College security

Armor At Hand™, manufacturer of the lightweight ballistic Smart Shield™, will be showcasing its IoT connected shields at the 2019 Global Security Exchange (GSX) beginning on Sept. 8 in Chicago at McCormick Place Convention Center, Booth 181. In addition to demonstrating the shield’s ability to withstand the impact of multiple 7.62mm high-powered rifle bullets, Armor At Hand will also be announcing its partnerships with ESRI and The School Superintendents Association (AASA) along with presenting at the New Innovative Product Competition Wed 11th at 1 p.m. Stage X. Provides physical barrier For Schools (Kindergarten – College): Offering instant protection in emergency situations, Armor At Hand Smart Shield provides a physical barrier and are designed to be discreet and easy to manage. Designed for schools, workplaces and other facilities, the Smart Shield is independently tested to the equivalent National Institute of Justice (NIJ) Level III of protection. The shields allow protection from common pistols and high-powered rifles while also blending into the surrounding area. Critical Technology: Using IoT technology, the shield comes with internet-connected electronics attached to the shield and its own mobile app. When the shield’s IoT technology detects movement of the shield, it will immediately alert other nearby shields, administrators, or authorities while also calculating a danger area and directing the user to safe zones through a guided path to safety. Adding further value, the shields are made with advanced materials all having a 20-plus year lifespan and the IoT is easily upgradeable. Allows immediate connection to authorities Smart Shield provides a significant physical barrier and layer of protection, besides being packed with modern technologies" GSX is the largest security show in the world, bringing together security professionals from all vertical markets to network, learn and re-invest in the industry. Attendees can learn more about the Armor At Hand Smart Shield and witness a demonstration of its capabilities from Chad Ahrens, Founder and CEO at Armor At Hand. “We are honoured to be a part of GSX and to bring our revolutionary new product to market. We want to showcase to the world that our product provides a significant physical barrier and layer of protection, as well as being packed with modern technologies that allow an immediate connection to authorities and guides those affected to safety,” said Ahrens. “Every second is so important - we hope that by showing our new product to the world at GSX, exchange attendees and security professionals will also see how this product can help save lives.” In addition to highlighting the IoT connected, lightweight shields, Armor At Hand is announcing its partnership with ESRI and The School Superintendents Association (AASA). Coupled with Esri ArcGIS, the Armor At Hand Smart Shield provides autonomous safety features such as: Alerts other shields on campus if one of them is moved Mapped real-time danger area and safe zones Guidance for those in harm’s way to safety with one BIG arrow Resources to assist school Delivered is assured protection, the peace of mind that help is coming, along with shortened police response times. ESRI is an international pioneer and supplier of geographic information system (GIS) software. ESRI utilises its ArcGIS mapping and spatial analytics software to meet digital transformation needs for organisations of all sizes. AASA is the premier membership organisation representing public school district superintendents across the country and the world. The primary goal of AASA is to advocate for highest quality public education for all students, as well as to develop and support the school system. Armor At Hand’s partnership with AASA speaks to both organisations’ commitment to providing resources to assist school districts before, during and after a crisis. With access to more than 12,000 school districts, AASA will enable Armor At Hand to reach the audience that the Smart Shields are designed to protect.

Everbridge, Inc., a pioneer in critical event management and enterprise safety software applications to help keep people safe and businesses running, announced a partnership with RiskBand, a provider of wearable, live-monitored safety devices for organisations and their workers. The alliance is part of Everbridge’s strategy to reach the broadest set of workers, including those that may not always have ready access to a mobile phone, such as a hospitality employee, in-home healthcare provider, or lone worker in the field. With the additional modality and simple access of the RiskBand wearable device, Everbridge is expanding its addressable market for protecting employees regardless of their physical location, whether inside the office, working remotely, or travelling the globe. Critical events such as assaults and active shooter incidents are threatening lives and causing major business disruptions. Fatal work injuries have increased over the last decade, with 5,147 occupational fatalities recorded in the U.S. in 2017. Emergency response strategy The rise in smart technology is drastically improving operations for businesses across the globe" This challenge is only magnified by an increasingly mobile workforce, as well as the prevalence of lone worker scenarios across multiple industries served by both Everbridge and RiskBand, including healthcare, banking, retail, energy and utilities, hospitality, and higher education. Designed for enterprise-level personal safety and security, RiskBand’s wearable devices bolster an organisation’s emergency communication and response strategy. A single push of a button provides two-way voice, user profile data, images, and geolocation, in near real-time to your organisation’s security operations centre. As part of the partnership, Everbridge will integrate its award-winning Safety Connection™ platform with RiskBand’s wearables, allowing both Everbridge and RiskBand customers to receive emergency messaging and provide detailed reporting of their location. The data from an employee’s RiskBand device is shared back to the Everbridge platform, allowing an organisation to deploy the appropriate emergency response. The rise in smart technology and connected devices is drastically improving operations for businesses across the globe, and bringing about new opportunities to keep people safe,” said David Meredith, CEO of Everbridge. Immediate access to phones The collaborative partnership will enable us to enhance employee safety through state-of-the-art wearable devices" “Our partnership with RiskBand is advancing our existing connected safety ecosystem, offering employees without immediate access to a mobile phone with a direct line for emergency communication that they can utilise anywhere.”  As part of the expansion of that ecosystem, Everbridge is looking to introduce additional wearables into the marketplace, and integrate further with IoT devices, sensors, and smart building technology, all to better protect employees from an increasing array of workplace threats. "It is especially gratifying that a respected industry leader like Everbridge recognises the powerful solution of the RiskBand ARIES device and platform. We believe that this collaborative partnership will enable us to empower businesses to enhance employee safety through state-of-the-art wearable devices that are fully integrated with the most comprehensive critical event management solutions,” explained Jim Van Law, CEO and Co-founder of RiskBand.      RiskBand will be fully integrated into Everbridge’s platform. Individuals attending the Global Security Exchange (GSX) conference next week in Chicago can visit the Everbridge Booth #124 to learn more about the joint offering.

Access control manufacturer Inner Range is increasing its presence in the Middle East by taking on a dedicated sales advisor for the region. The company, which has an EMEA regional head office near Reading, Berkshire, has delivered several major projects in the Middle East in recent years. Issam Alhamdan has now joined the Inner Range team as regional sales manager for the Middle East and Africa and will cover sales leads and project delivery throughout the region. Growing business opportunities in Middle East Inner Range General Manger Tim Northwood, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Issam to our team. The success of our recent projects in the Middle East and the fact we were so well received at this year’s Intersec event made it a natural progression to expand our team and take on someone to manage local sales activity and grow our business opportunities in the region. I look forward to Issam having every success.” For Inner Range, Issam will continue to work from Abu Dhabi, covering clients and business leads across the MEAIssam Alhamdan began his career in sales with Alpha Data, a security integrator in Abu Dhabi, before working with access control manufacturers for more than ten years. For Inner Range, he will continue to work from Abu Dhabi, covering clients and business leads across the Middle East and Africa. Promoting Inner Range products He said: “I’m really excited to join Inner Range. It’s a great brand and suite of products and there are already leads from potential and existing clients to follow-up. There’s already a sense of momentum and I can hit the ground running. Initially, the focus will be on promoting Inner Range products more widely by approaching security integrators and consultants to ensure they understand the power, sophistication and scalability that Inner Range systems offer.” Inner Range has been a pioneer in the design and manufacture of intelligent security solutions since it was established in 1988. More than 150,000 Inner Range systems have been installed in over 30 countries. Customers include hospitals and high-security units, colleges, distribution centres and pharmaceutical companies, government and critical national infrastructure.

At GSX 2019, SilverShield™ Safety & Information Systems will showcase their award-winning visitor and information management system (Booth #1594). The solution is an easy-to-use, cloud-based SAAS approach to security, with several different modules that provide a complete safety solution. “The SilverShield Visitor and Information Management System is the most effective way for users to vet and manage visitors for any size facility,” said Robin Baker, CTO, SilverShield. “We look forward to demonstrating the powerful software to GSX attendees this year.” The SilverShield Visitor Management System enables staffed or unstaffed visitor screening at all types of facilities – schools, medical facilities, or any type of business that screens visitors and maintains visitor records. This cloud-based (SAAS) multi-platform solution allows users to quickly screen a visitor’s credentials against custom watchlists and the national sex offender database, in near-real-time, to decide if the visitor should be welcomed or denied entry. If welcomed, your staff is notified of visitor and VIP arrivals. Register manually or by scanning a valid ID The Virtual Lockdown System alerts users to take immediate action to initiate their lockdown procedures If there is a threat identified at any entrance, the system allows the user to immediately send silent alerts to designated stakeholders via a two-way communication mode. When integrated with the SilverShield ID Badge System, the system can create temporary ID or permanent ID badges for staff, students, and vendors. For organisations with unstaffed entrances, the SilverShield Kiosk System allows visitors to register themselves – manually or by scanning a valid ID. The interactive Kiosk System will also notify staff of VIPs or unwelcome guests, increasing security and safety even in unmanned entry points. In the event of an emergency situation or unwanted guest, the system’s Incident Management module can alert local police, initiate a virtual lockdown, and produce mass emergency notifications via email, SMS/text, mobile and web push notifications. The Virtual Lockdown System alerts designated stakeholders via an audible siren sent to all users’ computers or mobile devices, to alert users to take immediate action to initiate their lockdown procedures. Event Management System The solution pre-screens guests, ensuring that unwanted guests are not invited to events or facility activities SilverShield’s HR & Safety Resource Center enables companies and schools alike to store their Security Plans in a secure Learning Management System (LMS) and share it along with supporting materials with staff and stakeholders. The system also encourages assessments to ensure comprehension of security protocols, procedures and plans. The solution’s Event Management System pre-screens guests against watchlists and the national sex offender database, ensuring that unwanted guests are not inadvertently invited to events or facility activities. The system will manage invitations and RSVPs and can issue parking and visitor passes to approved guests via email and SMS/text, helping to safeguard a safe and secure event.

IPVideo Corporation, globally renowned manufacturer of audio/video recording, passive weapons detection systems and IOT sensor technology, was selected as a 2019 Campus Safety Best BEST Award winner in two categories- Emergency Communication Safety and Security Applications and Inspection and Detection Equipment for their HALO IOT Smart Sensor. HALO IOT Smart Sensor HALOs have been installed in school bathrooms and locker rooms across the country in K-12 institutions The HALO IOT Smart Sensor has taken off this year in response to the nationwide youth vaping epidemic. It is the only product to detect vaping with Nicotine or Marijuana (THC oil). HALOs have been installed in school bathrooms and locker rooms across the country in K-12 institutions and is moving into college dormitories. In addition to vape and smoke detection, HALO has several safety features including abnormal sound detection, chemical detection and air quality monitoring. Campus Safety Magazine and Campus Safety Conference recognised the HALO IOT Smart Sensor as an outstanding campus security product in two categories: Emergency Communication Systems and Inspection and Detection Equipment. The award was presented at the Campus Safety Conference East, in Charlotte, North Carolina. Campus Safety “We are very proud of this award and the recognition of the Campus Safety judging panel for recognising the game changing nature of HALO” states David Antar, President of IP Video Corporation who received the award. He adds, “HALO is the missing piece for campus environments as it provides security for bathrooms, locker rooms, patient rooms and dorm rooms where you cannot put a camera. For areas that have camera visibility, the real time integrated alerts provide campus security with the other missing senses of smell and hearing in those environments.” Security and safety solutions The 2019 Campus Safety BEST Awards recognise superlative security, law enforcement, emergency management and safety solutions for K-12 campuses, institutions of higher education and healthcare organisations. All entries were judged on all aspects involved such as innovation, functionality, competitive advantages, benefits to the installer or monitoring provider, and benefits to the end user. "Campus Safety Magazine takes pride in focusing on content that helps protection professionals in the healthcare and education markets keep their students, teachers, patients, visitors, and campuses safe and secure," says Robin Hattersley Gray, executive editor of Campus Safety. IoT sensing tecnology This has been a tremendous year for the HALO product and all of its award recognition" “This has been a tremendous year for the HALO product and all of its award recognition as an industry transforming product.” IPVideo Corporation Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Rick Cadiz stated about HALO. “However, the real win for us is the customer feedback we are hearing; including putting an end to youth vaping inside schools and aiding security teams in preventing dangerous events from escalating.” HALO IOT Smart Sensor has the unique ability to provide instant IoT sensing to event-based triggers and provide security in campus privacy concern areas where traditional security cameras and solutions are not practical. Event driven analytics HALO uses multiple sensors together in a single intelligent platform to learn, analyse and create event alerts. We follow the adage that in the world of safety ‘time equals life’. HALO uses real-time event driven analytics to respond while an event is happening, greatly reducing damage to property and loss of life.   HALO has advanced audio analytics to detect sound abnormalities like glass breaking, yelling and gunshots. The air quality sensors measure things like carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, chemicals such as ammonia and oxidisers as well as gas leaks. HALO’s light detection sensors are utilised for room occupancy. These are coupled with built in temperature and humidity sensors. Integration with POE lighting The additional integration with POE lighting provides unique safety measures like providing emergency directional lighting for the hearing impaired. HALO goes to a whole new level as a campus security solution by providing advanced warning related to health issues including air quality, vape or smoke detection.

Code Blue Corporation once again will be returning as a sponsor for National Campus Safety Awareness Month (NCSAM) in September. During NCSAM, Clery Center will partner with colleges, universities and other organisations to provide professional development opportunities that address the background of certain campus safety areas and strategies for talking about those areas with campus community members. Raising college campus awareness “For more than 30 years, student safety has been at the core of Code Blue’s mission and it remains a top priority today,” Code Blue Director of Distribution Katie Petre said. “We are proud to continue our support of Clery Center and the vital work it does to raise awareness on college campuses around the nation.” In 2018, more than 500 individuals from 409 colleges participated in NCSAM’s free webinar series NCSAM was unanimously approved by Congress in 2008 to encourage a public conversation on important topics in violence prevention at the nation’s colleges and universities. In 2018, more than 500 individuals from 409 colleges participated in NCSAM’s free webinar series, with access to additional tools and resources. Campus safety through education Clery Center is a national non-profit organisation focused on promoting college and university campus safety through education, awareness, policy, and prevention initiatives. “This year’s theme of ‘Bridging the Gap’ focuses on connecting theory to practice in areas campuses often find confusing or challenging,” said Laura Egan, Clery Center Senior Director of Programs. “Through providing subject matter experts across the field in our webinars and hands-on resources like our flowcharts and tools, Clery Center highlights the questions that need answers and provides applicable ways to put the answers into practice.”

Colleges and universities have been targeted in the last several weeks with a series of bomb threats received via campus printers and fax machines. Targeted institutions included Vanderbilt University, the University of Southern California, the University of Virginia and the University of Detroit Mercy, among others. Businesses were also among the targets. Around 100 organisations in all received print-outs, faxes or emails demanding that a $25,000 ransom be paid to a Brazilian citizen to avoid detonation of explosives allegedly planted on the sites. The police determined that the “form letter” threats were part of a hoax and not credible. The situation highlights the need to proactively secure access to printers in today’s networked world. SourceSecurity.com asked Ashish Malpani, Director, Embedded Solutions Product Marketing at HID Global, for insights from a technology perspective. SourceSecurity.com: What are the best practices for securing access to a printer? How widely employed are such practices (i.e., how vulnerable are most printers today?) Ashish Malpani: Most network printers in university environments are secured using several best practices. They include: Set a strong administrator password. Modern MFPs (multi-function printers) have a web interface for configuration and control. By default no password is set so it is important to set a strong admin password. Restrict network access to campus. Ensure that only campus IP addresses are able to access the printer. Disable unnecessary services. Disable services like FTP, Telnet, other network (and discovery) protocols, etc. Implement firmware updates. Securely dispose of MFPs. A recent scan at University of Nebraska at Lincoln found that, in spite of all security practices, 12 percent of printers still have open port and password issues. SourceSecurity.com: How can systems be set up to accommodate students who need access to printers from off campus (or outside the firewall)? Malpani: In the university environment, the need for off-campus print access is prevalent. One of the ways to enable this capability is to force students to connect to the university network using a virtual private network (VPN). However, this is inconvenient and doesn’t usually support printing on demand or printing from handheld devices and cloud storage. An effective way to address this issue is to deploy a secure printing solution, where the users are required to authenticate themselves before the print job is released to the printer from a centralised pool. The benefits of this approach are increased convenience and ability to print at any printer on the campus. However, most printer manufacturers support entering a PIN for authentication, and it is not necessarily secure or convenient when you want faster access. However, new innovations in secure printing have made the printers more identity-aware and rely on everyday devices such as mobile phones and wearables for authentication, resulting in secure and convenient access. SourceSecurity.com: Whose responsibility is the security of a printer? Should manufacturers be doing more to prevent unauthorised access to printers? What is the customer's role? Malpani: IT security staff is responsible for the security of the printer. Something as simple as a printer is expected to work right away after deployment. Manufacturers can do more to enforce security policies on the printer or provide modes that enforce stricter control by default. As a customer, it is critical to have print data security as part of security policy, to review the manufacturer’s recommendations for securely configuring a printer, and to find solutions that not only enhance the security but also provide convenience to end users. A compromised printer can be used to attack other applications, execute arbitrary malicious code or attack other systems SourceSecurity.com: What are some other ramifications of unsecured printers, beyond the printing of threatening materials as we have seen recently on college and university campuses? Malpani: Today’s MFPs are more than just printers. They are file servers, they can email, act as DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) servers, and have the capacity to hold large data sets. Unsecured printers risk misuse and data disclosure. In January of this year, a team of researchers from Ruhr-Universität Bochum in Germany exposed vulnerabilities of major MFPs, such as exploiting the PostScript and Printer Job Language (PJL) vulnerabilities to get access to the data on the printer’s files system and memory. SourceSecurity.com: How does the problem of unsecured printers relate to wider issues of network security (given that most printers are now networked)? What is the risk that printers might be vulnerable as an entry point to the larger network? Malpani: In addition, a compromised printer can be used to attack other applications, execute arbitrary malicious code or attack other systems (e.g., to launch a denial of service attack on the network). SourceSecurity.com: How does the risk of unsecured printers impact the business world or other markets (in addition to college campuses)? How are the security measures different in various environments? Malpani: The security challenges are the same in business environments but, other than the financial industry, most other businesses do not pay close attention to threat vectors emerging out of print data security. IT security departments are also concerned about network security, and the facilities worry about building security, paying little attention to the security of business systems like printers, elevators, HVAC systems etc. Businesses are increasingly turning to managed print service (MPS) providers to ensure compliance, data security as well as management of accessories like print cartridges. SourceSecurity.com: What's your best advice for customers in terms of what they should do to secure their printers? Malpani: First of all, know your customer, understand their needs and what capabilities they desire from the printing systems today. The next generation of students value convenience over privacy and security. So the IT departments across universities need to think about how to meet the needs of their customer while ensuring best practices for security and compliance. It is critical to develop a comprehensive security policy, a regular audit schedule, to secure printers according to manufacturer’s recommendation, and to invest in solutions like secure print that not only provide convenience but also enhance security. Identity-aware systems definitely handle the challenges more effectively than traditional practices going forward. So it is important that the solutions we invest in also take into account the future trends in authentication and printing. {##Poll35 - How strong are your company’s defenses against cyber threats?##}

The PASS guidelines don’t just point to specific technologies; they address security issues and help guide school administrators to make their schools safer and more secure From K-12 to college campuses, schools need integrated solutions and proactive measures to lessen the potential of active shooters while targeting general loss prevention and security. The good news is that technology is available to address nearly every threat and challenge, and systems integrators and others have upped their game, providing comprehensive, proactive consultations to the education market. According to the Institute of Education Sciences and National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), schools continue to use technology increasingly to address security and safety challenges. Overall, there has been an ongoing increase in the use of technology in schools. For example, the NCES cites the percentage of schools that used one or more security cameras to monitor the school in 2013–14 (75 percent) was higher than it was in 2009–10 (61 percent) with other technologies on the upswing as well. PASS takes holistic security approach Security industry organisations, such as the National Systems Contractors Association, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and the Security Industry Association, Silver Spring, Maryland, are working to establish realistic and effective guidelines for school security. The Partner Alliance for Safer Schools (PASS), powered by NSCA and SIA, released its K-12 security guidelines in April 2015 at ISC West in Las Vegas in an effort to make technology easier to implement and help schools become safer. The PASS guidelines Define threats common to schools at each educational level Offer recommendations on parental and community involvement Detail a layered security approach that combats common threats and mitigates risks related to active shooters Provide information for integrators, school administrators, resource officers, and IT staff on technology-focused solutions like video surveillance, duress alarms, and electronic access control Deliver scalable/tiered measures that administrators can implement based on available resources and local risk levels Advance Technology, Scarborough, Maine, as well as other systems integration firms, manufacturers and consultants, is a PASS-endorsing organisation, according to Rob Simopoulos, President, working with the organisation and others to promote unified efforts. PASS recently updated the initial guidelines to include a new position statement on classroom barricade devices. "It's critical for us to be involved in programs such as PASS," says Simopoulos. "Working together as a united front in the industry, we can help schools become proactive and help them become better prepared." "The guidelines and assessment tools from PASS are not designed to simply point schools towards specific technology. They are designed to take a broader brushstroke to challenges and issues and help guide school administrators through the steps they can take in making their schools safer and more secure,” he adds. Programme gaining traction with schools According to Chuck Wilson, NSCA Executive Director and a Steering Committee Director for PASS, the response to the programme has been extremely positive, and it continues to gain traction. “We see this as a great educational tool, a resource, a way to start a technology roadmap, and a way for schools to build an attainable budget. We have been inundated with requests to download the PASS School Security guidelines, and they are beginning to be used in the field.” The next step is the creation and dissemination of a PASS assessment tool and tool kits that piggyback with the guidelines. “With the PASS assessment tool, integrators can work with school officials to find out what technology they have in place, what can be enhanced or modified to meet the guidelines,and what they can budget for. The PASS tool kits will be custom-designed for the specific audience; for example, for school administrators it might provide information on how to write a grant or respond to a school referendum bond targeting security,” Wilson says. The PASS Steering Committee will meet at ISC West 2016 to address those items.

As the security industry continues to grow, recruiting must have more sophisticatedscreening and hiring processes, and a commitment to hiring quality personnel The physical security industry today is driving focus on finding the right talent. Deborah O’Mara, SourceSecurity.com's dealer/integrator correspondent, in an exclusive Q&A with Brent O’Bryan, Vice President of Training and Development for AlliedBarton Security Services, discuss the challenges that security companies face while recruiting top talent and practices the physical security industry should adopt to attract qualified security officers. Offering security training and education to hire top talent SourceSecurity.com: How important is it for the security industry to attract top talent today? What are some of the ways in which they should do this? O’Bryan: People want to join growth-oriented job sectors that offer continual training and advancement. The physical security industry and the systems integrator community can attract talent by demonstrating the path to leadership and the training and educational opportunities they offer. Physical security officer companies offer on-the-job training that is site-specific and customised for each client. The curriculum consists of numerous training modules covering various topics important to clients, the employee and the security industry in general. Ambitious employees can take advantage of a wide variety of courses and training, both online and in the classroom setting, from industry-specific curriculum to personal and professional development. The physical security sector demands that the security officers’ and managers’ qualifications merit the position. Today’s security officer requires a balance of formal education and industry-specific training to be competitive and effective in their position. Learning continues throughout the career of a security professional. Course work ranges from demanding advanced Master Security Officer courses, e-learning, scenario-based learning and executive leadership modules, classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Security officers receive significant and ongoing training. Training can include fire safety, terrorism awareness, emergency planning, and evacuation procedures. In addition, officers participate in industry-specific training geared to the market they serve whether it is a petrochemical installation, government facility, shopping mall, hospital, commercial building, residential complex, industrial facility or college. Security companies offer on-the-job training for their officers that is site-specificand customised for each clients’ needs Combining security technology and management experience SourceSecurity.com: What are some of the new and emerging disciplines that are needed, such as IT expertise, integrated systems expertise? O’Bryan: The physical security sector has benefited from advances in technology. Integrated technology solutions enable more complete and easily searchable databases for visitor logs, real-time incident reports and recordable security officer tours. Security officers monitor state-of-the-art security software and hardware, quickly identifying unusual activity enabling immediate responses. Digital devices and integrated video surveillance allow security officers on patrol to effectively monitor the entire facility. Additionally, security isn’t the only area of expertise needed in the security industry. The behind-the-scenes support and infrastructure that allow for seamless security programs require professionals in a variety of fields from IT to accounting, legal, HR and more. That, coupled with the business and management experience needed by security managers, positions this industry as a robust opportunity for job seekers looking for meaningful careers. Career advancement in the security industry SourceSecurity.com: What are some of the unique challenges to both the systems integration and end-user communities in attracting talent as the economy improves? O’Bryan: The physical security sector needs the current generation of high school and college graduates and returning military veterans to take a fresh look at this market as it presents meaningful career opportunities. As the security sector continues to evolve, we need to actively promote our growth and advancements so that professionals see value in a security career. SourceSecurity.com: What's important in particular with physical security providers to ensure they keep top talent, such as training, certification, other perks? O’Bryan: While many people don’t look at the physical security sector as a “glamour” field, the reality is that it is an industry that offers significant opportunity for education, growth and promotion. As the industry continues to grow, there is greater need for sophisticated recruiting, screening and hiring processes, as well as a strict commitment to hiring quality personnel who are a right fit for the position. The physical security sector actively promotes from within by encouraging continual training and education. Security officers must be trained and proficient in numerous security technologiesand systems integration to effectively monitor their facilities Employee engagement, recognition initiatives and formal employee feedback programs are all also critically important to retaining top talent. A strong learning culture is also essential. It is important that we, as an industry, invest in our people. At AlliedBarton, for example, in addition to the extensive training courses available to all employees, we also encourage continued learning through higher education and have partnered with several colleges and universities to offer tuition reduction programs to employees. Nurturing a leadership culture to prevent workplace violence SourceSecurity.com: Since workplace violence and active shooters are increasingly in the news, how can individual security companies be prepared in this area and perhaps also help their end-user customers in these areas? O’Bryan: Numerous studies over the years have proven the link between leadership and physical safety – especially at job sites where there is a higher risk of accidents, such as at industrial facilities. What has been less examined is the relationship between solid leadership and workplace violence prevention. Bill Whitmore, Chairman and CEO of AlliedBarton wrote “Potential Workplace Violence Prevention and Your Organisational Success,” which addresses this in great detail. We believe that strong and steady leadership is at the heart of workplace violence prevention. Any company that fails to embrace a leadership culture, with a definitive mandate on what defines leadership for each and every employee, will be more prone to an incident of workplace violence. In terms of helping our clients in their workplace violence prevention planning, every organisation should have a workplace violence prevention plan in place to help avoid a tragic event. Workplace violence happens every day and businesses that are prepared are better positioned to help prevent, respond and recover. We work with leaders at all levels to develop a plan that works best for their organisation since there is no one-size-fits-all approach.

According to the reports of not-for-profit organisation Gun Violence Archive, the year 2018 saw 323 mass shooting incidents as of November. This number is 346 for the year 2017 and 382 for 2016, with ‘mass shooting’ defined as cases where four or more people are shot or killed in the same time period and location. A variety of gunfire detection solutions and other technology approaches seek to address the problem. ShotSpotter SiteSecure and ShotSpotter SecureCampus provide critical outdoor infrastructure protection against active shooter attacks. SiteSecure delivers critical information such as the number of shots fired, a detailed map of the airport or transportation facility, with the shooting location clearly identified. SiteSecure also provides law enforcement and transportation facility management with real-time information that can be useful to identify and address false alarms and reduce mass panic. Gunfire detection and precise shooter location Designed for college campuses and K-12 schools, ShotSpotter SecureCampus provides gunfire detectionShotSpotter SecureCampus is a gunfire detection system designed to provide outdoor coverage at university and school campuses. Designed for college campuses and K-12 schools, SST SecureCampus provides gunfire detection, precise location, and number of shooters to first responders and school personnel, enabling faster response to an incident. Data capture form to appear here! Gunshot detection can offer tremendous benefits in mitigating active shooting incidents occurring in a public facility or commercial environment. Data shows that active shooter attacks often begin outside a building and then progress indoors. Thus, the first line of defence for security professionals lies outside a facility, in a zone of protection surrounding it or comprising the entire outdoor area of a larger facility of many buildings. Audio solutions for perimeter security Video cameras are effective surveillance tools in the event of a shooting incident, but they are not able to capture everything. Deploying audio solutions can automatically flag incidents not caught on camera, as well as alert central station guards of what surveillance zones need to be closely monitored. Audio analytics solutions for aggression and gunshot detection are some of the best security tools in the security market when it comes to detection, intervention and deterrence. They are the next generation of monitoring; equipping security teams with critical information and enhancing perimeter security. End users can identify high-risk situations in real-time and prevent acts of physical aggression before they happen Aggression detectors are capable of accurately recognising duress in a person’s voice. The software automatically and objectively detects the presence of rising human aggression, anger or fear, and subsequently warns staff by a visual alert or alarm trigger. As a result, end users can identify high-risk situations in real-time and prevent acts of physical aggression before they happen. Artificial intelligence to detect weapons A gunshot detector recognises firearm discharge from various firearms in different settings. Within seconds of a gunshot, the software accurately classifies and triggers an immediate notification through a designated VMS. Security staff can then verify the alert, effectively reducing the reaction time of first responders. With the development of artificial intelligence (AI) in object recognition, AI weapons detection offers an efficient alternative to gunshot detection to prevent active shooting: AI can visually detect guns based on their shapes before they are fired. The AI is trained to recognise firearms in different shapes, sizes, colours, and at different angles in videos, so that the AI weapon detector can be deployed with existing camera systems, analyse the video feeds, and instantly notify security staff when a gun is spotted. Audio analytics, processed inside a video camera, are another approach that can quickly pinpoint zones that security staff should focus on, which can dramatically shorten response times to incidents. Audio-derived data also provides a secondary layer of verification that an event is taking place which can help prioritise responses from police and emergency personnel. Detecting audio levels and alerting operators Operators can be notified of abnormal situations via event signals allowing the operator to take suitable measuresThe first job of a well-configured camera or camera/mic pair is to detect sounds of interest while rejecting ancillary sounds and noise below a preset threshold. Each camera must be custom-configured for its particular environment to detect audio levels which exceed a user-defined level. Since audio levels are typically greater in abnormal situations, any audio levels exceeding the baseline set levels are detected as being a potential security event. Operators can be notified of any abnormal situations via event signals allowing the operator to take suitable measures. Finding a baseline of background noise and setting an appropriate threshold level is the first step. Well configured audio analytics can deliver critical information about a security event, accelerating response times and providing timely details beyond video-only surveillance. Analytics take privacy concerns out of the equation and allow installers and end users to use camera audio responsibly. Hanwha Techwin's audio source classification technology, available in its X Series cameras, features three customisable settings for category, noise cancellation and detection level for optimum performance in a variety of installation environments.

Krowd is an app that connects people together based on geography; that is, if they are at the same place at the same time. Users sign into the app using the local WiFi, identify themselves by username, and are placed immediately in a group chat comprising anyone else at the location who has signed into the app. An enhancement of the Krowd app, known as Krowdsafe, leverages the technology to achieve and promote security and safety. Specifically, Krowdsafe enables users to interact directly with security personnel at a public place to report any crimes or security infractions and to enable rapid response. Think of it as “crowdsourcing” security – the app provides more eyes and ears to keep a venue safer. In effect, it enables each of its users to be an extension of the security presence at a venue or event. Krowdsafe improves crowd resilience. “Crowdsourcing” security – the app provides more eyes and ears to keep a venue safer Krowdsafe security app Krowdsafe also opens a channel of communication for the security team to provide ad-hoc security information reminders or messages. Krowdsafe can be used at a variety of venues, including stadiums, transport hubs, office blocks, retail malls, college campus and major events organisers. The app does not access identities, violate privacy, or track the movements of users. Other app users only know the information fellow users disclose. Still, group chats, one-on-one engagement, and other social media interactions can ensue, whether about a favourite football team or the excitement of a rock concert. The system fosters digital engagement that centers around a physical space. Krowdsafe applies those capabilities to promoting better security. Enhancing crowd safety and management The elements of Krowdsafe beat out 67 competitors to win the Defence & Security Accelerator Competition to Innovate Crowd Safety, launched by the UK Home office after terror events in 2017. Key areas of interest in the competition were to improve the detection of threats from explosives and weapons within a range of crowded places with high footfall and so reduce the chance of future attacks. Krowdsafe provides a prioritised, readily accessible and simple way for members of a crowd to communicate with a security team charged with keeping them safe. The £250,000 government award has helped the product move forward commercially at a faster pace. Krowdsafe app does not access identities, violate privacy, or track the movements of users Krowdsafe users can tap a red button, prominent on the Krowd app, that says “Report.” They may then choose from a listing of common threat types – from suspicious activity or unattended activity to medical emergency or fire services. The list is configurable by venue and corresponds to any specific threat models. The list corresponds to the nature of any situation security wants to address, such as “anti-social behavior” at a football club. Users in the crowd can anonymously report racist chanting, for example. In a children’s sporting event, the app can be used to facilitate lost-and-found children. If a child gets lost, a user can share a photo with the security team, who can alert the “public” (other Krowdsafe users) and find the child within minutes or seconds. Encrypted identifier code A user taps the “Report” button, selects an issue, and an alert goes directly to the security team A user taps the “Report” button, selects an issue, and an alert goes directly to the security team, who can respond because they have the encrypted identifier code from which the message came. For that point, the security team communicates one-on-one with the user, who can then choose to share their current location with the security team to facilitate response. (The “legitimate interest” of knowing the location negates any privacy concerns.) Once location is enabled, the security team can follow the precise positioning of threats on a map, using GPS and other technologies, or even on a three-dimensional digital map of a multi-story building. Another security benefit of Krowdsafe is prevention. Event organisers and venue managers can promote the use of Krowdsafe on posters or in announcements throughout the venue. Additional eyes and ears are the equivalent of CCTV coverage on every inch of a venue and use of the system makes the environment more hostile to mischievous, malicious and/or terrorist activity. In effect, bad guys will go somewhere else. Enhancement to Krowd app Krowdsafe is an enhancement to the Krowd app, which has been around for a couple of years and is available in app stores for iOS and Android. The app approximates in the digital world the experience of being a stranger in the crowd in the real world. Users can join a conversation based on their username, and then disclose to the crowd whatever they wish (or not). Event managers/organisers can promote hashtags to help identify others in the crowd (such as #ManUnited to identify fans of the same football team). In general, users can identify themselves (voluntarily) according to common interests using hashtags.  “Krowd is a group chat that connects people together at the same place at the same time in a group, but without anyone having to disclose personal information,” says Geoff Revill, Managing Director, Krowdthink Ltd. “You have a digital presence in the same place with other people at the same time.” Wireless connectivity Users connect initially into the system through WiFi, access to which serves to approximate presence at a venue Users connect initially into the system through WiFi, access to which serves to approximate presence at a venue. Once someone signs in, information about them is merely a grouping of “hash” numbers, which are used to identify them as they communicate with others in the location. However, the “hashing” cannot be hacked to find a user’s location, thus ensuring greater privacy. Because Krowd does not collect personal data (which is a revenue source for most social media companies), the company generates revenue by providing the service to venue owners who wish to interact with and manage a crowd. Data security Location data is considered sensitive under General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), and tracking locations can help to identify where someone lives, works, who they associate with, etc. By not tracking location, Krowd avoids the related privacy issues. After initially signing in on WiFi, Krowd communications can also use 2G, 3G and other cellular networks in addition to WiFi. Addressing privacy concerns is essential to encouraging involvement in the Krowd app, and in Krowdsafe. “If you want people to participate in keeping the crowd safe, you have to get their trust and respect them, that’s a building block behind the behavioral science,” says Revill. By not tracking location, Krowd avoids the related privacy issues Privacy protection Because Krowd users remain anonymous (except for the information they choose to share), user data is not collected (and/or sold or used for future marketing purposes). Krowd’s paying customers are event venues and public places that provide the Krowd service and can promote their commercial messages or provide other information to their populations while on site. Krowdsafe can provide immediate security benefits to a venue. Even if only 25 staff members use the app in a given location, for example, that’s 25 more sets of eyes and ears to help the security department. In a retail mall, if the staffs of 200 tenant businesses use the app, that’s another 500 or so people watching out for security. Among the general public, use of the app can be promoted in customer newsletters, or by posting group discussions on big screens around a venue. Wide marketing scope It enables members of a crowd to report any broken doors, water leaks or blocked toilets Security is a secondary benefit for some Krowd users, who are drawn to the app because of marketing opportunities, such as the ability to provide discounts or promotional offers to customers while they are on site. The app also encourages social media interaction, while maintaining the venue’s ability to “manage” the crowd by moderating any discussions. The Krowd app also provides management benefits to a venue. For example, it enables members of a crowd to report any broken doors, water leaks or blocked toilets. In general, the app helps to promote a better brand experience for the customer. Incident management One of the UK government’s concerns about Krowdsafe was its possible use by terrorists or other to cause incidents in a public venue. Think of the case of Olly Murs, a U.K. singer, whose mistaken tweets about hearing gunshots caused a brief panic at a department store on a busy shopping day. Might Krowd be uses similarly by a terrorist or other evil-doer to cause chaos or a distraction? No, says Revill, who points to a higher level of control over content exchanged in Krowd versus Twitter, for example. The security team can censor content or limit its propagation. They can also disable or block a user from communicating on the app. Messages containing dangerous or troubling content, such as racist terms, can trigger alerts to enable security teams to respond quickly.

Despite any negativity you may hear, Hikvision is optimistic about their role in the U.S. market. “We demonstrate that we can be trusted, and that we should be trusted,” says Jeffrey He, Vice President, Hikvision, and President, Hikvision USA and Hikvision Canada. “We have sound products and technology. Our mission in the security industry is to protect, not to harm. Otherwise why would we be in this industry?” Hikvision is committed to investing in the North American market, where there was ‘positive year-over-year growth’ in 2018 and ‘strong’ sales in Q1 this year, according to Eric Chen, General Manager of Hikvision USA and Hikvision Canada. HikCentral central management software The company’s U.S. focus is shifting from products to solution sales, with emphasis on ‘mid-market’ small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). The largest verticals are retail and education, and there are emerging opportunities in the cannabis market. Launch of the HikCentral central management software (CMS) is a component of the company’s solution-sales approach. Launch of the HikCentral central management software is a component of the company’s solution-sales approachMr. He acknowledges the growth of ‘anti-China sentiment’ in the United States and other parts of the world, which he says will impact Hikvision’s operations globally. Specifically, in the U.S., ‘political’ elements impacting Hikvision’s business include ongoing tariffs and a trade war, Congressional calls for export controls and sanctions, and a provision of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that bans use of Chinese video surveillance products in government applications. Specifying cybersecurity initiatives at ISC West In spite of it all, Hikvision’s message at the recent ISC West show was overwhelmingly positive, and the company also detailed cybersecurity initiatives they say put the Chinese company ahead of many competitors in the industry. Eric Chen came in as General Manager last year; he previously spent a decade working for Hikvision in China. Chen reports solid 18.8% year-over-year growth for Hikvision globally, totalling $7.4 billion last year. He notes the company saw 40% compounded growth between 2010 and 2018. Globally, there are 34,000 employees, 16,000 of whom are research and development (R&D) engineers. Hikvision’s expanding global footprint includes 46 international branches. There are three manufacturing facilities in China, in addition to one in India. HikRewards program for HDP customers At ISC West, Hikvision’s theme was ‘Focus on Your Success’, including introduction of the HikRewards program that provides rebates to HDP (Hikvision Dealer Partner) customers, their core dealer base. A new online Hikvision Knowledge Library for HDPs provides training and reference materials dealers can share with employees. A new tech centre, introduced in December, provides data sheets, product information, and support resources. There is also a North American R&D team headquartered in Montreal. At the industry’s largest U.S. trade show, Hikvision unveiled a brand-new booth with plenty of open space and video walls A customer satisfaction survey launched in March provided good feedback from customers. “They know who to call if they have a problem,” says Chen. “We want to focus on making customers successful.” The success theme also extends to Hikvision employees, who are featured in videos describing their jobs and enthusiasm for Hikvision. There are some 400 employees in the North American operation. At the industry’s largest U.S. trade show, Hikvision unveiled a brand-new booth with plenty of open space and video walls. Half of the booth was focussed on solutions, especially retail and education, and also gaming and commercial real estate. Security products displayed at ISC West A variety of devices, including access control, intercoms and cameras, are integrated using the HikCentral CMS systemProduct highlights at the ISC West booth included the 32-megapixel PanoVu multi-sensor dome camera, whose 180-degree panoramic image was displayed on a 65-inch monitor. A variety of devices, including access control, intercoms and cameras, are integrated using the HikCentral CMS system. Some products new to the North American market, including intercoms, turnstiles, emergency call stations, and under-vehicle inspection, were displayed. Hikvision’s deep learning products are moving into their second generation, including the ability to obscure private information on videos to comply with GDPR/privacy requirements (previewed at ISC West and released later in the year). Algorithm components of Hikvision’s DeepInMind artificial intelligence are being adapted into a platform called AcuSense for value-priced products, which can recognise a human or vehicle and help filter out false alarms. Also being adapted to products with lower price points are the ColorVu system that incorporates visible light LEDs to provide colour images at night, and DarkFighter low-light capabilities. Penetration testing of cameras and NVRs As a global manufacturer, Hikvision faces a high level of scrutiny about cybersecurity, which Mr. Chen says is “a good thing for us,” enabling them to highlight the steps they are taking to improve cybersecurity. Chuck Davis, Director of Cybersecurity, outlined specific milestones Hikvision has achieved in its quest to provide world-class cybersecurity. Chuck Davis, Director of Cybersecurity, outlined specific milestones Hikvision has achieved in its quest to provide world-class cybersecurity In September 2017, Hikvision began working with third parties (including Rapid7) for penetration testing (ethical hacking) of its cameras and recorders. That same month, Hikvision set up a Cybersecurity Hotline open to anyone with questions about cybersecurity, including white-hat hackers and researchers. Even before that, Hikvision had an open-door policy on cybersecurity and a program for patching and disclosing responsibility. In February of 2018, Hikvision released a 40-page Cybersecurity White Paper describing cybersecurity testing and processes built into the software development lifecycle. That same month, Hikvision launched an Opened Source Code Transparency Center and offered an open invitation to anyone wanting to inspect Hikvision’s source code and let them know of any vulnerabilities. FIPS 140-2 certification by NIST Hikvision has also become a Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) Numbering Authority (CNA), which ensures their patching and incident reporting programs have been reviewed by a CNA partnering company. Hikvision's encryption module (HIKSSL) received Level 1 FIPS 140-2 certification to be used in both IP cameras and NVRsIn August, Hikvision received Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS) 140-2 certification, a U.S. government encryption standard created by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Hikvision's encryption module (HIKSSL) received Level 1 FIPS 140-2 certification to be used in both IP cameras and NVR products. Davis said the FIPS 140-2 certification process began before the NDAA ban on use of Hikvision products in the U.S. government, and in any case is a standard that ensures a high level of encryption. “We wanted to make sure we had the same level of technology,” he says. “It was not to win over the government.” Making industry more cybersecure “We are really trying to have third parties test and certify our equipment,” adds Davis. “We are trying to be open and transparent. Education and awareness are key.” “We need the trust of customers in the security community,” says Mr. He. “No matter what, we have to follow the highest standards to offset the concerns and accusations.” In April 2018, Davis became a member of the Security Industry Association (SIA) Cybersecurity Advisory Board to help make the entire industry more cybersecure through education, awareness and standards. Hikvision has also joined the Forum of Incident Response and Security Teams (FIRST at first.org), a global cybersecurity incident response consortium that cooperatively handles computer security incidents and promotes incident prevention programs. Davis has presented Cybersecurity Road Shows in 22 cities in the United States and Canada, and also in Australia and New Zealand. The 90-minute presentations focus on education awareness around cybersecurity and seek to get attendees engaged and aware about cybersecurity in business and also in their homes.

Security companies provide a type of service that tends to go unnoticed except when it’s missed. Small cities and towns are increasingly growing every day mostly due to internal migration and the high prices of rent in Los Angeles county USA. Veteran Los Angeles security services company, Hillquest Security & Patrol plans to meet this growth head-on. For that reason, Hillquest has decided to expand their already wide range of action (which included more than 60 cities by 2018) to all the Orange and Riverside counties. Hillquest’s security mobile patrols Hillquest Security started to provide security guard services in Orange County and Riverside since early 2019 Hillquest Security started to provide security guard services in Orange County and Riverside since early 2019. What was initially a test venture that turned out to be really successful for the company has now became a full-service activity. Furthermore, Hillquest started to offer its full range of security options for businesses and individuals in those areas. Businesses and other entities in the OC and Riverside can now hire Hillquest’s security mobile patrols, bodyguards, security systems, loss prevention and other security services for banks, construction areas, healthcare facilities, hotels, apartment complexes, movie sets, parking lots, schools and event venues. Manned Guarding and security services "We provide security services that are perfectly tailored for our clientele," said John Bouzy, Hillquest Security owner. "Our trained, licensed expert security officers can handle any and all of our customers’ security needs. Moreover, we can do that any time of day as well." According to Hillquest Security & Patrol’s corporate website, the company is insured with a US$ 5 million policy and its officers "meet the standards set by the bureau of security and investigative services."

Universities push traditional access control to its limits. The more one asks of it, the tougher it gets. If one wants to monitor access all over campus. To know who comes and goes to computer rooms and classrooms. One would like to filter access to conference and seminar rooms according to the time — lecturers all day, cleaners and contractors after hours. Meanwhile, one wants students to be safe 24/7, without compromising the sense of freedom they enjoy on campus. Traditional electronic door security Our Aperio wireless locks integrate seamlessly with more than 100 different security systems" Mechanical lock-and-key security cannot do this. Managing keys weighs facilities staff down. Students lose them all the time, and they’re expensive and laborious to replace. The traditional solution — wired doors with card readers — is costly to fit and run. There is an alternative. “Battery-powered electronic locks with inbuilt RFID readers are a cost-effective way to upgrade existing access control and bring it to more doors,” says Lars Angelin, Business Development Manager for Wireless Locks at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions EMEA. “Our Aperio wireless locks integrate seamlessly with more than 100 different security systems. You don’t even need to change your smart-cards. They fit all kinds of doors.” “And because they are battery-powered and wire-free, they’re much more cost-effective to install and run than traditional electronic door security.” It sounds great in theory. But what about the real world? These 5 universities have experienced an impact already. University of Liverpool, England A BREEAM sustainability rating of ‘Excellent’ was reward for innovative architecture that combines aesthetics with environmental awareness. Vine Court’s sustainable features include rainwater harvesting, solar water heating and battery-powered Aperio wireless electronic locks. Unlike wired access control, Aperio wireless locks use little electricity. Catherine Anderson at the University of Liverpool called Vice Court ‘a new and exciting benchmark for the Student Accommodation Sector.’ Lund University Faculty of Law, Sweden Convenience is king: with Aperio wireless locks, security managers block lost cards without traipsing to every door The Law Faculty wanted to replace their access system without asking 50,000 students and staff to return existing smart-cards for reprogramming. Aperio made the process almost invisible from a user perspective. They didn’t even need to revalidate at a reader. Convenience is king: with Aperio wireless locks, security managers block lost cards without traipsing to every door. A Pacom Unison security platform handles everything seamlessly. Facilities staff spends less time on admin and more on security. Aberdeen University, Scotland At Aberdeen’s refurbished Student Village, Aperio online cylinders and certified security locks cover doors requiring different grades of security. Cost efficiencies came at installation stage — no cabling to the doors means no expensive electrical contractors — and will continue through the locks’ operational life. Unlike standard wired access control that requires ‘always-on’ mains electricity, Aperio wireless locks are powered by batteries. These typically need replacing every couple of years — and that’s it for maintenance. HafenCity University Hamburg, Germany Aperio electronic cylinders filter access to the media centre, library, cafeteria and offices A partnership between SIEMENS and ASSA ABLOY provides intelligent, transparent electronic access control at a new docklands hub for the university. Aperio electronic cylinders filter access to the media centre, library, cafeteria, seminar rooms, staff rooms, laboratories and offices. Locking with these wireless RFID devices enables the university to remain an open, welcoming space without sacrificing staff and student safety. University of Birmingham, England Two new accommodation blocks at the university’s Vale Village complex needed locks to integrate seamlessly with a pre-existing campus security system, including Gallagher Command Centre software. Aperio locks now secure almost 1,800 doors with a low-cost solution that eases the key management workload for facilities staff. Everything is controlled from the Gallagher interface. And because Aperio is scalable, they can add new doors and buildings whenever they choose.

Allegion, globally renowned provider of security products and solutions, has announced that the Schlage AD electronic locks, NDE networked wireless locks, LE networked wireless locks and MT multi-technology readers now support contactless student IDs in Apple Wallet. Allegion - CBORD collaboration Allegion worked with CBORD and Apple to enable a mobile credential leveraging the industry global standard NXP DESFire EV1 security technology to provide higher education campuses with an easy-to-implement solution for the enablement of contactless student IDs for iPhone and Apple Watch. The University of Tennessee, University of Vermont and University of San Francisco are among the first schools to leverage the solution. “A recent study from The Center for Generational Kinetics found that 95 percent of Gen Z owns a smartphone and being connected is their norm. Because of this, universities are tasked with meeting student preferences while also ensuring campus security,” said Jeff Koziol, Allegion business development manager, campus software partner. “Allegion is proud to expand its product features to provide higher education campuses seamless yet flexible security solutions, and an improved mobile access experience for students and faculty members alike.” Contactless student IDs Having contactless student IDs in Apple Wallet makes it easier and more convenient for students and faculty to access buildings like residence halls or the library, as well as make payments on and around campus for coffee, laundry and other purchases with iPhone and Apple Watch. Universities can remotely issue credentials over-the-air, and those credentials are protected by two-factor authentication and can be remotely deactivated by the student or university. MIFARE DESFire EV1 technology, supported by Allegion in this program, is the widely accepted open global standard "As an institution that values innovation, it's important to us that we are always adapting to the way students use technology to enhance the campus experience," said Chris Cimino, senior vice chancellor for finance and administration. "Being able to access your VolCard on your iPhone is one of the many ways UT is continuously improving to meet expectations for a modern campus.” MIFARE DESFire EV1 technology MIFARE DESFire EV1 technology, supported by Allegion in this program, is the widely accepted open global standard and one of the top solutions in contactless credentials. By leveraging Allegion and CBORD’s solution with DESFire, higher education campuses are now able to take advantage of an open architecture and work with various manufacturers without being locked into a siloed proprietary solution. This new capability is compatible with the following Schlage commercial solutions: AD electronic locks - Schlage AD-400 wireless locks were designed to reduce installation costs on interior access-controlled doors, such as student rooms, faculty offices, classrooms and lab spaces, while offering the adaptability to support future evolutions in technology. The AD-400 and AD-300 wired locks are available in cylindrical, mortise, mortise deadbolt and exit trim chassis options, and they integrate into popular physical electronic access control systems (PACS). NDE networked wireless cylindrical locks - NDE wireless locks integrate into popular electronic access control systems from PACS providers to bring the benefits of electronic access control deeper into university buildings. NDE packages the cylindrical lock, credential reader and access control sensors together in to a small footprint that is both easy to install on university campuses and affordable. LE networked wireless mortise locks - The LE design packages the mortise lock, credential reader and access control sensors together into a small footprint that is both elegant and affordable. They feature two sleek trim options with broad range of decorative lever choices to match the style of any residence hall. MT Multi-Technology readers - Schlage MT multi-technology readers are designed to simplify university access control solutions and allow a transition from proximity or magnetic stripe (on a physical student ID) to more secure, encrypted smart card technology or mobile credentials in the Apple Wallet. Schlage’s AD Series Locks This extended offering is the next wave in Allegion’s pursuit to work with other providers in the industry for digital credential rollout in universities. Recently, the company announced its collaboration with Transact to enable contactless student IDs in Apple Wallet through Schlage’s AD Series Locks at Mercer University.

HID Global, globally renowned trusted identity solutions provider, has announced support for Seos-enabled student IDs in Apple Wallet. Beginning this fall, students, faculty and staff at Clemson University will be able to add their IDs to Apple Wallet and use their iPhone and Apple Watch to access buildings on campus, purchase meals and much more. Seos-enabled student IDs “HID Global is excited to play an important role in creating transformative connected university experiences that make it easy for students to simply use their iPhone or Apple Watch to enjoy all that daily campus life has to offer,” said Stefan Widing, President and CEO with HID Global. HID’s technology and electronic locks from our parent company ASSA ABLOY are helping Clemson University students" Stefan adds, “HID’s broad range of technology and electronic locks from our parent company ASSA ABLOY are helping Clemson University students, faculty and staff take full advantage of convenient mobility applications. This fall, their Apple devices can be used for everything from entering buildings – such as residence halls and individual rooms – to buying meals, accessing the gym, and using secure print services and numerous other university resources.” iCLASS SE reader modules To support student IDs in Apple Wallet on iPhone and Apple Watch, HID provides Seos-enabled credentials, HID iCLASS SE and HID OMNIKEY readers, embedded HID iCLASS SE reader modules, and Corbin Russwin and SARGENT electronic locks from ASSA ABLOY. Through HID’s support of student IDs in Apple Wallet, Clemson students will be able to seamlessly access residence halls, libraries and fitness centers, buy lunch, make purchases at the university store, print documents and more by placing their iPhone or Apple Watch near a reader where contactless student ID cards are accepted. Contactless student IDs Contactless student IDs are supported on iPhone 6 and later and iPhone SE. On iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR, student IDs may still be used for up to five hours in power reserve mode when the iPhone battery needs to be charged. Student IDs in Apple Wallet are not only convenient, they also provide an extra level of security as students no longer have to worry about misplacing their physical card. School credential provisioning is protected by two factor authentication.

The University of Birmingham educates over 30,000 students, with more than 6,000 doors providing access to student accommodation. Gallagher’s integrated access control solution is responsible for providing operational continuity and creating a safe and secure environment for residents. The University recently completed its new state-of-the-art student accommodation development, Chamberlain, which consists of a 19-storey tower and three low-rise blocks. An essential requirement was an integrated access control system, reducing the need for keys. Timothy Owen, General Manager of Student Accommodation at the University says, “We wanted to move away from using keys as students are prone to losing them and trying to manage thousands of locks and associated keys was a constant administration and financial drain.” In order to minimise the complexity of managing a new system, the University required a solution that integrated with, or was an extension of, their existing campus access control and accommodation management systems. “We need to maintain control over access to our buildings, while ensuring a duty of care to our residents and staff so that they can go about their business as required,” says Timothy. “Fundamentally, we needed a system that gives both us and our resident’s confidence in the security of the accommodation.” Gallagher Command Centre, together with the Aperio wireless locking technology, was selected as the University’s choice Aperio wireless locking technology A large and complex estate with buildings of different construction and age, the University needed a solution that was flexible enough to accommodate their unique requirements. Gallagher Command Centre, together with the Aperio wireless locking technology by ASSA ABLOY Access Control, was selected as the University’s preferred choice, meeting their security needs in a cost effective way while still delivering to the overall specification. Timothy says, “The completion of our new state of the art Chamberlain development was extremely close to the date of the first student arrival, so the team had to be dedicated and work flexibly to ensure it was ready in time – which it was.” Gallagher Command Centre integration The Gallagher Command Centre integration allows for the access key and student ID to be combined into one card, offering a number of benefits to both students and staff. Previously the accommodation arrival process required students to arrive at the University with their contracts and queue up so that a member of staff could sign them in manually and hand them the keys to their accommodation. From there students could head to their room. “Arrivals is always a busy time but with the help of the Gallagher solution we’ve not only improved the student experience but also the administration process,” says Timothy. “Now the student ID and accommodation key is encoded on to one card so it can be posted out in advance and access to the room automatically granted via the accommodation management system. Students no longer need to queue for keys, can get to their rooms instantly, and spend more time enjoying their arrival experience.” Secure, authorised access control The simple act of swiping an access card automatically checks the student in and an attendance report can be instantly generated The simple act of swiping an access card automatically checks the student in and a report can be generated to show who has arrived and who hasn’t, allowing staff to follow up accordingly. If the room is no longer required it can be quickly and easily re-allocated to another student, resulting in improved occupancy rates. Using Gallagher Command Centre together with the University’s accommodation management system allows staff to check on the well-being of students by monitoring the use of their access card. Student security and tracking The University also houses students under the age of 18, and one of the safeguarding requirements is that the University can monitor their whereabouts on a daily basis. Timothy adds, “This can be difficult to achieve with many students to track, but Gallagher Command Centre can easily confirm the time and location of our resident’s last door access, providing peace of mind that students who may be uncontactable are in fact on site.” University staff are also seeing positive improvements since the installation of the new system – particularly at the start of the year. The arrivals process is now less congested and more relaxed. The team have far fewer issues than with physical keys, enabling them to spend more time on the overall student experience. Since the installation of the first 800 bedrooms at Chamberlain, the University has already extended the system by a further 900 at Mason, with plans in place for an additional 1500 bedrooms this summer. Combined access and student ID card “Replacing keys with a combined access and student ID card has reduced our operational costs as we now have far fewer keys to purchase and store,” explains Timothy. “The student experience has improved and staff are now free to deal with urgent matters and offer a more personal service. We can easily create reports to help us audit access and have generally provided a much more modern and secure place to live and work.”

King’s College London, based in the centre of London in UK, is a world-leading university and a founding college of the renowned University of London. One of the oldest universities in England, it was established by King George IV and the Duke of Wellington in 1829, receiving its Royal Charter in the same year. Campus security and access control King’s College London had been using a variety of access control products to control and manage security across its multiple campuses. Its key requirement was a standardised access control system that could operate college-wide and be scaled to include new buildings and establishments. Also, considering the college campus is based in the heart of London, the threat of terrorism and active shooter incidents is a major concern for KCL, especially in more recent times where attacks have taken place extremely close to college buildings and campus. With thousands of students and employees to protect, the need to adopt the latest security features is essential in order for the college to keep all areas secure, in particular student accommodation, high security labs and research facilities. Gallagher access control solution Gallagher’s access control products were easily integrated with King’s College’s existing systems With Gallagher technology already successfully deployed in isolation at the university’s Guy’s and Strand campuses, it made sense to select Gallagher as the access control platform of choice for the entire college. Gallagher’s access control products were easily integrated with King’s College’s existing systems, including staff and student databases, and sources for cardholder information. This included the college’s enterprise Identity Management system, called FIM, which provides daily updates on joiners, movers and leavers to allow accurate decision-making by the security team. Additionally, Gallagher products were integrated to work alongside SITS, the college’s student management system, providing rapid updates of new students so that individual ID cards can be issued once the registration process is complete. Gallagher Mobile Connect app KCL has also invested in new mobile technology, with Gallagher readers that can be accessed via a mobile phone using the Gallagher Mobile Connect app. This will allow students and staff to conveniently access designated areas, control lighting, visitor access, and more. While it is still early days for the college using this technology, the system is adaptable and provides the ability to add features that meet future requirements. The overall benefits of the Gallagher security solution deployed at King’s have proved significant. Nick O’Donnell, Director of Estates and Facilities at King’s College London, says the Gallagher solution “improves service to King’s College’s facility users, especially its students, and reduces the college’s reputational risk by removing technical barriers to comprehensive security management.” Streamlining multiple security systems Streamlining the differing security systems used by individual campuses by introducing a college-wide standardised system has highlighted many additional advantages, including a considerable reduction in costs for training, special projects and operator skills. Gallagher integrations allow extra security features to connect to Gallagher Command Centre Gallagher integrations allow extra security features to connect to Gallagher Command Centre, creating a central administration system that keeps things simple to manage. Integrating with Aperio, for example, ensures doors are locked when people leave the room – providing peace of mind that rooms won’t be accidentally left open over night or during the weekend. Student and staff ID management Gallagher’s proven technology has boosted King’s College’s confidence in its electronic system. When there are alerts, the university’s security services can consult a single system and react quickly. Card holders are also now registered on one system, allowing tighter management of passes. Overall, the college reports fewer system failures, with better decision-making between its numerous estates and libraries, while multi-site students, staff and visitors have experienced easier card management.

The new school year is a good time to reflect on the role of security in protecting our schools. From video to access control to some newer technologies, our Expert Panel Roundtable found plenty to talk about when we asked this week’s question: How does security technology make our schools safer?