confidence and security of bank employees, while SPC also offers a set of specifically defined ‘Financial’ area types for ATM and vault environments with pre-defined times and enhanced security functions. Here’s how it works. Users can define the period during which an ATM or vault remains unset. Once that period expires, the ATM or vault automatically sets to an interlock group, thus denying further access to other ATMs or vaults if any area within a group is unset. The dual PIN feature is another measured safeguard, requiring two PINs to be entered within 30 seconds to set or unset an ATM or vault. Meanwhile, the All Okay feature requires users to confirm ‘All Okay’ on entry, otherwise an alarm is generated. Banks wish to operate in an open and friendly layout while safeguarding their customers, staff, and assets Monitoring safety Central Monitoring Stations (CMS) working with SPC quickly and correctly identify the source of any alarms. As a direct consequence, the number of needless callouts due to false alarms can be significantly reduced. For example, if the bank manager arrives early, he uses his card to gain access to the branch office and PIN to disarm the alarm. His code disarms the office and secure area but the ATMs, vaults, and safe deposit boxes remain armed.  A Central Monitoring Station is alerted to the early entry. They need to know whether the entry is routine or under duress. The monitoring station views the manager in live video as he executes a predetermined security procedure and until he hits an “All Okay” button. If there is a problem the manager sends a silent duress alarm rather than the “All Okay” button. The monitoring station can listen in and if necessary call the police. Multiple layers This is just one layer of automated security that Vanderbilt provides to protect banks and other financial institutions. For instance, SiPass® integrated (a product made by Siemens AG) offers protection against cyber threats and intellectual property espionage. Personal security devices, such as the SPC Wireless Personal Alarm, increase the confidence and security of bank employees SiPass meets current IT security requirements for data protection and delivers the highest data security through encrypted data transmission throughout the network. SiPass is one Vanderbilt solution used at Bank Pekao, a Polish financial institution considered to be one of the safest banks at the pan-European level. Seismic detectors are designed for monitoring of ATMs, 24/7. They have been developed for false alarm immunity and even the subtlest attacks can be detected at a very early stage, repeatedly triggering an alarm that gives ample time for intervention.  Importance of security in banking Security in banking is an essential issue. It requires thoughtful attention and procedure while allowing room for agility, adaptability, and dependability – flagship traits of the Vanderbilt brand. Banks wish to operate in an open and friendly layout while ultimately safeguarding their customers, staff, and assets. Vanderbilt’s solutions respond to these expectations and enable effective safeguarding foundations to be laid. 

Intrusion can be very invasive, damaging and expensive for any industrial or commercial business. The damage of machinery or the theft of goods can be potentially devastating. Not only that, but each commercial and industrial property can vary dramatically in terms of the level of security required, along with the conditions of the installation. Aisles, machinery and varying environmental conditions are all considerations, as is the required function of the security system and the ability to monitor it safely and remotely. Pyronix hybrid solution So, which security system can deliver the right solution? Look no further than the PCX46 APP. This is the professional high-security hybrid solution that delivers maximum security, convenience, flexibility and potential. Tailor the security system to meet the individual needs of the property, with the full range of Pyronix devices. Whether wired for Grade 3 requirements (large casing PCX46 APP) or utilising the multi-award-winning two-way wireless technology for any Grade 2 requirements, you can deliver the ideal system for the property and provide the user with full assurance that they are paying for the best possible security solution. Protecting external areas So, for any environments such as show rooms, factories, garages, banks, entrances or exits, there is the Pyronix range of KX detectors, which utilise Dual Technology (DT) which offer resolute detection in areas with changing conditions. If there are any drafts or fluctuating temperatures, there is the perfect KX. There is also the XD range of external detectors that utilise Tri-Technology (TT), as well as Anti-Masking and Anti-Blocking options. These can offer any external areas the protection they need, as well as be utilised to set off lights. Whether the installation requires sensors, detectors, sirens and much more, this is all possible and easily accomplished with the PCX46 APP. PyronixCloud and HomeControl+ App Utilise this security system and you can also benefit from the PyronixCloud and HomeControl+ App infrastructure. The user gets remote control of their system from anywhere in the world, while you benefit from remote diagnostics and programming, as well as easy set up. The HomeControl+ App delivers unrivalled control over the property for the user, with the ability to: arm and disarm, control any automation outputs, check the status of every individual device on the system, see their event history and much much more, all in real-time. So, whether the user is at work, on holiday or in bed, they are always informed and always in control. This is particularly useful for any business owner or manager, where it may be advantageous to monitor the access to the building, as well as any automation outputs added to the system. With remote programming and diagnostics of the system using InSite UDL software via the PyronixCloud, there are fewer call-outs and therefore reduced costs. This makes the PCX46 APP a more profitable solution for businesses, as systems can be fully managed remotely and even when a call-out is necessary, the engineer will know what the issue is before getting to site. Furthermore, users can also generate recurring revenue streams by offering PyronixCloud management services.

Erste Group Bank AG built a new group headquarters on the site of the former Südbahnhof railway station in Vienna, with construction work taking place from 2012 to 2016. Employees who were previously distributed across 20 different locations throughout the city now all work in the same building complex. Advantages of new arrangement The advantages of this new arrangement are clear: Closer proximity and improved infrastructure strengthen cooperation and provide a modern, pleasant working environment for employees. The ground-breaking, award-winning design concept by Vienna architects 'Henke Schreieck Architekten' plays a key role by creating a feeling of openness with its curved buildings and the integration of green spaces, producing an environment which encourages creativity. The highest construction standards were applied to the planning of the new building complex – which accommodates around 4,000 employees – in order to, for example, optimise cost-effectiveness by minimising energy and operating costs. The Erste Campus was awarded the DGNB (German Sustainable Building Council) platinum certificate for sustainable building. Video security requirements Security was a major priority for the new headquarters. In 2014, the Erste Group put out a tender based on a detailed catalogue of requirements for an overall building security concept for the Erste Campus. Among other things, the requirements included video surveillance and intelligent video analysis. The video technology needed to support security personnel, detect security-critical events in real time around the clock and, when necessary, raise an alarm immediately. In order to ensure smooth communication and quick responses, seamless integration was required between the video analysis, video management system and all other components and systems. SeeTec Cayuga solution A key factor to the success of this solution was the close dovetailing of the two systems, made possible by the flexible architecture of SeeTec Cayuga A key factor to the success of this solution was the close dovetailing of the two systems, made possible by the flexible architecture of SeeTec Cayuga – which, for example, shares the image streams from the cameras. Alarm events from the CogVis video analysis are seamlessly transferred to SeeTec Cayuga, where they are visualised and processed. Kapsch Businesscom won the tender with an overall concept featuring video technology based on SeeTec GmbH video management and CogVis GmbH video analysis. Another major factor in the selection process was ensuring that the video system complies with the high IT standards in the banking sector – this was verified in advance by extensive testing. This means that SeeTec Cayuga supports encrypted communication between server and client, as well as secure connections with the cameras. The protection of customers' and employees' personal rights is also crucial – CogVis provides algorithms to disguise people's identities in live images by using pixelisation. Centrally managed video solution After several months of implementation, installation and testing, the integrated overall system went into live operation at the end of 2015. Since then, the cameras distributed all over the campus have been protecting the buildings and grounds around the clock. In order to minimise the load on the network and the risk of failures, the cameras in SeeTec Cayuga were distributed across multiple recording servers which are connected to a central management server. Furthermore, the video streams are made available to the CogVis analytics directly. The CogVis C3 server is responsible for central management of the external and internal communication with the distributed C3 nodes on which the video analysis is carried out. Cameras and alarms are visualised and processed using the SeeTec software in the security control centre, which is manned 24/7. Camera images and views can also be displayed on a large-screen system using the SeeTec Display Agent in conjunction with a central control room solution. Discrete security measures The complete solution balances the high security requirements of a bank with the structural nature of the Erste Campus – the idea of openness is continued in the design of the interiors, which is why video technology is ideal as a relatively discreet security measure. The analysis algorithms of the C3 security portfolio from CogVis detect unauthorised access to indoor and outdoor areas, issue warnings regarding left objects, and provide additional security in the field of access control. The intelligent system uses state-of-the-art techniques from the field of machine learning in order to minimise false alarms efficiently as the operating time increases. Monitoring functions provide security personnel with real-time updates about the functional state of the CogVis video analysis so that they can respond immediately if there is a problem. Erste Group Bank AG Functions such as licence plate recognition or mobile system access can be added at any time by means of expansion modules Like the Erste Campus buildings, which are designed to allow changes in work processes or new work area allocations to be implemented at any point in the future without major structural work, the video system also has a flexible design and is therefore well-equipped for the future. New video or analysis channels can be easily added to the existing system at any time. New functions such as licence plate recognition or mobile system access can also be added at any time by means of expansion modules. Ing. Peter Hollenthoner, the Erste Group Bank AG staff member responsible for the implementation of the video project on the Erste Campus, sums up the experience so far: "Our security concept had to meet all of the security requirements in full without conflicting with the open room structures which enable collaboration, flexibility and meetings with customers. "The only way to achieve the objectives was with intelligent video surveillance and analytics which provide optimal support for the security process. We were keen to work with companies who understood our requirements and could provide us with the best possible, technically stable implementation."

Financial institutions of all sizes demand simple, reliable solutions to protect against fraud, theft, and accidents in the workplace. Advancements in camera resolution and storage capabilities have put pressure on banks and credit unions to upgrade their video surveillance systems. Upgrading to a modern, economical NVR server will greatly increase system performance and scalability for small-budget projects with benefits seen across both loss prevention and business insights. Reliable high performance However, not all banks have the same security budget as large institutions. This makes high-power, custom-built solutions seem unrealistic; however, small projects featuring bandwidth limitations need to retain the ability to scale up depending on future surveillance demands. Before any system expansion can occur, reliable high-performance must be established. White-box solutions compromise quality and underperform when exposed to the tough requirements of the financial security market. Fortunately, custom-built, video-optimised solutions are not exclusive to large multinational financial institutions. Network architecture When upgrading an ineffective digital security system, a new network architecture needs to be created. Usually, this means switching from DVR to NVR servers. As a result, network switches attach to the camera allowing for easier future system expansion. Along with the newly gained scalability, throughput performance on servers can achieve significantly higher levels.BCDVideo offers servers, networking and workstations that provide enterprise-quality performance for all financial projects, regardless of size Implementing a complete video solution with high-performance servers, modern networking protocols and powerful workstations in financial institutions is now possible, even for small projects. BCDVideo offers servers, networking and workstations that provide enterprise-quality performance for all financial projects, regardless of size. The Benchmark Magazine 2016 Infrastructure award winner Aurora Server Series earns its name by marking the dawn of a new era in DVR replacement. Small-budget projects that have previously succumbed to the pressure of sacrificing quality for short-term savings now have access to servers with redundant power, 12Gbps RAID controller with 2GB of Flash Based Write Cache, hot-pluggable helium hard drive, and 10,000 PassMark rated CPUs. These big project features fit price-conscious budgets while maintaining the high-performance found in enterprise surveillance. BCDVideo Titan Networking The Titan Networking Series is priced well below standard to ensure project size and scope does not prevent an integrator from deploying a complete networking solution. Without the added cost of a networking engineer, savings reach into the thousands. Additionally, by using cutting-edge technology like Shortest Path Bridging, Titan switches, backed by a five-year, on-site warranty, will run at a high-level for years. The Gamma Series workstations fill the void in commercial and enterprise environments. Ideal for access control and IP video surveillance, they are powerful enough to render high-quality megapixel images for applications running 24/7. Optimised for advanced graphics and video capabilities, smaller projects can use the Gamma Series as both a video recorder and viewer.

To the lay person they appear to be simple LED light spots going back to the original style of illumination of the old 1800s palace (1876) that currently houses the Italian Ministry of Economy and Finance, and that historically represents the first great building of the newly reborn Roman capital, as commissioned by the former Minister Quintino Sella. Hidden in plain sight The carefully hidden technology, however, transforms each of the 20 light points (appropriately designated “Roma lights”) decorating the external perimeter into a state-of-the-art tool to guarantee the security of the public in the area around the Ministry. The transformation is executed thanks to the internal installation of IP cameras produced and distributed world-wide by the German company MOBOTIX, equipped with software for recording and processing the images. Notwithstanding the innovation of the performance, the new lighting systems are perfectly integrated, from an aesthetic point of view, with the historic palace where they are installed: A very advanced system, therefore, in terms of technology, but completely hidden inside a design in perfect harmony with the place where the light spot is installed, as envisioned and implemented by Dr. Massimo Belli, Appointed Administrator of the Ministry of Economy and Finance, Dr. Umberto Dall’Aglio, Director of the VI Office of the IV Department of the Ministry and by Architect Gianluca Canofeni, Director of the Works and Technical Administrator of the IV Department. High efficiency at a low cost The transformation is executed thanks to the internal installation of IP cameras produced and distributed by MOBOTIX  “The motivation for the project was multifaceted: On the one hand to realise a control system based upon state-of-the-art video surveillance tools, and on the other hand implementing a new lighting project to substantially reduce electricity consumption – within the scope of energy efficiency –, guaranteeing at the same time a much longer useful life, and as a result a substantial reduction of maintenance costs”, said Lieutenant Colonel Saverio La Monaca, chief of the Central Security Organisation of the Ministry. As per the costs, the analysis carried out by the Ghisamestieri teams, obviously as a function of the actual system utilisation give a clear picture: It is foreseen that the initial investment will be recouped within only 4 or 5 years and economic savings of even 50% between the fifth and fifteenth year of useful life of the system. With respect to energy savings, MOBOTIX’ video cameras provide a further guarantee, since their energy consumption is extremely low in comparison with other technologies present on the market: about 4 to 6 watts per hour. MOBOTIX DualDome cameras The project, comprises today of 20 wall light spots installed in strategic positions throughout the Ministry. Each shelf hides inside 2 MOBOTIX DualDome cameras with 180 degrees field of view, for an overall total of 40 high-resolution IP security cameras. The images can be recorded inside the cameras 24/7 (colour, and black and white) to be viewed at the control centre located inside the Ministry building. The security personnel belonging to the military branch of the Financial Guard manage the complete video surveillance apparatus and constantly monitor the images of the cameras in real time. 10 wireless routers manufactured by the young Italian company 3WLan, are installed inside a similar number of wall brackets and are capable of guaranteeing the bi-directional Wi-Fi link between the control centre and the patrols active outside the palace. This is possible thanks to an authentication on a RADIUS server that identifies the access permissions of the router on a list of authorised equipment. Exchange data and images in real time The new wireless system guarantees much more reduced operating expenses against a much more intensive use profile" “Especially in case of demonstrations, which is actually very common, our security operators are involved in the so-called pacification operations outside the palace for the purpose of first of all protecting the ministerial magistrates. These are carried out both on foot and inside our patrols – which implies the need to rapidly cross-check the owner of a particular vehicle or verifying the personal data on passports and identification documents. "Before installing the new intelligent light spots we relied on a GSM system that was, however, very expensive. The new wireless system guarantees much more reduced operating expenses against a much more intensive use profile”, added Giancarlo Varvo, who is responsible for security. The video surveillance technology available on the patrol vehicles, which are also equipped with tools to read license plates, or palmtop operating systems (also known as explorers) supplied to foot patrols, once within the radius of coverage of the poles equipped with Wi-Fi antennas, have the option of exchanging data and images with the operations centre inside the Ministry by means of a recognition system. Furthermore, by connecting to a specific IP address, external patrols have the possibility to view the images recorded by a specific video camera in real time. Remote day/night illumination management Each support is also equipped with a remote switch that allows managing the illumination and video surveillance functions completely autonomously and independently from each other. While the light source turns on at dusk and switches off at sunrise, the cameras continue functioning 24/7, according to the specific settings they may record both in continuous mode or trigger upon an event, such as the movement of a pedestrian, or a sound. The cameras placed close to the entrances of the Ministry are capable of sending alerts in real time to the operations centre, or activating a bollard along the perimeter thanks to an automatic vehicle license plate reading system. Nothing to object about the support of the engineers of Ghisamestieri, that proved to beat all times available and collaborative in answering the requirements of the Ministry. Also, no complaints about Genius, a unique world-wide illumination solution, capable of offering high level design and advanced technology in a single solution. No objections about the technology made in Germany of MOBOTIX. Securing the facility with additional cameras In fact, the operations room located inside the Ministry remotely controls the recording of more than 1,600 cameras" “In addition to the project implemented with Ghisamestieri, we employed the technology of MOBOTIX also for other types of requirements, still obviously related to the security of the Ministry: 36 AllroundMono security cameras have already been installed on the roof of the palace to check potential attacks for instance through the air vent conduits to the so-called Tempest room, a completely aseptic environment for the protection of communications inside the Ministry. "In fact, the operations room located inside the Ministry remotely controls the recording of more than 1,600 cameras installed in various facilities connected to the department”, underscores Varvo. The light spots installed in Rome find their place in a wider project, where any illumination support can potentially serve as a technology node. Named “Genius” by their creators, regardless of the design or aesthetic form, any light spot is potentially capable of becoming a true security centre, perfectly integrated from the aesthetic and urban points of view into city decor. Equipped with microphones and speakers, MOBOTIX’ cameras can put the citizens in touch with the operations centres of the police or ambulances by means of special buttons placed at the base of the pole or through the implementation of an RFID or magnetic strip identification system. “With respect to traditional poles with well-visible cameras installed outdoors, Genius represents a true video security system, not just a simple crime deterrent”, concluded Varvo.

Securing large campus environments can be particularly demanding and requires a range of technology solutions. In effect, a campus may represent a dozen or more individual facilities to be secured, in addition to protecting the overall environment. Seeking more insight into the number and variety of needs of securing a campus, we asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the security challenges of protecting large campus environments?

Along with the integration of security and other systems in an enterprise environment comes a need to centralise monitoring and control of the unified network. A control room is at the center of managing integrated systems, providing the focal point to collect information from a variety of sensors, analyse the data, and then respond appropriately. The technologies that drive these functions are changing and evolving, thus increasing the efficiency and efficacy of systems. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What’s new in command-and-control systems, and what is the impact?

While unpacking our bags from a trade show, it is interesting to consider the dominant themes and trends we heard and saw at the show. So it is with the recently concluded Global Security Exchange (GSX) show in Chicago, presented by ASIS International. Amid all the product promotion, training sessions, networking and tired feet at the show, what really stood out? We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What was the big news at the GSX 2019 trade show in Chicago?