Public sector security

Leaders in the security industry, government and technology gathered on June 27-28 in Washington, D.C., as the Security Industry Association (SIA) hosted its 2018 GovSummit. Each year, SIA GovSummit offers top-quality information sharing and education on security topics affecting federal, state and local agencies. This year’s summit tackled key security and policy issues like moving security services to the cloud, the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning for surveillance and the path forward for government and private security regarding the commercial use of aerial drones. Additionally, the event featured a half-day, expanded version of SIA’s popular Secure Schools Roundtable, SIA member visits on Capitol Hill, a networking breakfast at the Capitol Hill Club and presentation of the 2018 Legislator of the Year and Statesman Awards. DHS works to protect federal networks and facilities and critical infrastructure Protecting federal networks & facilities Providing keynote remarks at the 2018 GovSummit were Chris Krebs, undersecretary of the National Program and Programs Directorate (NPPD) at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and Soraya Correa, DHS’ chief procurement officer. Krebs highlighted DHS’ work to protect federal networks and facilities and critical infrastructure, the threat of nation-state attacks on American democracy through targeting election equipment and spreading false information on social media to sow division and discord and NPPD’s focus on blending physical security and cybersecurity in a holistic, top-down risk management approach. “Government’s role is to assist in raising the security baseline,” said Krebs. Correa spoke about DHS’ procurement efforts in support of the department’s strategic vision and interest in inviting creativity and innovation in its contracts with organisations. “When we understand each other’s business processes, we can do better business together,” Correa said. “We work with industry, associations and more – we want you to do business with us.” Cybersecurity and identity policy In a panel discussion of the Office of Management and Budget’s new cybersecurity and identity policy, Jeff Nigriny highlighted the Interagency Security Committee’s new instructions to federal chief security officers on physical access control systems implementations being fully compliant with federal security standards. “2018 is the year we fix the policy,” Nigriny said. In another session, a panel of experts considered the path forward for government and private security when it comes to unmanned aerial system (UAS) and counter-UAS policy. As drones have become more widely used, national security agencies have raised drone security as an important policy issue. “We could call this time the years of drone security,” said Lisa Ellman, partner at Hogan Lovells LLP and Company and co-executive director of the Commercial Drone Alliance. Rob Reiter was recognised for his leadership on issues related to protective and architectural bollards to address the need for greater perimeter security Public safety and security During the summit’s Policy Leadership Awards Dinner, SIA also presented its 2018 Legislator of the Year and Statesman Awards. The SIA Legislator of the Year Award is presented annually to members of Congress and other elected officials who have demonstrated extraordinary leadership in advancing legislation and policies that encourage the effective use of technology solutions to enhance public safety and security and protect critical infrastructure. This year, SIA honored Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) and Rep. John Rutherford (R-Fla.) for their work on the STOP School Violence Act, Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) for authoring the Investment in New Ventures and Economic Success Today (INVEST) Act, Sen. Gary Peters (D-Mich.) for authoring the Secure Airport Spaces Act and Rep. Dan Donovan (R-N.Y.) for authoring the Shielding Public Spaces From Vehicular Terrorism Act. The Statesman Award is presented each year to SIA member volunteers who have made extraordinary contributions of professional time, leadership and resources to position SIA to address the public policy challenges impacting the security industry. This year’s recipient was Rob Reiter, co-founder of the Storefront Safety Council and chief security consultant at Calpipe Industries, recognised for his leadership on issues related to protective and architectural bollards to address the need for greater perimeter security. SIA 2018 partners & sponsors This event was made possible through Washington sponsor United Technologies (Lenel and Interlogix); Lincoln sponsor HID Global; Jefferson sponsor Johnson Controls; dinner and reception sponsor Allegion; event sponsors AMAG Technology, American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers, Ameristar Perimeter Security, ASIS International, Axis Communications, BCDVideo, Calpipe Security Bollards, Chenega Security, Christie Digital Systems, Defense Forensics and Biometrics Agency, Gallagher, GSA Schedules, Inc., Hanwha Techwin America, DHS Science & Technology, Identiv, Louroe Electronics, Marshalls, Milestone, Nasatka Security, Panasonic, the Partner Alliance for Safer Schools, Renova Technology and the Secure Schools Alliance; media sponsors Campus Safety and DomesticPreparedness.com; and industry partner ISC Security Events.

LILIN Americas announced the MR652 2MP outdoor IP camera. Housed in an IP66-rated casing, this cost-effective fixed lens camera is ideal for use in exposed outdoor locations that require 24/7 monitoring such as parking lots, public spaces and convenience stores. The MR652 is a high definition professional surveillance and security solution featuring a turret-style design - a first for LILIN - that achieves the same quality imagery of a dome camera, but without the IR bounce caused by the glass housing. The MR652 IP camera delivers full HD 1080p video at up to 30 frames per second (fps) in bandwidth-efficient H.264 compression. To help security professionals keep watch even in complete darkness, it supports true day/night recording enhanced by infrared LED to achieve minimum illumination down to 0 Lux. To eliminate IR bounce, which can create white spots on an image, flat IR glass is positioned to the side of the lens to capture clear night-vision to a distance of 30 meters (98 feet). Higher quality images in challenging conditions Low-light capability is further improved by LILIN SenseUP Plus technology that heightens the sensitivity of the CMOS sensor to help maintain colour video in extremely low light, resulting in higher quality images in challenging conditions. In addition, 2D wide dynamic range (WDR) technology retains the ideal level of detail across images with high contrast lighting to enable objects in both bright and dark areas to be visible. Built rugged for the outdoors, the LILIN MR652 features an IP66 rating, meaning the camera is both ‘dust tight’ and protected against heavy seas or powerful jets of water. Being a turret camera its flat face lets rain run off to prevent water droplets from obscuring view of the lens. Its compact, lightweight footprint, combined with Power over Ethernet (PoE) for power and network connectivity via a single cable, resulting in faster, most cost-efficient installations with added flexibility in mounting location choices.

Attending the 37th East -West International Security Conference organised by Capricorn Conferences and Exhibitions on 4th and 5th June 2018 at the Lisbon Marriott Hotel, Portugal, were delegates representing private and public sector organisations from the Russian Federation and Ukraine. Addressing the delegates at the opening ceremony, conference Co-Chairman, Patrick Somerville QPM, welcomed the delegates to the conference for an intensive two days of presentations and discussions on a wide range of security issues led by speakers from the UK, USA and Russia, with simultaneous translation in English and Russian. Artificial intelligence will make security solutions more efficient and cost effectiveApplication of AI in cyber security Global trends in the demand for and services provided by and for the private security industry, together with the growing threats and counter measures necessary to combat terrorism, fraud and cybercrime were examined. The development of sophisticated biometric and other technologies and the application of artificial intelligence making security solutions more efficient and cost effective but at the same time creating new opportunities for illegal cyber activities and hacking were outlined and explored. The protection of corporate assets featured in the programme together with the need for due diligence procedures to prevent insider crimes and fraud with case studies of elaborate schemes in both commercial and banking sectors resulting in massive losses and illegal gains and outlining the considerable efforts needed to investigate and prosecute those involved. An overview of the EU Global Strategy for Foreign and Security Policy was given, embracing both foreign and internal security policy and implementation plans for the next five years.  Details of some recent joint investigation and enforcement operations, conducted by Europol in cooperation with Member States and Non-EU partners, demonstrated successful measures disrupting high level organised crime syndicates involved in human trafficking, illegal migration, child exploitation, currency and document counterfeiting, trafficking in counterfeit medications and other cross border and international crimes.Oversights of UK private security companies and their inspection arrangements were presented for comparison Data security & protection The regulation and oversight of UK private security companies and their inspection arrangements were presented for comparison with other country measures. Insights into the operation of Russian commercial activities, including a large scale brewery business and a business engaged in the leasing of plant and stock for the operation of railways and other enterprises, were given by Russian speakers, adding to the diversity of the topics under discussion. Current concerns about data security and protection from cyber-attacks featured prominently in the programme including advice on the use of the Cloud and Data Centres, their security and how virtual networks will increasingly serve all aspects of business and government. Delegates were again urged to ensure that awareness of new developments and systems and the protective measures needed were understood at the highest level in organisations and effectively implemented where required.The conference was organised to promote understanding and the exchange of ideas and information between those engaged in security management Security management solutions Speaking at the closing conference banquet several delegates expressed their appreciation of the opportunity to meet with colleagues from other countries and to enjoy sharing with them professional experiences and benefit from the presentations and discussions thereby gaining knowledge and understanding of business practices in other countries. The East West Security Conferences are promoted by Capricorn Exhibitions and Conferences in cooperation with several other supporting bodies to promote understanding and the exchange ideas and information between those engaged in managing security in public and private sector organisations in United Kingdom, the European Union, the Russian Federation and other countries in Eastern Europe.

Running into its 11th edition, this year’s Guangzhou Public Security Technology (GPST) show will officially open its doors from 9 – 12 June at the China Import and Export Fair Complex. Taking place alongside Guangzhou Electrical Building Technology, the two fairs will welcome over 220 manufacturers and solution providers across 15,000 sqm of floor space over the coming four days. Amidst growing optimism surrounding the prospects for China’s booming smart city sector, the fair provides an ideal platform for security sector stakeholders to deepen their business relationships and enhance their integration across vertical markets. Over 10,000 visitors are expected to descend on the fair, including the most relevant trade, industry, and local government authority representatives. Smart city, smart transportation, public safety and smart community will be among the vertical markets that fairgoers will have the chance to explore at this year’s show" Surveillance and biometric recognition Commenting on the opportunities that the show will deliver for its attendees, Mr Hubert Duh, Chairman, Guangzhou Guangya Messe Frankfurt Co Ltd, said: “The security industry is currently enjoying abundant business opportunities, as new technologies in fields such as video surveillance and biometric recognition are adopted and integrated across different sectors. GPST is at the forefront of showcasing these opportunities. Smart city, smart transportation, public safety and smart community will be among the vertical markets that fairgoers will have the chance to explore at this year’s show.” Co-organised for the first time this year by Guangzhou Guangya Messe Frankfurt, the fair has attracted many brands from various security sectors. Highlighted technologies and vertical markets include: Intelligent analytic technology Beijing Sensing Technology – Demonstrating facial recognition technology that can automatically identify facial features and cross reference them with a database. The system is capable of achieving a recognition rate of 3 billion times per second. Dahua Technology – Featuring an advanced video surveillance system that uses high performance facial recognition technology to carry out classification analysis.  Guangdong Ao Zhi Innovation Technology – Exhibiting an enterprise computing system that can carry out high performance back-end video analysis. A range of applications for smart city include surveillance, machine vision and artificial intelligence.  Hikvision Digital Technology – The AR ‘Hawk Eye’ 360 degree surveillance system is widely applicable in airports, transport terminals, stadiums, and other places where large-scale surveillance is necessary. Netposa Technologies – Among other advanced solutions, the company will showcase its high performance video analysis system. Sensetime – An advanced point detection technology that can detect 240 facial points to accurately recognise human faces and expressions will be on display to fairgoers.  Shenzhen IntelliFusion Technology – The Company’s signature ‘DeepEye’ facial recognition and analysis system utilises data mining, cloud intelligence and the largest human face database in the world. Over 10,000 front end systems have already been installed in Chinese cities. The system allows for the sharing of lead and strategy deployment information Public security & smart transportation Jinpeng Electronic Information Machine – An integrated public security system that facilitates online cooperation across public security departments through cloud computing and big data. The system allows for the sharing of lead and strategy deployment information. New Orient Electronic Technological Engineering – An integrated surveillance management system can be used for prison security and has numerous functions including: video and audio surveillance, intrusion monitoring, emergency response requests, access control and public announcements.  PCI-Suntek Technology – An advanced traffic monitoring system combines cloud computing, big data and artificial intelligence. The system is able to assist in decision making, manage congestion and resolve complex traffic issues via traffic light control and resource allocation. Asset management and security Guangdong Anjubao Digital Technology – Displaying building intercoms that function as access control systems. The systems can be operated remotely using mobile devices as well as through facial recognition, Bluetooth and password. Guangdong Sayee Intelligent Technology – Providing end-users with O2O community services such as property management and building security. Video intercom and access control systems can be operated remotely through mobile phone applications and PC. Shenzhen Cloudy Security Technology – Featuring a cloud based video analysis system that can be utilised for asset management and security. The system allows users to monitor video feeds remotely through an online portal.  Product Analysis & Machine Vision The Exemplary Case Study Zone is also one of the most highly anticipated aspects of the 2018 show. Artificial intelligence and IoT technology will feature heavily at the zone, providing fairgoers with key product analysis and industry insights. Applications of the technology stretch into public safety, retail, medical care, building management, transportation and factory.   Meanwhile, the Live Talk with Industry Experts Zone will give visitors the chance to listen to two-way dialogue between high level representatives of security industry giants. This area will feature live-streamed talks that delve into the future development of security products. Data mining, deep learning and machine vision (an automated image analysis and inspection technology) will be examined. An exploration of user requirements and pain points will also be on the agenda.  Artificial Intelligence security solutions These discussions will not only be open to visitors at the show, but they will also be made available through a live internet broadcast. Speakers will include representatives of premier companies such as Dahua Technology, PCI-Suntek Technology and Netposa Technologies. Speakers will include representatives of premier companies such as Dahua Technology, PCI-Suntek Technology and Netposa Technologies As the adoption of artificial intelligence becomes more prevalent across many industries, the security sector is also examining how AI can be more broadly implemented. To analyse how AI can be proactively adopted to boost development, the Asia Intelligent Security Technology (AiST) forum will take place from 9 to 11 June. The forum will involve seminars delivered by experts representing government departments and premier companies.  Public safety associations With its deep and wide-ranging coverage of the security sector, the fair has drawn support and participation from many notable Chinese industry associations. The Dongguan Public Security Technical Protection Association, the Fujian Safety Technology Protection Industry Association, the Guangxi Security Technology Defense Industry Association, the Guangzhou Security and Protection Industry Association, the Hangzhou Security and Protection Industry Association, the Hubei Province Security Technology Guard Industry Association, the Hunan Security Protection Association, the Jiangxi Public Security Association, the Jilin Social Public Security Protection Industry Association, the Qinghai Public Security Technical Protection Association, the Smart Security Industry Association of Shenzhen, the Shenzhen Security Industry Association, the Zhejiang Safety Technology Protection Industry Association, and the Zhuhai Public Security Technical Protection Association will all be in attendance at the fair. 

VIVOTEK, global IP surveillance provider, is delighted to announce it has received the Platinum Technology Partner acknowledgement from Genetec Inc., international technology provider of unified security, public safety, operations, and business intelligence solutions. Among all of Genetec’s global partners, only six solution providers were recognised for their proven and trusted relationship in both product capabilities and business development. VIVOTEK-Genetec integration Highlighting the mutual partnership, the complete series of VIVOTEK’s H.265 products are fully integrated with Genetec Security Center, the unified security platform from Genetec Inc. Users of solutions from both providers are able to take full advantage of the newly added H.265 flagship cameras with VIVOTEK’s advanced technology, including cybersecurity enhancement, Smart Stream III video compression technology, and SNVII (Supreme Night Visibility II). In addition, thanks to VIVOTEK’s single IP address and single-license design in the Genetec Security Center, customers can also enjoy savings in total ownership costs when deploying VIVOTEK’s multi-sensor and multi-adjustable sensor series cameras. We are pleased to recognise VIVOTEK as one of our Genetec Platinum Technology Partners" Cyber security Shengfu Cheng, Director of Marketing and Product Development Division, VIVOTEK INC., stated, “We are honoured to receive this achievement from Genetec. This recognition not only strengthens mutual partnership in product integration, but also demonstrates a shared vision in global collaboration. Both parties are now working closely together in cybersecurity. We look forward to providing our mutual customers with higher levels of network security and further sustaining growth in global business.” “We are pleased to recognise VIVOTEK as one of our Genetec Platinum Technology Partners,” said Georges Tannous, Strategic Alliances Director for Genetec. “Having a strong development and integration relationship with our technology partners means that our end-users can greatly benefit from our cloud services and cybersecurity commitments,” added Tannous.

The U.S. House of Representatives has voted 351-61 to ban federal agencies from buying Chinese-made surveillance cameras. The measure was passed May 24 as an amendment to House Bill 5515, the Fiscal Year 2019 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which is the funding plan for the military that also maps out a variety of policy priorities. The bill is at least several months away from becoming law, and it must still be considered by the Senate and then by a House-Senate conference committee before final passage. Changes can be made at each stage. It would also have to be signed by President Trump. The amendment targeting video surveillance cameras was offered by Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler, a Missouri Republican. “Video surveillance and security equipment sold by Chinese companies exposes the U.S. government to significant vulnerabilities and my amendment will ensure that China cannot create a video surveillance network within federal agencies,” says Hartzler in a press release. Companies affected by the ban The proposed ban appears to lump our industry’s familiar video surveillance players together with other companies that the U.S. government has targeted for security concerns. Also mentioned in the amendment are Hytera Communications, a Chinese digital mobile radio manufacturer previously charged with patent infringement; and ZTE Corp., a Chinese telecommunications company accused of violating trade-sanction agreements and posing a threat to U.S. national security. The bill also mentions Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd., a Chinese telecommunications manufacturer previously investigated as a national security threat.The proposed ban appears to lump our industry’s familiar video surveillance players together with other companies that the U.S. government has targeted for security concerns Two familiar companies in our industry – Hikvision and Dahua – are mentioned in the bill by their full names, Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Co. and Zhejiang Dahua Technology Co. In addition to their branded video lines, the two companies also are the largest providers of OEM/'white label' cameras and video systems that are sold under other brand names, such as Honeywell, Stanley and UTC. The bill specifically mentions the inclusion of white label technology in the ban. Addressing concerns In the case of Hikvision, one concern is whether the company is owned by the Chinese government. Hikvision has previously addressed this issue, emphasising its ownership by “a diverse set of private and public entities” with the largest share belonging to a Chinese state-owned enterprise (SOE). Hikvision declined to comment for this article. However, the company has published a statement (“Special Bulletin”): “We are actively working to assure our North American stakeholders that Hikvision strictly abides by the laws and regulations of each country in which it operates. We also affirm the fact that we hold our products to the industry’s global cybersecurity standards, including North America.” The Hikvision statement continues: “As we continue to monitor and further deploy the necessary resources to address this matter over the coming weeks and months, please know that we will vigorously defend Hikvision from dangerous and unproven accusations about the cybersecurity of our products and solutions.” If SIA decides to take a position based on member feedback, it will occur during the normal legislative process" Commitment to compliance Dahua answered our requests for a comment with the following official response: “Dahua Technology is a commercial enterprise with a high level of business integrity. The international company [is] committed to compliance with all applicable laws and regulations in the countries in which it does business.” The company’s response continues: “Dahua Technology dedicates 10 percent of its revenue to research and development annually. Dahua has designated cybersecurity as a top priority and takes a comprehensive and systemic approach, with complementary and redundant safeguards built into its technology, services and organisational practices. Dahua Technology is positioning itself as a cybersecurity leader within the video surveillance industry.” The Security Industry Association (SIA) has submitted the House amendment to its government relations committee for review and consideration. “Any recommended position by the government relations committee will be referred to the SIA Executive Committee for their consideration and approval,” says Don Erickson, CEO of SIA. “If SIA decides to take a position based on member feedback, it will occur during the normal legislative process as the bill is considered by the Senate, and then ultimately by a House-Senate conference committee.” Impact on global video camera supply Congresswoman Hartzler’s amendment is aimed at “ensur[ing] federal agencies do not purchase Chinese-made surveillance cameras,” according to the press release from her office. Obviously, there are more than just the two mentioned companies manufacturing surveillance cameras in China, so the question becomes whether the intent is to ban all Chinese cameras from government use. Such a proposal would create an even larger issue, given that 60 to 65 percent of the global supply of commercial video cameras are manufactured in China, according to one industry source.60 to 65 percent of the global supply of commercial video cameras are manufactured in China, according to one industry source The bill does not address the possible use of Chinese-made components in cameras that are assembled elsewhere in the world (but technically are not 'made in China'). “Those types of issues are commonly explained in implementation guidelines that would be created afterwards if the proposed language becomes law,” says Erickson. The NDAA is unlikely to become law for several months. A version previously passed by the Senate Armed Services committee must be presented to the full Senate, where it can also be amended. Then the House and Senate bills must be reconciled.

Vicon Industries Inc. (VCON: OTCQB Venture Market) ("Vicon"), designer and manufacturer of video surveillance and access control software, hardware and components, announced today that Louisa County Public Schools, in Northern Virginia, has completed installation of a district-wide Vicon Valerus video management solution that encompasses its six school buildings and connects nearly 400 cameras. The system includes multiple application servers and NVRs running Valerus VMS software, as well as a wide range of Vicon IP megapixel camera models. The district has opted to share camera access with the Louisa County Sheriff’s Department, whose officers can use iPads and smartphones to immediately call up video through the Valerus VMS interface in case of an emergency. This allows them to visually assess any situation and locate the perpetrator before sending in officers. Vicon sponsored training class The Valerus solution was chosen by Louisa County Public Schools because of Vicon’s willingness to provide the district’s in-house electricians and technical team with as much autonomy as possible in setting up and managing the system. After participating in a Vicon sponsored training class, the district has been self-sufficient in its ability to install, program and troubleshoot Valerus. David Szalankiewicz, LCPS Facilities Director, says "Vicon’s technical team has supported our in-house guys directly with training and certification so that we feel completely in control." Ron Lapsley, Vicon’s Regional Sales Manager who worked on the project, explains, "Vicon understands that the technical capabilities and service needs are different for each customer, and we’re glad to provide the right level of support that makes sense. In many cases, the manufacturer relationship is as important as the product itself in making sure a customer is satisfied."

Genetec Inc., global technology provider of unified security, public safety, operations, and business intelligence solutions, announced that its unified platform, Security Center has been integrated with Secure Store, a profit protection and exception reporting solution developed by Appriss Retail. With this integration, retailers can now immediately disprove or validate suspicious transactions by accessing the security video evidence associated with suspected fraudulent activity. Security Center and Store integration Secure Store enables retailers to significantly mitigate losses related to fraud, theft, and operational/systemic breakdowns. Using artificial intelligence and machine learning, Secure Store performs advanced exception modeling from multiple data sources and enables immediate corrective action. US-based retailer, DICK’s Sporting Goods, is using the Security Center platform to monitor over 18,000 cameras across 720 stores and manage 230 cameras and 130 doors at its headquarters. The organisation is now using the joint Genetec/Appriss Retail solution to provide immediate insight, reduce shrink, improve profitability and achieve rapid ROI, as Jacob Gillette, Director of Loss Prevention and Operations, DICK’s Sporting Goods explains: Genetec/Appriss Retail solution The Genetec system, combined with the Appriss Retail Secure Store application gives us capabilities that help speed up our investigations" “The Genetec system, combined with the Appriss Retail Secure Store application gives us capabilities that help speed up our investigations, which has been hugely beneficial to our organisation. Our investigation team can now easily retrieve video from Security Center to validate suspicious transactions that are flagged by the Appriss Retail exception reporting system.” Thanks to the integration of Security Center and Secure Store, retailers can now simply click on the video icon within the Secure Store interface to immediately identify and review the security video related to individual transactions. This allows them to evaluate detailed evidence related to all refunds, transaction items, discrepancies between what is being scanned and what is on the bill, and quickly determine if there was indeed a problem. Importance of video evidence in fraud cases The open architecture of Security Center allows us to work with partners like Appriss to provide comprehensive solutions that benefit our joint end users" “When you investigate fraud, you need to be able to validate questionable behavior. This is why video evidence is so critical. Thanks to our partnership with Genetec, we are now able to provide our customers with immediate insights that allow them to make informed decisions and build defensible cases based on hard evidence,” said Corey Adams Vice President of Global Client Services for Appriss Retail. “We’re pleased to be able to assist retailers with integrations that help make their teams more productive and significantly reduce loss. The open architecture of Security Center allows us to work with partners like Appriss to provide comprehensive solutions that benefit our joint end users,” said Scott Thomas, Director of Retail Market Development at Genetec.

Located one hour outside of London, the borough of Runnymede is a local government district with over 80,000 residents in the county of Surrey. It is one of the most prosperous parts of the London commuter belt and home to some of the UK’s most expensive real estate. In order to enhance public safety, the borough council contracted service provider Safer Runnymede. Working with Nottinghamshire-based systems integrator Central Security Systems, the experts installed a platform combining public safety technology with personal safety services such as care solutions for the elderly. Bosch video security system Today, Safer Runnymede coordinates all connected solutions in a Control Room in the town of Addlestone, where a staff of three operators monitor security feeds from over 500 security cameras deployed around various boroughs within Surrey. Next to public streets in the area, the flexible system also monitors schools, hospitals and other public buildings around the clock. Every year, the team responds to 20,000 incidents from cameras, and the video security system has proven an asset in monitoring traffic, preventing crime, as well as providing evidence and following suspects after incidents. But achieving this level of integration was a challenge. Connecting the solutions via the BVMS allowed Runnymede to become one of the first councils to invest in a fully IP-based infrastructure Initially, the video security system consisted of hardware from several different manufacturers including Bosch – making updates or replacements a time-consuming process – that was networked on a Bosch Video Recording Management (VRM) solution. Looking for a future-proof and scalable system built on an integrated software platform, the officials in Runnymede tasked Bosch to design a fully IP-based security camera architecture. IP video surveillance system Since the Safer Runnymede system already included a Bosch monitor wall plus encoders, cameras, VRM and storage devices, system integrators could leverage the initial investment into a full suite of Bosch solutions. The system now combines new high-resolution AUTODOME IP 4000, AUTODOME IP 7000, MIC IP 7000 moving cameras, and FLEXIDOME IP 7000 fixed cameras, plus older Bosch and third-party analog cameras paired with encoders, decoders, and DIVAR IP 3000, 5000, 6000, and 7000 recorders. Connecting these solutions via the Bosch Video Management System (BVMS) allowed Runnymede to become one of the first councils to invest in a fully IP-based infrastructure. The flexible system design and management has provided an integrated approach to our business delivery" As a result, Safer Runnymede has benefitted from superior image quality delivered by the added network video security cameras, without the need of replacing the complete existing analog video security infrastructure; all in a resilient, easily expandable system at a reduced total cost of ownership (TCO). What’s more, the customer has used the flexibility of Bosch solutions in a deployable video surveillance camera at remote locations. Installed in a custom-built enclosure provided by Central Security Systems, it streams video data from an AUTODOME IP 4000 camera via 4G and sends alerts via SMS to the Control Room upon detecting activity such as illegal waste dumping. Bosch video management system Migrating from a fragmented, analog system to an integrated IP network managed via BVMS (Bosch Video Management System) has proven a forward-facing decision. “The flexible system design and management has provided an integrated approach to our business delivery, allowing us to make better operational decisions and become more dynamic and competitive in the video surveillance marketplace, “says Les Bygrave at Safer Runnymede.

Opengear, a provider of solutions that deliver secure, resilient network access and automation to critical IT infrastructure, today announced CSC – IT Center for Science Ltd, a Finnish center of expertise in Information and Communications Technology, has deployed Opengear Smart out-of-band appliances to streamline a major upgrade project and improve day-to-day remote management. CSC, a non-profit organisation with 70% ownership by the state of Finland and 30% controlled by Finnish higher education institutions provides services for research, education, culture, public administration and enterprises, to help them thrive and benefit society at large.  CSC's primary customers are the Ministry of Education and Culture and organisations within its field of operations, higher education and research institutes and public administration sector. Planned network upgrade As Antti Ristimaki, Senior Network Specialist for CSC explains, "Getting from our data centres to some of the sites we look after might take many hours and so having remote out-of-band access is vital for us." CSC has used a legacy out-of-band (OOB) console server solution for several years, but with a major network upgrade planned for 2018-2020 it was decided that more flexibility was needed to help the small networking team support clients at around 40 sites spread across the country. "What we liked most about Opengear was its small footprint and high-quality software along with the 4G mobile connectivity option which provides us with the option to deploy the OOB console server at site before we have any working in-band access," says Ristimaki. Setting up the devices took very little time and we are now remotely managing the process" Remotely configure networking equipment CSC has already deployed Opengear ACM7004-5-LMR - Resilience Gateway appliances at around 10 locations across the country, which were initially used to help remotely configure networking equipment at sites connecting to its newly upgraded backbone network. Having a remote access server at distant locations makes it easier to reliably commission and configure new network equipment from its main offices at Espoo and Kajaani. At the final stage, there will be around 40 Opengear Resilience Gateway appliances across the country. "Setting up the devices took very little time and we are now remotely managing the process - which has proved surprisingly simple using 4G LTE and even 3G connections," Ristimaki adds.  Built-in CLI tools The built-in CLI tools provided by the Opengear software have proven to be useful especially when commissioning the console server itself. Through this accessibility, CSC has integrated the management of its Opengear Smart OOB devices into its own internally developed network management and orchestration platform based on Ansible. CSC is also using Opengear to help record, and in the event of any problems, rollback critical firmware upgrades and configuration changes for core networking elements at remote sites.

For the first time in Europe, bodycams have been deployed in public transport on a nationwide level. Dutch railway company NS has equipped 700 safety and service employees with Zepcam bodycams that they can use in unsafe situations to increase safety and prevent escalation of violence and aggression. Large scale bodycam deployment Body worn video is mostly used by police, other law enforcement and first responders. However, there is a growing demand for this technology to be used in other sectors like public transport, in order to increase the safety of employees and passengers. In the Netherlands for instance, the number of people who are victims of an annoying violent incident in public transport has increased from 13.5 percent in 2016 to 15.5 percent last year, according to research centre CROW. It’s the first time a public transportation organisation deploys bodycams on such a large scale within the EU Dutch Railways (NS) approached Dutch tech company Zepcam to develop bodycam solutions for its safety and service employees. These workers monitor the train stations and approach people who are for instance dodging the fare, behaving aggressively or otherwise causing problems. Thanks to the bodycams, they now can record situations for further investigation and prosecution purposes. Zepcam has over 400 customers in 45 countries, including the police forces of Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland, Hong Kong and Singapore, and already supplies mobile video and bodycam solutions to local public transport companies like Movia in Denmark, SBB in Switzerland, SNCF and Veolia in France and Arriva in the UK. At Dutch Railways, it’s the first time a public transportation organisation deploys bodycams on such a large scale within the EU. Benefits of bodycam solutions According to Marjolein Maasland, representative of Dutch Railways, the new bodycams are comfortable to wear and easy to use. "I believe that the bodycam can help employees positively influence an escalating situation and possibly even prevent an incident," she states. CEO Bart van der Aa of Zepcam: "We are very proud to be the ones helping Dutch Railways’ safety and service personnel and their passengers decrease violence and prevent escalations. A growing number of organisations is discovering the benefits of our bodycam solutions for application in busses and subway trains and stations. We aim to make public transport safer all over Europe."

Airbus has expanded the range of its application portfolio for the Tactilon Dabat and partnered with new professional application developers. The aim is to better serve the communications markets in the field of public safety, transportation and healthcare. At the CCW exhibition in Berlin from 15 to 17 May 2018, Airbus is showcasing selected applications for professionals that combine multimedia real-time functions with highest standards of security.  “The apps that we showcase at the CCW work in various areas, whether it is industry, public safety or the health sector. They meet specific customer needs and requirements for different regions in the world,” explains Rahim Zaknoun, Head of Innovation & Developer Ecosystem at Secure Land Communications of Airbus. "We selected these apps for our customers and created them for the hybrid Tactilon Dabat.” For instance, the digitalised Triage application from Exomi helps first responders (paramedics) to send complex health data of patients from the ambulance on the scene to the hospital. The delivery of the constantly updated information is standardised and reliable. It can easily be shared not only via the Tactilon Dabat, the Android smartphone and Tetra radio in one device, but also on other platforms in control rooms or in the field. Thus, the application streamlines processes and accelerates a more accurate treatment for the patients. Commanders and group members (Tetra and smartphone users) can easily follow each other on the Dabat’s display based on a map configuration with GPS Live video sharing platform The application ES-Core features a live video sharing function that is secure and supports external video sources, such as from drones or vehicles. Even with little radio coverage the transmission is of high quality. Moreover, footing can be stored as evidence or for the purpose of analysis. “Clearly, this is a tool for police officers. However, paramedics work increasingly with this app on the scene and companies can also master situations by transmitting a live video stream,” says Rahim Zaknoun. Another application can fill frequently the gap of non-existing radio coverage in many public buildings: the ‘indoor positioning’ system for large sites creates a real-time situational awareness when communication groups move around in- and outdoors. Based on a map configuration with a GPS function, commanders and group members (Tetra and smartphone users) can easily follow each other on the Dabat’s display. The application serves especially security personnel in airports, train stations, or event sites: no configuration is needed, a seamless in- and outdoor positioning is put in place and the app works without broadband connection.  Track Worker Protection In order to save lives of railway track workers and minimise the risk of collisions, the company Intelligence on Wheels invented the app ‘Track Worker Protection’. This application with a clear map display receives permanent train location updates. Our SmarTWISP application developer programme is the key reference point when it comes to creating secure apps" The signals will be sent from the train operator’s control room and the train itself, which is equipped with a Train Collision Avoidance System. Critical scenarios can now be easily managed with the Tactilon Dabat and the ‘track worker protection’. “Our SmarTWISP application developer programme is the key reference point when it comes to creating secure apps,” says Rahim Zaknoun. “It enables the innovation and professional application development on the top of Airbus’ existing communication technology. It boosts our strong developer ecosystem."