Network / IP security

Two separate divisions of VPS (UK) Ltd are combining to operate under a new banner of VPS Security Services. Their Property division, providing protection for people, property and assets for over 25 years, will merge with their Site Security unit, which specialises in securing construction sites, utilities and assets in remote, challenging environments. Bluetooth-enabled Smart Door and Smart Alarms  "We have the widest range of security options in the business, combining the highest quality in-house designed products, such as the VPS Security Tower range, the industry leading Bluetooth-operated Smart Door and our Smart Alarms, with the expertise and experience of our inspectors, engineers and business development managers." "Each customer has a unique set of requirements. It makes complete sense for both teams to pool their resources and knowledge. This simply enhances our staff's commitment and passion for designing the best fit solution and delivering excellence." says Phil Bunting, a VPS Director. Wide range of security support Their recent projects reflect the wide range of security support on offer, from protecting pubs and churches that have closed down, through to devising electronic ‘goalposts' to prevent low-bridge strikes during a major highway refurbishment programme. VPS (UK) Ltd have won multiple peer-reviewed awards including Supplier of the Year, Best Innovation, and, just a few weeks ago, Customer Care Initiative of the Year in the IFSEC Security and Fire Excellence Awards for their market-leading customer portal.

Redvision, the UK’s renowned manufacturer of high-performance, rugged CCTV cameras, has released an image of its new VEGA 2010 camera housing, with its cover ghosted away. It clearly shows installers how their preferred camera and lens combinations can fit neatly inside. VEGA 2010 camera housing Stephen Lightfoot, technical director at Redvision explains, “The VEGA 2010, rugged, camera housing has room for cameras and lenses up to 290mm long. The Tru-park, silicon wiper, which removes dirt and water from the housing’s camera window, is shown at the front to the housing and concealed neatly behind the front bezel when not in use.”  The VEGA is made from tough, die-cast aluminum, which is both IP67 weather-proof and IK10 impact-rated. It is finished with a marine-grade plating, followed by a durable powder-coating. Although the standard colour is light grey (RAL 7035), it can be finished is any RAL colour, as required. PoE-driven, CHAT interface board Stephen adds, “The PoE-driven, CHAT interface board is mounted beside the camera. This distributes power to the camera, wiper, washer and built-in heater, as well as providing the connection and interface for Ethernet and audio communications. The wiper’s gearing mechanism sits behind the camera and the drive mechanism runs alongside the camera to the front. All cabling is managed inside its built-in, wall or pedestal mounting bracket and integrated junction box.” The VEGA 2010 is one of the most compact, tough and well-designed, fixed rugged, camera housings in the security industry.

OPTEX, renowned global sensor manufacturer, will demonstrate the recently enhanced long-range RLS-3060 LiDAR series live on its stand, as well as showcase its new 180-degree outdoor sensor ideal for boundary protection. OPTEX LiDAR and REDSCAN series sensors “OPTEX’s LiDARs have been successfully deployed in the Middle East region for years, for a number of applications ranging from perimeter security to roof and asset protection. At this year’s Intersec we are looking forward to showing the new functionalities of our long-range REDSCAN series which will make it more flexible and compelling for perimeter security,” says Gaurav Mahajan, Divisional Manager for OPTEX in Middle East. The advanced RLS-3060-SH model has been designed for harsher environments and extends the detection area to 50m radius in horizontal mode The long-range RLS-3060L has a detection range of up to 30 metres, and now features four detection areas that can be independently adjusted via an analogue connection, and up to eight areas that can be adjusted via an IP connection. The inclusion of area allocation and masking functions enable these detection zones to be precisely defined. The advanced RLS-3060-SH model has been designed for harsher environments and extends the detection area to 50m radius in horizontal mode. When in vertical detection mode, it can detect a standing or squatting person over 100m away. WXI 180-degree outdoor PIR sensors The event is also the opportunity for OPTEX to showcase its new 180-degree outdoor sensor, ideal to protect the boundary of residential and commercial premises. The new WXI 12m 180-degree outdoor PIR has left and right alarm outputs that trigger alarm signals from both sides individually, making it ideal for PTZ activation, direction, recognition and changing detection pattern by day and night. The WX Infinity series features advanced Super Multidimensional Analysis (SMDA) logic to differentiate between human beings and animals, advanced temperature compensation, an area masking shutter, and a single or dual pulse count. The new series is available as both hard wired and battery-operated models. With the launch of our new 180-degree PIR, we are complementing our boundary protection range" “With the launch of our new 180-degree PIR, we are complementing our boundary protection range,” says Masaya Kida, Managing Director of OPTEX EMEA. “We are now able to offer single sided and double-sided curtain PIRs, 90-degree volumetric and 180-degree volumetric sensors, covering all areas around the building.” Fibre optic perimeter fence detection system Also, on the stand, OPTEX’s sister company Fiber Sensys will be showcasing its compact radar range which offers object tracking and object categorising that differentiates between vehicles, people and drones. It complements its fibre optic perimeter fence detection system by offering protection for wide open areas. Masaya says the company is looking forward to exhibiting again at Intersec and having the opportunity to present its range of perimeter protection sensors: “A delegation from OPTEX EMEA will be attending the show including technical engineers, marketing specialists, Middle East and Africa sales managers, and our Strategic Alliance Manager. This gives visitors to Intersec a great opportunity to connect with the OPTEX team and discuss their projects.”

CNL Software, global supplier of Physical Security Information Management (PSIM) software, is pleased to announce that it will be demonstrating the latest version of its IPSecurityCenter PSIM solution, as chosen by leading law enforcement, Safe City and CNI organisations in the Middle East. It will demonstrate recent enhancements to its open PSIM platform, including the accelerated processing of alarms, a more intuitive interface and a greater focus on the visualisation of data. Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning CNL Software will share valuable insights into its work with governments, military, enterprises and cities. It will discuss how security operations can leverage the latest technology developments such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) to help to identify and respond to incidents faster and more accurately. Additionally, it will highlight its innovation with leading drone detection and defence technologies, which can help to identify, track and mitigate aerial-based threats. In recent years, visualisation inside the control room has become increasingly important, and CNL Software, along with its technology partners, has been at the forefront of the visualisation of assets using 3D technologies. This coupled with IPSecurityCenter’s latest dashboard capabilities will also be demonstrated at Intersec. Intersec is a great forum for us to share the latest on our IPSecurityCenter PSIM software, as well as best practice and trends in the industry" IPSecurityCenter PSIM solution  “More than a decade ago, we set out to create a PSIM platform to transform the way organisations manage their security. Today, IPSecurityCenter is trusted by the best-informed security operations in national security, ports, airports, government buildings, transportation and enterprises in the Middle East”, says Craig Menzies, General Manager – ME. “Increasingly, we are developing large scale interconnected deployments, which is where we lead the PSIM field in highly scalable solutions. Intersec is a great forum for us to share the latest on our IPSecurityCenter PSIM software, as well as best practice and trends in the industry.” CNL Software’s IPSecurityCenter PSIM solution provides a single view of all of an organisation’s mission critical security systems, increasing emergency preparedness, delivering intelligence to the point of need and providing process guidance to enhance security responses. Layouts, sequences and process guidance can be created in Arabic and operators are able to work using Arabic to view alarms, search for cameras and locations as well as display maps, gauges, charts and address details.

Senstar, a global provider of perimeter intrusion detection systems (PIDS) and video management systems (VMS), is pleased to introduce Kristen Cory as its new Vice President, Sales, North America. Effective January 1, Mrs. Cory has assumed direct responsibility for Senstar’s North American sales organisation. “I am excited to join Senstar and I am looking forward to working with the US and Canadian teams to grow the Senstar brand,” said Mrs. Cory. “Senstar’s market-leading perimeter intrusion detection products, combined with intelligent video management solutions, means we can meet a wider range of security needs for a greater variety of applications for sites of all sizes. This makes Senstar a truly unique player in the security industry.” Substantial knowledge of IP cameras Mrs. Cory brings with her close to 20 years of experience in senior management in the US and Canada, successfully working for different enterprises in business development and executive sales roles. In particular, she has a solid knowledge of IP cameras and their associated products. “We are pleased to welcome Mrs. Cory to Senstar,” said President Brian Rich. “As the security landscape in the North America continues to evolve, we are confident she is the right person to lead Senstar’s growth in that region.”

With the need for security guard services growing worldwide, Montreal-based tech startup TrackTik Software Inc., an integrated security workforce management cloud-based software solutions provider, has announced US$ 45 million in financing from Toronto-based Georgian Partners and Montreal-based Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec (la Caisse). Disruptive AI and Machine Learning Funds will be used to drive new product development — including disruptive artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies Funds will be used to drive new product development — including disruptive artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies — that will enable security guard firms or in-house security teams to simplify their operations and maximise profitability. TrackTik will also nearly double its staff of 120 in the next year to help bring to market the new state-of-the-art tools and increase support and provide best practices for customers as the company expands its operations internationally. “This investment is in effect good news for the security workforce management industry as a whole as it is enabling us to reimagine every aspect of the industry, helping users of our technology to perform at unprecedented levels of intelligence and efficiency as they obtain their key business objectives,” said TrackTik Founder and CEO Simon Ferragne in making the announcement. “These unique tools will not only add value to our users but will in turn enable our clients to add value to their own customers,” he said, revealing that the new products are planned to start rolling out in early 2019. TrackTik security workforce management software Applauding the investors for their vision, Ferragne explained that both Georgian Partners and la Caisse are aligned with TrackTik’s commitment to transform the security workforce management market. In particular, Georgian Partners — a firm that invests in growth stage companies using AI and ML to solve real business problems, with a roster that includes players such as Shopify, Cority, Flashpoint and True Fit — has dedicated a group of technical experts to help TrackTik accelerate the development of its new products. TrackTik's unique end-to-end security workforce management software is advancing the security industry to improve services and make smarter, data-driven decisions" “TrackTik's unique end-to-end security workforce management software is advancing the security industry to improve services and make smarter, data-driven decisions,” said Steve Leightell, Partner at Georgian Partners. “They've built a powerful solution that is solving their customers’ greatest business needs and are truly leading the industry. We are thrilled to be working with the TrackTik team to develop their software’s cutting-edge artificial intelligence capabilities. Georgian’s core philosophy is that businesses utilising applied AI will enable superior service levels in terms of capability, delivery, availability, accuracy and convenience, and so we look forward to be a part of this phase of their growth.” Applied Artificial Intelligence Citing a good cultural fit between the two companies, Leightell added that the timing was right to engage with TrackTik because there is a strong market pull for TrackTik’s first-of-its-kind, all-in-one enterprise software solution that delivers all of the mission-critical components required to run a professional security service firm on a single integrated platform, including real-time guard management and incident reporting, back office administrative functions, and business intelligence. In addition to Applied AI, Georgian Partners’ thesis-led approach to investing also focuses on Conversational AI – including the use of text-based messaging, chatbots and voice assistants – and Digital Security, two areas that TrackTik is well positioned to capitalise on, he added. Based on TrackTik’s substantial growth in 2018, Thomas Birch, Managing Director Venture Capital and Technologies at la Caisse stated that “this new investment will enable TrackTik to continue its international development and reaffirms la Caisse’s support for technology companies, which represent a promising sector of Québec’s economy. One of the fastest growing technology companies in Canada, TrackTik will use the proceeds of this transaction to pursue its strategic expansion plan, which includes developing more machine learning technology.” Automated scheduling This is an exciting time for the security guard workforce management space as the industry grows and evolves" Among some of the advanced AI capabilities to be featured in TrackTik’s new software are an automated scheduling tool that uses predictive analysis and ML to streamline the scheduling of large, diverse and mobile security workforces, reducing the number of human interactions and simplifying day-to-day business, Ferragne said. TrackTik’s innovations have helped propel the company’s exponential growth since its inception in 2013, with the company receiving multiple recognitions for its solutions. Last year alone, TrackTik ranked No. 11 on the Deloitte Technology Fast 50 list, was included on the LinkedIn list of Top 25 Startups in Canada, placed 36th on the Canadian Business 2018 Startup 50 ranking of Canada’s Top New Growth Companies, and received a 2018 SaaS Award for Customer Success by San Diego-based APPEALIE. “This is an exciting time for the security guard workforce management space as the industry grows and evolves,” Ferragne said. “We at TrackTik are proud to support its advancement by providing the best products possible in the hopes of helping those in the industry propel their business forward. We want to thank both Georgian Partners and la Caisse for believing in our vision and mission, and we look forward to working together on achieving our goals.”

It amazes me how in a few short years security systems have gone from simple, dumb cameras witnessing events to intelligent eyes, ears, speech and touch solutions that boost situational awareness far beyond human capabilities. It seems the only senses missing from the equation now are smell and taste. And who knows, someone might be working on those in a lab somewhere right now. But what’s really fascinating to me is how the Internet of Things (IoT) has opened a world of possibilities for transforming security technology into something new yet again. With IoT we’re able to push and pull nuggets of intelligence from sources we never considered before: environmental sensors, pressure plates, door lock timers and much more. It’s helped us break through the constraining mindset that security systems are strictly single-purpose. With interconnectivity at the core, we’re starting to imagine myriad ways to apply these tools to challenges outside the realm of security. Here are just a few examples. Flood management assistance Network camera adds another dimension and timeliness to flood management by helping responders investigate remotely As recent hurricanes and floods have shown, water damage can be devastating to a community. That’s why some municipalities are using their city surveillance cameras in conjunction with water sensor to proactively address the problem. Water sensors collect data from multiple sources such as rain gutters, sewer systems and pump stations, in order to monitor fluctuations in water levels and water quality. If an alert triggers, having a network camera in proximity to visually verify the situation helps responders determine the best course of action. For instance, if multiple water detection sensors trigger alerts simultaneously or sequentially over a large area it’s probably due to natural runoff from recent rainfall. But without eyes on the scene, how can you be sure? Network camera adds another dimension and timeliness to flood management by helping responders investigate and identify the cause of a trigger remotely. It might be a fire hydrant spewing water, a water main break or even a chemical spill. With video streaming live to the command center, staff can remotely inspect the area, determine the cause of the trigger and decide whether remediation is required, thus avoiding the expense of dispatching an investigative crew to a non-event. Some municipalities are using their city surveillance cameras in conjunction with water sensor to proactively address the problem Environmental control assistance Data centers house the lifeblood of a business so it’s no wonder why companies work hard to protect them. We’re all familiar with the integration of network cameras with access control systems to visually verify who is actually using the credentials. Network camera adds another dimension and timeliness to flood management by helping responders investigate and identify the cause of a trigger remotely But there’s another aspect to protecting data centers and that’s environment control. Data centers need to maintain optimum humidity and temperature for the racks of electronics. When environmental sensors in the facility detect out-of-norm ranges technicians can remotely command a network camera to zoom in on the gauges and help them determine whether remediation might be necessary.  Coupling network cameras with other sensors in the data center can provide visual confirmation of other conditions as well. For instance, every time a data rack door-open-close sensor detects an event it can trigger the camera to pan to the location and stream video to security. Some data centers employ weight sensors at the doorway to weigh personnel and equipment as they enter the room and when they exit to ensure no additional hardware is being taken out of the facility or left inside without permission. Any discrepancy would trigger the camera to zoom in for a close-up of the individual’s face and send a visual alert and ID information to security. Roadway management and parking assistance Network cameras have long played a part in city-wide traffic management. Adding video analytics and integration with network sensors, makes those cameras that much smarter and versatile. They can detect cars driving in bike lanes or driving in the wrong direction and capture license plates of offenders. Their ability to detect anomalous traffic flow patterns can be integrated with car counting sensors, networked electronic road signs and traffic light systems to automatically redirect vehicles to alternate routes. They make great, intelligent parking lot attendants, too. Working in conjunction with weight sensors network cameras can count vehicles coming into and leaving a lot or garage and verify when the facility has reached capacity. License plate recognition and video analytics can be used to ascertain that a vehicle entering a reserved parking space doesn’t match the credentials and vehicle attributes in the database. With the addition of noise sensors and audio analytics, network cameras can improve roadway and parking facility safety by detecting and identifying specific sounds – breaking glass, car alarms, gun shots, and aggressive speech – and triggering a visual alert to first responders. Network cameras can improve roadway and parking facility safety by detecting and identifying specific sounds and triggering a visual alert to first responders Shopper experience assistance In the early days of online shopping, e-tailers designed their sites to replicate the in-store customer experience. In an ironic turn of events, today brick-and-mortar stores are trying to mirror the online shopping experience. To do so, they’re turning their security systems into adjunct sales assistance. With network video and audio system automation they can recognise and acknowledge loyal customers with personal greetings. Retailers are applying people counting video analytics to checkout activity to create rules-based consistency in customer service With heatmapping analytics they can measure how much time a customer spends in a specific department or observe how they walk through the aisles of the store. They can track shopping behaviors such as items looked at that made it into the cart or didn’t, or whether a customer actually checked out or left the merchandise behind. By capturing these shopping patterns and trends retailers can shape a more positive, more profitable customer shopping experience. For instance, integrating video analytics with point of sale systems and RFID sensors on merchandise tags can result in timely alerts to sales associates to recommend additional merchandise. This is a case of emulating how e-tailers let the customer know that other customers who bought X often also purchased items Y and Z. Or to avoid disappointing customers due to stock outages, retailers are linking weight sensors and video analytics to make sure their shelves are well-stocked and if not, quickly alert associates to what items need to be restocked. Capturing business intelligence Retailers are also using video cameras to monitor checkout queues and trigger automated announcements over the public-address system, closed system such as smartphones or other wireless communications devices that checkers are needed rather wait for a person to call for backup. IoT laid the groundwork for network security solutions to seamlessly integrate with other IP-based technologies, sensors and programs They’re applying people counting video analytics to checkout activity to create rules-based consistency in customer service. While retailers will always use their surveillance camera for loss prevention, they’re finding that integrating traditional technology in new ways can yield even bigger returns. Linking network video surveillance, video analytics, network communications system and sensors with point-of-sale systems and customer loyalty databases, retailers are capturing the business intelligence they need to get back in the game and make brick-and-mortar a greater overall experience than online shopping. A natural cross-over technology This trend towards integration has forever changed how organisations view their investment in security technology. The intelligence and versatility of a tool that can see, verify and analyse what’s happening in real-time is spurring users to tap its cross-over potential for a host of other tasks that could benefit from more astute situational awareness – everything from manufacturing and equipment maintenance to logistics, inventory control and beyond. IoT laid the groundwork for network security solutions to seamlessly integrate with other IP-based technologies, sensors and programs. How we capitalise on that connection is only limited by our imagination.

Terry Gold of D6 Research has been giving “cyber in physical security” presentations at a variety of conferences, including ISC West and the Cyber:Secured Forum. We caught up with him for some insights about the intersection of cybersecurity and physical security. Q: Tell us a little bit about your background, specifically in the context of its relevance to cyber security in physical access. Gold: I started out in information security and then got involved in physical security along the way. I started really focusing on physical from a cyber standpoint about 10 years ago. I got into ethical hacking about 8 years ago, and then worked on putting it all together. There wasn’t a roadmap, so I had to build a methodology which I now share with other hackers, end users and law enforcement. I spend all my time either in the lab building success models, methods, and testing them out in some of the largest customers or agencies in the world for validation and improvement. Also, a chunk of my time is spent re-engineering security assessment and controls for end users or validating vendors on their behalf from a unique viewpoint that’s not (yet) typical in the industry.  Q: How well prepared is physical security overall against cyber threats? Gold: Not well at all. While security is imperfect anywhere, much of the practices and designs have critical defects and overlook either best practice or fundamental application security principles. I’d say that the industry is very wide open for exploitation that doesn’t take much sophistication to execute. Breach disclosure laws are focused on mandatory reporting for personally identifiable information (PII)  Q: What things stand out to you along your journey regarding the changes that you are seeing on this topic? Gold: Culture. Over the years, the industry (and most end users) have been dismissive of my findings. Industry culture hasn’t been aligned to embrace the topic and make requisite improvements that are needed to achieve “good security.” However, I’m finally starting to see that change – quickly and at scale. It doesn’t mean that we’re close to “good,” but rather reached the inflection point of change – and I’m rather pleased about it.    Breach disclosure laws has resulted in IT getting a lot of media attention in comparison to hacks made against physical security    Q: D6 does a lot of research in this area. What is the analysis behind the recent push for cyber security in physical security? Gold: First, it must be recognised that the threat isn’t new, but rather that the industry is only now coming to the table on it. Industry sentiment has been that breaches in physical security don’t happen or that there’s little impact.It must be recognised that the threat isn’t new, but rather that the industry is only now coming to the table on it Both are false. Mainly, IT gets all the media attention with breaches for two reasons; 1) breach disclosure laws are focused on mandatory reporting for personally identifiable information (PII), and 2) there is really poor detection (mostly non-existent) against hacks in physical security, so they go unrecognised.  On the other side, as physical security systems increasingly resemble an IT architecture, so does their risk profile. As it expands to mobile, cloud, IOT and intelligence - InfoSec and auditors are taking a look and are alarmed at what they’re seeing. Before you know it, the scrutiny is cutting pretty deep, pressure for alignment becomes intense, and vendors feel the pinch on the sales cycles. It’s not a comfortable position for anyone.   Q: What will be the projected impact? Are practitioners seeing the whole picture? Gold: No, and this area is probably the most important takeaway of this interview. The industry is where InfoSec was about 15 years ago in their journey, except we have an additional headwind to deal with – culture change. This industry tends to rely more on trusted relationships than validating the recommendations are being provided. There are too many prevailing misconceptions, that unless remediated, investments won’t be as effective as expected.   Q: What do you believe are the top misconceptions? Gold: Well, this is a longer topic, but here’s a sampling that cuts across different areas.   Regarding hackers: A misconception is that they’re generally not interested. Hackers are increasingly very interested. When I teach a workshop at a hacker conference, it’s usually the quickest to fill up and go to wait list (within a couple hours). Regarding attacks: A misconception is that attacks are executed directly against the target system. Example, their goal is to get into VMS and attack it directly. The reality is that they’re more commonly dynamic where physical is part of a larger attack and its role is an easier gateway to another system (or vice versa, with many hops). Regarding protective measures. The most prevalent mistake that the industry is currently making is too much focus and reliance on air-gapping networks or locking ports. This is only a slice of the attack surface and there are various ways to get around it. There’s a heavy price to pay for those that that rely too much on this strategy since its often accompanied by few mechanisms to deal with actors once they do get in (and they definitely will). Regarding the value of exploiting physical security. Too often perceived as low value. In our white paper we review many of the things that hackers can do, what they gain, and how it can impact the overall organisation. It’s far broader and deeper than most.  Q: What are the top things that need to change in the industry? Gold: First, culture. This can be answered by adopting the same principles as InfoSec. From an execution standpoint, the industry needs to change how they perform risk assessments.At D6, we’ve developed a stepwise methodology from ground up and it’s a huge difference Industry practices, including certifications, are significantly outdated and don’t reflect a methodology that accurately considers cybersecurity, actors, methods, and proactive remedy. At D6, we’ve developed a stepwise methodology from ground up and it’s a huge difference. End users that don’t re-engineer their practice, will be very limited for meaningful cybersecurity improvement.  One of the changes needed in the industry includes how risk assessments are performed   Q: Generally, what advice do you give to clients on steps to move their cyber security to the next level?  Gold: Don’t operate like a silo anymore. Transition from industry “common practices” to best practices that can be validated. Rely less on previous relationships and more toward domain competence. Collaborate with the CISO to a principled, goal-oriented and metrics-based approach. Embed an InfoSec person on the physical team. Present priorities and risks jointly to the board within an overall risk portfolio. Invite scrutiny from auditors. Get a red team performed once a year. Until you do the last step, you don’t really know where you stand (but don’t do it until the other things are done). Last, set the bar higher with vendors to support these improvements or their products will just end up being weak link.  Q: What type of challenges do you see and any advice on how end user and integrators can overcome them? Lessons learned? Gold: There are too many specific domains across cybersecurity – it’s not just a network security resourceFeedback I get from integrators is that they’re struggling to figure out how to deliver expertise to their clients in their area. They’re somewhat overwhelmed with the complexity, becoming an expert or how expensive it is to hire and maintain those skilled resources. My best advice is not to do either. There are too many specific domains across cybersecurity – it’s not just a network security resource. Not even the large integrators have the right bench, and unfortunately, they’re just further down a doomed path than smaller integrators. Form a partnership with boutique cybersecurity firms that have multiple specialists. Negotiate rates, margins, scope, and call on them when needed. It won’t come out of your bottom line, the results will be better, and the risk will be extremely low. You’ll learn along the way too.   Q: Anything notable that your research is uncovering in this area that might not be on people’s radar yet? Gold: Yes, quite a bit. Our Annual Industry Assessment Report goes through every segment. We’re making pretty bold statements about the future and impact, but we’re confident. One thing that stands out is how intelligence (and the swath of subsets) will impose stringent demands on physical security due to attribute and data collection (for analysis) which will absolutely require privacy compliance, integrity, and controls. It will even shape organisations that might not care about cybersecurity but are prioritising function.  Q: Where can readers learn more about your perspectives on this topic? Gold: Blogs on the D6research.com website. Our annual report. Val Thomas of Securicon and D6 have collaborated on a three-part cybersecurity in physical white paper series. It goes into all of this in detail, as well as remedy.

Today, customers are demanding immediacy, personalisation and seamless services from their providers and our desire for instant gratification means that those servicing the public need to provide easy, fast, smooth and continuous ways to meet customer expectations. This is where interactive kiosks can really help organisations to deliver a high level of service in an easy to use, automated way. In recent years, kiosks have fast gained popularity, not only because they enhance customer satisfaction, as they operate in self-service mode, but they also provide crucial information or services to customers as and when they need it. Think about how you utilise such services, at a railway station to buy tickets, in a fast food outlet to order food or in other ways as you go about your daily business. Interactive kiosks can really help organisations to deliver a high level of service in an easy to use, automated way Today, kiosks are typically placed in high foot-traffic environments such as retail stores, hospitals, banks, hotels, airports, courthouses, libraries, railway stations – you name it – providing customer access to information, products, websites, tools, or applications.   For those less familiar, an interactive kiosk is a computer terminal featuring specialised hardware and software that provides access to information and applications for communication, commerce, entertainment, or education.  Kiosk software platforms are easy to deploy  Integration of technology allows kiosks to perform a wide range of functions, for example, kiosks may enable users to order from a shop's catalogue when items are not in stock, check out a library book, look up information about products, issue a hotel key card, or enter a public utility bill account number in order to perform an online transaction. Kiosks are computing platforms where the user interface needs to be limited to serve a specific purposePut simply, kiosks are computing platforms where the user interface needs to be limited to serve a specific purpose. Whether it is a citizen-facing platform in a government building or a device in a train station, the common theme is that the user is constrained to undertake very specific tasks with that device i.e. buy a train ticket. The device itself might have a full-blown operating system but all the user can see is the app and what they need to do.  Therefore, it is very important for kiosk software platforms to be very easy to deploy and they must provide a very intuitive user experience. It is very much about the interaction the user is undertaking and little beyond that, which means the software must be optimised for user interaction in that context. But what that means is that security is often a secondary consideration, with many kiosk software providers paying lip service to security, while they focus primarily on ease of use and ease of management. Thinking of a kiosk as just a terminal that wouldn’t be of interest to a hacker is precisely why they are so attractive to attacks The threat of cyber attacks However, today we are seeing cyber-attacks escalating and becoming an everyday occurrence; as adversaries seek out new methods of attack and new threat vectors, so kiosks are becoming more of a target and an attractive platform for cyber adversaries to attack. Most kiosk software platforms just provide a management layer to configure an endpoint device in that kiosk. If you think about a traditional endpoint device such as a laptop, they are more likely to have a greater set of defence tools deployed, actively managing and monitoring the device, regularly patching and updating it. This is not the same where kiosk platforms are concerned.  Kiosks are becoming more of a target and an attractive platform for cyber adversaries to attack So why is this? Often, the business can’t justify having a full-blown operating system and sophisticated defence tools on that platform, especially if they have a large number of kiosks deployed out in the field. They are normally in highly remote or widely geographically dispersed locations, which means there are significant costs involved to go out and fix them. Protecting devices in a more robust way  Likewise, organisations don’t always have the local IT resource in many of these locations to maintain the equipment and its security. Or, if there is a patch management process in place it might not always be timely. For example, if you adopt an Android platform, Google regularly announces the vulnerabilities they have patched. This means the device manufacturers have to try and create patches for the vulnerabilities that have been announced publically to the cybercriminals. Adversaries know there is a window of opportunity they can exploit because the software author has told them about it. That time delay can be even worse in kiosk ecosystems, where there may be a diverse geographic spread of devices. We need to increasingly think about how we protect these devices in a more robust way Or the kiosk might simply be old. One of the reasons the WannaCry ransomware attack ended up being so widespread, is that there were old computing terminals throughout the NHS, running old operating systems. Any unpatched version of Windows is susceptible, so it can end up being a false economy by attempting to run these legacy systems for too long.  As we continue to exploit and expect technology in every far-flung corner of the world, we need to increasingly think about how we protect these devices in a more robust way. Thinking of a kiosk as just a terminal that wouldn’t be of interest to a hacker is precisely why they are so attractive to attacks, because they know the security might not be as tight as it should be. Making kiosks more secure could be the difference between you being breached and remaining safe.

Security integrators are often tasked with a multitude of responsibilities which could include a variety of installation, integration or design tasks made up of sprinkler systems, fire alarms, access control, HVAC, video surveillance systems and networks; and then pile on maintenance, training and analytics. Traditionally, most security integrators have installation backgrounds but are now expected to be IT savvy, too. Even the most proficient IT professionals may not fully grasp the complexity of adapting computer servers for use with video systems. It’s not the area of expertise of security integrators as the complexities between IT data and video data are significant. Therefore, security integrators depend on system builders to provide solutions to meet the needs of video systems expertly and with few hassles. It’s a simple enough ask, but not so easy to deliver. Tom Larson, Chief Technology Officer, BCDVideo, lists some of the challenges: The gap between reality and customer expectations End users should expect a security integrator to provide services and a wide product line to ensure the right equipment for any size job Sometimes there is a gap between what a security integrator expects from a video surveillance solution (in terms of validation testing, dependability, technical support) and the performance of available choices, especially in the case of low-cost or generic equipment. Extra service and support are needed to bridge the gap. Unfortunately, some manufacturers entering the market have failed to deliver, and integrators (and their end user customers) have paid a price. The network is often overlooked Security integrators should pay special attention to engineering the network and calculating the bandwidth and storage needed for video projects, especially given how technology evolves so quickly. Security is an appliance-driven business, and integrators who just want to add another server to expand storage or functionality without configuring the network run the risk of i/o bottlenecks and other system failures. End users should expect a security integrator to provide services and a wide product line to ensure the right equipment for any size job. Unfortunately, traditional IT resellers are often married to a singular solution limiting their knowledge of a good fit for the job. Buying a video server based on a low price aggravates the problem, as “Frankensteined” or generic servers tend to generate additional costs over time Servers are mistakenly considered a one-time expense One mistake purchasing agents make and security integrators have a hard time quantifying is viewing video storage as a capital expense (as one more component of a security system) rather than considering ongoing operating expenses. Buying a video server based on a low price aggravates the problem. “Frankensteined” or generic servers tend to generate additional costs over time, such as firmware or supply chain issues, and some systems builders have failed to provide support to offset those costs. In fact, the high costs over time of supporting inexpensive servers have been unsustainable for some system builders, who have left integrators and end users holding the bag, and in some cases, the liability. Adapting to sustainable strategies “Systems builders to the video surveillance market must adapt and invest to meet the demands of security integrators’ expectations, and they need a business model that enables them to provide a substantial level of support and commitment,” says Larson. “Working with high-quality manufacturers and providing tried-and-tested, certified equipment upfront ensures manageable costs over the life of the system. Products that are fully tested and contain no firmware bugs ensure smoother installations. By providing adequate technical support to the security integrator and managing IT variables over the life of the system, the systems builder makes it possible for a security integrator to specify and install a video server as easily as any other system component.” Keeping IT professionals on staff to deal with server issues is cost-prohibitive for security integrators Taking a longer-term view and considering total cost of ownership is a more sustainable strategy for integrators, says Larson. Investing upfront in a higher-quality server is rewarded by dependability and lower service costs over the life of the system. And the lower costs of supporting a higher-quality server create a more sustainable business model for the integrator, thus ensuring the integrator and end user will have ongoing support. Adapting server technology to video applications Security integrators deliver a different skill set than IT integrators, who tend to be more hands-on in terms of updating firmware and providing maintenance. Keeping IT professionals on staff to deal with server issues is cost-prohibitive for security integrators, who therefore depend on systems builders to provide that expertise. They develop a long-term relationship with a systems builder they can depend on to meet their needs for each job. Larson says the best scenario for a security integrator is a combination of a high-quality server systems builder that understands the specific needs of the security integrator market. Adapting server technology to video applications requires knowledge of both disciplines. Dependable technology adapted to the needs of the video channel ensures successful installations and happy, long-term customers.

There is a new event on the calendar for the security industry in 2019: The Security Event 2019, 9-11 April, at NEC, Birmingham. For additional details and a preview of the new trade show and conference, we spoke with Tristan Norman, Founding Partner and Event Director, The Security Event. Q: It seems recently that some trade shows have been on the decline in terms of exhibit size and attendance. Why does the physical security industry need another trade show? Norman: I think there are numerous factors that play into the decline of trade shows in general and not something that is limited to the security industry. Those events that are suffering are no longer serving their target market or have failed to adapt to the changes in the industry they serve. However, what we are seeing now is the rise of focused, more “evolved” trade events which fulfil a gap in the industry event calendar and provide something new and fresh to a disillusioned audience. Q: What will be unique about The Security Event, and what role will it serve in bringing together buyers and sellers in the market? Where (geographically) will attendees come from? What we are seeing is a rise of trade events which provide something fresh to a disillusioned audience Norman: The driving ethos behind The Security Event is that we are “designed by the industry, for the industry.” We were able to start with a blank canvas and take onboard all the feedback from stakeholders throughout the security buying chain and create an event that is sustainable and fit for purpose. We see the role of the event as a very important one – to truly reconnect the currently fragmented UK commercial security industry, back at the NEC in Birmingham. We had originally anticipated that this would be an almost-exclusively UK event in year one. However, we have seen significant interest from potential visitors from across the wider EMEA region who are keen to do business in the UK. We formed a strategic alliance with Security Essen to help facilitate and strengthen our reach in these regions through additional marketing and PR activities. Consequently, early registrations indicate that it will be approximately an 80% UK and 20% international split. Q: What conference programming is being planned to augment the trade show event? Norman: Content will be delivered across three focused theatres, serving the needs of our audience throughout the buying chain. Emphasis will be placed on the latest technology innovations impacting the industry, practical advice on the most pressing issues facing security technicians, and important industry updates and insights. All sessions are focused on delivering tangible benefits to ensure professionals are equipped to stay relevant and to grow their business and we’re excited to be working with key industry bodies, innovators and experts to deliver the programme. We look forward to announcing those in coming weeks. Exhibitors want to re-engage with the thousands of industry colleagues who no longer attend other events on offer Q: Comparisons to IFSEC are inevitable. How will The Security Event be different than the IFSEC Security and Fire shows? What are the advantages of locating at Birmingham NEC? Norman: Both The Security Event and The Fire Safety Event, based at the NEC are completely different to any other trade show in the UK. We pride ourselves in creating a business platform that puts the exhibitors’ needs first, by limiting the size of stands and total number of exhibitors as well as creating a comprehensive CPD accredited educational programme for the visitors. Q: Which big industry players are supporting the launch of The Security Event, and what feedback are you hearing in terms of why they signed up at the show's inception? If a global manufacturer has a footprint in both the US and Europe, any tradeshow will be managed locally Norman: Our founding partners are Assa Abloy, Avigilon, Anixter, Comelit, Dahua, Honeywell, TDSi, Texecom, Tyco and Videcon. The full list of exhibitors and supporting partners can be found on our website. The reasons why they have signed up are very simple. They all see the exact same gap in the industry event landscape as we do. We believe there is a need for a 3-day channel focused commercial security exhibition based at The NEC in Birmingham. Our exhibitors want to re-engage with the thousands of industry colleagues who no longer attend the other events on offer. Q: Your 2019 show will be the same week as ISC West in Las Vegas. Do you think the competitive calendar will be a factor? Norman: In terms of our both our audience and our exhibiting base there is very little overlap with ISC West. Generally, if a global manufacturer has a footprint in both the US and Europe, any tradeshow will be managed locally so we haven’t observed any issues so far. We do acknowledge that having two shows at the same time globally isn’t ideal and we have moved our dates in 2020 to the 28-30 April to mitigate this going forward. The Security Event 2020 will not clash with Las Vegas' ISC West 2020 as it will in 2019, says Norman Q: How will you measure success in the first year of the show? What measurements (show size, number of attendees, exhibitor feedback, etc.) will constitute a "successful" first year for the show?Security Event will continue to evolve year after year, but will intent to stay true to the event's original concept Norman: Great question – the most important barometer of success for me and the team next April is the general industry reaction, after all, this show was created for them. Furthermore, it is vital to us that our exhibitors feel they have achieved their objectives for the show, whether it be quality, quantity of leads or raising awareness of a new product launch. We’ll also be keen to understand how satisfied visitors are with the event, including their views of the content, access to new products/services, effectiveness of the out of hours networking, etc. We are anticipating 6,000 visitors over the 3 days and I believe if we achieve this goal, we will have a strong rebooking on site, laying a great foundation for our 2020 event. Q: How would you expect/hope the show would continue to evolve in coming years? Norman: I hope over the next few years The Security Event cements itself as the industry’s favourite trade show and that exhibitors and visitors alike look forward to every year for both the business opportunities at the event and the networking outside of it. The Security Event will continue to evolve year after year, but I am determined that we stay true to our original concept and the principles on which the show was founded. After all, it is this formula that has proved to be so popular to date.

ADT Inc.’s acquisition of Red Hawk Fire & Security, Boca Raton, Fla., is the latest move in ADT Commercial’s strategy to buy up security integrator firms around the country and grow their footprint. In addition to the Red Hawk acquisition, announced in mid-October, ADT has acquired more than a half-dozen security system integration firms in the last year or so.  Here’s a quick rundown of integrator companies acquired by ADT: Protec, a Pacific Northwest commercial integrator (Aug. 2017); MSE Security, the USA’s 27th largest commercial integrator (Sept 2017); Gaston Security, founded in 1994 as a video surveillance integration company and whose services have since expanded to include intrusion, access control, and perimeter protection (Oct. 2017); Aronson Security Group (ASG), which delivers risk and security program consultants and offers advanced integration services, consulting and design engineers and a National Program Management team (March 2018);  Acme Security Systems, among the largest privately held security systems integrators in the Bay Area, focusing on electronic security systems, access control, video networks and more (March 2018); Access Security Integration, a regional systems integrator specialising in design, delivery, installation and servicing of electronic security systems including enterprise-level access control, video and visitor management solutions, perimeter security and security operation command centers (Aug. 2018); In addition to their moves in the commercial integrator space, ADT has also sought to expand their presence in cybersecurity with the following two acquisitions: Datashield, specialising in Managed Detection and Response Services (Nov 2017); Secure Designs, Inc., specialising in design, implementation, monitoring, and managing network defense systems, including firewall services and intrusion prevention, to protect small business networks from a diverse and challenging set of global cyber threats (Aug. 2018). ADT has acquired more than a half-dozen security system integration firms in the last year or so For additional insights into ADT’s game plan and the strategy behind these acquisitions, we presented the following questions to Chris BenVau, ADT’s Senior Vice President of Enterprise Solutions. Q: ADT has been actively acquiring regional integrators this year – more than a half a dozen to date. Please describe the history of how ADT came to embrace a strategy of acquiring regional integrators as a route to growth? ADT's acquisition of Red Hawk is set to close in December, and brings premiere fire and life/safety solutions BenVau: Our acquisition strategy started at Protection 1 when we embarked on our journey to build out our commercial and national account business and add enhanced integration capabilities to our portfolio. The merger of Protection 1 and ADT brought that foundation to ADT which up to that point was primarily a residentially and SMB-focused company. After the merger, we set out to identify and acquire additional regional integrators that would continue to build on that foundation and deliver enhanced technical solutions, advanced technologies and an expanded service, install and support footprint. Through our acquisitions we now operate two Network Operations Centers and three Centers of Excellence. We are also unique in the industry with the number and variety of certifications, like Cisco and Meraki, our engineers hold which ultimately allows us to offer Managed Security as a Service. They have also enhanced our operational capabilities. Q: What criteria do you use to evaluate whether an integrator is a good “fit” for ADT? BenVau: First and foremost, we look at the culture of the companies. The companies that we target for acquisition must be metrics- and customer service-driven. Secondly, we look at the leadership teams. ADT view their acquisitions more like mergers and take a patient approach to integrating them into their business We have been fortunate in the fact the leadership of the companies we acquired remain with us today in key management and executive positions helping to drive continued growth within their organisations. We also evaluate their current customer base, unique solutions and their ability to complement and enhance our portfolio with the goal of becoming a leading full-service, enterprise commercial provider. Our acquisitions have bolstered our network capabilities, brought enterprise risk management services, and a broader solution set in high-end video and access control solutions. Our most recent acquisition – Red Hawk, set to close in December – brings us premiere fire and life/safety solutions. Q: What changes are typically needed after an integrator is acquired in order to adapt it to the ADT corporate model? BenVau: We view our acquisitions more like mergers and take a patient approach to integrating them into ADT while taking into account their culture. We want to ensure that we find the right positions for their people, embrace the right messaging and put the right processes in place. We acquire these companies because they are the best in their respective businesses and geographies and bring their knowledge and experience in markets or with solutions that we may not have had previous access to. ADT can support clients with their own in-house technicians which helps to ensure a consistent security program Q: How can regional integrators benefit from the ADT brand? Have your newly acquired integrators realised additional growth? BenVau: The companies we have acquired, generally, have exceeded expectations and surpassed initial goals. ADT brings expanded opportunities for these companies as well with our national footprint. Our National Account Sales Team has seen impressive growth over the years and are only limited by our ability to deliver. These integrators help to deliver on that. In the past, the regional players may have had to rely on sub-contractors to service their larger clients. With ADT, we can now support those clients with our own in-house technicians which helps to ensure a consistent security program across multiple locations.Our National Account Sales Team has seen impressive growth over the years and are only limited by our ability to deliver" Q: Are additional integrator acquisitions planned this year and into 2019? How much is enough and when will it end (or slow down significantly)? BenVau: We expect to close on our latest acquisition, Red Hawk, before the end of 2018. Red Hawk brings a national footprint focused on fire/life safety and security to ADT. While ADT already had a robust security offering, Red Hawk will contribute significantly to the fire side of the business. In addition, we will continue to evaluate the companies in the industry to determine if additional acquisitions make sense. Q: Do you expect greater consolidation of the integrator channel in the industry as a whole? Why is this a good time for consolidation? Is it a good M&A market for buyers like ADT? BenVau: We will continue to evaluate companies in the industry to determine if further acquisitions make sense. As for the industry, we can only speak for ourselves. Our focus is on investing in our field organisation, in particular our service technicians, engineers and project management teams" Q: What other trend(s) do you see in the industry that will impact ADT (on the commercial side) in the next year or so, and how? BenVau: In addition to their moves in the commercial integrator space, ADT has also sought to expand their presence in cybersecurity Networking is a big one. As we continue to drive integration of devices and services, from AI, “the cloud,” machine learning and even analytics, there will be more focus on the network they ride on. A deeper knowledge of network design, bandwidth impact, and system integration will be critical. As part of our acquisition strategy, we focused on talent to add to the team and have been able to add to our bench strength in this area. Q: Any other comments/insights you wish to share about ADT’s strategy, future, and role in the larger physical security marketplace? BenVau: Our focus is on investing in our field organisation, in particular our service technicians, engineers and project management teams. The cornerstone of our success lies in our ability to deliver outstanding customer support and service. It starts with sales and the ability to deliver security and life safety technologies, but it ends with a delighted customer who partners with us to help secure the things that matter most to them. Our recent acquisitions have more than doubled our commercial field operations teams and are key to establishing the ADT Commercial brand as a leading full-service provider of enterprise solutions to the marketplace.

With innovative flair, characteristic Italian design and the quality of its products, Replay has become a leader in jeans and denim-based clothing manufacturers. It recently initiated a security and access control upgrade programme throughout its premises and decided to install solutions from PACOM, a STANLEY Products and Solutions company. Since 1996 Replay has been headquartered in the Italian hilltop town of Asolo in a 25,000m2 reproduction of an early 20th century American industrial building. This acts as the company’s nerve centre, where research and creative development thrive. Secursat has carved a reputation for its ability to design, specify and install integrated and strategic security solutions Since its foundation, Replay’s key strategy has been formed around product vision, expansion into new markets and increasing control of its distribution network. As a result, it is now prominent in all European markets, the Middle East, Asia, America and Africa in over 50 countries, with its wholesale distribution network boasting 3,000 sales outlets with 200 retail stores. Improving security and access control infrastructure Milan based Secursat has carved an enviable reputation for its ability to design, specify and install integrated and strategic security solutions that address existing and predicted threats in compliance with current legislation and regulations. It creates security models based on a client’s requirements that not only are a form of business protection to reduce and prevent risks but, strategically, are an important tool to create value and be a source of competitive advantage. “When Replay first approached us with the idea of improving its security and access control infrastructure, first of all we had to gain a complete understanding of its objectives,” explains Maura Mormile, Secursat. “We always try to utilise any legacy infrastructure where possible, so we needed to find a technology solution that could be integrated with the customer’s equipment as well as being able to draw upon the benefits of our remote monitoring centre. It soon became apparent to us that technology from PACOM would meet all of Replay’s objectives.” GMS enabled IP security solution GMS provides the perfect harmony between interoperability and functionality to ensure that Replay’s specific security needs can be met"PACOM and Secursat have been working closely since the beginning of 2018, after forming a strategic partnership to provide new opportunities for both companies. Secursat is the first systems integrator to be appointed in Italy by PACOM and the Replay project represented the first opportunity for the companies to work together. The solution configured by Secursat was based around PACOM’s pioneering Graphical Management System (GMS), which is engineered to communicate over an internet protocol (IP) network and has technology tailored specifically for multi-site environments. “Although not used extensively in Italy, the benefits of IP are beginning to be more widely understood and will have a dramatic effect on how security and access control systems are specified and installed,” states PACOM’s business development manager, Alfonso Lorenzo. “Our GMS technology draws on over 30 years of experience in developing applications based on a data communications platform, successfully balancing electronic security and IT applications on a single network. GMS provides the perfect harmony between interoperability and functionality to ensure that Replay’s specific security needs can be met, without compromising on quality or operational process.” PACOM 8003 hybrid control panels PACOM 8003 offers up to eight configurable 5 state inputs and 8 outputs comprising 2 relays and 6 open collectors"Alongside the PACOM GMS are the IP based PACOM 8003 next generation hybrid control panels, which incorporate PACOM-Edge technology. By offering advanced security capabilities across Replay’s Ethernet backbone this control panel reduces the need for traditional security cabling. Alfonso Lorenzo adds, “PACOM 8003 offers up to eight configurable 5 state inputs and 8 outputs comprising 2 relays and 6 open collectors. Inputs can be expanded up to 96 and outputs can be expanded up to 40 via the addition of on-board expansion modules and/or remote I/O devices. “PACOM 8003 supports auto-discovery of peripheral devices for simplified installation and all doors can be individually configured to operate via card only, PIN only, or card and PIN, with access schedules providing additional control. It also satisfies the needs of Replay’s stores that may require access control.” Tracking events in real time Not only did we overcome traditional wiring issues but, thanks to IP, we have faster signal transmission to the remote monitoring centre"The entire installation went incredibly smoothly and was completed with minimal disruption to the stores. Maura Mormile comments, “All our integrators commented on how straightforward the PACOM equipment was to install and configure. Not only did we overcome traditional wiring issues but, thanks to IP, we have faster signal transmission to the remote monitoring centre, which centralises operations in an innovative and simple way. “Furthermore, the use of the GMS means that we are able to track events in real time, have a record of events and can engage in remote management of the entire Replay security and access control infrastructure.” Maura concludes: “The Replay project was not a particularly straightforward one but the combined expertise of Secursat and PACOM ensured a great result. The products are user friendly and, just as importantly, offer a high level of future proofing and expansion possibilities that will optimise security and access control infrastructure for many years to come.”

More and more police forces in the EU are getting equipped with bodycams. Recently the State Police of Niedersachsen in Germany, the Police of Mechelen in Belgium and the Police in the Czech Republic have signed contracts for the supply of bodycams by Dutch company Zepcam. Body worn video (BWV) and body worn cameras (BWC) Body worn video (BWV) and body worn camera’s (BWC) improve the safety of law enforcement officers Body worn video (BWV) and body worn camera’s (BWC) improve the safety of law enforcement officers, increase transparency and supply video-evidence for criminal investigation purposes. Surveys in the US, where bodycams are used for years now, show that they de-escalate aggression or have a civilizing effect on police-citizen encounters, thus reducing complaints. Also, police forces want to use bodycams as a countermeasure against the public shooting more and more videos of incidents on their smartphones. Unlike public videos, footages captured by law enforcement can be admissible in court. Zepcam, bodycams supplier for police forces globally Zepcam already supplies bodycams to police forces in 15 countries like Switzerland, Germany, Hong Kong and The Netherlands. The Dutch company is global supplier in Europe, with clients in over 40 countries. It both manufactures and supplies the camera systems and the IT structure which automatically stores and processes the captured footages. Zepcam has seen and enormous increase in the use of bodycams by law enforcement in the past five years The State Police of German State Niedersachsen has ordered 500 bodycams in a 4-year contract. Zepcam has won this tender because its cameras and software platform made the best match with requirements of field users and the central IT department. The region of Mechelen is the first police zone in Belgium to deploy bodycams on a large scale. Zepcam was selected after a test period with 7 different bodycam suppliers. Video management software (VMS) integration The Czech Police in the Central Bohemian Region purchased Zepcam bodycams for law enforcement purposes. Also, the company will assist the police force to expand and integrate the new video management software in the management software that is used in over 80 locations in the Czech Republic. Zepcam has seen and enormous increase in the use of bodycams by law enforcement in the past five years. According to the company the cameras help reduce aggression and allow for better transparency. For instance, because situations tend to de-escalate when people know they are being recorded.

Bosch experts for building safety are networking the IKEA MAR Shopping mall in the Algarve, Portugal with trendsetting solutions. They make sure everybody can feel at ease and safe during their shopping experience. Scores of tourists are attracted every year to the Algarve, Portugal’s most southerly region where vacationers enjoy the sun and beaches and descend on popular seaside resorts like Lagos or Albufeira. However, whenever people have had enough of sunbathing, the Algarve also offers a multitude of other things to do – whether it is hiking or shopping, there is something for everybody. Those fancying a spot of the last mentioned have every opportunity to do just that in “IKEA MAR Shopping” – an IKEA-run mall in the Algarve that is home to about 100 other brand shops. Every day numerous visitors frequent the mall and they not only present a challenge to the staff at the checkouts. The safety technology in such a mall also has to work smoothly and on the dot. It is why the architects and planners of the IKEA MAR Shopping mall decided to use a connected, smart safety solution from Bosch Building Technologies. Intuitive and fully-integrated security solution “Our customer wanted a fully-integrated solution whose systems could be controlled via a single management system,” is how Luis Gomes, Bosch Building Technologies Sales Manager Iberia, describes the remit. Networked systems that communicate with each other have to facilitate quick and precise measures in emergencies. The customer also requested a means by which they could schedule the deployment of security personnel more efficiently plus intuitive-to-operate and clearly-structured systems to make their jobs easier. The Bosch Intelligent Video Analytics software which is installed in each and every camera processes the image data in real time  Together with the customer and partners, Bosch has created a harmonious overall picture consisting of a video and public address system, a fire and intrusion detection system and access control within the space of two years. It includes 1,100 loudspeakers inserted in the ceiling and 390 video cameras. The mall is equipped with a total of 4,000 fire detectors and 520 sensors for both intrusion alert and controlling access to IKEA MAR Shopping. Bosch Intelligent Video Analytics The Bosch Intelligent Video Analytics software which is installed in each and every camera processes the image data in real time and recognises suspicious activities by means of an algorithm. Whenever there is danger, it can make all the information available to the staff who need it as quickly as possible to initiate appropriate measures. For a person, it is virtually impossible to continuously retain an overview of the images provided by 390 cameras. “Intelligent Video Analytics and the complete solution make the security personnel’s everyday jobs significantly easier,” says Luis Gomes. “At the same time, the customer has lower costs – and every shopaholic can feel safe.”

Hikvision, global provider of innovative security products and solutions, is partnering with Green River, a China-based NGO that promotes and organises environmental protection activities, in particular towards protecting the bar-headed goose, one of the highest-flying birds in the world. The Yangtze River source and Bender Lake in Western China is a natural high-altitude habitat for the wild bar-headed goose. Although this area is a “no-man’s land” at 4,700 meters above sea level, it serves as a haven for rare animal species. Threatened by poachers and theft of their eggs, the number of bar-headed geese in this area once plummeted to about 1,000. In 2012, Green River launched its program to monitor and protect the bar-headed goose, with non-stop monitoring and protection of the birds and the local environment. Hikivison security cameras for wildlife monitoring Earlier this year, Green River began using Hikvision security cameras to monitor and protect bar-headed geese. Dozens of bird observation spots have been set up to implement an all-weather, 24/7 monitoring solution in the high-altitude wilderness. Hikvision has provided video technology that reduces the need for conventional manual patrol as well as the associated negative impact of human activities on bird habitats. Green River uses Hikvision equipment to stream high-definition live video to online audiences, raising awareness about the need to protect all kinds of wildlife, including the bar-headed goose. On December 6, 2018, Green River and Hikvision signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to continue their collaboration in 2019. Hikvision will develop customised video cameras to be used in high-altitude habitats of the bar-headed goose. The company will continue to support Green River using advanced image processing, data storage and transmission technology, to ensure the organisation can effectively collect and process wildlife data. All of this serves to secure the biodiversity and sustainability in the Yangtze River source region. Advanced video technology Public welfare and environmental protection are benefiting from high-tech applications around the globe" “Public welfare and environmental protection are benefiting from high-tech applications around the globe. In particular, video technology helps wildlife protection efforts immensely. And Hikvision has the tools as well as the willingness to help,” said Yang Xin, founder and president of Green River. He further added, “Signing this MoU is only a start. In the future, we will collaborate to promote research and conservation, and use new technologies to unveil the beauty of biodiversity.” Environmental protection Hikvision is best known as a provider of security equipment that is used to secure businesses, communities, and families. However, as evidenced by its collaboration with Green River, Hikvision’s security equipment can also be used to protect our natural world. Noting that Hikvision video technology has been used in a number of environmental protection projects, Hikvision senior vice president Cai Changyang said that the company is pleased to promote environmental protection and conservation. “In the past few years, Hikvision has accumulated valuable experience and technical know-how in environmental protection with video technology. We have engaged in the protection programs for pandas, Siberian tigers, and now bar-headed geese. But there is still a long way to go,” said Cai Changyang. “And, we will continue to explore new technologies in the future to make our own contribution to the sustainable development of the world.”

On his 2018 two-day visit to Ireland for the World Meeting of Families, Pope Francis’s scheduled activity was protected by high-performance Predator and Invictus cameras from UK CCTV design and manufacturing company, 360 Vision Technology. Specialists in a wide range of leading-edge CCTV, Access Control, PA, AV and radio communications, County Kildare-based Mongey Communications was chosen to provide the additional security surveillance protection measures necessary to secure the Pope’s visit to Dublin. With the massive crowds expected to see the pontiff, the temporary surveillance installation needed to be minimally disruptive and use mobile radio to provide the multi-scene coverage required during the two-day visit. Multi-site CCTV surveillance The camera images were to be used for co-ordination and management by multiple agencies To support an existing small-scale CCTV installation at the Pope’s final venue of Phoenix Park (the largest enclosed city park in Europe), there was a need for further camera coverage along the park’s approach routes, entrance/exit gates, search areas and general areas of crowd movement and congregation. A similar solution was also required for the Pope’s visit to the Knock Shrine pilgrimage site and the Capuchin Day Centre, where public space CCTV was again already in place but of limited overall coverage. Full integration with the existing CCTV system at the 82,300 capacity Croke Park stadium for a papal address to the Festival of Families extravaganza was also required, with communications and CCTV feeds from all locations required to be transmitted back to local on-site control rooms at each location, and additionally to a central Command and Control room at Dublin Castle. At the main Command and Control Centre, the camera images were to be used for co-ordination and management by multiple agencies, including the Office of Public works (OPW), Garda Síochána, Defence Forces Ireland, Dublin Fire Brigade, HSE / Ambulance Services and Civil Defence. High-definition video security to secure Phoenix Park  “With 300,000 people expected to attend a papal mass at Phoenix Park to close the World Meeting of Families, we were briefed to provide the very best possible reliability and imaging performance from the additional cameras we employed,” explains Kevin McGrath of Mongey Communications. We needed to be confident of camera reliability straight out of the box, along with simple and fast set-up" He further added, “With this in mind, we needed to be confident of camera reliability straight out of the box, along with simple and fast set-up, and quality high-definition video for forward transmission to the various control rooms. Our very positive experience of employing 360 Vision Technology cameras on many high-security installations in the past led us to be confident about the image and build quality of the manufacturer’s cameras, and product support.”  “So, to fulfil the challenges we faced for this high-profile project, we specified the latest version of 360 Vision’s Predator camera, and also their new cost-effective and ruggedised Invictus Hybrid HD PTZ camera.” 360 Vision Invictus Hybrid HD PTZ camera The new 360 Vision Invictus cameras specified for the project employ the latest compact camera modules with a choice of 20:1 or 30:1 zoom and are available with 1/2.8” Sony StarVis or 1/1.9” Sony Exmor (Ultra) sensor packages. Bridging the divide between analogue and IP technology, all Invictus cameras are equipped with Hybrid functionality enabling installation in existing analogue systems and also in full 1080P HD IP video streaming networks. Alongside ONVIF 2.4 Profile S compatibility, this means the Invictus range is not only economical, but simple to install, providing Mongey Communications engineers with a reliable, flexible and high- performance solution with which to enhance the existing electronic surveillance measures for the Pope’s 2018 visit. HD IP video streaming networks An upright camera mount design allows full 360-degree continuous pan and unobstructed field of view Further enhancing camera reliability for this important event, the new Invictus camera range design draws cost-effectively on features usually associated with very high-end cameras, including construction from high grade, hardened aluminium and stainless steel, to ensure a rugged, durable and compact camera. An upright camera mount design allows full 360-degree continuous pan and unobstructed field of view, plus the ability to tilt above the horizon – enabling operators to view targets above camera installation height (i.e. up hills) – an invaluable asset where cameras were being installed in the difficult installation and operational conditions of Phoenix Park. Technical relationship with 360 Vision Technology “Our decision to once again entrust the provision of the best technology available for the project to 360 Vision Technology was proven correct, and we had no issues of consequence with the installation, commissioning and performance of all the cameras - straight out of the box,” explains Kevin. “Because of the condensed set-up period available and challenging terrain of some of the installation areas, we had to act fast to ensure the successful inclusion and full control of the cameras for the multi-agency command and control room,” adds Kevin. “Here our technical relationship with 360 Vision Technology really paid dividends throughout this time-critical project, affording easy integration of all the additional cameras into the control room’s Cathexis VMS. Cathexis VMS Images from the cameras were relayed back to the various event control centres In all, over 60 additional 360 Vision Technology cameras were employed over the various sites throughout the Pope’s visit. With extensive digging and cabling not a practical option, images from the cameras were relayed back to the various event control centres via a network of reliable and secure microwave transmission links, powered by temporary generators and back-up batteries. “The new Invictus cameras were perfect for the role thanks to their low power consumption compared to other similar specification PTZ cameras,” explains Kevin. “Low power consumption really helps when adding multiple cameras to a network with a temporary power system - and meant we could add more cameras for the benefit of maximum scene coverage.” High-speed fibre-optic connectivity High-speed fibre-optic connectivity between the various remote sites and Dublin Castle was installed, together with video walls at the various control rooms. “The Pope’s visit was a great success with no security issues reported,” says Kevin. “Images relayed to the control room from the additional 360 Vision Technology cameras were vital in the smooth running of the visit and allowed all of the state agencies involved to keep a constant update on the movements of the vast crowds drawn over the pontiff’s two-day visit.” “Our long-term technical partnership with 360 Vision Technology and our direct input in to the development of their new products really pays off with high-profile projects like this,” concludes Kevin. “We have many new and exciting installation challenges on the horizon and I’m confident that 360 Vision Technology camera products will continue to be an integral part of those future projects.”

Globally-renowned Pay on Foot parking systems manufacturer, DESIGNA, has worked with the White Rose shopping centre in Rhyl, North Wales, to update its car parking system to the company’s advanced ABACUS software and equipment. Contactless card payment The installation included new state-of-the-art entrance and exit terminals accepting tap in/tap out contactless card payment technology After many successful installations abroad, the shopping centre is the first DESIGNA site in the UK to have installed its new tap in/tap out contactless credit card technology. The installation included new state-of-the-art entrance and exit terminals accepting tap in/tap out contactless card payment technology. There are also three full pay stations, a DBS server, manual pay station and intercom. All of this helps improve the efficiency and security of the car park, which is popular with shoppers due to its seafront location. As the first part of the shopping experience, the convenience and availability of a car park is crucial to the overall service and satisfaction of a customer. DESIGNA recognised this and developed ABACUS, an advanced car park access system that intelligently integrates various elements to create the ultimate system that is highly reliable and requires less maintenance. It can also cope with large volumes of traffic while providing the highest level of monitoring to ensure a secure parking environment. ABACUS car park access system The parking system is barrier controlled and makes use of DESIGNA barcode ticket technology. In addition to the standard ticket technology, the car park offers the facility to tap in/tap out using a contactless credit card. This operates with a unique identifier from the credit/debit card as a substitute for a ticket for the duration of the stay at the car park. When the customer presents a contactless card on entry, it recognises them and by tapping again at the exit it automatically calculates the tariff and allows payment to take place at the exit. The system has three pay on foot machines which accept coins, notes and credit cards. With more than 30 stores, White Rose shopping centre, Rhyl’s number one shopping destination, has a wide range of quality stores. Located in the centre of the town, White Rose is a short walk from Rhyl’s seafront, railway station and sea aquarium, and has direct access car parking for 300 vehicles. The centre previously had a chip coin solution installed on site. Advanced ticket machines The biggest advantage of having the DESIGNA system in place is the easy payment method" Sue Nash, Centre Manager at the White Rose commented, “The biggest advantage of having the DESIGNA system in place is the easy payment method. The advanced ticket machines make it possible to pay using several means, therefore reducing the problem of queuing at the pay machines and having to pay with change. Another payment option we now have is the facility to pay through mobile devices and via contactless cards.” She continued, “The majority of people move around with credit cards rather than cash and having a versatile payment option in the car park makes for a painless process. The maintenance of the system at our local level was extremely important to avoid costly and timely engineer callouts. Simple things like ticket and coin jams, system resets are now extremely easy to resolve as is the exchange of entry tickets when required. I would certainly recommend the DESIGNA system to others and we are extremely pleased with the results.” Car parking ease and convenience Specifier Andrew Bailey, of Parking Ideas, commented, “Parking Ideas is a complete car parking and transportation consultancy that helps institutions, property owners, landlords and managing agents develop and optimise their assets. I have worked with the White Rose shopping centre for a number of years and following a competitive tender found that DESIGNA’s systems best suited the client’s requirements.” He continued, “The ABACUS system is good value, commercially viable and ticked all the right boxes for the White Rose. It is very important to have the facility to pay by card, so the payment terminals having this feature are vital to the centre and have made all the difference to the running of the car park. Parking Ideas has been in the parking industry for more than 15 years, so we have worked with DESIGNA before and are very happy with the end result.”  DESIGNA ticket terminals The car park’s entrance and exit are installed with DESIGNA In+ and Out+ ticket terminals so that using the site is fast and easy The car park’s entrance and exit are installed with DESIGNA In+ and Out+ ticket terminals so that using the site is fast and easy. The advanced terminals operate on the lowest energy consumption of their class with the ability to hold more tickets than before, with the bin adapting itself to the fill quantity. Customers are greeted with excellent user-friendliness due to the simplicity of the equipment and illuminated display with clear instructions. The four-way barcode readers also ensure visitors can insert their ticket any way round into any of the pay stations around the site. DESIGNA Pay on Foot machines For payment, three of DESIGNA’s new Pay on Foot machines are in place in the car park. This allows customers to pay for their visit before returning to their car and exit the car park more quickly. The pay station is deliberately designed to allow disabled customers to pay freely without assistance. Each of the pay stations is installed with an interactive monitor that makes it easy to pay and offers several different languages. Shopping centre management has full control of the ABACUS system through the DBS server, with a manual pay station (MPS) to allow them to create or override payments. The control room also links with the ticket and payment terminals via a DESIGNA VoIP Intercom to assist customers if required. Global implementation DESIGNA has more than 15,000 systems installed globally across a wide range of car park situations DESIGNA’s parking systems are used in a number of impressive shopping centres around the world. These include the Dundrum shopping centre in Dublin, the Mid Valley Megamall in Malaysia and the Mall of Emirates in Dubai. In the UK the Belfry shopping centre in Redhill, the Woolshops shopping centre in Halifax and the Wellgate centre in Dundee have also benefited from the ABACUS system. Recognised worldwide for its high quality and intelligent systems, DESIGNA has more than 15,000 systems installed globally across a wide range of car park situations, including shopping centres, airports and hospitals. ABACUS is one of the company’s innovations and demonstrates the endless possibilities available to car park operators. The future-proof technology allows for expansions of premises or new property acquisitions by allowing additional systems to be added to the network. In its many global applications, ABACUS has proved to be an effortless system for both operators and users and is a great investment for companies looking to the future.