Network / IP security

Despite the challenges resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly four in five video security systems-related businesses reported growth in the past 12 months, according to a 23-nation survey conducted by Calipsa, the market renowned provider of Deep Learning-powered video analytics. Slightly less than half of the businesses reported growth in a 2020 report. Calipsa 2021 Video Monitoring Report The Calipsa 2021 Video Monitoring Report is a look inside the industry and its biggest trends. The second annual report was released, as part of the recent Calipsa Masterclass 2021, a virtual event presenting interactive workshops aimed at members of the video security systems industry. Small security businesses appear to be thriving the most, as this year, 79% reported client growth, compared to 59% last year. Respondents from all sectors reported average revenue growth of nearly 34%, in the past 12 months, up 4% over the 2020 results. Yet, despite overall growth in both revenue and clients, more than six in ten businesses surveyed in 2021, down from 79% in 2020, found operating in the past 12 months to be difficult, as many switched to fully remote set ups and others operated under new health guidelines, in the second year of the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic. Difficulty in hiring qualified employees The 2021 report also showed a new international trend – difficulties in hiring qualified employees The 2021 report also showed a new international trend – difficulties in hiring qualified employees. More than a third of businesses reported hiring qualified staff, as their major challenge. Based on survey responses, there are a several reasons why most respondents succeeded in a difficult business climate, increased demand for their services, adaptability to challenging circumstances and a willingness to adopt new technologies. Companies adopting new technologies faster Almost three-quarters of respondents agreed that the COVID-19 pandemic pushed companies to adopt technology faster than they would normally. More than half (57%) of businesses surveyed said they are regular adopters of new technology and invest in it often. “Overall, the businesses we surveyed have adapted well to a changing working environment and it appears that technology has played a significant role in enabling them to adapt quickly,” said Brian Baker, the Chief Revenue Officer (CRO), Calipsa. Targeted use of technology Brian Baker adds, “With operational changes and a targeted use of technology, it seems likely that our respondents will continue to farewell, as we approach 2022.” About half of the 2021 survey respondents came from video monitoring stations, 21% were video security systems integrators and distributors, and the rest came from camera manufacturers, manned guarding operators and other industry providers.

With its major global Innovation Splash in November, MOBOTIX AG is placing 18 new hardware and software solutions on the market at once. New products  The first hemispherical camera that combines infrared and LED white light in a single system is a major highlight. In addition, there is a new convenient dome camera, hemispherical modules, and Thermal CIF modules specially designed for perimeter protection for the MOBOTIX7 cameras with up to 105° wide angle of view (FoV). A fiber optic extension system now makes it possible to place the lenses of a single camera (S74) up to 60 meters apart. New intelligent apps and software developments expand the application possibilities of the MOBOTIX7 HighEnd video systems. And last but not least, three new cameras from the MOBOTIX entry-level MOVE series have been added to the portfolio, which for the first time feature a water-repellent nano-coating for the best view even in the rain. Video technology MOBOTIX can solve every conceivable video technology project worldwide in the future- and cyber-proof manner" "This comprehensive launch is visible proof of our strategy, which we have been stringently pursuing since the introduction of the open MOBOTIX 7 platform. MOBOTIX is now able to solve every conceivable video technology project worldwide in the future- and cyber-proof manner - regardless of size, the number of locations, requirements, or industry," explained Thomas Lausten, CEO of MOBOTIX AG. "The launch of the MOBOTIX HUB video management system (VMS) in May 2021 was already an important building block. We can now offer both the hardware - i.e., the camera itself - and the software and applications, including VMS for all project sizes from a single source and at our extremely high MOBOTIX security level, as a convincing all-around solution provider." Variety of innovations ensures a new launch format Whether hardware or software, all innovations will be presented to partners and customers on a central launch website. From there, visitors have the opportunity to delve into the versatile in-depth information in detail. "Ultimately, all these individual components of this product release combine with the existing portfolio to create customised solutions for our customers. Through the individual and effective combination of this vast potential, we can meet almost every need of our customers," explains Hartmut Sprave, MOBOTIX CTO." MOBOTIX - Once again, a pioneer in hemispheric technology Germany's video security experts are combining infrared and LED white light in a 360 omnidirectional camera MOBOTIX introduced hemispheric technology to the video security market back in 2008. Now, Germany's video security experts are again playing a pioneering role in the market by combining infrared and LED white light in a 360 omnidirectional camera for the first time. This makes it possible to create colour recordings even at night, allowing, for example, the reliable detection of the colour of clothing or vehicles. The second, new IoT video system, a classic dome camera, also impresses with its innovations. For example, the manual adjustability has been extended by the third level for more convenience and accuracy. Of course, both video security systems are integrated into the MOBOTIX7 platform, which allows the use of the individual camera-integrated analysis software (apps). High flexible tools: new apps & updates The MOBOTIX7 platform continues to grow. The current Innovation Splash includes four new apps, some from new software partners. This creates more and more innovative solutions for individual requirements. New intelligent apps and updates to existing apps make video analysis ever more flexible, precise and powerful. By the way, all available Certified camera apps can be used free of charge for 30 days for testing at MOBOTIX. If a customer can`t serve an application with the existing app portfolio, MOBOTIX will work with them to develop the perfect application for their particular requirements. MOBOTIX move breaks up raindrops Several new models, some with integrated video analysis, were also released in the MOBOTIX MOVE camera series, an attractively priced entry-level solution for smaller systems and selective additions to more complex projects. One highlight stands out: The new, groundbreaking MOBOTIX EverClear coating uses a special nano-technology that transforms water drops into an ultra-thin water film immediately upon impact. This ensures the best image quality, even in the rain. Flexibility and cybersecurity as core values MOBOTIX7 video system can face challenges, and the installation of suitable apps, without having to install new cameras" "We see more and more confirmation of our overall strategy. Companies or authorities are always facing new challenges to protect people, machines, or areas and in the course of process optimisation. An existing MOBOTIX7 video system can flexibly cover these tasks, and the installation of suitable apps, without necessarily having to install new cameras," sums up Lausten. “This is a flexible, highly intelligent, future-proof, and sustainable solution at the same time. And last but not least, it is highly cyber-secure." This is also evidenced, among other things, by the certification of the leading institute for penetration tests in Germany from June 2021, which once again confirmed the best possible cyber security of MOBOTIX products and solutions. Pure security was once - video technology can do much more Security remains a core competence of video technology. Supported by Deep Learning and Artificial Intelligence, MOBOTIX cameras can now do much more than that. They support and improve production processes in the industry. Cameras relieve personnel in healthcare. They increase service effectiveness in public institutions and improve security in schools. Retailers improve the shopping experience for their customers and increase their sales potential in the process. And last but not least, camera technology in transportation - keyword "smart city" - offers the best opportunities for safe, relaxed, and sustainable travel. "Video technology has the potential to make our lives safer and, above all, easier in the long term," concludes Thomas Lausten.

Johnson Controls, the global pioneer in smart, healthy, and sustainable buildings, and architect of the OpenBlue digital connected platforms has added enhanced video capabilities and deeper analytics to its Tyco American Dynamics victor and VideoEdge v5.7.1 video management platform as part of the latest software update. The latest software updates harness the power of in-demand technology, including analytics for social distancing detection combined with alerts, for when a violation occurs, and enhanced analytics to detect objects that linger along a perimeter for Intelligent Perimeter Protection. Video management and perimeter protection Featuring accelerated deployment, targeted analytics, and optimised video management control, VideoEdge v5.7.1 now includes intelligent perimeter protection alerts and new rules which allow users to detect objects that linger along a perimeter for a specific period or cross perimeter lines to enter a protected area. The Perimeter Protection rule measures linger time in seconds; when an object stays in the subscribed area during the time frame or travels through the perimeter into the protected area an alert is triggered. Social distancing alerts VideoEdge counts the number of people in a certain area and sends notifications if individuals are too close With workplace health and safety an ongoing concern, VideoEdge v5.7.1 leverages existing IP cameras and automated notification to assure adherence to COVID-19 protocols and compliance through social distancing alerts. These alerts occur when individuals or groups fail to adhere to separation guidelines in a wide range of workplace and facility scenarios. VideoEdge analytics counts the number of people in a certain area and sends notifications if individuals are too close or otherwise violating company COVID mandates. It’s also effective for monitoring inmates and visitors in institutional settings and establishing long-term workspace planning with an eye to health and wellness. New added features Enhancements to Intelligent Person Search capabilities allow operators to launch live video from search results – while simultaneously continuing to search for the person in recorded camera feeds. Other updates include a new maintenance mode action editor to manage system changes on demand; the ability to hide sensitive areas with Client Privacy Zones; and added system security with a new Auto Logout feature, which logs users out of the VideoEdge GUI after a specified period. Release v5.7.1 also provides new tools for enhanced Illustra Pro Gen 4 PTZ camera control: a dropdown menu has been added to AI-powered person/face detection in the Intelligent Auto Track feature and an Electronic Image Stabilisation (EIS) algorithm sharpens images and footage between frames associated with the motion of a camera.

Simon Shawley, Business Development Manager at Smart R Distribution, explains “How recent advances in video recording technology means that installers can help end-user clients to extend the life of their existing analogue CCTV systems, while enabling them to migrate to a full IP network based video surveillance system, at their own pace.” IP network-based video surveillance solutions offer users significant advantages over traditional analogue CCTV systems. These include the ability to benefit from the latest generation of multi-megapixel and ultra-high definition cameras, as well as the opportunity to monitor and manage the system from anywhere on the network. IP network-based video surveillance For mission-critical applications, IP network-based video surveillance provides a high level of resilience For mission-critical applications, IP network-based video surveillance provides a high level of resilience, as the captured images can be recorded and stored at any location on the network and retrieved via a PC or smart device. However, despite these benefits, it was not that long ago, when security managers agonised over whether they should attempt to persuade their financial masters and IT colleagues, to agree to the replacement of an existing analogue CCTV system with an IP network-based video surveillance solution. Need to deploy IP cameras and recorders The choice was either/or and although there was an understandable inclination to want to deploy cameras and recorders, which capitalise on the very latest technology, there was inevitably budgetary restrictions and ‘don’t even think about it’ resistance from technical colleagues, who were concerned about the impact on the company’s network infrastructure. In 2021, the question is no longer whether or not there is a justifiable need to immediately migrate to video over IP. Users can now choose from a range of fully functional hybrid solutions, which enable them to extend the life and cost-effectively enhance the performance of their existing analogue CCTV systems. This is because hybrid solutions allow users to benefit from the superb quality high definition images captured by IP cameras, without having to move to a complete IP network solution. Hybrid video surveillance For users, who want to immediately benefit from being able to capture and record high definition images, but are not yet ready or able to install an IP-based system, HD analogue cameras, which are able to capture and transmit images, and audio without any latency, at distances up to 500 metres, using standard coax, provide a cost-effective way to upgrade and extend the life of their existing analogue CCTV systems. Users can then migrate to an IP network-based video surveillance solution, at some point in the future and at their own pace. Hybrid XVR recorders Hybrid XVR recording devices, which are also known as Pentabrid video recorders, have been available for some time Hybrid XVR recording devices, which are also known as Pentabrid video recorders, have been available for some time. They facilitate the recording of images, captured by a mix of analogue and IP cameras, and this means that an existing analogue CCTV system can be significantly upgraded, with users able to benefit from the recording of images, which have a resolution of up to 4K. Until recently, the number of channels that could be allocated to IP cameras on a 16 channel machine was typically limited to just 2. The latest generation of hybrid XVR devices, however, now offers a far greater level of flexibility. With the use of a relatively low cost switch, the available number of channels on these NVRs can be configured to meet the users’ immediate needs, e.g. 4 channels allocated to IP cameras and the remainder for analogue cameras, but with the option to change the mix as and when requirements change. Transmission and power Traditionally, analogue cameras and recorders were installed with a coax cable between them, for the purposes of transmitting video data and they required the provision of a local power supply, in order to operate. When IP network-based cameras were first introduced, they worked in the same way, but a subsequent significant technological advance saw the development and introduction of Power over Ethernet (PoE). This allowed electrical power to be supplied via a network switch or a PoE-enabled network video recorder (NVR), and the power could be provided over the same cable carrying the video data. Development of Power over Coax (POC) Further advances in technology then saw the development of Power over Coax (POC), which offered the benefits of PoE, but over coax cabling to HD analogue cameras. It, therefore, became possible to power the cameras directly from an XVR recorder and most impressively, over distances of typically up to 500 metres, with at least one camera/recorder manufacturer able to achieve this over 800 metres. Now, with the latest generation of transmission products available, hybrid solutions are available, where PoE can be provided over coax to IP cameras and so whatever type of cabling is in place, users can benefit from this hybrid joint power and transmission option.  POC Ethernet Extender devices POC Ethernet Extender devices are readily available from distributors, such as Smart R Distribution POC Ethernet Extender devices are readily available from distributors, such as Smart R Distribution, which provide the flexibility to upgrade and/or expand an existing analogue based CCTV system over existing coax, e.g. by adding multiple new IP cameras to take advantage of Deep Learning AI or intelligent video analytics, as well as the cameras’ ability to capture high definition images. They can also be used to provide a data only connection for a myriad of other network devices.  It is worth noting that a 4-channel POC Ethernet Extender can enable the transmission of video and power to 4 cameras over a single cable, which makes it highly cost-effective to expand and upgrade a system, without having to install new network cabling. New surveillance systems based on IP network technology While the majority of new surveillance systems installed in the future are likely to be based on IP network technology, HD analogue cameras combined with XVRs, provide a significant opportunity to upgrade and extend the life of the countless number of existing analogue CCTV systems. However, they also provide a platform to add new IP cameras and other devices as well. The good news is that hybrid video surveillance solutions are very easy to implement, with the added bonus that there is no need to incur the cost and time of installing encoders or converters.

SALTO Systems (SALTO) has introduced the XS4 Original+, the next generation of the world’s most flexible and reliable smart locking solution that features a beautiful design, with a sleek flat reader in two new colours. SALTO XS4 Original+ The new SALTO XS4 Original+ takes the trusted and proven flagship XS4 Original electronic lock product family and incorporates the latest technology, to accommodate access control needs of both today and tomorrow. Our customers, partners and users rely on the XS4 every day, which is why we’ve made XS4 Original+ more powerful" “Our customers, partners and users rely on the XS4 every day, which is why we’ve made XS4 Original+ more powerful, capable, and redefined to elevate any door’s security, and management,” said Marc Handels, SALTO Systems’ Chief Technology Officer (CTO). Marc Handels adds, “When you have an excellent product like the SALTO XS4 Original electronic lock that has withstood both the test of time and technology, it makes sense to improve upon what is already working very well.” Embedded with BLUEnet functionality The SALTO XS4 Original+ design is based on the same proven housing and mechanical mechanisms of the XS4 Original. The XS4 Original+, however, is embedded with SALTO’s BLUEnet real-time functionality and SVN-Flex capability, which enables SALTO stand-alone smart XS4 Original+ locks to update user credentials directly at the door. The SALTO XS4 Original+ is compatible with the array of SALTO platform solutions, including SALTO Space data-on-card, SALTO KS Keys as a Service cloud-based access solution and SALTO’s JustIn Mobile technology for digital keys. The XS4 Original+ also includes RFID Mifare DESFire, Bluetooth LE, and NFC technology functionality. “By incorporating the latest in technology into the XS4 Original+ locking range, SALTO has delivered a product that extends up-to-date and comprehensive electronic access control to any door,” said Handels. Engine of XS4 Original+ XS4 Original+ is much faster than the XS4 Original, delivering more performance, new security architecture" The XS4 Original+ is much faster than the XS4 Original, delivering more performance, new security architecture and the same electronic functionalities, which is based on BLUEnet connectivity, and better power efficiency. The feature rich new security architecture, which is protected against internal and external attacks, makes everything more fluid, transforming the way users’ access, operators manage, and installers’ set-up the electronic lock. Catering to a range of access and customer needs There is an XS4 Original+ model for every type of access and customer need. The existing XS4 Original models are fully available in the XS4 Original+ product range, from the key override option to mechanical or electronic privacy models. Just as with the original version, the SALTO XS4 Original+ is suitable for a wide range of customer applications, including interior doors in educational or commercial buildings or tailored solutions for other specific building requirements. Easy to install and retrofit Easy to install and retrofit, the SALTO XS4 Original+ works with ANSI, Euro, DIN and Scandinavian door industry standards. Universally compatible, it can replace the existing door hardware and fits any door with unlimited model options. XS4 Original+ wide reader models are slightly wider and the reader is now flatter. “SALTO has long sought feedback from our end-users and partners on what they desire in an upgrade and, taking their input into account, we have developed the XS4 Original+ which delivers everything needed for current and future smart lock solutions,” said Aznar Sethna, SALTO Systems’ Chief Sales & Marketing Officer (CSMO). Aznar Sethna adds, “With restyle designs, industry-leading performance and advanced access control features, with impressive communication capabilities, all with incredible durability, the XS4 Original+ ensures customers get secure and safe access when they need it.” Redefined and stylish design The XS4 Original+ works with existing XS4 Original door hardware. A broad range of different models and functions make smart access to any door possible, in order to cover all needs of any type of building. Visually, the XS4 Original+ differs from the conventional XS4 Original only in a few details, with improved reader aesthetics. Thanks to a sleek design update, the XS4 Original+ looks better than ever Thanks to a sleek design update, the XS4 Original+ looks better than ever. The reader is now flatter and available in black and white colour options, for a simplified, modernised front. The ANSI, Euro Wide, and Scandinavian Wide standard reader models are a little wider, thereby creating a more harmonious version. The XS4 Original+ can be tailored to varying building and door needs, with a wide variety of colours and finishes, including the new Dark Bronze finish, and black or white reader options. These can be visualised on a wide range of door styles, by using the SALTO MyLock Configuration tool. Environment-friendly access control solution The XS4 Original+ is designed to minimise its impact on the environment. Today, SALTO Systems is carbon neutral for corporate factory operations and is committed to having net-zero climate impact, across the entire business, which includes manufacturing supply chains and all product life cycles. The XS4 Original+ is the latest model from SALTO to be delivered to customers as a net CO2-neutral access control solution. This concept involves offsetting the CO2 emissions generated during the manufacturing process and the logistics until it is delivered to the customer.

Video surveillance is by no means a new addition to the security market, and in fact, is one of the few solutions that almost every vertical requires. However, because so many VMS systems deployed today are outdated and utilise older technology, most businesses are not experiencing the full scope of security across their organisation as they could.  Containerised VMS v/s traditional VMS Containerised VMS systems have all the prerequisites pre-configured and installed for functionality and do not need any additional frameworks or database software, meaning they are ready to implement instantly. Because these systems do not have separate networks or recording servers, deployments are hassle-free and built with complex global situations in mind. “Containerised systems serve as a true enterprise solution that can scale regardless of an organisation’s unique requirements and are capable of fitting into any sized environment. From a small business with one camera stream to a multi-site deployment with thousands of IP camera systems globally, containerised VMS systems create a scalable, simple to use, and robust solution that can be tailored exactly to fit the organisation’s needs,” John Rezzonico, CEO, Edge360 & Surveill.

In the field of access control, face recognition has come a long way. Once considered too slow to authenticate people's identities and credentials in high traffic conditions, face recognition technology has evolved to become one of the quickest, most effective access control identity authentication solutions across all industries. Advancements in artificial intelligence and advanced neural network (ANN) technology from industry leaders like Intel have improved the accuracy and efficiency of face recognition. However, another reason the technology is gaining traction is due to the swiftly rising demand for touchless access control solutions that can help mitigate the spread of disease in public spaces. Effective for high volumes Face recognition eliminates security risks and is also virtually impossible to counterfeit Modern face recognition technology meets all the criteria for becoming the go-to solution for frictionless access control. It provides an accurate, non-invasive means of authenticating people's identities in high-traffic areas, including multi-tenant office buildings, industrial sites, and factories where multiple shifts per day are common. Typical electronic access control systems rely on people providing physical credentials, such as proximity cards, key fobs, or Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones, all of which can be misplaced, lost, or stolen. Face recognition eliminates these security risks and is also virtually impossible to counterfeit. Affordable biometric option Although there are other biometric tools available, face recognition offers significant advantages. Some technologies use hand geometry or iris scans, for example, but these options are generally slower and more expensive. This makes face recognition a natural application for day-to-day access control activities, including chronicling time and attendance for large workforces at construction sites, warehouses, and agricultural and mining operations. In addition to verifying personal credentials, face recognition can also identify whether an individual is wearing a facial covering in compliance with government or corporate mandates regarding health safety protocols. Beyond securing physical locations, face recognition can also be used to manage access to computers, as well as specialised equipment and devices. Overcoming challenges with AI So how did face recognition become so reliable when the technology was once dogged by many challenges, including difficulties with camera angles, certain types of facial expressions, and diverse lighting conditions? Thanks to the emergence of so-called "convolutional" neural network-based algorithms, engineers have been able to overcome these roadblocks. SecurOS FaceX face recognition solution FaceX is powered by neural networks and machine learning which makes it capable of authenticating a wide range of faces One joint effort between New Jersey-based Intelligent Security Systems (ISS) and tech giant Intel has created the SecurOS FaceX face recognition solution. FaceX is powered by neural networks and machine learning which makes it capable of authenticating a wide range of faces and facial expressions, including those captured under changing light, at different resolution levels, and varying distances from the video camera. Secure video management system A common face recognition system deployment begins with IP video cameras that feed footage into a secure video management system connected to a video archive. When the software initially enrolls a person’s face, it creates a "digital descriptor" that is stored as a numeric code that will forever be associated with one identity. The system encrypts and stores these numeric codes in a SQL database. For the sake of convenience and cost savings, the video server CPU performs all neural network processes without requiring any special GPU cards. Unique digital identifiers The next step involves correlating faces captured in a video recording with their unique digital descriptors on file. The system can compare newly captured images against large databases of known individuals or faces captured from video streams. Face recognition technology can provide multi-factor authentication, searching watchlists for specific types of features, such as age, hair colour, gender, ethnicity, facial hair, glasses, headwear, and other identifying characteristics including bald spots. Robust encryption SED-compatible drives rely on dedicated chips that encrypt data with AES-128 or AES-256 To support privacy concerns, the entire system features an encrypted and secure login process that prevents unauthorized access to both the database and the archive. An additional layer of encryption is available through the use of Self-Encrypting Drives (SEDs) that hold video recordings and metadata. SED-compatible drives rely on dedicated chips that encrypt data with AES-128 or AES-256 (short for Advanced Encryption Standard). Anti-spoofing safeguards How do face recognition systems handle people who try to trick the system by wearing a costume mask or holding up a picture to hide their faces? FaceX from ISS, for example, includes anti-spoofing capabilities that essentially check for the "liveliness" of a given face. The algorithm can easily flag the flat, two-dimensional nature of a face mask, printed photo, or image on a mobile phone and issue a "spoof" alarm. Increased speed of entry Incorporating facial recognition into existing access control systems is straightforward and cost-effective Incorporating facial recognition into existing access control systems is straightforward and cost-effective. Systems can operate with off-the-shelf security cameras and computers. Users can also leverage existing infrastructure to maintain building aesthetics. A face recognition system can complete the process of detection and recognition in an instant, opening a door or turnstile in less than 500ms. Such efficiency can eliminate hours associated with security personnel checking and managing credentials manually. A vital tool Modern face recognition solutions are infinitely scalable to accommodate global enterprises. As a result, face recognition as a credential is increasingly being implemented for a wide range of applications that transcend traditional access control and physical security to include health safety and workforce management. All these capabilities make face recognition a natural, frictionless solution for managing access control, both in terms of performance and cost.

As anti-fraud company Revector marks 20 years of operating, CEO and Founder Andy Gent believes that telecommunications fraud is still not high enough on the corporate agenda for network operators – this should be a significant concern to shareholders.  In 2001, Revector was launched to combat specific fraudulent activity against mobile network operators. The company’s management expected the business to have a shelf life of no more than five years – such as the belief that mobile operators would quickly get a grip on network fraud and reduce it to zero.  Twenty years later frauds continue to persist – costing shareholders, networks, and Governments billions in lost revenue annually.  Revenue through mobile service According to Andy Gent, fraudsters are, at heart, business people, exploiting an opportunity for money. Gent explains how this relates to network fraud thus, “Mobile service providers generate revenues in two ways - by having their subscribers that pay the company to access the networks they run and associated services such as voice calls, text messages, and data usage. The second – known as termination revenue – involves transporting calls from other networks.”  Revenues from termination are shared between all networks that help deliver the call Revenues from termination are shared between all networks that help deliver the call, as Gent outlines: “Imagine a call from the UK to Australia. This will pass through several service providers that will each take a small percentage of the call revenues for passing on the call.”  “Telecommunications companies establish relationships with others around predictable calling patterns. For example, BT may know that they need one million minutes of calls to South Africa per month. They, therefore, establish a relationship with a South African telecommunications company to provide this.”    Trading termination minutes The issue comes when the unexpected happens, for example, an earthquake in Cape Town. Now UK residents with relatives in Cape Town suddenly demand a lot more telephone time. BT needs more minutes than it has. It is unlikely that its partner in South Africa can provide these – they are facing the same issue due to the increased volume of calls in and out of the country – so it will look to the open market for the minutes it needs.  Gent continues, “Termination minutes are traded in the same way as other commodities. Exchanges combine minutes from multiple sources, bundle these together and sell them. The issue is where these minutes come from. The bundles may well include “white” routes – premium minutes provided by legitimate telecommunications companies. However, many will include so-called “grey” routes.”    A simple but effective fraud  Grey routes are not provided by the telecommunications companies but by third parties or through fraudulent means. Typically, the “grey” routes come at a lower cost than the “white” routes, but some telecommunications service providers may not know this or care about it. The natural pressure on cost means some telecommunications companies end up using “grey” route minutes. The threats to network providers’ revenues come from these “grey” routes.  A primary risk is SIM Box fraud.  SIM Box fraud  SIM Box fraud occurs where there is a differential price between the cost of routing a call in a country and the cost of terminating a call, as Gent outlines below: “Imagine a network is offering a promotion with free calls to others on the same network. At the same time, the value of terminating a call to that network’s customers is $0.05 per call.” One single SIM card being used in this way can generate $3000 per month and there are hundreds of cards in each SIM box “If someone can procure SIM cards with the promotion, these can be loaded into a SIM Box – a device that can house hundreds of SIM cards in racks and be connected to the internet - to terminate calls. The owner of the SIM box can then offer to terminate calls for $0.03 per call. The cost to the SIM box owner is close to zero – the local minutes they are using to terminate calls are bundled with the SIM deal.  The $0.03 per call is pure profit after the SIM cards and SIM boxes have been purchased.”  While this sounds like a complicated scam it can be lucrative. One single SIM card being used in this way can generate $3000 per month and there are hundreds of cards in each SIM box.   Loss of termination revenues Service providers can quickly find a large proportion of revenues lost to SIM boxes. Gent has seen “up to 90 percent of termination revenues being lost.” “The nature of SIM box fraud is transitory: fraudsters will pick the countries with the strongest opportunity to generate revenues quickly, sweep in and terminate calls for a month or two before the operator notices the revenue drop and takes action.”    Is it illegal?  If this practice sounds entrepreneurial rather than illegal, it is probably because it seems like a victimless crime. However, mobile network operators have paid millions if not billions for the ability to operate networks and generate termination revenues. A reduction in this revenue will mean less investment into next-generation networks or customer service.  For the consumer, illegal termination often means poor quality calls with a lack of services such as caller line identification (CLI). But perhaps the most concerning issue is where the proceeds of crime go, as Gent outlines. “Often these SIM box frauds are run by criminal gangs using the process to launder money or finance organised crime or people trafficking.”  “With widespread restrictions on the number of SIM cards that can be sold to one person, the only way to procure enough SIM cards is via criminal activity. Gangs bribe or coerce network operation staff into supplying SIM cards by the thousand, generating millions in illicit revenues.”  Other telecommunications fraud  Threat to operator termination revenues comes from OTT service providers that have an eye on termination revenues Another threat to operator termination revenues comes from Over-the-Top (OTT) service providers that have an eye on termination revenues as well as competing with telecommunications service providers for a share of the voice and messaging market.  While most telecommunications companies see Voice over IP (or OTT) as fair competition, in recent years several new OTT service providers have grown extremely quickly. WhatsApp, for example, was incorporated in 2009 and acquired by Facebook just five years later for almost $20 billion.  The business models of these companies vary. Some focus on the “freemium” approach where the initial service is free but add-ons become chargeable. OTT app fraud However, recently some OTT players are looking to terminate revenue to monetise their business models. These operators have been offering competitive termination rates by hijacking a traditional call made from one telephone number to another and terminating it within an OTT app, as Gent explains, “We are seeing OTT apps intercepting traditional telephone calls and delivering them within a user’s app.”  “The call starts as a dialled telephone call, but the user receives it within an OTT app.  If OTT players can achieve this, they can generate termination revenues at zero cost – other than to the traditional operator.”  Using an app to make calls “Of course, if the recipient of the call believes the caller has used an app to call them, they are more likely to use this method of communication in the future – and less likely to dial a number directly. For the OTT players, termination acts as a marketing tool as well as a revenue stream.”  According to Gent, one OTT service provider has gone as far as including a setting within their app that states “receive regular incoming calls within the app when possible”.  This is defaulted to “on” when the app is downloaded.  Only the most technologically savvy users would even know it was there.  Combatting the fraud against networks  Networks are less worried about losing revenue to fraud and more about grabbing as many subscribers as possible" Why do networks not do more to combat fraud?  The reality, according to Gent, is a combination of priorities and ignorance. He comments, “Most mobile network operators are large but still relatively young companies – typically built around customer acquisition.”  “Networks are less worried about losing revenue to fraud and more about grabbing as many subscribers as possible.  This has led to a mindset where whatever the questions the answer is always more marketing promotions.”  A small number of innovators around the world continue to fight these frauds directly, but the fraudsters simply move on to the next victim and, when the anti-fraud measures are relaxed, the fraudsters return.  An opportunity for the future  As mobile networks mature and become more commoditised, Gent believes the issues around combatting fraud will become a wider concern. “If you had told me in 2001 that fraud would still be an issue in 2021, I would have been shocked. Yet operators are still losing significant revenues to criminals. Addressing this needs to remain a priority for the industry, not just to ensure networks have the revenues to build and maintain robust networks but also to ensure that criminal behaviour that this kind of illicit activity funds is reduced. This is not just an issue for network operators but also for wider society.” 

While the foundation of autonomous retail has been built up over the past few years, it is only now that retailers are beginning to fully experiment with the technology. There were an estimated 350 stores globally in 2018 offering a fully autonomous checkout process, yet this number is forecast to increase dramatically with 10,000 stores anticipated by 2024. This acceleration in the growth of unmanned retail stores has, in part, been boosted by the COVID-19 pandemic and a demand for a more contactless, socially distanced shopping experience. Physical security technologies Innovative physical security technologies can play a significant role in protecting a site while supporting its operation Many retailers are now exploring such solutions as a way to streamline their services and simplify store operations while reducing overheads. Of course, the security of unmanned sites is a concern, with many eager to embrace such a design, but wary about the prospect of leaving a store unguarded. This is where innovative physical security technologies can play a significant role in protecting a site while supporting its operation and also helping to improve customer experience. Comprehensive integrated solution To make the autonomous retail vision a reality, a comprehensive solution is needed that integrates network cameras, IP audio speakers, and access control devices. The cameras can be employed to monitor entrance points and sales areas, including checkout terminals, and can be monitored and operated remotely from a central control room. This offers management full visibility of operations, regardless of the number of stores. Recorded video material can be processed, packaged, and passed to authorities, when necessary, by applicable laws. Optimising operations As autonomous stores do not require staff to be present and run largely independently, managers can be notified automatically via mobile device if an event occurs that requires their attention. This could range from a simple need to restock popular items or clean the premises after a spillage, to a criminal break-in or attack. Again, network video surveillance cameras installed inside and outside of the premises provide high-quality video of any incident as it occurs, enabling immediate action to be taken. Improving customer experience Access control mechanisms at the entrance and exit points enable smooth, touch-free access to customers Access control mechanisms at the entrance and exit points enable smooth, touch-free access to customers, while IP audio speakers allow ambient music to be played, creating a relaxed in-store atmosphere and also offering the ability to play alerts or voice messages as required. Due to the automated nature of such audio broadcasting, consistency of brand can be created across multiple locations where playlists and pre-recorded voice messages are matched in terms of style and tone from store to store. Boosting profits The accessibility of premises 24/7 can ultimately lead to an increase in sales by simply allowing customers to enter the store and make a purchase at any time, rather than being restricted by designated retail hours. This also serves to improve customer loyalty through retail convenience. Utilising data from the access control system, managers can configure lights to turn on/off and ambient music to power down when the last person leaves the shop, to be reactivated the next time someone enters the premises. This approach can also conserve energy, leading to cost savings. Designing a future proof solution The threat of vandalism is greatly limited if everyone entering the shop can be identified, which is something that is already happening in Scandinavia using QR codes linked to an electronic identification system called BankID. This process involves a user being identified by their bank details, and their credentials checked upon entering the store. This not only streamlines the transaction process but vastly improves security because only those who want to legitimately use the services will go through the identification process, helping to deter antisocial or criminal behaviour. Physical security technology should be reliable and of high quality, without compromising the service to customers VMS-based network solution Both inside and outside of the premises, physical security technology should be reliable and of high quality, without compromising the service to customers, or hampering their experience. Door controls, network cameras, and loudspeakers, together with a comprehensive video management system (VMS), enable retailers to control every element of their store and remove any uncertainty around its management or security. Such a system, network-enabled and fully scalable to meet ongoing business requirements, can be offered using open APIs; this allows configuration and customisation while ensuring that the retailer is not limited by the technology or tied into any particular set-up or vendor as their requirements evolve. Additional security benefits As more businesses launch their unmanned stores, the benefits of such technology to streamline and improve every aspect of their operations become ever clearer. A comprehensive solution from a trusted security provider can bring complete peace of mind while offering additional benefits to support the retail business as it seeks a secure future.

It’s been almost exactly a decade since HID Global launched the world's first university pilot of smartphones carrying secure mobile IDs. A lot has changed in the following 10 years. Today’s technology has matured, advanced, and proliferated across a variety of high-value use cases. To catch up on the latest developments in mobile access, we contacted Luc Merredew, Product Marketing Director, Physical Access Control, at HID Global.   Q: What has changed since the first pilot implementation of smartphones used for secure mobile identification? Merredew: One of the biggest milestones several years ago was when mobile access solutions achieved certification to the ISO 27001:2013 Information Security Management System (ISMS) standard. With increasing awareness of cloud-based security threats and resulting high expectations from a solution, today’s system owners, operators, and users insist on companies being able to demonstrate that they have had their services vetted by independent laboratories and/or agencies. When adopting mobile access solutions that maximise convenience and efficiency, and deliver dramatically improved user experiences, it is neither necessary nor acceptable to compromise security in either the physical or digital domains. Q: Do universities continue to be the biggest users? Mobile IDs on devices eliminate person-to-person credentials when accessing secured areas Merredew: The use cases have grown dramatically, spread evenly across all types of organisations in locations ranging from high-rise buildings to multi-campus global enterprises. But yes, universities continue to be big adopters, and they were among those most eager to leverage the technology so they could bring people back to campus in person during the pandemic. In this environment, mobile IDs on smartphones and other devices eliminate person-to-person credential (e.g., badge or ID card) issuance or revocation, as well as the need to physically touch cards, readers, or keypads when accessing secured areas.   Q: How were mobile IDs employed by your customers as they brought people back to physical locations after the pandemic shutdown? Merredew: One example is Vanderbilt University, where the challenges of COVID-19 brought renewed attention to the importance of a modern system for identity management and access control that was compatible with Near Field Communication (NFC) and Bluetooth technologies. Members of the campus community could more conveniently access buildings and services with their mobile devices, and the university could efficiently provision and de-provision credentials remotely without person-to-person contact. More recently, Vanderbilt leveraged HID Mobile Access® to deploy campus IDs on iPhone and Apple Watch through Apple Wallet. Q: Is there another example outside the university vertical? Merredew: Another example is the iconic tower Arcos Bosques Torre 1 in Mexico City, where the owners and tenants enjoy the simplicity of using their trusted mobile devices to seamlessly access their spaces. As with the Vanderbilt deployment, the drive for operational efficiency and convenience in the tower was combined with a desire to minimise the need for users to come in physical contact with the system. Having a solution like HID Mobile Access that delivers touchless entry and increased safety and security is important.  Q: What have been the biggest mobile access advancements? The mobile credential provides contactless, seamless access to a wide range of devices and services Merredew: One of the most important advancements was simplifying upgrade paths to mobile access. In the Vanderbilt example, our HID Reader Manager was used to upgrade the firmware on the university’s physical access control readers and extend support for NFC-based credentials in Apple Wallet. The university uses the HID Origo™ Mobile Identities API integrated with CS Gold®, a higher education transaction system from CBORD, for credential lifecycle management. Another significant enhancement has been the expanded range of uses cases for the mobile credential, going beyond simply opening doors to include providing contactless, seamless access to a wide range of devices and services such as time-and-attendance terminals, cashless vending machines, printers, computers, workstations, and many other applications. Q: Wearables are also having an impact. Merredew: Contactless mobile experiences are also delivered through wearable wristbands. One example is the Nymi band which, once authenticated, continuously authenticates the identity of the user until it’s removed from the wrist. This delivers zero-trust security principles and access control using convenient fingerprint and heartbeat biometrics to users seeking touchless authentication. Q: What is the impact of the cloud? Merredew: The move to a cloud-based system to issue and manage mobile identity credentials has unified, automated, and simplified identity issuance at a single facility or across any number of distributed office or remote work locations. Q: What should end users look for in a mobile access solution? Look for solutions that use a secure element in the reader as well as cloud certificates, to ensure security and data privacy Merredew: Solutions should support the largest possible number of popular mobile devices – in HID’s case, this includes more than 250. Look for solutions that use a secure element in the reader, and a secure key management process, as well as cloud certificates, to ensure both security and data privacy. Make sure the solution supports Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Near Field Communication (NFC), and both iOS and Android operating systems. Solutions that provide Application Programming Interface (API) and Software Development Kit (SDK) support offer direct access to the solution’s access control hardware, speeding deployment while enabling integration partners to continue innovating products that deliver even better user experiences. Q: Wonder what this market will look like in 10 more years. What’s next for mobile access? Merredew: Future innovations are on the horizon with technologies such as Ultra-Wideband (UWB) wireless connectivity, which HID expects will become ubiquitous on mobile devices. It provides unprecedented accuracy and security when measuring the distance or determining the relative position of a target. It is not HID’s expectation that UWB will replace Near Field Communication (NFC) or Bluetooth, but rather supplement Bluetooth and other technologies to provide the assurance, reliability, and granularity of device position that enables truly seamless experiences. 

The trend of video customers moving to the cloud has reached a tipping point. At the same time, artificial intelligence (AI) is being adopted on a massive scale. Combining the two trends adds a higher level of value than either component individually. Merging the power of AI and the cloud is a driving force behind cloud surveillance company Eagle Eye Networks’ acquisition of Uncanny Vision, an AI and video analytics company headquartered in Bangalore, India. Expensive AI resources Cloud systems empower customers to leverage AI without having to install and program complicated and expensive hardware, in effect stripping away the barriers to entry that customers face when seeking to embrace AI. The cloud also enables customers to share expensive AI resources. One of the key components is ease of deployment – click, click and turn on the AI for any camera" Simplicity of implementation is crucial to the combined value proposition of Eagle Eye Networks and Uncanny Vision. “One of the key components is ease of deployment – click, click and turn on the AI for any camera (in a cloud system),” says Dean Drako, Eagle Eye Networks CEO. There is also a benefit of having AI systems networked, enabling 25 banks to perform facial recognition of customers from a single cloud-based system, he adds. A transition is also under way in the perception of AI. Video surveillance applications While previously it was seen as an add-on to surveillance systems, now it is seen as a very desirable feature on any system. “Centralised management of the cloud benefits the AI database,” says Drako. “In a project built around licence plate recognition (LPR), for example, all the data goes up to the cloud into a single database, and the customer can get a mobile view of everything going on across the world. You can’t do that without the cloud. And AI for LPR is more accurate.” Uncanny Vision’s targeted focus on AI for video surveillance applications was one factor that attracted Eagle Eye Networks to make the acquisition, says Drako. In contrast, some other companies have embraced broader applications of video AI. Uncanny Vision also has more customers using their system in real-world applications than competitors. Finally, the acquisition will help to expand Eagle Eye Networks’ presence in the LPR market, where Uncanny Vision is especially strong. Improving business operations The 60 employees at Uncanny Vision are mostly engineers and programmers Uncanny Vision’s deep learning algorithms enable recognition, identification, and prediction, improving business operations, customer service, and site safety. Applications include smart parking, retail, smart cities, ATM monitoring, worker safety and perimeter security. The 60 employees at Uncanny Vision are mostly engineers and programmers. “These guys understand how to translate AI algorithms to run very efficiently on various types of hardware,” says Drako. “They optimise how they get the code to run so we can implement in the cloud cost-effectively. They do it at a modest cost to make it more accessible. They understand how to deploy software for high performance on low-cost hardware.” For Uncanny Vision, the new ownership provides more reach. “We have a huge channel and a huge brand,” says Drako. “They are strong technical guys who need a sales and solution channel.” Video analytics solutions Even in light of the acquisition, Eagle Eye Networks will continue to provide a selection of third-party AI and video analytics solutions to customers. Use of AI and video analytics is specific to the application and business needs of each customer. Use of AI and video analytics is specific to the application and business needs of each customer In addition to AI functionality, systems need a ‘business logic’ component that drives how that capability is integrated into a system. System needs vary widely by vertical market, and many third-party vendors are focused on a specific vertical and how AI can benefit that market. Recurring monthly revenue “Third parties can provide analytics and the business logic, which is different for a factory, an office building or for a drive-thru restaurant,” says Drako. “The market is looking for many solutions, and one company couldn’t own a majority of them.” To ensure flexibility, Eagle Eye Networks will accommodate third party solutions, deploy their own analytics, or leverage analytics embedded in cameras. For Eagle Eye Networks’ dealer and integrator customers, the expansion into AI presents a new opportunity for recurring monthly revenue (RMR) and provides greater value to customers. Drako says the impact of the acquisition will be global as AI applications grow in popularity worldwide.

Video is an enormous wellspring of unstructured data in the enterprise environment. Finding new ways to use video data requires easy access for analysis. Gone are the days when video was recorded just to be played back later. New computer capabilities can analyse video to provide business intelligence and trends, all of which requires that a lot of unstructured data be captured, stored and kept immediately accessible. It's a driving force for companies specialising in video storage such as Quantum, which is focused on storing and managing unstructured data, including video, photos, music and sound. Managing various analytics “Unstructured data is driving the massive growth in storage today, and video surveillance fits right in there,” says Jamie Lerner, CEO and President, Quantum. As data multiplies in business, matters of storing and accessing the data take on a larger profile. Especially challenging is meeting the need to store and access expanding amounts of unstructured data, such as video. Video is also part of a changing end-to-end architecture in the enterpriseWhereas 10 years ago, video surveillance was all about recording and playback, now the emphasis is much more on an end-to-end approach. In addition to capturing and playing back video, systems have to manage various analytics, archival and data retention aspects as well as recording. Video is also part of a changing end-to-end architecture in the enterprise, including hybrid, cloud and on-premise storage. Video surveillance industry Historically, structured data, such as financial information, was stored to allow future analytics. The same trend extends to unstructured data, such as video analytics. Quantum has expanded its video storage capabilities with acquisition this year of the video surveillance business of Pivot3, provider of a hyperconverged system that provides recording, analysis and seamlessly archives data on a converged platform that is less expensive and easier to manage. In acquiring Pivot3, Quantum is refocusing the smaller company on the video surveillance industry. “We are now focused 100% on surveillance and having the highest quality while being very cost-effective,” says Lerner. “The industry is ready for an IT-forward solution that is totally focused on surveillance. You can’t make a platform all things to all people.” Traditional security customers There is overlap in large stadiums and theme parks, where Lerner sees even more opportunity to expand Pivot3 will also help to expand Quantum’s customer base. The larger company has a history of serving customers in entertainment, movies, television and sports production. The addition of Pivot3’s 500 new customers in large surveillance, transportation and critical infrastructure markets will expand the mix. There is overlap in large stadiums and theme parks, where Lerner sees even more opportunity to expand. Pivot3 also helps to bridge the gap between traditional security customers and the information technology (IT) department. “Pivot3 has a reputation as simple to use,” says Lerner. “My belief is that physical security can run separately [from IT] until you reach a certain size, then IT has to be involved. Pivot3 gives IT people in the security space a product that is well formed and fits into an IT strategy. They are not undertaking a piece of equipment that will be a burden.” Physical security presence Customers expect their infrastructure vendors to provide systems that allow them to “Set it and forget it,” says Lerner. It’s one of the big advantages of cloud computing and also central to Quantum’s approach with their traditional products. “At the end of the day, you want to run a hospital, for example, so you want your systems to be easy to use,” says Lerner. The Pivot3 acquisition will also allow Quantum to expand their physical security presence more broadly and globally. Previously, the geographic reach of Pivot3 was limited by the high cost of placing personnel in diverse locations. Under Quantum, which has been serving global companies for 40 years, the problem disappears. “Quantum has global support on all continents and in more countries,” says Lerner. “It’s a higher level of support, given size and legacy of our organisation.”

MT Educare, a coaching institute since 1988, is a trusted brand in-classroom coaching and e-learning across India. With multiple locations and substantial growth, timely processing of staff and faculty payroll is crucial for MT Educare. With teaching faculty working at different locations for a varied time duration, capturing this diverse input correctly was a challenge. Besides, the confidentiality of payouts has been a major concern for MT Educare. Also, their HR team spent considerable time collating and checking the payroll input data. Streamlining entire process Capturing online attendance was considered however because the attendance input was not linked to payroll input, the HR team's involvement remained high. The output of the payroll was not shared with the business heads and hence they had to seek the information each month from the finance team. TopSource Worldwide streamlined the entire process and offered automation at various levels Given this scenario, MT Educare was looking out for an outsourced provider to offer a solution that will tackle all the above pain points. TopSource Worldwide streamlined the entire process and offered automation at various levels. For faculty payroll, TopSource Worldwide designed a timesheet and established a process of proactively sending those to all centers at the beginning of the month to capture the input. This gave great results in terms of timeliness and correctness. Getting clear visibility TopSource Worldwide also developed programs to check input at the source. This resulted in less time in the collation of input. Portico became the suite of choice for MT Educare from where their employees could view, download and print payslips. Business heads received reports for their business lines. Linking of online attendance and leave to payroll eased the input generation load of the HR team. Portico has taken over from the HR team thus the HR team is free to focus on the core HR function. The business heads are getting clear visibility of their own business line. MT Educare and TopSource relationship has changed from client-vendor to business partners.

RPG Life Sciences Ltd. formerly Searle (India) Ltd. is a full spectrum, world class, customer focussed, innovative pharmaceutical organisation. They develop, manufacture and market, for national and international markets, a broad range of branded formulations, generics and bulk drugs developed through fermentation and chemical synthesis routes. RPG Life Sciences were facing service issues with their outsourced payroll provider. Not only was the service not up to the mark, the payroll solution provided did not include any employee self service module. This led to a large number of employee queries being unanswered each month. Comprehensive payroll solution Also the multi-location nature of the business made distribution of reports and payslips a challenge. Delays were encountered in the delivery of reports along with inflexibility of reporting formats. RPG Life Sciences approached TopSource Worldwide to provide a comprehensive payroll solution that needed to be delivered on time, accurately and be able to respond to their growing needs. The Payslip distribution took place thru Portico to the multiple locations TopSource Worldwide provided employee self service thru Portico that gave access to employees to their payslips and enabled them to make investment declarations. The Payslip distribution took place thru Portico to the multiple locations. 24X7 access to payslips was provided by Portico from anywhere via the web. Adhoc reporting requirements Special reports such as Cumulative MSR, CARO Report, Additions and Deletions report and many more were provided to facilitate internal reporting for Finance and HR. A customised JV program was built to provide the journal entries from payroll to SAP. Bonus, Exgratia and Superannuation calculations were provided along with the necessary Journal entries for accounting each month. A Cheque writing service was also implemented in a few cases where required. RPG Life Sciences has to no longer spend time on administrative work and queries related to payroll. They have eliminated the risk of issues caused due to employee dissatisfaction with payroll and are now getting their payroll reports on time. Online availability of information has changed all that. They also have the added benefit of a flexible service provider to meet their adhoc reporting requirements.

Sauer-Danfoss designs, manufactures and sells a complete range of engineered hydraulic and electronic components including Hydrostatic transmissions, Mobile electronics, Open circuit products, Orbital motors, Steering components and valves. The company has more than 20 engineering and manufacturing facilities in Europe, the Americas and Asia- Pacific regions with total employee size of more than 6000. Sauer Danfoss India Pvt limited is located at Kesnand, Pune and the unit is mainly into manufacturing of steering components and valves. The company has sales branch offices in Mumbai, Bangalore, New Delhi and Ahmedabad. Issuing TDS certificates Sauer-Danfoss were facing issues with their outsourced consultant for filing the TDS returns and issuing of TDS certificates on a quarterly basis. The company was put in a situation of filing the TDS returns after the expiry of the due date. This would have resulted into a financial penalty for the company. The other issues faced by the company were complaints from suppliers for issuing the wrong TDS certificates The other issues faced by the company were complaints from suppliers for issuing the wrong TDS certificates, TDS deducted details not matching in spite of providing correct information by the company to the consultant. Sauer-Danfoss approached TopSource Worldwide to take over the activity of filing the TDS return and issuing TDS certificates on a quarterly basis. Maker-checker process TopSource Worldwide started filing the TDS returns and issuing TDS certificates on quarterly basis to more than 200 suppliers. TopSource Worldwide experts ensured cross-verification of PAN number each time a new supplier was registered. This was done through NSDL so as to avoid any future complications. Quality checks were done by a separate team for each TDS certificate before issuing to respective supplier(s) ensuring following of a maker-checker process. TopSource Worldwide also did cross verification post filing the TDS returns by verifying the acknowledgement of TDS return filed with NSDL. Information recorded with NSDL was checked to avoid future litigations and take corrective actions wherever required. Supplier's complaints have reduced completely and the company does not face any risk of future litigation with respect to TDS compliances.

The Kalyani Group had promoted Kalyani Wheels as a part of its diversification plan. Kalyani Wheels then had a technical collaboration with Lemmerz Werke, Germany. Subsequently, Lemmerz Werke became a joint venture partner and the new company was christened as Kalyani Lemmerz Ltd (KLL). The company manufactures Wheel Rims for utility vehicles, light and heavy commercial vehicles and tractors. Wheel rim technology Lemmerz is a pioneer in wheel rim technology and supplies to automotive manufacturers. KLL manufacturers wheel rims using the flat stock, cold pressing and flow forming method pioneered by the Lemmerz Group. This process gives Kalyani Lemmerz a competitive edge over other wheel rim manufacturers. The HR team was also spending time on providing ad-hoc reports post payroll KLL's HR department was responsible was processing its payroll. The HR team desired to focus on labour law issues. Also running a payroll in-house came with the risks of information and data leakage resulting in compromising the confidentiality of data. The HR team was also spending time on providing ad-hoc reports post payroll. KLL approached TopSource Worldwide to provide a comprehensive payroll solution that needed to be delivered on time, accurately and be able to respond to their growing needs. Comprehensive payroll solution TopSource Worldwide provided an end-to-end payroll service that freed up HR to continue to focus on HR related activities. Special reports were developed as part of the automation initiatives to produce Bonus Calculation, CTC summary, LIC reconciliations and Trust PF contributions. Timelines (including working on Sundays if required) are being followed by TopSource Worldwide to deliver the service. KLL has to no longer spend time on administrative work and queries related to payroll. The HR team is able to focus on core HR issues and industrial relations. They have eliminated the risk of issues caused due to employee dissatisfaction if HR issues are not handled in a timely manner. They also have the added benefit of a flexible service provider to meet their adhoc reporting requirements.

Dorabjee's identified that there was a problem in their bank reconciliation and invited TopSource Worldwide in May 2012 to review their Bank reconciliation process and controls and provide recommendations to address this problem. Bank reconciliation at Dorabjee's was reconciled till March 2011 with unreconciled transactions from 2006. Bank reconciliation was also completed episodically. There was no specific process or controls in bank reconciliation process. Bank reconciliation process TopSource Worldwide took a number of steps to arrive at an effective solution: Dorabjee's internal accounts team completed the bank reconciliation as on 31/3/12. Dorabjee's internal accounts team cleared historic unreconciled transactions from 2006. Dorabjee's internal accounts team recorded payment transactions which were not posted for the period - April'12 till July'12. TopSource Worldwide completed reconciliation from April'12 till July'12 as a 1st step. In reconciliation completed as on July'12 TopSource Worldwide identified all open items > 30 days and resolved them with the help of Dorabjee's internal accounts team. TopSource Worldwide then completed reconciliation from Aug'12 till Sep'12. TopSource Worldwide prepared a delivery schedule for receiving inputs, delivery of reconciliation and completed reconciliation from October'12 on a monthly basis. Cash flow monitoring Bank reconciliation is up to date and completed on monthly basis. All open issues are reported to Dorabjee's and resolved. Dorabjee's can rely on and use the bank reconciliation as a tool to identify any errors in the accounting records of the company or bank. It provides an added comfort to Dorabjee's that the bank transactions have been recorded correctly in the company records. Monthly preparation of bank reconciliation assists Dorabjee's in the regular monitoring of cash flow of a business.

Abloy UK has been awarded a three-year contract with Thames Water, valued at an estimated ∼750k, to upgrade existing locking systems between now and June 2024. Thames Water is the UK’s largest water and wastewater company, serving 15 million customers across London and the Thames Valley. Cylinders and padlocks Products specified for the project include padlocks and a range of cylinders, which will be used to secure a variety of areas and assets. These include treatment plants and pumping stations on applications such as hatches, doors, and gates. They'll be used at over 22 sites in North and East London including Coppermills and Abbey Mills. Abloy cylinders combine flexibility with security, to provide unbeatable performance and meet the BS EN 1303 standard for Cylinder Locks. Abloy padlocks use a unique rotating disc principle and are renowned for their endurance and maximum resistance against physical attack, offering durability in even the severest of climatic conditions. Access control and keyless solution There is also the future potential to implement a PROTEC2 CLIQ access control system and BEAT keyless solution that combines a digital key, mobile application, and a heavy-duty, Bluetooth padlock, all managed with the visual Abloy OS user interface. Simon Jeff, Market Developer for Critical Infrastructure at Abloy UK, said, “We are delighted to have secured a contract of this size with such a prominent and well-respected company such as Thames Water, and look forward to successfully implementing the new locking systems over the next three years.”

Diversity in a company’s workforce is arguably more important now than ever. Societal awareness of the importance of diversity has grown, and many people see diversity as an important factor that reflects positively (or negatively) on a company’s culture and image in the marketplace. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What should the security industry do to promote workplace diversity?

The death of Michael Brown at the hands of police in Ferguson, Missouri, in August 2014, highlighted to the public, the importance of body-worn cameras. There was no bodycam footage of the Ferguson tragedy. Arguably, it would have shed additional light on the shooting. Since then, body cameras have become a tangible legacy of Ferguson, Missouri. Bodycam footage is seen as providing greater accountability and ensuring an impartial record that can support, or debunk, any claims of police misconduct. Body-worn cameras are also finding their way into broader usage, even including customer service applications. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How important will body-worn cameras be moving forward? 

Many of the threats facing the energy and utility sector are related to cybersecurity, as recent incidents have confirmed. Another problem is that operating systems for utilities tend to be outdated, which presents extra challenges in a connected world. There are also physical security demands, not to mention regulatory and social issues. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the security trends in energy and utilities?