Facial recognition systems

The latest report from the Security Industry Association (SIA) reveals that an overwhelming majority of security professionals remain optimistic about the industry’s growth prospects. The July-August 2024 Security Market Index highlights positive conditions for most companies, with integrators pioneering the charge in their bullish outlook. While some concerns linger over economic uncertainties, particularly with recession fears resurfacing, security pioneers foresee continued expansion fueled by new technology and strategic investments.  Industry sentiment remains strong  SIA's report, a bimonthly analysis of security industry sentiment, shows that most pioneers view current business conditions favorably. According to the survey, 74% of respondents rated their business conditions as either "excellent" or "good." Integrators, who are crucial to the security ecosystem, were even more optimistic, with 82% describing conditions positively. This confidence is driven by an expanding array of security solutions, from facial recognition to robotics, that continue to integrate more seamlessly into the broader tech landscape.  Sales growth The industry remains resilient, reflecting the increasing importance of security in today’s volatile world A notable aspect of the report is the sustained confidence across product and service sales. With 72% of respondents expecting sales growth over the next three months, many companies are capitalising on the increasing demand for advanced security solutions. Even amid reports of slower activity in specific sectors such as access control, overall, the industry remains resilient, reflecting the increasing importance of security in today’s volatile world.  Key findings and future projections  Looking ahead, security professionals expect continued growth despite external economic pressures. The report reveals that 73% of survey participants anticipate business conditions to improve in the coming months. Investment in internal modernisation and advanced technologies is a key driver of this growth. One integrator shared plans to improve operational efficiency through the modernisation of internal systems, a trend that appears to resonate across the industry.  Decline in optimism However, not all projections are without caution. For instance, while expectations for growth remain high, the report shows a gradual decline in optimism compared to earlier in 2024.  At the start of 2024, 91% of respondents anticipated sales increases, a figure that has since dropped to 72%. Although this decline signals more cautious optimism, the overall outlook remains positive for security professionals.  Navigating uncertainties and challenges  A recent weak jobs report has renewed fears of an economic downturn, which could stifle growth in sectors While the general outlook is positive, the report highlights several uncertainties that could impact the security industry. Economic factors, particularly the possibility of a recession, remain a concern. A recent weak jobs report has renewed fears of an economic downturn, which could stifle growth in sectors reliant on capital investment and large-scale security infrastructure projects.  Political uncertainties Additionally, political uncertainties, especially the upcoming U.S. election, have left some industry players hesitant to make long-term predictions. As one threat intelligence professional noted, "No way to tell with the pending election." These uncertainties suggest that while the industry’s short-term outlook is positive, the long-term trajectory is subject to the broader economic and political climate.  Preparing for future trends  Despite the challenges, security professionals are optimistic about the future. With the ongoing adoption of new technologies and the integration of security solutions into the tech ecosystem, the industry is well-positioned for growth. Increasing demand for advanced solutions like facial recognition, robotics, and ballistic protection indicates that innovation will continue to drive the market.  Increase spending in key areas 42% of respondents plan to invest more in marketing, 41% in research and development Additionally, companies are expected to maintain or even increase spending in key areas. The report shows that 42% of respondents plan to invest more in marketing, 41% in research and development, and 30% in capital expenditures over the next quarter. These investments will help companies stay competitive and capture new opportunities as the security landscape evolves.  Optimism with a cautious eye on the horizon  The SIA’s July-August 2024 report paints a picture of a robust and optimistic security industry. With integrators pioneering the way and new technology driving growth, most companies anticipate better conditions in the months ahead. However, economic and political uncertainties cast a shadow over long-term predictions. For security professionals, the key to navigating the future will be to balance optimism with preparedness, ensuring their businesses remain resilient in the face of potential challenges.

RecFaces, a pioneering provider of advanced facial biometric software, is excited to announce its upcoming business trip to India from August 20 to September 21, 2024. Partnering with Startologic Technologies, RecFaces will be presenting its innovative solutions at the Fire & Security India Expo (FSIE) in Mumbai from August 22 to 24, Booth No. B-26, P8.  At FSIE, RecFaces will showcase their sought-after flagship products based on facial recognition technology, Id-Guard and Id-Gate. These products are designed to complement existing access control and video management systems, offering quick and reliable identification through the use of sophisticated algorithms that provide highly accurate facial recognition. Integrated with security systems  RecFaces is looking forward to forum with end users and fostering innovation within Indian security RecFaces’ solutions can be easily integrated with existing security systems and infrastructure, bolstering overall security without significant changes. This visit is a very touching moment for RecFaces, as it is happening for the first time in close cooperation with Startologic. It aims to strengthen existing collaboration as well as develop partnerships with other technology affiliates and system integrators. RecFaces is looking forward to meeting with end users and fostering innovation within the Indian security landscape. "We are thrilled to participate in FSIE Mumbai along with our partners from Startologic to demonstrate our cutting-edge facial recognition technology and fortify our technical footprint through focused knowledge-sharing sessions across India," says Oleg Kurochkin, Business Development Director, APAC region, RecFaces. Advanced security solutions Shashi Kumar Yadav, Chief Executive Officer of Startologic Technologies, adds: "FSIE Mumbai is a great opportunity for us to demonstrate our portfolio of advanced security solutions. Our goal is to simplify complex security challenges and enhance operational efficiency. We look forward to sharing our expertise and collaborating with industry professionals.” RecFaces is set to embark on an exciting journey across various cities in India during their business visit, leveraging an opportunity for personalised meetings with industry colleagues aiming to establish new contacts and explore potential fruitful collaborations. The team will be available for meetings in: Mumbai (August 20-31) Bengaluru (September 1-8) New Delhi (September 09-21).

Matrix, a pioneer in advanced security and telecom solutions, is pleased to announce its participation in FSIE 2024, taking place from August 22nd to 24th at the Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai. This prestigious event will serve as a platform for Matrix to showcase its innovative solutions in IP Video Surveillance, Access Control, Time-Attendance, and Telecom technologies.  Transforming security and communication Ruggedised IP Camera At FSIE 2024, Matrix will showcase its comprehensive security portfolio, tailored to address the varied requirements of enterprises. Matrix will present its newly launched Ruggedised IP Camera, engineered to meet EN50155 standards, making it ideal for challenging environments like roadways and railways. These cameras offer superior video quality, exceptional low-light performance, and versatile monitoring capabilities, including capturing images from fast-moving vehicles.  Cybersecurity features The showcase will feature a range of Network Video Recorders and Server-grade Enterprise NVRs In addition, Matrix will display its Project Series and Professional Series Bullet and Dome Cameras, known for their advanced cybersecurity features compliant with OWASP ASVS 4.0 L2 standards, certified by STQC, Delhi. The showcase will also feature a range of Network Video Recorders and Server-grade Enterprise NVRs with integrated VMS.  Access Control and Time-Attendance solutions Matrix’s Access Control and Time-Attendance solutions offer an integrated approach to managing physical security and workforce operations, ensuring precise time-keeping and access management. At FSIE 2024, Matrix will present its GDPR-compliant Access Control and Time-Attendance solutions, with a key highlight being the newly introduced WhatsApp integration, enabling users to receive real-time alerts and notifications.  COSEC ARGO FACE200T Matrix will introduce its cutting-edge facial recognition time-attendance terminal, the COSEC ARGO FACE200T Matrix will also introduce its cutting-edge facial recognition time-attendance terminal, the COSEC ARGO FACE200T, celebrated for its outstanding accuracy, rapid identification speed, and large user capacity. This advanced device offers seamless connectivity options, including PoE and Ethernet.  Enterprise-grade telecom solutions Matrix, a seasoned pioneer in the telecom industry, will showcase its latest Telecom Solutions at the expo. The suite of IP-PBX systems, Unified Communication servers, and VoIP gateways is crafted to optimise business communication and boost operational efficiency. As businesses evolve, Matrix’s telecom solutions are designed to support scalability, delivering a reliable, robust, and high-quality communication infrastructure.  Strengthening market presence in Mumbai Matrix has made notable progress in expanding its market presence in Mumbai and its neighboring areas. Its dedication to providing high-quality, reliable, and scalable solutions has helped it build a growing customer base in this dynamic city. FSIE 2024 offers a prime opportunity for Matrix to connect with industry stakeholders, showcase an extensive range of solutions, and solidify a position in and around the financial capital of India.  Addressing the organisation's needs He views the event as a prime opportunity to present Matrix’s innovative security solutions Kaushal Kadakia, Marketing Head at Matrix Comsec, is excited about FSIE. He views the event as a prime opportunity to present Matrix’s innovative security solutions to industry pioneers, project managers, and consultants. The goal is to gain insights into their specific needs and show how Matrix’s products can effectively address the requirements of their organisations.  Visit FSIE 2024  Matrix warmly invites all attendees to visit them at booth A28, located at the Jio World Convention Centre, to explore the latest innovations in security and telecom solutions.  Their team of experts will be available for live demonstrations, to address any questions, and to discuss how solutions can be customised to meet specific business needs.

The Security Industry Association (SIA) has expanded the SIA Identity and Biometric Technology Advisory Board (IBTAB) to include the group formerly known as the SIA Facial Recognition Working Group and all its members and has appointed Austin Park, director of technology at NEC National Security Systems (NEC NSS), to serve as the advisory board’s new chair. SIA IBTAB The SIA IBTAB – an exclusive advisory panel to the SIA Board of Directors – promotes the advancement and adoption of innovative biometric and digital identification solutions to secure critical assets, protect individual identity, safeguard proprietary data, and enhance consumer experience.  IBTAB is comprised of biometric and digital identification experts who guide SIA’s engagement with operators of critical infrastructure both in private and public sectors. Biometric and digital identification IBTAB members are prepared to work with policymakers and decision-makers interested The advisory board’s technical expertise focuses on the operational and scalable features embedded within advanced biometric and digital identification solutions, and IBTAB members are prepared to work with policymakers and decision-makers interested in understanding such solutions. “I am honoured to be named chair of the SIA Identity and Biometric Technology Advisory Board. In an era where the security and integrity of identity are critical, the role of biometric and digital identity solutions has never been more critical,” said Park. Secure assets and protect privacy "Along with the entire board, I am committed to advancing our mission of promoting innovative and ethical solutions that secure critical assets, protect privacy, and enhance consumer experiences." “I understand the collective power of collaboration and look forward to engaging with both private and public sector pioneers to uphold and strengthen the standards in our industry.” Austin Park Park is a seasoned technology executive with over 25 years of experience in engineering advanced digital identity, biometric, and artificial intelligence solutions. As a head of technology at NEC NSS, he is instrumental in driving the innovation and integration of cutting-edge technologies, including digital identity, biometrics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and analytics.  Identity management and video analytics Park plays a pivotal role in providing public safety solutions to global law enforcement, border management In his role, Park collaborates closely with NEC’s core technology divisions to establish strategic roadmaps and spearhead the development, testing, and deployment of next-generation technologies tailored for federal clients and is a key architect in designing and implementing large-scale identity management, intelligence, and forensic recognition systems. Under Park’s leadership, NEC NSS has successfully delivered advanced biometric solutions, video analytics, and security solutions to numerous federal agencies and also extends to the international arena, where Park plays a pivotal role in providing public safety solutions to global law enforcement, border management, and security agencies. Educational background He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Virginia, served in the ISO/IEC JTC1/SC37 Working Group, and has been serving on the SIA IBTAB, as well as the International Biometrics + Identity Association’s management committee. “SIA is pleased to present the newly expanded SIA Identity and Biometric Advisory Board and honoured to welcome Austin Park as its new chair,” said SIA CEO Don Erickson.  Biometrics and advanced identification technologies “Austin’s deep knowledge of technology, identity, and biometrics, experience as a sought-after expert and advisor, and a strong history of innovation and success in this field." "This will be extremely valuable as he leads the advisory board’s efforts to educate on and advocate for the benefits and effective use of biometrics and advanced identification technologies before federal and state government officials, media, and channel partners, and we look forward to the advisory board’s initiatives, events and offerings to come.” SIA IBTAB's efforts and accomplishments It also involves hosting a series of roundtable discussions; presenting informative sessions at the SIA GovSummit The SIA Identity and Biometric Technology Advisory Board’s primary efforts and accomplishments include actively participating in and providing input on federal and state legislation, including congressional testimony and input on numerous state bills; publishing resources on facial recognition technology and other key identity and biometric topics. It also involves hosting a series of roundtable discussions; presenting informative sessions at the SIA GovSummit and ISC Security Events conferences; providing educational resources on biometrics and facial recognition; and supporting the SIA Women in Biometrics Awards programme. Identity and Biometrics Symposium On Aug. 22, 2024, IBTAB – along with the SIA National Capital Region Security Forum – is organising the Identity and Biometrics Symposium. This event in the Washington, D.C., area features experts from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Transportation Security Administration exploring key issues in biometrics.  Identity Week On Sept. 11, IBTAB will present Bourbon and Biometrics, a high-proof experience taking place in Washington, D.C., during Identity Week. This free social event is for those attending Identity Week, as well as local government staff and those working in the local identity, biometric, and security communities.  Additionally, in the fall the advisory board will present a webinar about the National Institute of Standards and Technology and its biometric benchmarks.

Matrix is thrilled to announce its presence at MahaSecure Tech Expo 2024, set for August 22nd-24th at Siddhi Banquets, Erandwane, Pune. As a pioneer in security and telecom solutions, Matrix will have the prime opportunity to showcase its state-of-the-art IP Video Surveillance, Access Control, Time-Attendance, and Telecom Solutions at this prestigious event. Matrix is going to showcase its diversified security portfolio at MahaSecure Tech Expo 2024, especially conceptualised to cater to the diversified demands of modern-day enterprises. Rigid cybersecurity features One of the main attractions would be the newly launched Ruggedised IP Camera, fully compliant with EN50155 standards, thereby, making them perfect for even the most challenging applications like roadways and railways. These cameras incorporate excellence in video quality and extraordinary performance in darkness and are thus endowed with a range of monitoring requirements, from crisp images of moving vehicles to photographs. Matrix will further display its Project Series and Professional Series Bullet and Dome Cameras. The company stands strong with regards to its rigid cybersecurity features as per OWASP ASVS 4.0 L2 standards, verified by STQC, Delhi. The complementing products to these would be the Network Video Recorders and Enterprise-grade Network Video Recorders of Matrix, accompanied by an integrated Video Management System. It has engendered the trust and admiration of customers representing the entire spectrum of industries. Unified access control and time-attendance solutions The key attraction will be the facial recognition time-attendance terminal, COSEC ARGO FACE200T Access control and time-attendance solutions enable single-umbrella management both in physical access and accurate time-keeping for workforce management. Matrix's access control and time-attendance provide a well-knit solution for physical access management and accurate workforce management. The key products include a GDPR-compliant system and the most recent feature of WhatsApp integration, enabling real-time alerts and notifications. The key attraction will be the facial recognition time-attendance terminal, COSEC ARGO FACE200T. It has been launched promising the distinction of being highly accurate, fast in identification, and with a very large user capacity. This terminal also supports seamless connectivity options, such as power over ethernet and ethernet. Advanced telecom solutions With several decades of rich experience in the telecommunications industry, Matrix will launch state-of-the-art Telecom Solutions that increase business communications and operational efficiency. This lineup of products includes IP-PBX, Unified Communication servers, and VoIP gateways that support scalability, providing a reliable and robust communication infrastructure that holds the key to any modern enterprise. Expanding market presence in Pune Matrix has always increased its market presence across Pune and nearby areas Matrix has been consistently increasing its market presence across Pune and nearby areas. The steadily growing number of customers for the solutions in this vibrant city is an outcome of the adherence to high-quality, reliable and scalable solutions. Therefore, MahaSecure Tech Expo 2024 is an excellent opportunity for Matrix to further increase the engagement with the stakeholders of the industry, showcase the complete solution portfolio, and further strengthen the foothold in the Western Indian market. Visit at MahaSecure Tech Expo 2024 Kaushal Kadakia, Marketing Head - Matrix Comsec, states: "We are very excited to have such an event wherein we will be able to showcase features and applications of our latest products to key personnel from various industries. We shall provide insights into how our solutions can really help enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of security and communication systems." Matrix invites all to visit booth: B2, Siddhi Banquets, Erandwane, Pune, in order to have a look at the latest innovative security and telecom solutions. The expert team will be demonstrating live and answering queries on how the solutions could be tailored to meet specific business requirements.

To further develop effective and customised solutions for Seek Scan™, one of the most affordable thermal temperature screening solutions meeting FDA guidelines during the COVID-19 public health emergency, Seek Thermal announced it has made APIs available for access control, VMS and other integrated network capabilities. The Seek Scan thermal imaging system (MSRP 1,995) is specifically designed and calibrated to quickly automate body temperature screening using skin temperature as a proxy, while enabling social distancing protocols. In a few seconds, the system automatically detects a face for measurement and displays an alert if the readings are warmer than the customisable alarm temperature. The thermal scanning system follows FDA guidelines by meeting the accuracy specification, including a reference heat source (black body), and by being made for single-person screening at a fixed distance. New API capabilities New API abilities allow Seek Scan to be free anywhere on a network, enabling access control systems The new API capabilities allow Seek Scan to be accessible anywhere on a network, enabling access control systems, video management systems, integrators, and business owners to manage and access their Seek Scan systems and solutions. Now, integrators can implement Seek Scan temperature screening to send alarm events, trigger access control and video management systems as well as pull and present historical data to integrate multiple Seek Scan units into one enterprise solution. Specific integrated functionality could include: Accessing entry doors following scans Triggering access control and video management systems Allowing custom-designed solutions utilising Seek Scan hardware Sending pass/fail scan messages and alarm events Flagging video when a scan occurs New and expanded integration capabilities “The demand for temperature screening and integrated API solutions has been growing rapidly,” said Mike Muench, CEO and President of Seek Thermal. “As businesses, institutions and organisations seek to provide safer environments in an increasingly uncertain time, we recognise the needs of our customers don’t stop with the contactless screening technology itself - the new and expanded integration capabilities of Seek Scan offer additional control, convenience and confidence.” JSON-based APIs Whether the desire is to unlock a door with a temperature scan, capture an image or flag a video when a scan occurs, or send email alerts, Seek Thermal has made it easy for integrators to connect temperature screening to their network using its JSON-based APIs to do all that and more. With Seek Scan, the company has developed customer relationships with a diverse group of pioneering organisations, including manufacturers, government institutions, hospitals and medical facilities, office buildings, hotels and hospitality providers, schools and universities, first responders and professional sports organisations. Seek Thermal will continue to release features, capabilities and protocols to enhance its API offering.

The European Union’s GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) framework represents some of the toughest and most secure privacy laws in the world. Their creation signaled the EU’s dedication to individual privacy rights and generated new standards and requirements for an organisation inside or outside of the EU wanting to do business in the region. This privacy stance raises an interesting question: to what extent (if any) will France be utilising AI-assisted security and biometrics - at the upcoming Paris Summer Olympic Games?  AI-assisted security systems As France prepares to host this global event, certain AI-assisted security systems like algorithmic video monitoring have been tested and are planned to be in use. The country also passed a law with a legal framework for addressing provisions of hosting the Games in their country, Law No. 2023-380. These technologies will support the police and security efforts to detect sudden crowd movements, irregular vehicle, and pedestrian movements, abandoned objects, people lying on the ground, and more, any of which could indicate an attack. Local connectivity One recent French poll found that an overwhelming number of respondents support the use of smart cameras Such technologies, which can be connected directly to localised command centers and police departments, provide an opportunity to prevent deadly incidents like the bombing at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, GA. There are signs that citizens of the EU are becoming more receptive to such measures, with one recent French poll finding that an overwhelming number of respondents (89 percent) support the use of smart cameras in stadiums for this purpose.  Biometric technology The general public and private use of biometric technology (face matching, face liveness, and other biometric modalities), on the other hand, continues to run into challenges with adoption in this privacy-focused region. For the most part, laws ban facial recognition, permitting its use only once someone has been convicted or is suspected of having committed a serious crime. Limitations of video surveillance Limiting the utility of biometrics to only video surveillance for an event of the Paris Olympics’ magnitude is not the best approach. The ability to quickly identify or de-identify possible suspects from regular attendees greatly strengthens the activities of the police and helps protect the rights of regular attendees. Consider the example of New York City detectives using facial recognition to identify a man who, in 2019, left a pair of potential bombs in the Fulton Street subway station. Benefits of facial recognition technology Many believe that the use of facial recognition could have expedited and solved the Boston Marathon bombing tragedy With facial recognition technology, it took only one hour to identify the suspect - a process that previously would have taken several hours or even days, leaving the possibility of further damage unresolved. Citing yet another example, many believe that the use of facial recognition could have expedited and solved the Boston Marathon bombing tragedy much sooner and more efficiently, aiding investigators who reportedly had to sift through 120,000 photos and nearly 13,000 videos before identifying the perpetrator. Need for real-time video With an estimated 16 million visitors expected to descend upon France for the Games - and an environment that is harder to protect from bad actors - is limiting the use of biometrics to video surveillance the most effective? In our minds, in certain high-urgency cases, such as tracking kidnapping cases or possible terrorism activity, it should be permissible for facial recognition to be applied to recorded video in real-time and without delay. Public safety Beyond this obvious good that biometrics can bring from a public safety perspective, there are other ways that biometrics can be woven into the fabric of the Summer Olympics to support a faster, more enjoyable experience for all. Consider queue management. In a few weeks, an estimated 2.3 to 3.1 million ticket holders will form lines to access Olympic events. Fingerprint scanning technology People could pass through lines in mere fractions of a second, versus having to fumble for a paper ticket If fingerprints were captured at the point of ticket purchase and fingerprint scanning technologies made available on-site, people could pass through lines in mere fractions of a second, versus having to fumble for a paper ticket that may be torn or damaged, or an e-ticket on a phone with a dead battery. This would speed up the processing of queues tremendously.  Olympics-focused gambling activity Another area where biometrics can be beneficial is in Olympics-focused gambling activity, which is expected to gain steam as the Games get underway. Biometrics can be used to match facial images with legal documentation for age verification, and then combined with geofencing to ensure gambling participants are of legal age, depending on where they are physically based. Biometrics also makes it possible to identify, beyond the shadow of a doubt, all of the activities of particular individuals, which can help track nefarious activities like money laundering.  Evolution of privacy and security We believe biometrics can be a force for major good in our society and around various facets of the upcoming Paris Olympics, most notably public safety. It will be interesting to watch both the 2024 Summer Olympics and the ongoing evolution of privacy and security laws and practices in France and the European Union.

Misconceptions about AI and analytics in video security are common due to the rapid evolution of the technology and varying levels of understanding. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and analytics are increasingly used as interchangeable terms when discussing video security cameras. AI v/s analytics While there is some overlap, it is important to articulate the differences between them when speaking to stakeholders or customers. As the myriad types of AI gain more prominence in the global dialogue and privacy concerns are increasingly raised, security professionals need to take extra care to educate executives and management in any organisation so that they can, in turn, represent the company's use of AI tools accurately. AI and analytics in video security Security cameras use subsets of AI, namely machine learning and deep learning, to recognise and classify objects The intent of this article is not to do an academic deep-dive on either AI or analytics, but instead to position each discipline as it relates to modern AI-based video security. The goal is to educate operations and management about the use of AI in video surveillance to support informed decision-making across the organisation. It’s worth mentioning that while AI is often used as a catch-all term, security cameras use subsets of AI, namely machine learning and deep learning, to recognise and classify objects.  Misconceptions Here are four common misconceptions about AI and analytics:  Misconception #1: AI and analytics are the same  People often confuse AI with analytics, but they're distinct. AI is used in the video industry to enhance analytics and analysis capabilities. The technique involves the use of the machine and deep learning algorithms to recognise or classify known objects like a person or vehicle. AI can further detect unique attributes of objects such as the colour of clothing, or additional objects that are carried or worn such as backpacks or glasses. Object detection  The processes overlap somewhat when AI is also used to enhance the analysis of complex behaviours Analytics, on the other hand, refers to the process of analysing what the detected object is doing. The processes overlap somewhat when AI is also used to enhance the analysis of complex behaviours. Is a vehicle traveling left or right in the camera’s field of view, possibly going the wrong way down a one-way street? Did it enter a restricted zone? Should a car arrive in this area at 3 a.m.? These are basic binary (yes/no) analytic tasks. Ascertaining whether two people are fighting or if someone is shoplifting is a more nuanced analysis that requires a sophisticated AI algorithm capable of considering multiple data points before alerting staff to suspicious behaviour.​ Addressing false positives with AI-assisted analytics ​Before AI-based object detection, analytics were prone to false positives any time the lighting changed (a passing cloud could change the pixels). Working together, AI and analytics have largely solved the issue of false positives for the objects they recognise. On a properly installed camera, AI-assisted analytics can issue proactive alerts or search through hours of footage for humans or vehicles with specific attributes incredibly quickly. AI adds classification and behaviour information to raise the overall accuracy of analytics and analysis. AI can also be used to enhance image quality in cameras, so there are many other ways it can be utilised.  Misconception #2:  AI can operate autonomously and replace security personnel  AI coupled with analytics can help operators monitor an increasingly larger number of cameras for anomalies and events While AI can enhance surveillance and response, the nuanced understanding and decision-making capabilities of humans are still crucial in most scenarios. AI coupled with analytics can help operators monitor an increasingly larger number of cameras for anomalies and events that may warrant attention, but the decision on how to act still firmly rests with the operator. This increasingly ‘intelligent’ assistant represented by AI helps security teams focus on what matters in an increasingly complex world, but it’s a team effort. And while AI’s capability to operate autonomously will surely improve, it’s hard to imagine a world in which it would be wise to let it make important decisions without human oversight.  Misconception #3: AI-based security cameras are invading the privacy Safeguarding personally identifiable information (PII) is a critical responsibility of any organisation. Because of the prevalence of data breaches, everyone is keenly aware of the risks of PII ending up in the wrong hands. For video security systems, it’s essential to realise that the descriptive metadata an AI-based camera captures is composed of anonymous data about the humans it detects.  Attributes such as the colour of clothing and whether a person is carrying a backpack or wearing a hat are certainly not sufficient to identify anyone personally. And while there may be grey areas with some AI systems that attempt to classify gender and age, they are still not identifying a specific person. Facial recognition Facial recognition is a specific, focused function, and while it might be improved with some AI-based techniques Most importantly, AI does not equal facial recognition. Facial recognition is a specific, focused function, and while it might be improved with some AI-based techniques, facial recognition has had its separate evolution distinct from AI. Facial recognition has privacy implications, while most AI implementations do not.  AI-based detection Additionally, AI-based detection of humans and vehicles typically happens “on the edge”, processed within the camera itself, while facial recognition almost always requires a separate VMS/server application and database to function. So, AI-based cameras don’t, by themselves, do facial recognition.  Misconception #4: AI can learn anything on its own  AI-based algorithms are only as good as the training they’ve received While AI can significantly enhance video surveillance capabilities, the machine and deep learning algorithms are not infallible. They require human oversight to manage false positives and interpret complex situations. AI-based algorithms are only as good as the training they’ve received. For example, human and vehicle detection algorithms have been carefully trained by R&D departments in laboratory settings with hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of representative images. This is why they can be very accurate when installed correctly. AI ‘on-site learning’ cameras For AI-based systems to truly learn to recognise something, they must also be informed when they get something wrong. This type of training usually occurs under the supervision of experienced AI developers. Recently, new AI ‘on-site learning’ cameras have become available. These can be trained by operators to recognise unique, customisable objects such as forklifts, shopping carts, airplanes, logos on vehicles, or any object an organisation might want to track or count. These systems must also be trained to be accurate. Intelligent training application AI on-site learning is also a great way to increase overall accuracy in any setting prone to false positives A typical on-site training challenge would be to capture an object in every lighting condition. To overcome this, forward-thinking vendors include an intelligent training application that automatically generates additional images across a range of luminance values, saving operators substantial time and effort while increasing accuracy. AI on-site learning is also a great way to increase overall accuracy in any setting prone to false positives.  Conclusion  Understanding these misconceptions is crucial for making informed decisions when implementing AI and analytics in video security systems and gaining consensus from stakeholders. As AI becomes ubiquitous across industries, it has the potential to lose its true meaning, particularly because we are only scratching the surface with machine and deep learning applications.  AI’s current capabilities and limitations Most importantly, we have to help educate all of our constituents that AI and analytics are not the same It’s also important to recognise that general (or strong) ‘AI’ does not yet exist. This is the ability of a machine to do any intellectual task a human can do. However, the marketing ship has long since sailed, so the best we can do is stay informed about AI’s current capabilities and limitations. Most importantly, we have to help educate all of our constituents that AI and analytics are not the same. AI does not equal facial recognition. Nor does it replace the need for human oversight. AI-based technology AI is a long way from non-structured, comprehensive learning and decision-making in a way humans would describe as ‘intelligent.’ With those caveats in place, the current AI-based technology functions as a fantastic assistant for security teams helping them to better protect people and property. 

With the rise of organised retail crime (ORC) making headlines, retailers are grappling with the dual challenge of safeguarding both their staff and store assets, while addressing the economic pressures that impact profitability and consumer demand.  RFID technology The key lies in identifying effective solutions to counter the current surge in ORC, enabling retailers to secure their vulnerable staff and protect inventory for paying customers. Technology plays a crucial role in supporting brands on this mission, with RFID technology continuing to be a valuable solution. It aids retailers in gaining better control over retail crime, leveraging inventory data.  The ongoing surge in retail crime  Inflation has elevated the challenges around affording items, prompting criminals to target the retail sector Seen as a global issue, the British Retail Consortium recently reported that incidents of theft have increased by 27% across 10 of the largest cities in the UK, with some cities reporting up to a 68% increase. In the US, retailer Target reported an inventory loss of $500 million for 2023, amounting to a 100-basis point hit to gross margins in 2023. The current surge in theft is not attributed to a singular cause. Inflation has elevated the challenges around affording items, prompting criminals to target the retail sector. Lack of preventive measures A significant contributing factor is the lack of sufficient preventive measures by law enforcement, which in some cases has led to a rise in more severe incidents. However, the implementation of technologies like RFID allows retailers to efficiently build cases against criminals, putting them in a stronger position when it comes to reporting thefts.  Not all retail crimes are orchestrated by large entities or executed through sophisticated methods. Some stores have seen a reduction in staff numbers and, as a result, there are fewer people on the shop floor, making it easier for shoplifters to carry out their activities unnoticed. The true impact of retail crime  Over 70% of retailers believed the threat of ORC had increased over the past five years, according to a recent survey The impact of retail crime on businesses extends beyond financial and economic consequences; it has also led to a surge in violence against retail staff, an ongoing trend elevated by the pandemic. Over 70% of retailers believed the threat of ORC had increased over the past five years, according to a recent survey conducted by the National Retail Federation. This escalation in violence not only results in immediate repercussions but also contributes to long-term mental health issues for staff, fostering an atmosphere of insecurity that has compelled some retailers to close their physical stores. Policy implementation Given the challenge of staff retention across various businesses, addressing retail crime becomes an even more urgent matter. Additionally, retailers are wary of their employees facing potential danger and the prospect of legal action. Consequently, many have implemented policies prohibiting employees from actively intervening when confronted with shoplifters.  Privacy concerns with facial recognition Retail crime also affects customers, as businesses seek to offset losses by raising prices Retail crime also affects customers, as businesses seek to offset losses by raising prices, further burdening financially strained consumers. The presence of visible security systems not only makes stores more hostile but also diminishes the overall customer experience. While facial recognition technology is considered a potential solution, privacy concerns have emerged in its various applications.  Today’s problems, yesterday’s solutions Retailers are resorting to historic measures such as steel cables, physical monitoring, or plastic screens to resolve customer issues. However, the reality is that these solutions are unfit for solving the problem, causing friction for both customers and staff.  Digital solutions The newer approach involves equipping retail staff with body cams and providing new training The newer approach involves equipping retail staff with body cams and providing new training to deter shoplifters. Some stores are even offering the police discounted food and beverages to encourage their presence.  The responsibility lies with management teams to seek effective solutions. In an era dominated by data and technology, retailers must shift their focus from traditional security methods to digital solutions that align with the challenges of today’s society and modern retail environments.  Shrinkage When discussing theft or organised retail crime, retailers commonly use the term "shrinkage," referring to not only theft but the broader issue of lost inventory. Additional drivers of shrinkage include damage, fraud, and internal theft.  A significant problem arises as losses are often based on guesswork and estimates rather than concrete numbers. Retailers may lack a comprehensive understanding of their inventories, further increasing the issue of shrinkage.  Combating shrinkage  Utilising RFID technology notably helps in boosting inventory accuracy Some retailers still struggle with limited knowledge of the whereabouts of items, a challenge heightened by the issue of shrinkage. Utilising RFID technology notably helps in boosting inventory accuracy. This enhancement enables retailers to obtain a clearer understanding of their inventory and the precise locations of items.  Comprehensive strategy Changes in the in-store experience have highlighted the relevance of RFID, especially as self-service checkouts encounter double the shrinkage levels compared to traditional checkout stores.  To combat retail theft effectively, a comprehensive strategy should involve the integration of labels, deactivation, electronic article surveillance, and data analytics. This combination works synergistically to reduce shrinkage and enhance product availability.  Retail data analytics platforms RFID data can swiftly alert nearby stores, providing an opportunity for staff to monitor shop floors Linking hardware to an underlying data analytics platform empowers retailers to make more informed decisions. Retail data analytics platforms delve into alarms, deactivations, and visitor metrics, providing a deeper understanding of theft patterns.  RFID technology drives efficiency by pinpointing frequently stolen items, allowing for the identification of theft patterns. In instances of flash mobs in major metropolitan areas, RFID data can swiftly alert nearby stores, providing an opportunity for staff to monitor shop floors and incoming customers. Real-time optimisation  The crucial question remains whether both shoppers and retailers are prepared to shoulder the responsibility for these additional precautions. Nevertheless, these changes leverage data more effectively, optimising loss prevention strategies almost in real-time rather than relying on biannual inventory counts, therefore transitioning from static to dynamic loss prevention.  Holistic approach Striking a balance between security measures and providing a seamless shopping experience is key In a retail environment, not all items require protection, and prioritising the safeguarding of the most frequently stolen and valuable items can significantly impact shrinkage.  A holistic approach to retail theft is imperative, considering the entire journey of an item through the retail environment. Striking a balance between security measures and providing a seamless shopping experience is key.  Protection without hindrance  As stores move towards being checkout-free, retail criminals (or ORC gangs) will be presented with lucrative opportunities to steal, so retailers need to be one step ahead by introducing unobtrusive and effective technology solutions. For example, case building can be improved with item-level data.  RFID data offers a more precise means of assessing the value of stolen items compared to relying solely on CCTV. It provides detailed insights into the specific items removed from the store and the timing of these incidents. This proves beneficial in tracking repeat offenders.  Increased visibility with a proactive approach The modern retail environment continues to evolve and criminals are never far behind. RFID technology plays a crucial role in minimising shrinkage by enhancing inventory visibility. Moreover, it leverages the power of data to stay ahead, enabling better predictions of retail crime and the formulation of prevention strategies. This proactive approach allows for the implementation of more tailored solutions to alter outcomes positively.

ISC West 2024 mirrored a vibrant industry on the precipice of accelerated change. Factors such as the cloud, artificial intelligence (AI), edge computing, and biometrics are shaping the future of the security marketplace, and they were front-and-centre at the industry’s biggest U.S. show in Las Vegas.  Foot traffic was steady and impressive, including more than 29,000 security industry professionals viewing 750 exhibitors. A torrent of eager attendees crowded the lobby on the first day and could not wait for the doors to open. When they were admitted, the wealth of technological innovation and business opportunity did not disappoint. Focus on cloud systems Cloud systems were high-profile at ISC West. Camera manufacturer Axis, for example, introduced their Axis Cloud Connect at a press conference. Meanwhile, Genetec officially launched their Security Centre SaaS platform, which aims at eliminating points of friction to enable integrators to easily embrace cloud systems from quoting and ordering to provisioning and installing.  Camera manufacturer Axis, for example, introduced their Axis Cloud Connect at a press conference Cloud provider Eagle Eye Networks promoted their new “Eagle Eye 911 Camera Sharing” technology under which both non-Eagle Eye Cloud VMS customers (via Eagle Eye 911 Public Safety Camera Sharing) and Eagle Eye customers can opt to share their video feeds for use by 911 operators in case of emergency. If users opt-in, 911 operators can have access to live video as an emergency unfolds. Eagle Eye Networks provides the feature by integrating with RapidSOS call centre software. Camera locations are based on geolocation coordinates, and customers can choose if they want to participate and which cameras they want to share. Biometrics in the mainstream Biometrics were well represented at ISC West, including Alcatraz AI, which introduced an outdoor version of their biometric face recognition product. The Rock X works well despite harsh lighting. Alcatraz’s products do not have to be integrated, they communicate just like a card reader using OSDP or Wiegand protocol. “At the show, customers are excited about moving to a frictionless environment and getting rid of existing credentialing,” said Tina D’Agostin, CEO and co-founder of Alcatraz. “We are making access control frictionless, secure and private. The experience can be as passive as possible – people can just walk in.” Multiple types of authentication, and the ability to detect tailgating and stream video SAFR from Real Networks also featured biometric face recognition, emphasising feature sets, convenience, and price/performance. They offer multiple types of authentication, and the ability to detect tailgating and stream video. A new device is a small mullion mount that is “approaching the price of a card reader, factoring in the need to purchase cards,” said Brad Donaldson, Vice President and General Manager. SAFR focuses on convenience: You don’t have to take out your phone to pass through a door. Enrolment is easy by incorporating existing databases, and costs are lower than competitors, said Donaldson. The system analyses multiple points on the face, turns it into data and then encrypts it, providing a “unique signature for each person.”  Credentials in Apple Wallet and Google Wallet AMAG Technology announced the compatibility of credentials with the Apple Wallet and Google Wallet. The company is also embracing a new strategic direction under President David Sullivan. They launched a new website in January, are developing dynamic resources and a partner page, and they now integrate with 120 tech partners. AMAG Technology Financial Services now enables their channel partners to offer leasing and financing options to customers. The big new booth at ISC West reflected an effort to “market different and look different,” according to the company. The big new booth at ISC West reflected an effort to “market different and look different" The new Symmetry Control Room, a command-and-control system, is a relaunch of an earlier AMAG product with enhanced features. Suitable for large enterprise customers, the software enables a big video wall to display all the various systems and incorporates all the data into a single “pane of glass.” Operators can “draw a lasso” around cameras they want to display on the video wall and can follow action across multiple camera feeds.  Navigating megatrends A breakfast meeting for integrators, sponsored by Assa Abloy Opening Solutions, was built around the theme “Navigating Megatrends for Sustainable Growth." The megatrends are artificial intelligence, sustainability and cybersecurity. Related to cybersecurity, there are 350 common vulnerabilities and exposures (CVE) published per week, reflecting the continuing threat to cybersecurity. Physical security has a “data lake” of information from various physical security systems that can be an attractive target for cybersecurity breaches. Data sets can be exploited and/or poisoned. The security industry needs to apply “defence in depth” to the challenges of protecting data. “The threat landscape is always changing, and security technology is an iterative process,” said Antoinette King, i-PRO’s head of cyber convergence, one of the panellists. Natural language systems Natural language systems are a newer approach making an early appearance at ISC West Natural language systems are a newer approach making an early appearance at ISC West. Brivo, for example, has an early prototype of its “natural language search capabilities” that can answer questions such as “Who is in the office?” or “Where is Bob and what has he done?” Brivo also promoted its all-in-one door station device that combines a card reader and a camera (for facial authentication) and serves as a video intercom, thus eliminating the need for multiple devices at the door. Brivo is also emphasising tailgate prevention, facial authentication, and people counting using AI at the edge. Also promoting natural language systems was Verkada, which unveiled a beta version of its AI Search feature that embraces national language capabilities. With AI Search, users will soon be able to use natural language to search for people or items. For example, a search could be “person climbing over a fence” or “person making phone call” or “person wearing football jersey.” Verkada wants to be thoughtful with the rollout and make sure effective guardrails are implemented to prevent abuse and bias. The release should happen in the coming months. Multi-family applications Allegion is promoting the XE360 hardware lock platform in various formats, including cylindrical lock, mortise lock, deadbolt and exit trim. At the show, Allegion noted an enthusiasm for multi-family applications. “We have been surprised by the people who want to add electronics and to retrofit existing multi-family facilities to compete with newer facilities,” said Henry “Butch” Holland, Allegion’s Regional Director, Channel Sales East Region. Allegion works with 60 different physical access control software providers, including familiar players such as LenelS2 and Genetec Allegion also offers an “indicator” display on its locks, showing at a glance whether a door is locked or unlocked. The “indicator” might also display “occupied” or “vacant.” Allegion works with 60 different physical access control software providers, including familiar players such as LenelS2 and Genetec.  Integrator M&A trends Everon looks for acquisitions in areas where they do not currently have support for national accounts A conversation with Everon at ISC West provided insights into the accelerating trend of mergers and acquisitions among the integrator community. Everon, formerly ADT Commercial, has done six acquisitions of local integrators since they changed their name last year. In targeting companies to acquire, they look for a good company with a good reputation, and they consider how the new company’s competencies complement their own. Some M&A strategy is geographic, as Everon looks for acquisitions in areas where they do not currently have support for national accounts. They also consider density, seeking to add new acquisitions in larger markets where they don’t currently have a big market share. “A lot of investment is coming into security because it is seen by investors as recession-proof,” said Michael Kennedy, VP, Mergers and Acquisitions, for Everon. Kennedy met with 95 businesses last year for possible acquisition, and the company only finalised a handful – reflecting that Everon is selective and careful that corporate cultures are aligned. “With an acquisition, the goal is to keep every customer and every employee,” said Kennedy. Voice of the customer  ISC West provides an opportunity for manufacturers to listen to the “voice of the customer;” in person, no less. “We have every kind of problem come to the booth,” commented Heather Torrey, Honeywell’s General Manager, Commercial Security, Americas. “People are passionate, interested and very specific with their questions and comments,” she said. “We are driving a complete system, but we are flexible, helping our customers to meet their needs and not try to fit every foot into the same shoe. Sometimes meeting customer needs involves working with competitors," Torrey commented. “It truly comes back to listening to the customer, not just ‘this is what we have to offer,’” she adds. ISC West provides an opportunity for manufacturers to listen to the “voice of the customer;” in person, no less. Edge applications are everywhere at ISC West, and one company is promoting a new approach to expand functionality at the edge. Camera company i-PRO advocates the use of the “Docker” platform for app development, an option they offer on their cameras. Docker “containers” package deep-learning algorithms to make it easier to embed software into edge devices. Anyone can run Docker apps on i-PRO cameras that use the powerful Ambarella chip. A Docker “swarm” can combine multiple edge devices to work together and share resources. For example, the approach can increase computing power at the edge to increase the capabilities of instant analytics. It’s faster and provides better redundancies. A “distributed computing platform” ensures less latency than communicating analytics to a central server.  Unification of capabilities Johnson Controls (JCI) also promotes the trend of combining multiple systems into a single pane of glass. Their “Open Blue” platform, with a security version unveiled at the show, integrates various security systems into one, combining data and monitoring device health.  Basically, the system manages all resources holistically. JCI also notes a trend toward “unification of capabilities,” e.g., combining access control and video. “The scope of security is evolving from a focus on protection to a broader focus on operations,” commented Julie M. Brandt, JCI’s President, Building Solutions North America.

Security professionals are recognising the intelligence value of leveraging publicly and commercially available information. This information can now be accessed more effectively from typically hard-to-reach regions. Also, the technological capabilities have matured in our age of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science. Intelligence has historically been based on classified data. However, today’s unclassified data, including open-source intelligence (OSINT), is increasingly being used to provide context and queuing for other types of intelligence. Advanced identity intelligence Babel Street is a technology company providing advanced identity intelligence and risk operations using an AI-enabled data-to-knowledge platform to unlock insights from a flood of data. The company provides advanced data analytics and intelligence for the world’s most trusted government and commercial organisations. Experts have predicted that by 2025 over 463 exabytes of data will be generated each day globally The sheer volume of data is growing exponentially. Experts have predicted that by 2025 over 463 exabytes of data will be generated each day globally. Not only are we seeing exponential growth in the volume of data, but there is also disparity in the veracity and the variety of data. This is being compounded by the ‘app economy’ in which data is created in a new format for every app added around the globe. Human language technology “The problem is that the data ‘junk’ and the ‘crown jewels’ are in the same bucket, and government and commercial entities need better and faster ways to extract intelligence from these torrents of data,” says Farid Moussa, VP, Strategy & Public Sector, Babel Street. Prior to joining Babel Street, Farid retired from the National Security Agency (NSA). He has guided video, image, speech, and text analytics (VISTA) and developed an appreciation for human language technology. An elusive source of data is the Dark Web, where every user, by design, is attempting to obfuscate their identity, and bad actors are hiding much better. “This presents a cat and mouse game – the cat must be smarter than the mouse, but the mouse is continually getting smarter,” says Moussa. Intelligence tools for data analysis SIGINT and HUMINT – while both vital – are also the most expensive forms of intelligence There are several intelligence tools for analysing data. One of them is signals intelligence (SIGINT), which refers to electronic transmissions collected by ships, planes, ground sites, or satellites. Another is human intelligence (HUMINT), which is collected in a human-to-human fashion. Open-source intelligence (OSINT) is obtained by searching on topics or entities of interest that are publicly available on the Internet at large. Today, these various categories are often done in ‘silos of excellence.’  However, the best practice is using all forms together in a holistic fashion. SIGINT and HUMINT – while both vital – are also the most expensive forms of intelligence, while OSINT, which is growing in importance, is most cost-effective. All are vital forms of intelligence; OSINT is complementary and crucial to holistic intelligence practices. Holistic intelligence practices When it comes to physical security of people and places, OSINT has become a critical source of actionable information. Security directors leverage Publicly Available Information (PAI) to safeguard against threats to individuals, property, travel routes, and event sites. By monitoring PAI, security teams can detect and respond to potential dangers, including during and after events where thorough preparation is vital. Online information can contain warning signs of impending threats. It informs security professionals in uncovering digital traces, confirming intentions, and addressing risks across language barriers, ensuring proactive risk management for the protection of people and property. Role of Natural Language Processing (NLP) The Internet and social media were mostly English language by default, but that has changed exponentially Natural Language Processing (NLP) is a crucial capability that has evolved to recognise the richness and variety of words and names in multiple languages and scripts, and their use across cultures. Using machine learning and linguistics algorithms, the technology simultaneously considers numerous types of name variations. At one time, the Internet and social media were mostly English language by default, but that has changed exponentially.  Babel Street’s world-class entity matching technology measures over 100 features to calculate the similarity of entities across multiple languages. Despite advances in data management and the cloud, there are still multiple challenges and complexities with integration of these data elements. Challenges include spelling variances/phonetics, language translation issues, criminal evasion, human error upon input, typos, etc. Accessing data from a scattered landscape While there have been advancements in cloud technologies, agencies utilising open-source data are typically working within a highly scattered data landscape and must use a wide array of tools to get at the relevant pieces. This fragmentation makes it difficult to run analytics and apply AI and machine learning at scale in order to derive actionable insights.  Unstructured and relationship data are visualised through advanced link analysis As with many disciplines, artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the game when it comes to intelligence. NLP and AI algorithms are employed to enhance datasets for greater quality, usability, and completeness. Unstructured and relationship data are visualised through advanced link analysis, geographic heat maps, influential entity carousels, topic clouds, and patterns by time and day. Geographic heat maps The advanced algorithms accurately score and prioritise critical entities within the relationship network while providing the citations from which an AI/ML-based decision was made. “With the democratisation of AI, the world is becoming flat,” says Moussa. “Just like the most prosperous countries, even the poorest countries have the most advanced capabilities to do damage. Third-world economies often present a scenario where the financial gain of nefarious schemes and low-to-no regulation combine to incentivise bad actors.” The Challenges of Name Matching Identity has been an ongoing challenge for intelligence analysis due to the vast complexity of linguistics, spelling and cultural variances, human error, as well as human evasion. Technology and data science approaches are maturing, however machine translation can still struggle with meaning. The best-of-breed natural language processing capabilities run against the data while it still is in its native language. This minimises the occurrence of analytic errors caused by inaccurate machine translations. This minimises the occurrence of analytic errors caused by inaccurate machine translations It’s tempting to think that name matching is like doing a keyword search. The complexity of language makes it more challenging. New names are constantly created, with multiple spellings and no set of rules to encompass how names are formed. They are variable across languages, scripts, cultures, and ethnicities. Culturally specific nicknames and aliases add to the complexity. Replacing human involvement The investigation of the Boston Marathon Bombing in 2013 spotlighted an example of the significance of intelligence analysis. Even though the FBI had issued a detain alert for Tamerlan Tsarnaev back in 2011, Tsarnaev managed to travel to Russia in January 2012; and in July 2012, he returned to Boston. He was not detained on either occasion because there were too many names on the lists, and Tsarnaev’s last name had been spelled differently from the way it was on travel documents, thus enabling him to get through security. With the Internet, social media, and the dark web, there’s been an exponential increase in public communications in various languages, adding significantly to the amount of analysis required to keep societies safe. Name matching, using AI, analyses multiple contextual data points across languages to arrive at matches. Name matching, using AI, analyzes multiple contextual data points across languages to arrive at matches A common misconception is that this technology will replace human intelligence. “It’s more accurate to recognise its role as a force-multiplier, allowing humans to focus on the on the harder problems and/or vetting the results of AI,” says Moussa. “The technology can efficiently analyse massive volumes of data and distill it into actionable information in a timely manner. It augments human capabilities, enabling analysis at speed and scale beyond human capacity, without replacing human involvement.” Commercial Technology to the rescue “When it comes to threat and identity intelligence, we face a risk-confidence gap, underscored by the challenge of integrating traditional tactics with the modern digital landscape,” adds Moussa. “We cannot ‘hire’ our way out of this problem. Instead, it is imperative that we adopt technology to scale our efforts and free humans to solve the harder problems that machines cannot solve yet.” The public sector loves to build things, but there are time-to-value and return-on-investment considerations to the ‘build or buy’ decision. When commercial technology can be leveraged by government, it frees resources up to work on problems that the commercial world hasn’t yet figured out, says Moussa. “The public and private sectors need to come together – one team, one nation, working together with mutual trust and collaboration,” he says.

Companies at GSX 2023 emphasised new ways that technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the cloud can address long-standing issues in the security market. Among the exhibitors at the event in Dallas were companies seeking creative ways to apply technology, lower costs, and make the world a safer place. Reflecting on the exhibition, here are some additional takeaways. Expanding AI at the edge  i-PRO is a company reflecting the continued expansion of edge AI capability in the security market. Today, more than half of the company’s lineup supports AI at the edge so the customer has a wide choice of form factors when seeking to leverage the feature set.  AI processing relay, extended warranty i-PRO is increasing their warranty period from 5 to 7 years, which could be a lifetime warranty in some cases I-PRO also has an “AI processing relay” device that accepts non-AI video streams and applies edge analytics. AI has progressed from a high-end technology to a feature available in a variety of cameras at different price points. i-PRO is also increasing its warranty period from 5 to 7 years, which could be a lifetime warranty in some cases depending on a customer’s refresh schedule and lifecycle management. Active Guard, MonitorCast The company’s video management system (Video Insight) is continuing to build new features including “Active Guard,” an integrated metadata sorter. Their access control platform, MonitorCast, is a Mercury-based solution that is tightly integrated with Video Insight. Their embedded recorders now have PoE built in.  “We can move at a faster pace to fill out our product line since leaving Panasonic,” says Adam Lowenstein, Director of Product Management. “We can focus our business on adapting to the market.” Emphasis on retail and other verticals  Shoplifting is a timely issue, and retail is a vertical market that got a lot of attention at GSX 2023. “We see a lot of retailers who are primarily interested in protecting employee safety, but also assets,” says Brandon Davito, Verkada’s SVP of Product and Operations. “Shrinkage is a CEO-level priority.”  “Retailers are getting more engaged with security posture, instead of letting perpetrators walk,” Davito adds. Intrusion detection Verkada has an intrusion product that will notify a central station if there is an alarm On the alarm side, Verkada has an intrusion product that will notify a central station if there is an alarm, and operators can review videos to confirm the alarm. Other capabilities seeking to discourage trespassers include sirens, strobes, and “talkdown” capabilities.  International expansion Verkada continues to expand internationally with 16 offices in all, including Sydney, Tokyo, and London. The core value proposition is to enable customers to manage their onsite infrastructure more simply, including new elements such as PTZ cameras, intercoms, and visitor management. Verkada emphasises ease of use, including a mobile application to allow access to be managed across the user base. Forging partnerships “We are committed to the channel and industry, and we continue to build relationships and expand our reach,” says Davito. Among the industry relationships is a new partnership with Convergint, which was hinted at during the show and announced later the same day. They are also expanding their partnerships with Schlage, Allegion, and ASSA ABLOY.  Working with other verticals They offer new features for K -12 schools, and a new alarm platform is easier to deploy and manage Verkada has also found success across multiple other verticals, notably healthcare, where they integrate with an electronic medical records system. They offer new features for K-12 schools, and a new alarm platform is easier to deploy and manage. They are integrating wireless locks to secure interior doors in schools, looking to secure the perimeter, and installing guest management systems. Transitioning the mid-market to the cloud  Salient is squarely focused on the “mid-market,” a large swath of systems somewhere between small businesses and enterprise-level systems. Pure cloud systems are not as attractive to this market, which has a built-out infrastructure of on-premise systems. Adding a camera to an existing system is easier and less expensive than tying it to the cloud. Benefits of cloud It’s a market that may not be ready for the pure cloud, but there are benefits to be realised from adding a cloud element to existing systems. “We are continuing to augment our premise-based solutions with added cloud capabilities and flexibility,” says Sanjay Challa, Salient’s Chief Product Officer.  The feedback Salient hears from their customers is “I want to own my data.” The hybrid cloud approach offers the right mix of control, flexibility, and unit economics. Cloud add-on capabilities We want to provide the flexibility for customers to go full-cloud as it becomes more economically attractive" Cloud add-on capabilities include bringing more intelligence about system operation to the user via the cloud. Over time, Salient expects to sell more cloud-centric offerings based on feedback from integrators and customers. “We want to provide the flexibility for customers to go full-cloud as it becomes more economically attractive over time,” says Challa.  Vaidio AI technology Salient seeks to be a transition pioneer to help customers realise the path to the cloud. Their approach is “crawl, walk, run,” and helping customers make the transition at each stage. Salient has added AI to its product offering, incorporating Vaidio AI technology from IronYun into a powerful suite and broad array of on-premise analytics, which are gaining traction. The seamless approach makes it easy for customers to embrace AI analytics, although Salient remains broadly committed to open systems. Addressing ‘soft’ features for integrators AMAG is in the process of enhancing its product line with the next generation of access control panels. However, “product” is just part of the new developments at AMAG. In addition to “hard” features (such as products), the company is looking to improve its “soft” features, too; that is, how they work with the integrator channel. Integrator channel Rebuilding a process to make your organisation more efficient, is relatively easy; it just takes a lot of persistence" “We have the depth of our legacy customer base we can learn from, we just need to close the feedback loop quicker,” says Kyle Gordon, AMAG’s Executive Vice President of Global Sales, Marketing, and commercial Excellence, who acknowledges the value of reinstating face-to-face meetings after COVID. “We are laser-focused on nurturing our integrator channel,” he says.  “Developing new features takes time, but rebuilding a process to make your organisation more efficient, that’s relatively easy; it just takes a lot of persistence,” says Gordon. More cohesive internal communication is another useful tool, he says.  Disrupting the cloud based on price  Wasabi is working to make cloud applications less expensive by offering a “disruptive” price on cloud storage, $6.99 per terabyte per month (80% less than hyperscalers). Contending “hyperscalers” like AWS are charging too much for cloud storage, Wasabi is using its own intellectual property and server equipment co-located in data centres around the world. Wasabi sells “hot cloud storage,” which refers to the fact that they only have one tier of storage and data is always accessible. In contrast, a company such as AWS might charge an “egress fee” for access to data stored in a “colder” tier.  Cloud storage “We saw that several video surveillance companies had not yet adopted cloud storage, and we saw an opportunity to make it easy to use,” said Drew Schlussel, Wasabi’s Senior Director of Product Marketing. “We just install a little bit of software that allows them to store data in the cloud and bring it back from the cloud.” Performance, protection (cybersecurity), and price Wasabi works with integrators, resellers, and distributors and also integrates with VMS companies Wasabi works with integrators, resellers, and distributors and also integrates with VMS companies such as Genetec and Milestone. Emphasising performance, protection (cybersecurity), and price, their data centres are certified to SOC 2 and ISO 27001 standards.  Faster throughput for weapons detection Xtract One is a young company focusing on weapons detection in a time of accelerated concern about gun issues post-COVID. Founded in Canada and based on technology developed at McMaster University, Xtract One has found a niche in providing weapons detection at stadiums and arenas. These customers already have budgets, and it is easy to shift the money to a newer, faster technology. Madison Square Garden in New York City is among its customers.  Cost savings solution Xtract One can increase throughput to 30 to 50 people per entrance per minute (compared to 5 to 6 people per minute when using metal detectors). The solution doesn’t require anyone to empty their pockets and the system alarms on items beyond guns and knives. Using Xtract One allows customers to reduce the number of screening lanes and security staff, providing additional cost savings, all while getting fans through the screening process in half the time. Purpose-built sensors The system uses purpose-built sensors looking for specific characteristics, such as reflective and density properties In addition to stadiums and arenas, Xtract One, formerly Patriot One, is also getting “inbound” interest from schools, hospitals, manufacturers, and other verticals that makeup 50% of their business. “We’re on a rocket ride, mainly because the weapons issues are not going away,” says Peter Evans, CEO and Director at Xtract One. The system uses purpose-built sensors looking for specific characteristics, such as reflective and density properties, all correlated by an AI engine.  Providing early warning of violence ZeroEyes is another company focused on weapons detection. Their AI gun detection system works with video images to identify if someone is “brandishing” (carrying) a weapon. In other words, the system does not detect concealed weapons. Identifying someone carrying a weapon provides early warning of a possible violent act. Increased response with AI-enables images Images are identified by AI and sent to a monitoring centre where a human confirms the image before contacting first responders. Knowing the location of a shooter enables staff to lock entry points, move people to safety, and direct first responders. The company was founded to leverage existing camera views to stop mass shootings and gun violence by reducing response times. 

Omnilert, a pioneer in active shooter solutions, announced that Sarasota County Schools in Florida is deploying its Omnilert Gun Detect system to monitor over 4,800 security cameras throughout the entire school district, representing the largest deployment of its kind in Florida aimed at thwarting the presence of weapons on school campuses. Omnilert Gun Detect is the most effective and complete AI visual gun detection system available–providing 24/7 monitoring with a near-instant response at the first sight of a gun with rich automation capabilities that can lock doors, notify police and trigger alarms to ensure the best possible outcomes in the event of an active shooter incident. Additional layers of technology Sarasota Schools educates and covers over 45,000 pupils across 56 schools and employs more than 5,200 teachers Sarasota County Schools already completed a successful deployment in one of its high schools the past year, which received overwhelmingly positive results and response from parents and staff. It is now in the process of deploying the system with the entire district’s camera network. Sarasota County Schools educates and protects over 45,000 students across 56 schools and employs more than 5,200 teachers and staff including its own police department and school resource officers. “Maintaining a safe learning environment is paramount for our school district,” said Terry Connor, Superintendent of Schools for Sarasota County. “Our district is fortunate to have a safety conscious School Board and community who understands this need and invests in solutions that will make for safer schools. It is critical to have additional layers of technology such as Omnilert Gun Detect working behind the scenes to ensure the safety our students and staff every day of the school year.” Infrastructure of safety systems “Omnilert Gun Detect clearly fit our requirements for flexible detection verification and response escalation with the ability to activate our existing infrastructure of safety systems,” said Sean O’Keefe, Director of Security at Sarasota County Schools. “Accurate gun detections and fast verifications are only the beginning of a response. It is critical for us to share the intelligence from Omnilert with our safety systems immediately to ensure we maximise as many seconds or minutes as possible for our police and security teams to respond to a potential situation and to protect lives.” Largest deployments of AI gun detection Security cameras can be altered into 24/7 monitors of weapons that never get tired and distracted Omnilert Gun Detect is protecting several hundred schools and other organisations across the country, with many deployments being the largest ever recorded. Sarasota sets the record in Florida and is the second largest in the nation next to Baltimore County Public Schools, the largest deployment of AI visual gun detection in the United States with their 7,500 cameras.  These large installations highlight the ease of use and flexibility that customers experience when integrating Omnilert technology with their existing cameras and security infrastructure. Security cameras can be transformed into 24/7 monitors of weapons that never get tired and distracted and can automatically initiate a pre-planned response to save lives in the event a weapon ever came on campus. Activation of safety systems “Sarasota’s comprehensive safety program to enhance school security is a model for school districts across the nation as it combines early detection with an activation of safety systems that speeds response and removes the potential for human error,” commented Dave Fraser, CEO of Omnilert. “We make it a priority to ensure our technology integrates with other safety systems so security teams can capitalise on their existing investments and utilise a full range of capabilities to protect their people.”  How Omnilert Gun Detect works Omnilert Gun Detect is an advanced AI system that detects handguns and long guns throughout a campus Omnilert Gun Detect is an advanced AI system that detects handguns and long guns throughout campus, both indoors and outdoors. Once a gun is detected, it sends an alert to a designated person at either Omnilert Monitoring centres or the customer’s security operations centre to verify detections.  When a threat is confirmed, Omnilert Gun Detect triggers a series of alerts that sets security systems into motion and police into action to protect those in harm’s way. This solution gives emergency response teams advance warning before shots are fired and delivers precise information on the location and a photo and video of the potential shooter for a much more effective response. Omnilert’s software  Unlike other solutions that merely provide weapon identification and verification, Omnilert Gun Detect integrates with video management systems, access control systems, emergency mass notification solutions, audio and video communication platforms and more. Omnilert’s software can easily be deployed with any existing IP-based camera and can monitor spaces that other safety technologies miss such as exterior grounds and parking lots. The software was designed with privacy concerns in mind so there is no use of biometrics like facial recognition and the live video feeds never leave the school premises.

A premier luxury resort with its location on an artificially created island that provides world-class luxurious accommodation, dining, and entertainment experiences. It is renowned for its lavish amenities and impeccable service, the resort is frequented by visitors from all over the world seeking an unforgettable experience of living in a beautiful setting. Overview The challenges the client faced were related to managing time and attendance across geographically dispersed locations within the resort. Moreover, a non-centralised attendance solution and less accurate palm geometry systems contributed to the failure of tracking employee attendance. Yet another challenge in this area was the seamless integration required with their current human resource management system and payroll applications, which would need a sophisticated solution to integrate with many database integrations. Challenges A complete end-to-end time-attendance management system was required for the following challenges: Multiple Brands Spread Across Locations: Geographically managing attendance across all locations of multiple brands demanded a system centralising all the data and providing unified management. No Centralised Solution for Attendance: There was no centralised attendance system as multiple brands were being used for attendance; it was really tough to monitor and manage employee attendance with precision at first and acted upon quickly. Low Identification Speed Using Palm Vein Technology: The palm vein devices had a very slow speed of identification, which caused a traffic jam at different check-in points, sometimes even resulting in differences in the records of attendance. Database Integration with HRMS: Integrating the attendance data with the existing HRMS was complicated because the involved systems were different from suppliers and required multiple database integrations. Payroll Integration: Attendance had to be integrated with the payroll system to evaluate and dispense the salary correctly. Solution Following are some of the solutions that Matrix implemented to resolve client challenges: A robust, comprehensive face recognition time-attendance system ensured the following solutions were in place: Centralised Time Attendance Management: Matrix installed its on-premise solution, COSEC CENTRA, for managing attendance from various different locations on the site. At entry points, the organisation installed the COSEC ARGO FACE devices and integrated them with the system to track attendance events in a unified manner and efficiently. Seamless Integration with Third-Party HRMS & Payroll: Matrix facilitated database-level integration so that the client could seamlessly connect to their prevalent HRMS and thus ensure that attendance data is correctly captured and integrated in payroll processing. Improved Speed in Identification through Face Recognition: The advanced face recognition system improved the speed and accuracy of attendance marking. High-speed face recognition in less than 0.5 seconds provided guaranteed reliable and accurate attendance records using COSEC ARGO FACE. Contactless Face Recognition with Bluetooth®: Matrix offered a contactless solution using face recognition and Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE) through its COSEC ACS mobile app. It brings a better user experience in hygiene, safety, and speedy, efficient attendance marking. Results Matrix resolved the problem of the client with the delivery of a centralised, accurate, and seamless face recognition time attendance system. This was delivered to the client with results such as: Centralised Time Attendance Management: Improved management and control of attendance at locations. Seamless Integration with HRMS & Payroll: Increased efficiency and accuracy in the integration with HRMS and processing of payroll. Face Recognition for Faster Identification: Advanced face recognition system that gave dependable attendance records. Contactless Solution with Face & BLE: Heightened user experience with hygiene and safety, ensuring no-contact attendance tracking. Products Offered COSEC ARGO FACEM: Face-based Door Controller with MiFare Card Support COSEC CENTRA PLT1000: Platform Licence for 1000 Users COSEC CENTRA FR1000: Face Recognition Licence for 1000 Users This case study demonstrates how Matrix's face recognition time attendance system effectively addressed and resolved the client’s challenges, ensuring efficient and accurate management of employee attendance across multiple locations.

Cognitec Systems is providing reliable face recognition technology to Brazilian payment solutions provider - Billingpay for use in Rio de Janeiro’s public transport system. Automated face recognition Billingpay has implemented automated face recognition to facilitate digital ticketing via the transport application Jaé, to be used by more than four million users daily. Currently, about 11 thousand capture devices are installed throughout the city’s transportation system. Facial biometrics The process starts with the enrollment of facial images during the registration service The process starts with the enrollment of facial images during the registration service, which is then used to prevent revenue evasion in public transportation. Facial biometrics match the ticket holder to the correct ticket, therefore preventing fraudulent use of subsidised tickets. “The second largest city in Brazil now operates one of the most modern and secure ticketing systems in the world, with added high-performance technology from Cognitec!” comments Marcello Perrotta, CCO of Billingpay. Modern identification services Public transport users can also present their faces to log into the Jaé platform and access buses or trains without the need for a ticket or identification. “This use case is a testament to the countless capabilities of face recognition technologies for modern identification services,” says Alfredo Herrera, Cognitec’s Managing Director, adding “We are excited to be a part of this innovative project, and this successful international partnership with Billingpay!”

Cognitec Systems is providing reliable face recognition technology to Brazilian payment solutions provider Billingpay for use in Rio de Janeiro’s public transport system. Billingpay has implemented automated face recognition to facilitate digital ticketing via the transport application Jaé, to be used by more than four million users daily. Currently, about 11 thousand capture devices are installed throughout the city’s transportation system. Evasion in public transportation Facial biometrics match the ticket holder to the correct ticket, preventing fraudulent use The process starts with the enrolment of facial images during the registration service, which is then used to prevent revenue evasion in public transportation. Facial biometrics are matching the ticket holder to the correct ticket, therefore preventing fraudulent use of subsidised tickets. “The second largest city in Brazil now operates one of the most modern and secure ticketing systems in the world, with added high-performance technology from Cognitec!” comments Marcello Perrotta, CCO of Billingpay. Face recognition technologies Public transport users can also present their faces to log into the Jaé platform and to access buses or trains without the need of a ticket or identification. “This use case is a testament to the countless capabilities of face recognition technologies for modern identification services,” says Alfredo Herrera, Cognitec’s Managing Director. “We are excited to be a part of this innovative project, and this successful international partnership with Billingpay!”

Sports hold profound significance in the lives of athletes, nations, and citizens alike, fostering a sense of unity and national pride. Sporting events captivate hearts and minds, showcasing the devotion towards athletic spirit. The journey of an athlete from local competitions to global stages embodies dedication and resilience, inspiring millions worldwide. Olympics event At the pinnacle of this athletic journey lies the Olympics, a cherished event that transcends borders and cultures, uniting nations in a shared pursuit of excellence and sportsmanship. For years, anticipation has been building as Paris, affectionately known as the City of Lights and renowned as the iconic capital of France, prepares to host the Olympics 2024, promising unforgettable moments of triumph and unity.  Facial Recognition Technology FRT symbolises a commitment to safeguarding the spirit of The Olympics, preserving the joy and pride Amidst the excitement, there lies a solemn responsibility: to protect the interests of everyone involved. In response, the use of Facial Recognition Technology (FRT) offers an enhanced approach to improving security measures for identification, access control, and threat detection. It symbolises a commitment to safeguarding the spirit of The Olympics, preserving the joy and pride that this monumental event brings to millions worldwide.  The quest for enhanced security at the Olympics  Ensuring Olympic security involves addressing a spectrum of challenges, including the complexities of managing fan behaviour, cyber-attacks, and the unpredictability of civil unrest. According to the National Center for Sports Safety and Security, 73.2% of attendees consider safety and security measures when deciding whether to attend an event, and 77% prefer security measures to be visible at an event. Common cybersecurity threats Phishing attacks, credential stuffing, and password spraying are some of the common cybersecurity threats With growing technological advancement and globalisation of the world these days, the Olympic Games face increasing risks of cyber attacks.  Phishing attacks, credential stuffing, and password spraying are some of the common cybersecurity threats. Reports from the National Cyber Security Centre, United Kingdom, have established that more than 70% of sports organisations fell victim to cyber incidents in 2020, and this was mostly caused by hackers seeking financial gain.  Eradicating Security Concerns with FRT  In particular, surveillance becomes an important component of security and incident detection during the Olympics, where millions of spectators gather from all over the world. For this reason, strict perimeter measures, secure screening procedures, and vigilant security are required. Indeed, integrating FRT as an additional feature in Video Management Systems (VMS) can improve the outcomes significantly.  Physical Security Enhancement: Video Analytics Systems are one of the most effective means of evaluating threat levels at the event Video Analytics Systems are one of the most effective means of evaluating threat levels at the event, using face recognition to match the faces of the people attending the event with a universal offenders database. It allows security staff to quickly identify malicious actors and detain them. This reduces the likelihood of wrong-doers making attempts at large-scale events, thus, protecting participants and spectators, and ensuring their safety.  Monitoring Crowd Behaviour: Effective management of crowd behaviour is crucial for maintaining a safe and harmonious environment. Video Analytics Systems make it easier to look for and monitor disruptive crowd behaviours in real-time, like vandalism, alcoholism, violence, etc. Instigators of such activities are immediately identified and flagged, allowing security officials to address the problem before it escalates.  It also helps in tracking and preventing agitation since the system incites recognising people in the crowd from lists of unreliable persons, even if masks hide their faces. This capability enables security to respond quickly to emerging threats, ensuring that protests remain peaceful.  Enhanced Cybersecurity Measures: If the FRT system is centralised, any attempted intrusion by an intruder will be immediately visible FRT minimises the capability of cyber intruders attempting to penetrate the competition control information systems, media streams, and security systems and meddle with their work. If the FRT system is centralised, any attempted intrusion by an intruder will be immediately visible to security personnel. This will prevent unauthorised access and reduce not only the number of cybercrimes but also financial and reputational risks. By integrating FRS with AI, biometric and conventional security systems have made security surveillance more effective and efficient in providing real-time data analytics. With the development of generative AI, a new type of attack using spoofing and deep fakes is gaining momentum. Recognition technologies with liveness features can stand out among other defence systems.  Peace of mind for athletes and staff  FRT has the potential to profoundly impact the Olympic experience, offering athletes and staff a transformative blend of efficiency, security, and operational ease. For athletes, it means seamless access to venues, minimising distractions and administrative hurdles, allowing them to dedicate more time and focus to their training and competition. They can move through the Olympic complex with confidence, knowing their safety is assured.  Identifying and addressing potential threats The technology not only enhances a sense of safety and belongingness but also ensures that global athletic excellence Beyond efficiency, this technology empowers security personnel to manage large crowds with precision, swiftly identifying and addressing potential threats. The technology not only enhances a sense of safety and belongingness but also ensures that global athletic excellence is memorable and deeply meaningful for everyone involved.  Harmonising security and privacy with integrity  Data privacy is paramount, and the balance between safety and the subject’s right to privacy must be kept to the highest standard. Transparency about data collection, storage, and usage fosters trust and upholds individual dignity. By championing both security and privacy, advanced technology security solutions like FRT can play an important role in ensuring that every participant and spectator feels safe, respected, and inspired. The application of security measures trusted worldwide helps maintain the integrity of global events, and the Olympic games act as an anchor for setting a perfect example of unified growth and glory.  360-degree protection "The Olympic Games stand as a monumental event for millions worldwide, posing substantial challenges to security services," said Tamara Morozova, Global CEO, of RecFaces. "Integrating facial recognition software promises 360-degree protection, drastically reducing incident response times to mere seconds, and empowering security personnel with invaluable analytical insights."

A mix of Hubble Panoramic and PTZ cameras from Dahua Technology have been installed at Tripoli Stadium in Libya to help it meet modern international standards. Built in 1970, it is the largest Olympic stadium in the country and has been renovated and refurbished to meet FIFA’s requirements for stadium safety and security. Challenges With a capacity of 50,000 spectators, the stadium becomes crowded on match days and control of spectators and crowds becomes paramount. With only a limited number of police, security and stadium staff to rely on, stadium managers needed to have an overview of crowd flows and potential congestion to help ensure safety at these busy times. In addition, the stadium needed to stream images of match action to large screens strategically located inside and outside the stadium for fan interaction, as well as provide screens for advertising.  Solution Cameras contain wise roles such as face recognition, perimeter protection and people-counting A mixture of eight Hubble panoramic and more than 180 WizMind 5 series cameras have been installed at the stadium to improve the situational awareness for stadium managers and the security team. The Hubble cameras are situated high up in the stadium to provide a panoramic overview, while being able to track specific incidents. They consist of an array of fixed cameras providing 180o, 270o or 360o coverage, together with an integrated dome camera to zoom into a particular scene and track specific objects. With Ultra HD resolution of up to 24MP, Hubble also features crowd number and density detection, vehicle-counting and density monitoring and augmented reality mapping.  Dahua’s DSS video management software The cameras are available in dust-proof, waterproof and vandal-proof versions Also installed are more than 180 WizMind 5 series cameras. Featuring Starlight and deep learning algorithms, the cameras incorporate intelligent functions such as face recognition, perimeter protection and people-counting, which all greatly improve the accuracy of video analysis. The cameras are available in dust-proof, waterproof and vandal-proof versions. Intelligent recognition plays a big part in the security of the stadium, with cameras being able to identify and subsequently track any blocklisted suspects. This feature is also used at the entrance of the stadium to validate authorised ticket holders. Also installed are giant 15m x 9m LED screens to provide images of play on the pitch, as well as advertising coverage. All equipment is managed by Dahua’s DSS video management software located in the central control room. Results The installation of the Dahua equipment has provided stadium staff and security personnel with a high degree of situational awareness at the venue. They are now able to control access to the stadium through face recognition, anticipate overcrowding and potential congestion points with automatic heat mapping from camera images and track suspicious people or potential incidents. The cameras also provide a high degree of perimeter protection to detect and track abnormal intrusion. 

Technology offers a range of tools to bolster security at public events, including before, during, and after. This year, the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris will draw the attention of the world, requiring the best protection available for the venues, the athletes, and the attendees. Other happenings such as the FIFA World Cup, the Super Bowl, the Tour de France, and the U.S. NBA Finals are momentous events that challenge security and law enforcement personnel to keep them safe. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How is technology contributing to security in the arena of public events? 

Technological leaps in the last several decades have revolutionised biometrics. The technologies are constantly evolving, spanning facial recognition to iris scanning to fingerprints, to provide new levels of security and convenience. Biometrics are everywhere, from smartphones to border control, constantly evolving to meet the needs of our increasingly digital world. They are also more accurate and easier to use than ever. We asked this week's Expert Panel Roundtable: What’s new with biometrics?

Security systems are often seen as an investment, but usually not one that pays dividends. However, newer technologies are enabling end users to extend their efforts to cost-justify a security system beyond the mirage of “measuring what didn’t happen.” Nowadays, security systems provide quantifiable benefits that yield a return on customers’ investments. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How can security systems maximize return on investment (ROI)?