Public sector security

Access control and integrated security management vendor Maxxess has expanded its UK and Ireland operations with the appointment of Russell Baker as business development & account manager. Responsibilities Russell will be based out of the company’s European head office in Bracknell, UK, and will handle the substantial increase in demand for the firm’s signature solution, the eFusion™ access control, and security management platform. Building on the success of Maxxess solutions in the corporate, higher education, hospitality, and healthcare sectors, offering enterprise-class access control and integrated security, he will support existing partners and end-users and as well as developing new relationships with systems integrators,  consultants and end-users across the UK and Europe. Work experience Russell has over two decades of experience spanning video surveillance, access control, intruder, and systems integration A familiar face in the security industry, Russell has over two decades of experience spanning video surveillance, access control, intruder and systems integration. He started his career at Chubb and went on to sales management roles with security systems integrators and tech vendors including Vicon and Zenitel Group. A longstanding member of the Association of Security Consultants (ASC), Russell has a proven track record in consulting roles as well as sales management. Feedback   Lee Copland, Managing Director Maxxess EMEA, said, “We’re delighted to welcome Russell on board. He is well-positioned to leverage the increasing demand for cost-effective, integrated systems that drive operational efficiency by digitising processes and workflows.”  “He will build on Maxxess’s existing installed base as well as helping many more organisations upgrade and digitise their infrastructures and bring new technologies on line.” Developing better access solutions Russell Baker commented, “With Maxxess eFusion and eVisitor enabling more affordable integrated site security and safety solutions, I am looking forward to working closely with consultants and systems integrators to develop project opportunities.” “These solutions are now very much in demand as customers look towards better access and people management solutions to support more flexible workplace operations post-pandemic.”

On the occasion of the Milipol 2021 (Milipol Paris 2021) exhibition, the event dedicated to homeland security and safety (taking place from Oct. 19-22, 2021, in Paris, France), Deveryware will introduce its range of security solutions, to support investigators and enhance homeland security. As the European expert in investigation technologies and global security services, Deveryware will present its innovations, specially designed to facilitate police and the Gendarmerie’s investigations. Tools and services for investigations With features, such as judicial geo-location, analysis of phone records, digital forensics for phones, hard drives and any digital device, mobile DNA analysis, etc., Deveryware offers investigators the tools and services to extract and analyse the data, which is necessary for conducting their judicial investigations and solutions that are designed to process digital evidence and accelerate their investigations. Deveryware’s investigation solutions offer: Real-time geo-location of smartphones, trackers (through the DeveryLoc and DeveryLight platforms), Call data record analysis (DeveryAnalytics Telephony Data software), Fight against fraud and financial crime (services of the OAK Branch subsidiary), Digital investigation (solutions and services of TRACIP, Deveryware subsidiary and the 1st French private laboratory for digital forensics). Innovations introduced at Milipol Paris 2021 Deveryware will introduce 3 major innovations at its stand, which are based on its main areas of expertise For those who want to test and manipulate the on-premise search kit and the digital forensics equipment, they will be available at the TRACIP booth (#5R 122) at the Milipol 2021 exhibition. Deveryware will introduce 3 major innovations at its stand, which are based on its main areas of expertise. Call data record analysis - DeveryAnalytics Telephony Data The analysis of telephone investigation data constitutes a major challenge for investigators. Deveryware has developed a unique solution for them, DeveryAnalytics Telephony Data. It notably allows them to: Detect contacts and interactions between individuals, Uncover networks, Save time and enhance investigation capacities. The DeveryAnalytics Telephony Data software was adopted by the French Gendarmerie Nationale in March 2021 and is currently being deployed. Responding to cyber-attack incidents - TRACIP TRACIP, the data recovery and digital forensics expert, offers a unique methodology to clean up and recover data following a cyber-attack (compromised of computers and smartphones, infection of IT stock through ransomware). This process offers several advantages: On-site deployment in a couple of hours thanks to mobile, lightweight infrastructure, Back to normal within a couple of days, Preservation of evidence of the attack for compensation purposes (insurance claims, legal proceedings). GHALE, the next-generation emergency call platform Deveryware has developed GHALE, the platform that revolutionises emergency calls and offers greater connectivity between emergency mobile applications and public safety answering points. Thanks to the development of a new European standard, PEMEA - Pan-European Mobile Emergency Application, GHALE makes it possible to: Use its emergency mobile app, while travelling across Europe Have multilingual and multimedia communications with PSAPs: Location sharing, sending of photos and videos, chat Make video calls adapted to speech/hearing impaired people

Branch, the startup that pioneered instantly-bundled home and auto insurance, announced a partnership with SimpliSafe, maker of award-winning security systems, to offer its members significant discounts on their home insurance. Through this partnership, Branch members can receive meaningful discounts of up to 15.5% on their home insurance by protecting their home with a professionally monitored SimpliSafe system, which can help prevent major hazards, such as theft, fire and water damage. Additionally, Branch is giving new members a free 7-piece home security system from SimpliSafe and a complimentary month of SimpliSafe's most comprehensive professional security monitoring. Home protection "The insurance industry is broken, and consumers overpay as a result. At Branch, our mission is to make insurance more affordable and one of the ways we do this is through our innovative connected home discounts," shared Steve Lekas, Cofounder and CEO of Branch. "There is ample data to support how professionally monitored home security drastically reduces claims for our members, so we're eager to pass meaningful savings along to those who choose to protect their homes with an industry-leading provider like SimpliSafe." Homeowners who already use SimpliSafe may be eligible for deep discounts on home and auto insurance Branch and SimpliSafe share the belief that home protection should be both accessible and affordable. The complimentary SimpliSafe hardware and professional monitoring coupled with the substantial policy savings generated through the Branch connected home discount will make this partnership a clear win for Branch members. Auto insurance Additionally, in the coming weeks, homeowners who already use SimpliSafe to protect their homes may be eligible for deep discounts on home and auto insurance when they purchase a new policy through Branch's frictionless and instant buying experience. "At SimpliSafe, we remain singularly focused on making home the safest place on earth," said Matt Wolf, Head of Partnerships at SimpliSafe. "We've found a real opportunity to deliver on that mission by teaming up with leading insurers, like Branch, to offer homeowners proactive protection. We're excited to work with Branch to deliver tremendous value to homeowners and build the future of comprehensive protection."

Algorithm development at Cognitec Systems GmbH (Cognitec) continues to engineer the optimal balance between speed and accuracy of the face matching processes. NIST’s Face Recognition Vendor Test The latest results of the U.S. NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) Face Recognition Vendor Test for identification tasks, show the Cognitec algorithm in the best position of all algorithms tested, when relating the template generation time to the false negative identification rate (miss rate), for mug shot databases. The identification test addresses the largest market for face recognition applications The identification test addresses the largest market for face recognition applications, including the detection of duplicates in image databases and fraud detection, during passport and driver’s licence applications. These tests apply a very high matching threshold, where only 0.3 % (3/1000) of probes, without a mate in the gallery, produces a false hit, one of the most difficult face recognition tasks. Accuracy advances in face matching algorithms “We are proud to also see significant accuracy advances, in comparison to the algorithm that we submitted to the last test in early 2021,” said Dr. Thorsten Thies, the Director of Algorithm Development at Cognitec Systems GmbH. Dr. Thorsten Thies adds, “For the test, with 12 million mug shot images, Cognitec achieved rank 24 out of 165 algorithms, with a match rate of 98.5 %. In the test, with 1.6 million mug shots, with a 99.4 % match rate, we ranked 26 out of 299 algorithms. These results show remarkable performance consistency, regardless of database size.” Cognitec-005 face matching algorithm The September 2021 test evaluates face matching algorithms from 85 different vendors. Cognitec Systems GmbH submitted a new algorithm, with a revised face finder, called Cognitec-005 algorithm, in the report.

Moxa Inc., a globally renowned company in industrial communications and networking, with a focus on securing industrial networks, has introduced the new EDR-G9010 Series. These industry-certified, all-in-one firewall/NAT/VPN/switch/routers, act as a robust first line of defence for industrial networks, in diverse applications, such as smart manufacturing and critical infrastructure. EDR-G9010 Series industrial secure routers Moxa’s EDR-G9010 Series industrial secure routers offer 10-port GbE performance and defence-in-depth security capabilities, in order to fulfill the needs of bandwidth-hungry applications that require field-proven reliability and multi-layered security. With more and more cyber security incidents occurring in operational technology (OT) systems, enhancing industrial network security becomes a key priority for business owners and chief security officers. However, in OT environments, network requirements are not just concerned with security, but also focus on keeping operations functioning smoothly. Network security solution for OT environments With the launch of the new EDR-G9010 Series, Moxa brings a tailor-made network security solution for OT environments" “With the launch of the new EDR-G9010 Series, Moxa brings a tailor-made network security solution for OT environments,” said Kevin Huang, Product Manager at Moxa Networking, adding “We recommend our customers to use the EDR-G9010 Series industrial secure routers, to segment their networks as a first line of defence and prevent threats from propagating to the rest of the network.” He adds, “Furthermore, users can leverage its advanced OT Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) technology, firewall, NAT, and VPN features, to achieve multi-layered security. Last, but not least, the 10-port Gigabit performance, faster boot time and Layer 2/Layer 3 redundancy helps ensure the availability of industrial networks.” Compact and rugged industrial secure router Kevin Huang further stated, “The EDR-G9010 Series combines all these powerful functions into a single compact, rugged, industry-certified industrial secure router. Overall, the EDRG9010 series will be Moxa’s future-proof secure routing platform, with additional capabilities being added over time.” The EDR-G9010 Series industrial secure routers offer: Advanced Network Protection with Network Segmentation and Advanced DPI - Within one field site, the EDR-G9010 Series industrial secure routers can help build a security boundary, by segmenting OT and IT networks, and feature advanced DPI technology, to give users more granular control over network traffic, by filtering industrial protocols, based on the requirements of the application. Moxa will continuously extend the DPI protocol coverage. Starting with Modbus TCP/UDP and DNP3, Moxa will add specifically, power market-related protocols in 2022. When remote connections across multiple sites are needed, the EDR-G9010 Series’ embedded IPsec VPN ensures safe industrial network communication channels, when accessing the private network from the public Internet. Future-proof platform for OT Intrusion Prevention - The superb computing power of the EDR-G9010 platform enables it to run an Intrusion Prevention Module, which will safely block ransomware, malware, viruses and other cyber security threats in OT networks. This signature-based scanning technology will move traffic filtering and asset visibility in OT networks to an unprecedented level. This module is licenced on demand and will be available by mid of 2022. Better Performance with High Bandwidth and Faster Boot Times - With the number of connected devices constantly growing, the EDR-G9010 Series is capable of achieving high throughput, while providing robust security, perfect for bandwidth-hungry applications. Meanwhile, the faster boot time helps reduce system downtime, during regular maintenance or in the event of an emergency recovery situation. More Versatility - The EDR-G9010 Series caters to the needs of different networks, whether it is the need for a firewall, network address translation (NAT), remote VPN communications, switching, or routing. These secure routers are also certified for IEC 61850-3/IEEE 1613, NEMA TS2, ATEX Zone 2, and Class I Division 2. The accessible and versatile all-in-one design makes these devices ideal for securing industrial applications, such as in power substations, intelligent transportation systems, oil and gas, and smart manufacturing. IEC-62443 hardened - Secure routers play a pyramidal role in security architecture and need to be security hardened. Hence, EDRG9010 hardware and software has been developed with Moxa’s IEC-62443-4-1 certified process, and is ready to meet the IEC-62443-4-2 requirements, up to Security Level 2. EDR-G9010 Series 10-port Gigabit Industrial Secure Router highlights include: All-in-one firewall/NAT/VPN/switch/router, 8-port TX GbE and 2-port SFP GbE, Comprehensive redundancy mechanisms, including Turbo Ring and VRRP, Wide -40 to 75°C operating temperature (-T model), Advanced Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) for Modbus TCP/UDP and DNP3 traffic, and 104 and MMS (available in Q1, 2022), and Certified for IEC 61850-3, NEMA TS2, ATEX Zone 2, Class I Division 2, EN 50121-4, DNV, IEC-62443-4-2 SL 2 (available in Q4 2022). Compatible with MXview network management software EDR-G9010 Series is also compatible with Moxa’s MXview network management software To enhance network security visibility, the EDR-G9010 Series is also compatible with Moxa’s MXview network management software. With the MXview, software users can, for example, visualise the achieved security level of IEC-62443-ready Moxa devices, perform regular configurations backups, and have an at-a-glance overview of the network’s performance. With the launch of the EDR-G9010 Series industrial secure routers, Moxa has expanded its secure network infrastructure portfolio, in order to cover a broader range of industrial applications and introduced more granular control over industrial networks, so as to fulfill its ongoing commitment to protect the connectivity of industrial environments. Connectivity for the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) Moxa is a globally renowned provider of edge connectivity, industrial computing and network infrastructure solutions, for enabling connectivity for the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). The company delivers lasting business value, by empowering the industry, with reliable networks and sincere service, for industrial communications infrastructures.

From September 28 and 29, 2021, the International Security Expo 2021, the world’s premier government, industry, academia and end-user security event, returned for the first time in nearly two years. International Security Expo 2021 Co-located with the newly-launched International Cyber Expo 2021, the events welcomed thousands of security professionals, from all corners of the industry, including senior representatives from Heathrow Airport, British Army, Bank of England, Tesco Stores Ltd, BAE Systems, Chester Zoo, CPNI, Dell, Neptune Energy, Post Office, NaCTSO, DASA  and the Embassy of Argentina. Furthermore, recently appointed Minister for Security and Borders, Rt. Hon Damian Hinds MP, was also in attendance and carried out a keynote speech, clearly demonstrating the importance of the event to the security sector. Global audience in attendance Reconnecting the market from far and wide, the international audience was made up of attendees from 36 countries Reconnecting the market from far and wide, the international audience was made up of attendees from 36 countries, including Israel, Italy, Sweden, Switzerland, Spain, Canada, Hong Kong, Singapore, Belgium and Australia. This included senior delegates from NATO - HQ AIRCOM, Germany, Government of Gibraltar, US Army RCCTO, New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police and the Embassy of the State of Kuwait. Reconnect and source new products The overwhelming feedback from visitors and exhibitors alike, proved a strong desire for the opportunity to reconnect, source new products and take advantage of in-person learning opportunities. Speaking about the appeal of the events, Harry Forsyth, Risk and Intelligence Analyst, Kings Secure Technologies, said “Both International Security Expo and International Cyber Expo are excellent events to reconnect with people in the industry, watch some great talks and broaden my horizons. The quality of the products exhibited was noticeable.” Covering a range of physical and cyber security solutions Fellow visitor, Rob Cochrane CSMP MBA, Security & Risk Consultant and Security Manager at Ferrero, also attended the show, to get a better understanding of what is currently on offer, across the market. Rob Cochrane said, “The show is great and has delivered everything I need. It's very broad, in terms of its sell, as there is plenty of material from physical measures to cyber solutions.” Rachael Shattock, the Group Event Director at Nineteen Group, said “The overwhelmingly positive feedback from visitors and exhibitors alike is testament to the reputation of the show, and the value it gives to all those who attend. We were delighted to see so many visitors and exhibitors, excited to be back at the show, reuniting with their peers.” Rachael adds, “The energy in the hall spoke for itself and the breadth of product launches further demonstrates how the industry has continued to focus on research and development, constantly innovating to improve our safety and security. We are already looking forward to a bigger and better event in 2022 and welcoming back many of our international exhibitions, and visitors, who were unable to attend, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.” Government supported international security event The specialist Government Zone was a key part of the exhibition The specialist Government Zone was a key part of the exhibition and demonstrated significant support from the UK Government and associated agencies. It provided a central meeting point for visitors, to network and discover the latest projects and plans for the future from exhibitors, including Accelerated Capability Environment (ACE), Border Force, British Transport Police, The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), Counter Terrorism Policing, Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA), The Joint Security and Resilience Centre (JSaRC), The National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO), The National Security Technology and Innovation Exchange (NSTIX), Police Crime Prevention Initiatives (PCPI), Research and Intelligence Support Centre (RISC), Security Industry Authority UK and UK Defence & Security Exports (UKDSE).  Demonstrating the increasingly sophisticated smuggling techniques used for international drug trafficking, Border Force carried out a live demonstration of a seized Ford Kuga that uses a sophisticated magnet system to open a concealment area, within the rear of the vehicle. Firearms, security devices and door entry apparatus on exhibit Elsewhere, British Transport Police provided attendees with the opportunity to witness an experienced dog handler and a trained Explosive Search Dog demonstrate the capability and effectiveness of responding to these threats. Officers on the stand also highlighted a selection of equipment including firearms, less lethal devices, door entry apparatus and medical supplies, used to actively deter, detect and disrupt terrorist and criminal activity, across the railway network in London and other major cities. High-profile government officials offer insightful sessions In addition to exhibiting, several high-profile government officials took to the stage, to present insightful sessions, across the two days of the exhibition, including Mark Goldsack, Director DIT, UKDSE, Angela Essel, Head of JSaRC - Joint Security and Resilience Centre (JSaRC), Tracy Buckingham, Deputy Director Security and Cyber Security Exports - DIT UKDSE, Kevin Knappett, Cell Broadcast Delivery Lead Digital Infrastructure Directorate UK Government, DCMS UK GOV, and Shaun Hipgrave, Director Prepare, Protect, CBRNE & Science Directorate - Homeland Security Group, Home Office. Helping attendees understand the role of the government in advising and providing strategic support, Mark Goldsack, Director, UK Defence and Security Exports, spoke about the market intelligence available, for those businesses looking to do business abroad. He shared insights on the role of the UKDSE, in order to promote and encourage trade, provide information and analysis on the business landscape, in regions around the world, as well as to provide access to a network of trade advisors to UK businesses. Diverse make-up of the security industry critical to success Following Mark Goldsack’s session, Shaun Hipgrave, Director, Protect & Prepare, CBRNE and Science Directorate, HSG, Home Office, took to the stage. He highlighted the key priorities and areas of responsibility for Homeland Security in the United Kingdom, ranging from Borders and Aviation Security, CBRNE S&T, Protect & Prepare, as well as JSaRC, and stressed how the diverse make-up of the security industry was critical to its success. On day two of the event, there was a real buzz on the show floor, as it was announced that Rt. Hon Damian Hinds MP, recently appointed UK Minister for Security and Borders, would open the second day, with an exclusive keynote speech. Innovation, the key in ever-changing security threats Events, such as the International Security Expo and International Cyber Expo, bring the security community together During his address, Damian Hinds highlighted how events, such as the International Security Expo and International Cyber Expo, bring the security community together, to inspire and be inspired. He commented, “In the security field, you have to keep on innovating, because the threat, what we’re up against, keeps on shape-shifting and changing.” He reflected on the industry’s resilience, during the COVID-19 pandemic, its remarkable ability to innovate and the importance of a close working relationship, so as to achieve a safer and more secure society. Speaking post his keynote session, Damian Hinds added, “I think it’s really important for people to come together, to be able to learn from each other, to see what is happening and make connections and to work out how we can all work together to improve our safety and security.” Global Counter Terror and Serious & Organised Crime Summit The event’s free-to-attend and CPD certified educational programme saw over 90 inspiring sessions and 120 speakers deliver insightful sessions, across five theatres. The Global Counter Terror and Serious & Organised Crime Summit was packed out throughout the two-day event, with eager listeners regularly spilling out the door. One of the most popular sessions was delivered by Nick Bailey, retired Detective Sergeant involved in the Salisbury Novichok poisoning. Nick took attendees on an emotional journey, by talking through the events of March 4, 2018 and the impact it has had on his mental health, describing himself as ‘a different person, broken physically and mentally’. Session on coming to terms with trauma Discussing the uniqueness of it being a state-sponsored attack, he spoke to attendees about coming to terms with trauma, resilience and the damaging effect of losing control of many aspects of everyday life, which he has had to face. In another session, Philip Ingram MBE, Former Senior Intelligence & Security Officer and Editor in Chief, Figen Murray, Protect Duty Campaigner, and Aaron Edwards, Senior Lecturer at Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, sat on a panel to discuss the blurred lines between terrorism and organised crime. Session on terrorism and organised crime Moderating the session, Roy McComb, Director of Inquisitio Consulting Ltd and Former Deputy Director of the National Crime Agency immediately opened the session for attendees, to address questions to the panel, which ranged from - Are we spending too much money on terror and organised crime at the expense of other issues?, Should we negotiate with terrorists?, and How do we cut off the financial stream to terror and organised crime? Sponsored by Adani and Patriot One Technologies Inc., at the International Security Conference, speakers from British Transport Police, City of London, Imperial War Museums, HVM Advisors and more, provided attendees with insights, across CNI, transport and aviation, with day two turning to the night-time economy, public sector and major events. ‘The State of Aviation Security’ session In a session titled, ‘The State of Aviation Security’, Philip Baum reflected on the role of mental health In a session titled, ‘The State of Aviation Security’, Philip Baum of Green Light Limited and Coventry University reflected on the role of mental health, as ‘a major challenge to the industry’. Philip Baum spoke about the importance of behavioural analysis, describing this as, “The first and foremost measure we ought to be implementing to mitigate future threats, before reflecting on the new challenges brought about by the pandemic and introduction of social distancing in airport security screening.” Disaster & Resilience Conference Across the hall, in the Disaster & Resilience Conference, sponsored by Everbridge, senior leaders from Unilever, Joint Security and Resilience Centre (JSaRC), Ministry of Defence, Public Health England, and London Fire Brigade took to the stage to offer the audience actionable insights on responding to a crisis. In one session, Tony Thompson, Fellow, Institute of Civil Protection and Emergency Management helped attendees address how they should monitor and respond to events in real-time, use integrated technology solutions to drive greater efficiencies and cost savings, and finally deliver a unified security platform. Global Cyber Summit The inaugural Global Cyber Summit also welcomed major names in the field of cyber security. Tracy Buckingham, Deputy Director of Security & Cyber Exports at UKTI DSE spoke about the UK’s role in cyber and security capabilities, on the global stage and how collaboration between government, industry and academia, a trio she described as ‘the cornerstone of the UK’s approach to cyber security’, is vital to the strength of the UK’s cyber security industry. Elsewhere, Professor Ciaran Martin CB, Oxford University, and Former Chief Executive Officer (CEO), National Cyber Security Centre, delivered a session on the current cyber threats and priorities. Underpinning Martin’s speech was the belief that people have unconsciously polluted the cyber environment, resulting in the need for a rethink, to make it a safer place to inhabit. During his session, he explored five key areas that required change, namely, people, money, rules, technology, and skills. Platform for product innovation and latest launches With globally renowned exhibitors coming together under one roof, visitors perused the stands of the likes of Adani, Marshalls, Audax Global Solutions, Bastion Security Products, Leidos, Patriot One, Rapiscan Systems, HS Security Group, PointWire, Pitagone, Smiths Detection Group, Tripwire, Heras, Leonardo, Apstec systems, Jacobs, Astrophysics, Intqual and Mitie to source a wide range of security products and solutions. The show floor was recognised as a hotbed for innovation, with many exhibitors taking the opportunity to launch new products. Apstec Systems showcased version 4 of its Human Security Radar that combines a sleek design, smaller footprint For example, Apstec Systems showcased version 4 of its Human Security Radar (HSR V4) that combines a sleek design, smaller footprint and improved mobility with enhanced AI, additional detection capabilities and flexible integration. Meanwhile, Everbridge showcased its Global Critical Event Management (CEM) certification programme, with formalised standards for assessing an organisation’s enterprise resilience. As well as showcasing its range of protective street furniture options, Marshalls Landscape Protection (Marshalls) used the event to launch its new seating range, Verso. The full range has been tested to IWA14-1 using a 1.5 tonne M1 vehicle and a 7.2 tonne N2A vehicle travelling at 30mph. It can be used to create a variety of configurations that blends seamlessly into all environments. Lochrin Combi SL2 fencing system on exhibit Meanwhile, Lochrin Bain introduced its industry disrupting B3 (SR2) rated fencing system, Lochrin Combi SL2. The fence offers the same attack delay times as other systems of the same level, but no specialist tooling or training for installers, and security professionals. Elsewhere, Bastion Security Products announced the launch of its new single and double steel doorsets, which feature BastionCORE attack resistant materials, to mitigate cut through and cylinder guard removal attacks. Rebecca Hughes, Country Marketing Manager (UK) at Heras, said “Heras was delighted to be a Premier Partner Exhibitor at the ISE and support an event, where the UK security industry could come together, showcase the latest innovations in physical and cyber security, and discuss key issues, where effective security can be beneficial for UK plc.” Rebecca Hughes adds, “We are delighted that our new innovations were so well received at the show and generated strong interest. We expect this to translate into a strong order book.” Solutions to meet new cyber security risks The inaugural International Cyber Expo also played host to new launches, for example, a solution from Senetas Corporation that allows employees to download files from the web without risk or hidden threat. Votiro Secure File Gateway leverages patented Positive Selection technology for anti-malware and anti-ransomware protection, while preserving 100% file functionality and user workflow. Chris Pinder, Chief Operating Officer, IASME Consortium, said “This has been a great show for IASME. We’ve had both the quantity and quality of visitors we’d hoped for, with a great range of people representing our client base. We are looking forward to following up on some promising leads and interesting contacts.” Catherine Craig, Channel Manager at 3M added, “We’ve had consistently good engagement and conversations on the stand. It’s been so helpful to be able to tap into a wide range of different markets and people all in one place. It’s been a great show and we’ve already signed up to return in 2022.” Products under the spotlight Attendees also snapped up the opportunity to take a deep dive into the latest new launches Attendees also snapped up the opportunity to take a deep dive into the latest new launches in the Product Innovation Theatre. Here, exhibitors, including Exeon Analytics, Census Labs, Robin Radar, 3M Privacy Solutions, Heras, Safetyflex Barriers and Smiths Detection, took to the stage to deliver a range of insightful sessions. For example, Christoforos Papachristou, Strategic Account Manager for Census Labs provided attendees with insights on how the Internet of Security Things, a network of sensors, wearables, and IoT devices that use cloud and edge computing, create a cohesive security force. On day two, Jeremy Tettmar, Sales Manager, Safetyflex Barriers revealed the next generation of crash rated street furniture from ultra-slim profile, shallow mount anti-terrorist bollards to cost-effective, large perimeter Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM) equipment. Live and interactive demonstrations Visitors were also able to witness these products and more in action across a number of live, interactive demonstrations and within specialist zones. The LPCB Live Testing Lab gave visitors the opportunity to witness a team of professional forced-entry specialists, attempt to break through physical security products, including mesh fencing systems from the likes of ARX and Fastline, key safes from Burton Safes, glazing units from Selectaglaze, hinged gates from Lochrin Bain, turnstiles from Frontier Pitts and Eagle Automation, and more. At the International Cyber Expo, the realities of a cyber-attack also came alive with a number of interactive features. CrisisCast in collaboration with Cyberprism carried out a theatrical live cyber-attack on a high-tech revolving stage. Cyberprism’s role in a live cyber-attack situation We’ve had some great conversations and will be leaving the show with some really strong leads" Brian Mitchell, Lead Producer, CrisisCast, said “It’s been great to see both visitors and fellow exhibitors embrace the essential role that storytelling has, in engaging with audiences and demonstrating the role that Cyberprism plays ,during a live cyber-attack. Presenting an immersive demonstration, which brings to life the real-time battle between defender and attacker, has been a great way to impress clients with how the software works. We’ve had some great conversations and will be leaving the show with some really strong leads.” Visitors were able to engage in the dialogue from both sides of the attack and understand the psychology and motivating factors from two perspectives at one - the attackers and the entity’s boardroom. Elsewhere, Cyber Griffin offered attendees a NCSC certified, immersive training experience through its award-winning tabletop exercise designed to explore the decisions that people make to protect their businesses from modern-day threats. The perfect place to network The event’s international hosted buyer meeting programme enabled senior buyers, from around the globe, to come together and do business, regardless of travel restrictions. In conjunction with the Department of International Trade’s UK Defence & Security Exports, the free-of-charge personalised match-making service gave qualified buyers, an exclusive space away from the show floor, to speak to hand-picked solution providers. The sessions ran both virtually and physically to meeting all needs. Rachael Shattock, Group Event Director at Nineteen Group, added “I can’t describe how fantastic it feels to reunite the whole security industry face-to-face, after over 18 months without a physical event, and provide a platform to network, learn and discover the latest security solutions from the world’s leading suppliers. This year is also particularly special as we successfully launched the first International Cyber Expo with its own dedicated Global Cyber Summit conference programme, interactive activities, and a raft of top suppliers.” International Security Expo and International Cyber Expo will return to Olympia London, in London, United Kingdom, from September 27 - 28, 2022.

Schools were never designed and built with social distancing in mind. So it’s perhaps not surprising that as children returned to schools for the autumn term this year, the prospect of outdoor classes and assemblies was mooted in the media and by the Government. Many in the education sector are making the case that, should there be further COVID-19 outbreaks, in the coming months, it would be better to utilise outside space, rather than resort to closing schools. In the COVID-19 era, head teachers are considering taking learning and large gatherings, such as assemblies outdoors, when possible. Managing ‘class bubbles’, hygiene and ventilation While Dr. Yvonne Doyle, the Medical Director of Public Health England (PHE) has publicly reassured parents that schools are not the ‘drivers’ or ‘hubs’ of COVID-19-19 infection in communities, there is a lot of pressure on school leaders to manage ‘class bubbles’, extra cleaning and hygiene, ventilation, and COVID-19 testing, to protect families and staff. It’s a logical step to switch, in certain circumstances, to outdoor activities where fresh air is on tap, and social distancing is far easier to manage. Specially built outdoor classrooms Across the school and nursery sector, there’s ongoing investment in specially built outdoor classrooms Across the school and nursery sector, there’s ongoing investment in specially built outdoor classrooms, which had been growing in popularity, even before the pandemic. These facilities offer numerous benefits as an extension of existing learning spaces and provide children the opportunity for hands-on learning, beyond a stuffy classroom. However, if outdoor spaces are routinely called upon as part of COVID-19 contingency planning, how can schools ensure that their outdoor classrooms and wider areas are secure, robust, and fit for purpose? When specifying outdoor classrooms and learning spaces, it’s essential to take into account the well-being of the students and staff, who will use them, noise pollution and acoustics. Most importantly, education managers need to ensure the surrounding area is secured and adequately protected from threats, including terrorism. Perimeter security measures for schools How can schools and nurseries secure their perimeters, so that outdoor learning is totally safe for all? A starting point is to seek out architects and suppliers, who have a good understanding of security standards. Worryingly, Jacksons Fencing’s research recently found that only one-third of architects are seeing both LPS 1175 and the UK police initiative, Secured by Design (SBD) physical security standards, specified for schools. This highlights a lost opportunity for architects to propose solutions that are appropriate to the level of risk and needs of the school, without turning the site into an unwelcoming fortress. Helping schools identify specific security needs Head teachers would be wise to work with architects, who not only know the latest security standards inside and out, but are also are willing to play a more advisory role, helping the school identify exactly what is needed. Head teachers should prioritise solutions appropriate to their site’s specific risks It’s also vital that architects don’t simply replace existing fencing and gates, with the same security systems that have been in place for years. Instead, they will need to meet changing needs and risks. Our research finds that teachers often report issues, with the school perimeter and gates, from being climbed over (28%) and causing injury, to gates not locking properly (10%). Head teachers should prioritise solutions appropriate to their site’s specific risks, which sometimes require altering of existing measures. School fencing is an important aspect of any education site. As well as defining its boundary and making a visual distinction between public and private property, the fencing and gates that surround and secure a school, will typically meet a wide variety of other important criteria, including preventing unauthorised entry to the grounds, protecting pupils, staff, and visitors from accidents and injury, deterring theft and anti-social behaviour, and reducing the risk of malicious damage, and acts of terrorism. Welded mesh panels for perimeter fencing Popular options for schools include welded mesh panels for perimeter fencing or sports areas, and railing systems to act as demarcation, in order to control foot and car traffic. Within the outlying boundary, barriers, bollards and parking posts will keep pedestrians, and vehicles safe from each other, while timber fencing and gates can be designed to control the flow of people, around the grounds and reduce the areas, where students can be hidden from view. Automated gates and access control Perimeter fencing must be complemented with safe entrances and exits for vehicles and pedestrians. Every school has unique entry-control requirements, determined by factors, such as size, location and the local environment. These needs influence the decisions you make, when preparing technical specifications for school security gates. Do you require gates to be steel or timber, manual or automated, single or double leaf? Specialist suppliers will be in the best position to offer inputs on school gates, which typically need to offer solid security and durability, with a welcoming aesthetic. Specifying access control system When specifying a school access system, it’s important to consider the areas of the school When specifying a school access system, it’s important to consider the areas of the school, such as sports fields, car parks, and children’s play and learning areas, and whether it requires playground segregation. Selected gates should meet the design of the fencing, to create a secure perimeter with no weak points, with automated gates conforming to all current safety regulations. . Noise pollution can be a problem as well, including noise coming in or leaving the school in residential areas. If more teaching is to be carried out outside, it’s worth considering acoustic barriers to reduce noise in and around the school. Timber acoustic barriers for security and privacy Timber acoustic barriers offer security and privacy, and can reduce noise levels, by as much as 32 decibels (in laboratory conditions), so are ideal for city centre schools or those located close to busy highways. There are many ways to build an outdoor classroom. Timber products can help to create a welcoming environment, such as wooden shelters, pergolas, fencing, and decking. Always check that high quality timber, ideally guaranteed for 25 years against rot and insect attack, is being used to provide an attractive, cost-effective, safe and sustainable solution, for all weather conditions. DBS approved installers And of course, installers must be DBS approved, so that they can install outdoor classrooms, during school holidays, or within term time, with minimal disruption. The COVID-19 pandemic had a huge impact on schools and learning. While nobody wants to think of fresh outbreaks of the infection, or any other virus, installing an outdoor classroom made from high-quality, long-lasting materials is a great way to future-proof school learning and ensure safety, and preparedness. Putting extra thought and care into the security angle will provide schools with decades of protection against a host of unforeseen events.

Today’s organisations face numerous diverse threats to their people, places and property, sometimes simultaneously. Security leaders now know all too well how a pandemic can cripple a company’s ability to produce goods and services, or force production facilities to shut down, disrupting business continuity. For example, a category three hurricane barreling towards the Gulf of Mexico could disable the supplier’s facilities, disrupt the supply chain and put unexpected pressure on an unprepared local power grid. Delivering timely critical information Tracking such risk is hard enough, but managing it is even more difficult. A swift response depends on delivering the right information to the right people, at the right time. And, it’s not as easy as it sounds. Indeed, 61 percent of large enterprises say critical information came too late for them, in order to mitigate the impact of a crisis, according to Aberdeen Research (Aberdeen Strategy & Research). These challenges are accelerating the hype around Artificial Intelligence (AI) These challenges are accelerating the hype around Artificial Intelligence (AI). The technology promises to help us discover new insights, predict the future and take over tasks that are now handled by humans. Maybe even cure cancer. Accelerating the hype around AI But is AI really living up to all this hype? Can it really help security professionals mitigate risk? After all, there’s a serious need for technology to provide fast answers to even faster-moving issues, given the proliferation of data and the speed at which chaos can impact operations. Risk managers face three major obstacles to ensuring business continuity and minimising disruptions. These include: Data fatigue - Simply put, there’s too much data for human analysts to process in a timely manner. By 2025, the infosphere is expected to produce millions of words per day. At that pace, you’d need an army of analysts to monitor, summarise and correlate the information to your impacted locations, before you can communicate instructions. It’s a herculean task, made even more difficult, when we consider that 30 percent of this global datasphere is expected to be consumed in real time, according to IDC. Relevance and impact - Monitoring the flood of information is simply the first hurdle. Understanding its impact is the second. When a heat dome is predicted to cover the entire U.S. Pacific Northwest, risk managers must understand the specifics. Will it be more or less hot near their facilities? Do they know what steps local utilities are taking to protect the power grid? Such questions can’t be answered by a single system. Communication - Once you know which facilities are impacted and what actions to take, you need to let your employees know. If the event is urgent, an active shooter or an earthquake, do you have a fast, effective way to reach these employees? It’s not as simple as broadcasting a company-wide alert. The real question is, do you have the ability to pinpoint the location of your employees and not just those working on various floor in the office, but also those who are working from home? How AI and ML cut through the noise Although Artificial Intelligence can help us automate simple tasks, such as alert us to breaking news, it requires several Machine Learning systems to deliver actionable risk intelligence. Machine Learning is a branch of AI that uses algorithms to find hidden insights in data, without being programmed where to look or what to conclude. More than 90 percent of risk intelligence problems use supervised learning, a Machine Learning approach defined by its use of labelled datasets. The benefit of supervised learning is that it layers several pre-vetted datasets, in order to deliver context-driven AI The benefit of supervised learning is that it layers several pre-vetted datasets, in order to deliver context-driven AI. Reading the sources, it can determine the category, time and location, and cluster this information into a single event. As a result, it can correlate verified events to the location of the people and assets, and notify in real time. It’s faster, more customised and more accurate than simple Artificial Intelligence, based on a single source of data. Real-world actionable risk intelligence How does this work in the real world? One telecommunications company uses AI and ML to protect a mobile workforce, dispersed across several regions. An AI-powered risk intelligence solution provides their decision makers with real-time visibility into the security of facilities, logistics and personnel movements. Machine Learning filters out the noise of irrelevant critical event data, allowing their security teams to focus only on information specific to a defined area of interest. As a result, they’re able to make informed, proactive decisions and rapidly alert employees who are on the move. Four must-have AI capabilities To gain real actionable risk intelligence, an AI solution should support four key capabilities: A focus on sourcing quality over quantity. There are tens of thousands of sources that provide information about emerging threats - news coverage, weather services, social media, FBI intelligence and so much more. Select feeds that are trusted, relevant and pertinent to your operations. Swift delivery of relevant intelligence. To reduce the mean-time-to-recovery (MTTR), risk managers need an accurate understanding of what’s happening. Consider the different contextual meanings of the phrases ‘a flood of people in the park’ and ‘the park is at risk due to a flood’. Machine Learning continuously increases the speed of data analysis and improves interpretation. Ability to cross-reference external events with internal data. As it scans different data sources, an AI engine can help you fine-tune your understanding of what’s happening and where. It will pick up contextual clues and map them to your facilities automatically, so you know immediately what your response should be. Ready-to-go communications. Long before a threat emerges, you can create and store distribution, and message templates, as well as test your critical communications system. Handling these tasks well in advance means you can launch an alert at a moment’s notice. The ability to minimise disruptions and ensure business continuity depends on speed, relevance and usability. AI and ML aren’t simply hype. Instead, they’re vital tools that make it possible for security professionals to cut through the noise faster and protect their people, places and property.

Intrusion alarm systems are currently facing a growing number of potential error sources in the environment. At the same time, alarm systems must comply with increasingly demanding legal requirements for sensors and motion detectors. As a future-proof solution, detectors equipped with Sensor Data Fusion technology raise the level of security while reducing the risk of cost- and time-intensive false alarms. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Sensor Data Fusion technology. Anti-masking alarms A cultural heritage museum in the South of Germany for decades, the installed intrusion alarm system has provided reliable protection on the premises. But suddenly, the detectors trigger false alarms every night after the museum closes. The system integrators are puzzled and conduct extensive tests of the entire system. When they finally identify the culprit, it’s unexpected: As it turns out, the recently installed LED lighting system in the museum’s exhibition spaces radiates at a wavelength that triggers anti-masking alarms in the detectors. Not an easy fix situation, since a new lighting system would prove far too costly. Ultimately, the integrators need to perform extensive detector firmware updates and switch to different sensor architecture to eliminate the error source.  This scenario is by no means an isolated incident, but part of a growing trend. Need for reliable detector technology Legal requirements for anti-masking technology are becoming stringent in response to tactics by criminals The number of potential triggers for erroneous alarms in the environment is on the rise. From the perspective of system operators and integrators, it’s a concerning development because every false alarm lowers the credibility of an intrusion alarm system. Not to mention steep costs: Every false call to the authorities comes with a price +$200 tag.   Aside from error sources in the environment, legal requirements for anti-masking technology are becoming more stringent in response to ever more resourceful tactics employed by criminals to sidestep detectors. What’s more, today’s detectors need to be fortified against service outages and provide reliable, around-the-clock operability to catch intruders in a timely and reliable fashion. Sensor Data Fusion Technology In light of these demands, one particular approach has emerged as a future-proof solution over the past few years: Sensor Data Fusion technology, the combination of several types of sensors within one detector – designed to cross-check and verify alarm sources via intelligent algorithms – holds the keys to minimising false alarms and responding appropriately to actual alarm events. This generation of detectors combines passive infrared (PIR) and microwave Doppler radar capabilities with artificial intelligence (AI) to eliminate false alarm sources without sacrificing catch performance. Motion detectors equipped with Sensor Data Fusion technology present a fail-proof solution for building security “It’s not about packing as many sensors as possible into a detector. But it’s about including the most relevant sensors with checks and balances through an intelligent algorithm that verifies the data for a highly reliable level of security. The result is the highest-possible catch performance at the minimum risk for erroneous alarms,” said Michael Reimer, Senior Product Manager at Bosch Security Systems. Motion detectors with sensor data fusion Looking ahead into the future, motion detectors equipped with Sensor Data Fusion technology not only present a fail-proof solution for building security. The comprehensive data collected by these sensors also unlock value beyond security: Constant real-time information on temperature and humidity can be used by intelligent systems and devices in building automation. Integrated into building management systems, the sensors provide efficiency improvements and lowering energy costs Integrated into building management systems, the sensors provide the foundation for efficiency improvements and lowering energy costs in HVAC systems. Companies such as Bosch support these network synergies by constantly developing and optimising intelligent sensors. On that note, installers must be familiar with the latest generation of sensor technology to upgrade their systems accordingly, starting with a comprehensive overview of error sources in the environment. Prominent false alarm triggers in intrusion alarm systems The following factors emerge as frequent triggers of false alarms in conventional detectors: Strong temperature fluctuations can be interpreted by sensors as indicators of a person inside the building. Triggers range from floor heating sources to strong sunlight. In this context, room temperatures above 86°F (30°C) have proven particularly problematic. Dust contamination of optical detectors lowers the detection performance while raising susceptibility to false alarms. Draft air from air conditioning systems or open windows can trigger motion sensors, especially when curtains, plants, or signage attached to the ceilings (e.g. in grocery stores) are put in motion. Strong light exposure directly on the sensor surface, e.g. caused by headlights from passing vehicles, floodlights, reflected or direct sunlight – all of which sensors may interpret as a flashlight from an intruder. Extensive bandwidth frequencies in Wi-Fi routers can potentially confuse sensors. Only a few years ago, wireless routers operated on a bandwidth of around 2.7GHz while today’s devices often exceed 5GHz, thereby catching older detectors off guard. LED lights radiating at frequencies beyond the spectrum of visible light may trigger sensors with their infrared signals. Regarding the last two points, it’s important to note that legislation provides clear guidelines for the maximum frequency spectrum maintained by Wi-Fi routers and LED lighting. Long-term security But the influx of cheap and illegal products in both product groups – products that do not meet the guidelines – continues to pose problems when installed near conventional detectors. For this reason, Sensor Data Fusion technology provides a reliable solution by verifying alarms with data from several types of sensors within a single detector. Beyond providing immunity from false alarm triggers, the new generation of sensors also needs to comply with the current legislature. These guidelines include the latest EN50131-grade 3, and German VdS class C standards with clear requirements regarding anti-masking technology for detecting sabotage attempts. This is exactly where Sensor Data Fusion technology provides long-term security. Evolution of intrusion detector technology Initially, motion detectors designed for intrusion alarm systems were merely equipped with a single type of sensor; namely passive infrared technology (PIR). Upon their introduction, these sensors raised the overall level of building security tremendously in automated security systems. But over time, these sensors proved limited in their catch performance. As a result, manufacturers began implementing microwave Doppler radar capabilities to cover additional sources of intrusion alarms. First step detection technology In Bosch sensors, engineers added First Step detection to trigger instant alarms upon persons entering a room Over the next few years, sensors were also equipped with sensors detecting visible light to catch flashlights used by burglars, as well as temperature sensors. In Bosch sensors, engineers added proprietary technologies such as First Step detection to trigger instant alarms upon persons entering a room. But experience in the field soon proved, especially due to error sources such as rats and other animals, that comprehensive intrusion detection demands a synergetic approach: A combination of sensors aligned to cross-check one another for a proactive response to incoming signals. At the same time, the aforementioned bandwidth expansion in Wi-Fi routers and LED lighting systems required detectors to implement the latest circuit technology to avoid serving as ‘antennas’ for undesired signals. Sensor data fusion approach At its very core, Sensor Data Fusion technology relies on the centralised collection of all data captured by the variety of different sensors included in a single detector. These data streams are directed to a microprocessor capable of analysing the signals in real-time via a complex algorithm. This algorithm is the key to Sensor Data Fusion. It enables the detector to balance active sensors and adjust sensitivities as needed, to make truly intelligent decisions regarding whether or not the data indicates a valid alarm condition – and if so, trigger an alarm. Advanced verification mechanisms The current generation of Sensor Data Fusion detectors, for instance from Bosch, feature advanced verification mechanisms, including Microwave Noise Adaptive Processing to easily differentiate humans from false alarm sources (e.g. ceiling fans or hanging signs). For increased reliability, signals from PIR and microwave Doppler radar are compared to determine whether an actual alarm event is taking place. Additionally, the optical chamber is sealed to prevent drafts and insects from affecting the detector, while the detector is programmed for pet and small animal immunity. Sensor cross-verification Further types of sensors embedded in current and future generations of Sensor Data Fusion detectors include MEM-sensors as well as vibration sensors and accelerometers. Ultimately, it’s important to keep in mind that the cross-verification between sensors serves to increase false alarm immunity without sacrificing the catch performance of actual intruders. It merely serves to cover various indicators of intrusion. Protecting UNESCO World Cultural Heritage in China Intelligent detectors equipped with Sensor Data Fusion are protecting historic cultural artifacts in China from theft and damage. At the UNESCO-protected Terracotta Warriors Museum site, one hundred TriTech motion detectors from Bosch with PIR and microwave Doppler radar technology safeguard the invaluable treasures against intruders. To provide comprehensive protection amid the specific demands of the museum site, the detectors have been installed on walls and ceilings to safeguard the 16,300-square-meter museum site. To ensure an optimal visitor experience without interference from glass walls and other barriers, many detectors are mounted at a height of 4.5 meters (15 feet) above ground under the ceiling. Despite their height, the detectors provide accurate data around the clock while exceeding the performance limits of conventional motion detectors, which clock out at a mere 2 meters (6 feet) catchment area. Integrated video systems The site also presents additional error sources such as large amounts of dust that can contaminate the sensors, as well as visitors accidentally dropping their cameras or mobile phones next to museum exhibits. To distinguish these events from actual criminal activity, the intrusion alarm system is integrated with the museum’s video security system. This allows for verifying alarm triggers with real-time video footage at a fast pace: In the case of an actual alarm event, the system alerts the on-site security personnel in the control room in less than two seconds. Added value beyond security Sensor Data Fusion technology provides a viable solution for the rising number of error sources in the environment As of today, Sensor Data Fusion technology already provides a viable solution for the rising number of error sources in the environment while providing legally compliant building security against intruders. In light of future developments, operators can leverage significant added value from upgrading existing systems – possibly without fundamentally replacing current system architecture – to the new detector standard. Added value how? On one hand, the detectors can integrate with access control, video security, voice alarm, and analytics for a heightened level of security. These synergetic effects are especially pronounced on end-to-end platforms like the Bosch Building Management system. On the other hand, the data streams from intelligent detectors also supply actionable intelligence to building automation systems, for instance as the basis for efficiency improvements and lowering energy consumption in HVAC systems. New backward-compatible detectors Bosch will release a new series of commercial detectors by end of 2021, based on the latest research on risk factors for false alarm sources in the environment and line with current legislation and safety standards. Throughout these developments, installers can rest assured that all new detectors are fully backward compatible and work with existing networking/architecture. With that said, Sensor Data Fusion technology emerges as the key to more secure intrusion alarm systems today and in the future. TriTech detectors from Bosch For reliable, fail-proof alarms the current series of TriTech detectors from Bosch relies on a combination of different sensor data streams, evaluated by an integrated algorithm. These Sensor Data Fusion detectors from Bosch combine up to five different sensors in a single unit, including: Long-range passive infrared (PIR) sensor Short-range PIR sensor Microwave sensor White light sensor Temperature sensor Equipped with these sensors, TriTech detectors are capable of detecting the most frequent sources of false alarms; from headlights on passing cars to a mouse passing across the room at a 4.5-meter distance to the detector. What’s more, TriTech detectors provide reliable performance at room temperatures above 86°F (30°C) while fully guarding against actual intrusion and sabotage attempts from criminals.

A new generation of video cameras is poised to boost capabilities dramatically at the edge of the IP network, including more powerful artificial intelligence (AI) and higher resolutions, and paving the way for new applications that would have previously been too expensive or complex. Technologies at the heart of the coming new generation of video cameras are Ambarella’s newest systems on chips (SoCs). Ambarella’s CV5S and CV52S product families are bringing a new level of on-camera AI performance and integration to multi-imager and single-imager IP cameras. Both of these SoCs are manufactured in the ‘5 nm’ manufacturing process, bringing performance improvements and power savings, compared to the previous generation of SoCs manufactured at ‘10nm’. CV5S and CV52S AI-powered SoCs The CV5S, designed for multi-imager cameras, is able to process, encode and perform advanced AI on up to four imagers at 4Kp30 resolution, simultaneously and at less than 5 watts. This enables multi-headed camera designs with up to four 4K imagers looking at different portions of a scene, as well as very high-resolution, single-imager cameras of up to 32 MP resolution and beyond. The CV52S, designed for single-imager cameras with very powerful onboard AI, is the next-generation of the company’s successful CV22S mainstream 4K camera AI chip. This new SoC family quadruples the AI processing performance, while keeping the same low power consumption of less than 3 watts for 4Kp60 encoding with advanced AI processing. Faster and ubiquitous AI capabilities Ambarella’s newest AI vision SoCs for security, the CV5S and CV52S, are competitive solutions" “Security system designers desire higher resolutions, increasing channel counts, and ever faster and more ubiquitous AI capabilities,” explains John Lorenz, Senior Technology and Market Analyst, Computing, at Yole Développement (Yole), a French market research firm. John Lorenz adds, “Ambarella’s newest AI vision SoCs for security, the CV5S and CV52S, are competitive solutions for meeting the growing demands of the security IC (integrated circuit) sector, which our latest report forecasts to exceed US$ 4 billion by 2025, with two-thirds of that being chips with AI capabilities.” Edge AI vision processors Ambarella’s new CV5S and CV52S edge AI vision processors enable new classes of cameras that would not have been possible in the past, with a single SoC architecture. For example, implementing a 4x 4K multi-imager with AI would have traditionally required at least two SoCs (at least one for encoding and one for AI), and the overall power consumption would have made those designs bulky and prohibitively expensive. By reducing the number of required SoCs, the CV5S enables advanced camera designs such as AI-enabled 4x 4K imagers at price points much lower than would have previously been possible. “What we are usually trying to do with our SoCs is to keep the price points similar to the previous generations, given that camera retail prices tend to be fairly fixed,” said Jerome Gigot, Ambarella's Senior Director of Marketing. 4K multi-imager cameras “However, higher-end 4K multi-imager cameras tend to retail for thousands of dollars, and so even though there will be a small premium on the SoC for the 2X improvement in performance, this will not make a significant impact to the final MSRP of the camera,” adds Jerome Gigot. In addition, the overall system cost might go down, Gigot notes, compared to what could be built today because there is no longer a need for external chips to perform AI, or extra components for power dissipation. The new chips will be available in the second half of 2021, and it typically takes about 12 to 18 months for Ambarella’s customers (camera manufacturers) to produce final cameras. Therefore, the first cameras, based on these new SoCs, should hit the market sometime in the second half of 2022. Reference boards for camera manufacturers The software on these new SoCs is an evolution of our unified Linux SDK" As with Ambarella’s previous generations of edge AI vision SoCs for security, the company will make available reference boards to camera manufacturers soon, allowing them to develop their cameras based on the new CV5S and CV52S SoC families. “The software on these new SoCs is an evolution of our unified Linux SDK that is already available on our previous generations SoCs, which makes the transition easy for our customers,” said Jerome Gigot. Better crime detection Detecting criminals in a crowd, using face recognition and/or licence plate recognition, has been a daunting challenge for security, and one the new chips will help to address. “Actually, these applications are one of the main reasons why Ambarella is introducing these two new SoC families,” said Jerome Gigot. Typically, resolutions of 4K and higher have been a smaller portion of the security market, given that they came at a premium price tag for the high-end optics, image sensor and SoC. Also, the cost and extra bandwidth of storing and streaming 4K video were not always worth it for the benefit of just viewing video at higher resolution. 4K AI processing on-camera The advent of on-camera AI at 4K changes the paradigm. By enabling 4K AI processing on-camera, smaller objects at longer distances can now be detected and analysed without having to go to a server, and with much higher detail and accuracy compared to what can be done on a 2 MP or 5 MP cameras. This means that fewer false alarms will be generated, and each camera will now be able to cover a longer distance and wider area, offering more meaningful insights without necessarily having to stream and store that 4K video to a back-end server. “This is valuable, for example, for traffic cameras mounted on top of high poles, which need to be able to see very far out and identify cars and licence plates that are hundreds of meters away,” said Jerome Gigot. The advent of on-camera AI at 4K changes the paradigm Enhanced video analytics and wider coverage “Ambarella’s new CV5S and CV52S SoCs truly allow the industry to take advantage of higher resolution on-camera for better analytics and wider coverage, but without all the costs typically incurred by having to stream high-quality 4K video out 24/7 to a remote server for offline analytics,” said Jerome Gigot. He adds, “So, next-generation cameras will now be able to identify more criminals, faces and licence plates, at longer distances, for an overall lower cost and with faster response times by doing it all locally on-camera.” Deployment in retail applications Retail environments can be some of the toughest, as the cameras may be looking at hundreds of people at once Retail applications are another big selling point. Retail environments can be some of the toughest, as the cameras may be looking at hundreds of people at once (e.g., in a mall), to provide not only security features, but also other business analytics, such as foot traffic and occupancy maps that can be used later to improve product placement. The higher resolution and higher AI performance, enabled by the new Ambarella SoCs, provide a leap forward in addressing those scenarios. In a store setup, a ceiling-mounted camera with four 4K imagers can simultaneously look at the cashier line on one side of the store, sending alerts when a line is getting too long and a new cashier needs to be deployed, while at the same time looking at the entrance on the other side of the store, to count the people coming in and out. This leaves two additional 4K imagers for monitoring specific product aisles and generating real-time business analytics. Use in cashier-less stores Another retail application is a cashier-less store. Here, a CV5S or CV52S-based camera mounted on the ceiling will have enough resolution and AI performance to track goods, while the customer grabs them and puts them in their cart, as well as to automatically track which customer is purchasing which item. In a warehouse scenario, items and boxes moving across the floor could also be followed locally, on a single ceiling-mounted camera that covers a wide area of the warehouse. Additionally, these items and boxes could be tracked across the different imagers in a multi-headed camera setup, without the video having to be sent to a server to perform the tracking. Updating on-camera AI networks Another feature of Ambarella’s SoCs is that their on-camera AI networks can be updated on-the-fly, without having to stop the video recording and without losing any video frames. So, for example in the case of a search for a missing vehicle, the characteristics of that missing vehicle (make, model, colour, licence plate) can be sent to a cluster of cameras in the general area, where the vehicle is thought to be missing, and all those cameras can be automatically updated to run a live search on that specific vehicle. If any of the cameras gets a match, a remote operator can be notified and receive a picture, or even a live video feed of the scene. Efficient traffic management With the CV52S edge AI vision SoC, those decisions can be made locally at each intersection by the camera itself Relating to traffic congestion, most big cities have thousands of intersections that they need to monitor and manage. Trying to do this from one central location is costly and difficult, as there is so much video data to process and analyse, in order to make those traffic decisions (to control the traffic lights, reverse lanes, etc.). With the CV52S edge AI vision SoC, those decisions can be made locally at each intersection by the camera itself. The camera would then take actions autonomously (for example, adjust traffic-light timing) and only report a status update to the main traffic control centre. So now, instead of having one central location trying to manage 1,000 intersections, a city can have 1,000 smart AI cameras, each managing its own location and providing updates and metadata to a central server. Superior privacy Privacy is always a concern with video. In this case, doing AI on-camera is inherently more private than streaming the video to a server for analysis. Less data transmission means fewer points of entry for a hacker trying to access the video. On Ambarella’s CV5S and CV52S SoCs, the video can be analysed locally and then discarded, with just a signature or metadata of the face being used to find a match. No actual video needs to be stored or transmitted, which ensures total privacy. In addition, the chips contain a very secure hardware cyber security block, including OTP memory, Arm TrustZones, DRAM scrambling and I/O virtualisation. This makes it very difficult for a hacker to replace the firmware on the camera, providing another level of security and privacy at the system level. Privacy Masking Another privacy feature is the concept of privacy masking. This feature enables portions of the video (say a door or a window) to be blocked out, before being encoded in the video stream. The blocked portions of the scene are not present in the recorded video, thus providing a privacy option for cameras that are facing private areas. “With on-camera AI, each device becomes its own smart endpoint, and can be reconfigured at will to serve the specific physical security needs of its installation,” said Jerome Gigot, adding “The possibilities are endless, and our mission as an SoC maker is really to provide a powerful and easy-to-use platform, complete with computer-vision tools, that enable our customers and their partners to easily deploy their own AI software on-camera.” Physical security in parking lots With a CV5S or CV52S AI-enabled camera, the camera will be able to cover a much wider portion of the parking lot One example is physical security in a parking lot. A camera today might be used to just record part of the parking lot, so that an operator can go back and look at the video if a car were broken into or some other incident occurred. With a CV5S or CV52S AI-enabled camera, first of all, the camera will be able to cover a much wider portion of the parking lot. Additionally, it will be able to detect the licence plates of all the cars going in and out, to automatically bill the owners. If there is a special event, the camera can be reprogrammed to identify VIP vehicles and automatically redirect them to the VIP portion of the lot, while reporting to the entrance station or sign how many parking spots are available. It can even tell the cars approaching the lot where to go. Advantages of using edge AI vision SoCs Jerome Gigot said, “The possibilities are endless and they span across many verticals. The market is primed to embrace these new capabilities. Recent advances in edge AI vision SoCs have brought about a period of change in the physical security space. Companies that would have, historically, only provided security cameras, are now getting into adjacent verticals such as smart retail, smart cities and smart buildings.” He adds, “These changes are providing a great opportunity for all the camera makers and software providers to really differentiate themselves by providing full systems that offer a new level of insights and efficiencies to, not only the physical security manager, but now also the store owner and the building manager.” He adds, “All of these new applications are extremely healthy for the industry, as they are growing the available market for cameras, while also increasing their value and the economies of scale they can provide. Ambarella is looking forward to seeing all the innovative products that our customers will build with this new generation of SoCs.”

The city of Baltimore has banned the use of facial recognition systems by residents, businesses and the city government (except for police). The criminalisation in a major U.S. city of an important emerging technology in the physical security industry is an extreme example of the continuing backlash against facial recognition throughout the United States. Facial recognition technology ban Several localities – from Portland, Oregon, to San Francisco, from Oakland, California, to Boston – have moved to limit use of the technology, and privacy groups have even proposed a national moratorium on use of facial recognition. The physical security industry, led by the Security Industry Association (SIA), vigorously opposed the ban in Baltimore, urging a measured approach and ‘more rational policymaking’ that preserve the technology’s value while managing any privacy or other concerns. Physical security industry opposes ban In such cases, it is local businesses and residents who stand to lose the most" “Unfortunately, an outright ban on facial recognition continues a distressing pattern in which the clear value of this technology is ignored,” said SIA’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Don Erickson, adding “In such cases, it is local businesses and residents who stand to lose the most.” At the national level, a letter to US President Biden from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Coalition asserts the need for a national dialogue over the appropriate use of facial recognition technology and expresses concern about ‘a blanket moratorium on federal government use and procurement of the technology’. (The coalition includes Security Industry Association (SIA) and other industry groups.) The negativity comes at a peak moment for facial recognition and other biometric technologies, which saw an increase of interest for a variety of public and business applications, during the COVID-19 pandemic’s prioritisation to improve public health hygiene and to promote ‘contactless’ technologies. Prohibition on banks, retailers and online sellers The ordinance in Baltimore prohibits banks from using facial recognition to enhance consumer security in financial transactions. It prevents retailers from accelerating checkout lines with contactless payment and prohibits remote online identity document verification, which is needed by online sellers or gig economy workers, according to the Security Industry Association (SIA). At a human level, SIA points out that the prohibition of facial recognition undermines the use of customised accessibility tools for disabled persons, including those suffering with blindness, memory loss or prosopagnosia (face blindness). Ban out of line with current state of facial recognition Addressing the Baltimore prohibition, the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation reacted to the measure as ‘shockingly out of line with the current state of facial recognition technology and its growing adoption in many sectors of the economy’. Before Baltimore’s decision to target facial recognition, Portland, Oregon, had perhaps the strictest ban, prohibiting city government agencies and private businesses from using the technology on the city’s grounds. San Francisco was the first U.S. city to ban the technology, with Boston, Oakland; Cambridge, Massachusetts; and Berkeley, California, among others, following suit. Police and federal units can use biometrics Unlike other bans, the Baltimore moratorium does not apply to police uses Unlike other bans, the Baltimore moratorium does not apply to police uses, but targets private uses of the technology. It also includes a one-year ‘sunset’ clause that requires city council approval for an extension. The measure carves out an exemption for use of biometrics in access control systems. However, violations of the measure are punishable by 12 months in jail. The law also establishes a task force to evaluate the cost and effectiveness of surveillance tools. Transparency in public sector use of facial recognition Currently, the state of Maryland controls the Baltimore Police Department, so the city council does not have authority to ban police use of facial recognition, which has been a human rights concern driving the bans in other jurisdictions. A measure to return local control of police to the city could pass before the year lapses. SIA advocates transparency in public-sector applications of facial recognition in identity verification, security and law enforcement investigative applications. SIA’s CEO, Don Erickson stated, “As public sector uses are more likely to be part of processes with consequential outcomes, it is especially important for transparency and sound policies to accompany government applications.”

BIM (building information modeling) provides a process for creating and managing information during the building lifecycle and beyond. BIM is often equated with 3D modeling of construction projects, but the visual component is just part of the value of BIM. Additional data, such as specifications and other documentation, is also part of the process, underlying the visual aspects, helping to drive decision making and providing immediate access to detailed information about all facets of the building process. Incorporating BIM systems For the last six years, ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions has worked with specification writers and architects in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) to make it easy to incorporate ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions doors, hardware, and security solutions into BIM systems. Everyone on a project can work together in the interactive and information-rich BIM environment. BIM tools are also used by contractors, distributors, facility owners, and security consultants. BIM software BIM information relating to doors, hardware, and security solutions is available in the cloud  BIM information relating to doors, hardware, and security solutions is available in the cloud with the company’s Openings Studio BIM software. This improves the process of door scheduling and visualisation and enables customers to focus on the design, installation, and management of openings. “If you have up-to-date information inside the BIM model, you can reduce mistakes and misunderstanding in the building industry,” says Marc Ameryckx, ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions’ BIM Manager for the EMEIA region. “It helps to eliminate mistakes before they happen or as early as possible in the building process. The earlier, the less it costs. We provide data as soon as possible in the process.” (ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions also has comparable systems available in other regions of the global company.) Centralised data in BIM 3D model Expanding the data available in BIM provides additional value compared to merely providing “BIM objects” that can be incorporated into a BIM 3D model. The combination of BIM modeling and the underlying specifications boosts the quality of the project and its key to success, says Marc Ameryckx. Even after the building is complete, the BIM model is still valuable, providing a repository of “as-built” information that can be used by building managers and security professionals tasked with operating and maintaining the building. For example, if a lock needs to be replaced, retrofitting is simpler because all the information about the lock and existing installation is available in a centralised data file. Revit and ArchiCAD A widely used BIM software is Revit from Autodesk, a program that brings architecture, engineering, and construction disciplines into a unified modeling environment to drive more efficient and cost-effective projects. Another BIM software program is ArchiCAD, developed by the Hungarian company Graphisoft. Openings Studio™ added a plugin for ArchiCAD this year, in addition to Revit. Tailor-made information security solutions We provide tailor-made information security solutions with various hardware on projects with more doors" “We can provide tailor-made information security solutions with various hardware on projects with more doors, adding more flexibility,” says Marc Ameryckx. “Customers do not need to be the experts on the products because we provide expertise as part of our specifications.” For example, how often do building mistakes occur because of a misunderstanding about the electrical needs of a lock and the wrong cabling is installed? The problem is especially expensive if it is discovered only after the walls are complete. Providing complete data about the electrical lock as part of a BIM system avoids the snafu. Another example is the specification of a deadbolt lock on a door that operates with an electric strike. The deadbolt undermines the intended operation of the electric strike and can interfere with escape routes in case of an emergency. The mistake becomes obvious in the BIM environment and can be rectified before consequences impact the real world. Data addition to Opening Suites site ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions is continuously expanding the data it provides at the Opening Suites site, covering additional functionality and more components including the door, cabling, and electrical connections. Hardware sets are linked to specific doors in the BIM models, including all the details of various components, including article numbers, technical sheets, electrical requirements, all depending on customer expectations. Physical equipment includes QR codes that can be scanned by a smartphone to provide information on the door (A mobile app is in development). More details and more data Experienced BIM consultants work with the Openings Studio software on projects ranging from single doors to large buildings with many doors. Data will be more and more important, and there will be more data inside BIM models Adding more data and detail to the BIM process at the level of each door expands the usefulness of BIM, which has historically been focused on broader issues such as structural work and HVAC. “Openings Studio™ provides all the data to integrate doors and security in the BIM process,” says Marc Ameryckx. The higher level of detail may be a new aspect even for customers who already use BIM software. “Data will be more and more important, and there will be more data inside BIM models,” says Marc Ameryckx. In the future, the use of “digital twins” could expand the capabilities even further; for example, the software could simulate escape routes in case of fire. More data makes more things possible.

Positive Technologies researchers, Vladimir Kononovich and Alexey Stennikov have discovered vulnerabilities in the Wincor Cineo ATMs, with the RM3 and CMD-V5 dispensers (Wincor is currently owned by Diebold Nixdorf). ATM cyber-attacks With access to the dispenser controller’s USB port, an attacker can install an outdated or modified firmware version (for example, with disabled encryption), to bypass the encryption and make cash withdrawals. Diebold Nixdorf (Diebold Incorporated) has more than 1 million of its ATMs installed worldwide, making it one of the largest ATM manufacturers, with a 32 percent share of the global market. Most previous generations of ATMs could not withstand black-box attacks. In such cases, a hacker connects to the dispenser, via a computer or mobile device, and sends a special code, which results in the ATM dispensing money. In research performed by Positive Technologies in 2018, 69 percent of ATMs turned out to be vulnerable to such attacks and could be hacked in minutes. Modern ATMs with built-in protection against black-box attacks Modern ATMs, including Wincor Cineo, have built-in protection against black-box attacks Modern ATMs, including Wincor Cineo, have built-in protection against black-box attacks. This protection is achieved by using end-to-end encryption between an ATM computer and the dispenser. The computer sends encrypted commands to the dispenser and a hacker cannot withdraw money, without encryption keys stored on the ATM computer. Vladimir Kononovich, Senior Specialist of ICS Security, at Positive Technologies, said “In the case of Wincor Cineo, we managed to figure out the command encryption used in the interaction between the PC and the controller, and bypass the protection against black-box attacks. At a popular website, we bought the same dispensing controller, as the one used in Wincor's ATMs.” Issues of bugs in controller code and old encryption keys Vladimir Kononvich adds, “Bugs in the controller code and old encryption keys allowed us to connect to an ATM, using our own computer (as in a classic black-box attack) and bypass the encryption, and make cash withdrawal. Currently, the attack scenario consists of three steps - Connecting a computer to an ATM, loading outdated and vulnerable firmware, and exploiting the vulnerabilities to access the cassettes, inside the safe.” According to Vladimir Kononovich, some manufacturers rely on security through obscurity, with proprietary protocols that are poorly studied and the goal of making it difficult for attackers to procure equipment, in order to find vulnerabilities in such devices. However, the research shows that such equipment is not difficult to find on the open market and analyse, which can be used by criminal groups. CVE-2018-9099 and CVE-2018-9100 vulnerabilities The first flaw, CVE-2018-9099, was detected in the firmware of the CMD-V5 dispenser Both vulnerabilities received a CVSSv3.0 score of 6.8. The first flaw, CVE-2018-9099, was detected in the firmware of the CMD-V5 dispenser (all versions up to and including - 141128 1002 CD5_ATM.BTR and 170329 2332 CD5_ATM.FRM). The second, CVE-2018-9100, was detected in the firmware of the RM3/CRS dispenser (all versions up to and including - 41128 1002 RM3_CRS.BTR and 170329 2332 RM3_CRS.FRM). To fix the vulnerabilities, credit organisations must request the latest firmware version from ATM manufacturers. Moreover, as an additional security factor, the vendor should enable physical authentication for the operator during firmware installation. hardwear.io security conference On October 29, Vladimir Kononovich will talk about the detected vulnerabilities at the hardwear.io hardware security conference, taking place in The Netherlands. In 2018, Positive Technologies experts helped eliminate vulnerabilities in ATMs of another major ATM machines manufacturer, NCR (NCR Corporation).

Foreign embassies are an essential part of establishing and maintaining peaceful cooperation, and collaboration between countries all over the world. They can also be the focus of tensions, peaceful and violent protests, terrorism, and many other risks, which mean that thorough and effective security solutions are essential to keep people, property and sensitive documents safe. Foreign embassies Usually located in capital cities, each foreign embassy is the workplace and often residence, of a Country Ambassador. They are used for important diplomatic meetings, holding events, hosting VIPs, and a range of other activities that focus on the political, cultural and social relationships with the host nation. In some instances, foreign embassies even provide sanctuary to their nationals and individuals from other nations In some instances, foreign embassies even provide sanctuary to their nationals and individuals from other nations, during times of trouble. G4S security services in Jordan “Anywhere in Amman, where a foreign embassy has outsourced their security, you can be certain that G4S is the company they have come to,” said Ashraf Abul-Hajj, the Managing Director of G4S in Jordan. Ashraf Abul-Hajj adds, “We’ve been doing this for decades and have excellent, long-standing relationships providing security for many embassies in the capital city. We secure over 30 embassies at the moment, and we’ve been working with some of them for over 20 years.” In fact, it was a small Jordanian security company, called Safe and Sound (now under G4S), which started to provide embassy security in Amman, Jordan, all those years ago, before it became a part of G4S, in 2004. Embassy security services G4S now provides a wide range of services to the embassies that it secures in Jordan. These include manned guarding, installing and maintaining security systems, such as CCTV, access control and alarms, secure escorting for VIPs, during their visits, with G4S vehicles and highly-trained drivers, and coordinating security for events, which are being hosted at the embassy. “The main purpose of most of our security solutions is to ensure that nobody gains access to an embassy, who shouldn’t be there,” said Ashraf Abul-Hajj, adding “There are a lot of different risks that embassies face - big and small. Terrorist incidents, while very rare, remain a threat, so our security teams are trained to be vigilant and notice any suspicious behaviour.” Securing embassies during protests Protests at embassies are more common, when people disagree with the actions of a specific country" Ashraf Abul-Hajj adds, “Protests at embassies are more common, when people disagree with the actions of a specific country. Protests, even peaceful ones, are volatile and have the potential to turn violent, so our security officers and systems are there to monitor tensions, continuously assess the risk levels and prevent breaches.” Terrorism and protests are the more extreme examples of security threats, but day-to-day G4S security teams also deal with lower level threats that still need to be managed sensitively and professionally. Preventing breaches Ashraf Abul-Hajj stated, “People try to access their foreign embassies for a variety of reasons, often at times of personal stress or hardship, and can become distressed, and even aggressive, if they are not permitted to enter.” He adds, “Sometimes, we have to deal with very unusual scenarios. At one embassy, a man turned up saying that he had been informed by the embassy that he had won a competition and he was visiting the embassy to collect his cash prize. It was obvious to the team that he was the victim of a con, but his behaviour became very challenging, when he realised this and could not gain entry. Our security officers had to try to calm him down, while stopping him from entering the embassy, without consent.” Ashraf Abul-Hajj concludes, “This shows how varied the challenges facing our teams at foreign embassies can be. An embassy can be peaceful for a long time, but it can only take one negative news story or a single social media post, to spark a significant protest. With our security systems, highly trained security officers and extensive experience, G4S is more than prepared to meet those risks. We are proud to deliver such an important service, keeping foreign embassies safe and secure in Jordan.”

A host of industry-pioneering fire protection solutions from UK manufacturer, Advanced, have been installed to protect approximately 140,000 sq ft of Grade A office space at Westferry House, Canary Wharf. As a cornerstone office building situated at the western gateway to Europe’s largest and most successful business district, Westferry House consists of 11 storeys, complete with its retail promenade on the ground floor. At the core of the active fire protection for the building are six Advanced MxPro 5 fire alarm control panels installed alongside Apollo Soteria multi-sensors. Installing custom-made fire panel Responsible for all aspects of the installation, as well as the future maintenance of the system, are Advanced partners, Pacific Security Systems Ltd. The Kent-based fire and security specialists installed the MxPro 5 fire panels alongside Advanced’s remote-control terminal and repeater panel, TouchControl, to provide a discreet and aesthetically pleasing means of viewing the fire system in the building’s recently refurbished reception area. Advanced’s team was commissioned by Pacific Security Systems to design and manufacture a custom-built annunciator panel Advanced’s AdSpecials team was also commissioned by Pacific Security Systems to design and manufacture a custom-built annunciator panel to control the pressurisation and extraction fans and dampers on all floors of the building. The annunciator also integrates with the building’s VA/PA system to provide manual control of messages on all floors. Reliable and user-friendly solutions Kirk Short, Director at Pacific Security Systems, said, “As long-time installers of Advanced with many successful projects, large and small, under our belts, we know its solutions are both reliable and user friendly. The bespoke equipment we required for the fire system upgrade at Westferry House is of an excellent standard, and we found the AdSpecials team very easy to work with throughout the entire design process.” Advanced’s AdSpecials team works with customers requiring bespoke fire panels to design and manufacture unique fire system solutions, whatever the installation challenge. Versatile TouchControl solution Amanda Hope, UK Fire Business Development Manager at Advanced, said, “Canary Wharf attracts some of the World’s most respected and successful companies, and it was fantastic to learn that our solutions have been installed in such a prestigious commercial office space.” “Westferry House is just a stone’s throw from the Landmark Pinnacle – the UK’s tallest residential building – another iconic site protected by Advanced’s MxPro 5 panels. Westferry House is also a fantastic example of where our TouchControl solution comes into its own, providing additional monitoring and control in a sleek and versatile format that complements the building’s stylish reception space.” Touchscreen repeater TouchControl is a high-resolution touchscreen repeater that makes it easy to check fire system status via interactive maps TouchControl is the low-profile, high-resolution touchscreen repeater that makes it easy to check fire system status via interactive maps and zone plans while harmonising with a wide range of interiors. When in standby, it can be used to display branding, advertisements, and information, but will instantly revert to fire operation when a fire condition occurs. Advanced, owned by FTSE 100 Company Halma PLC, protects a wide range of prestigious and high-profile sites across the globe – from London’s Shard to Abu Dhabi International Airport and the Hong Kong – Zhuhai – Macau Bridge Fire protection solutions   Advanced is a world pioneer in the development and manufacture of fire protection solutions. Advanced’s reputation for performance, quality, and ease of use see its products specified in locations around the world, from single-panel installations to large, multi-site networks. Advanced’s products include complete fire detection systems, multi-protocol fire panels, extinguishing control, fire paging, false alarm management, and reduction systems as well as emergency lighting. Halma is a global group of life-saving technology companies with a clear purpose to grow a safer, cleaner, healthier future for everyone, every day.

Ipsotek, an Atos company and a pioneer in Artificial Intelligence-powered video analytics, has announced the fulfillment of its contract with Sydney Trains, the operator of rail services across the metropolitan Sydney area, to increase security capabilities at 13 railway stations. Following a competitive tendering process, Ipsotek was selected by Sydney Trains, to deliver an AI-based video analytics solution. This has seen the train operator, Sydney Trains, integrate a range of Ipsotek’s AI-powered video analytics solutions with its security cameras, to identify incidences of tunnel and track intrusion at its 13 stations, located across the metropolitan Sydney area. AI-based video analytics solution Ipsotek’s AI solutions are at the core of Atos Computer Vision Platform, a unique end-to-end computer vision platform that offers pre-trained & customisable AI models, powered by the BullSequana server range, enabled by NVIDIA GPUs and enriched by worldwide expert labs. Mark Edmonds, the Manager of Security Capability for Transport at Sydney Trains, commented “Sydney Trains chose Ipsotek, after an extensive comparison of a number of products. Ipsotek’s proven track record in the AI Video Analytics space, its partnership with Genetec and its work with Innovate UK’s Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI) for railway-focused AI applications, made it a well-deserved choice.” Enhancing security at Sydney Trains’ stations The project with Sydney Trains is the second transportation project in the region for Ipsotek Chris Bishop, Sales Director APAC & Marketing Director at Ipsotek, said “As a British SME, competing against some of the industry’s big-named companies, we are delighted to have been chosen by Sydney Trains, to deliver this project. It represents a welcome validation of our expertise within the transportation and more specifically, the rail sector and we are proud to have supported Sydney Trains with its commitment, to delivering enhanced security practices across its network.” The project with Sydney Trains is the second transportation project in the region for Ipsotek, which is working with accelerated computing solutions firm, NVIDIA on implementation. Ipsotek, member of NVIDIA Metropolis partner group Ipsotek is a member of the NVIDIA Metropolis partner programme, which brings together a computing platform and extensive ecosystem of specialists, to help create smarter spaces and solve some of the world’s most pressing problems, which involve operational efficiency and public safety. Sudarshan Ramachandran, the Country Manager, Enterprise, ANZ at NVIDIA, commented “As an NVIDIA Metropolis partner, Ipsotek delivers incredibly valuable capabilities, solving deeply challenging video-analytics problems using AI and the NVIDIA GPU accelerated computing stack.” AI video analytics for public transport Ipsotek’s project with Sydney Trains follows the company’s previous success in delivering an initial programme of work via the Innovate UK SBRI initiative, for the development of AI video analytics, to enhance the rail experience for passengers and staff in the UK.

Truline Industries is a specialty machining business located in Chesterland, Ohio, United States. Founded in 1939 Truline is built upon integrity both in work and in life. An AS 9100 / ISO 9001 certified facility, Truline makes use of the latest technology to fabricate fuel pump bearings for the aircraft industry as well as other high-tolerance precision machine parts.  Challenge Truline Industries has been using Gallagher physical access control systems for their office building. However, the traditional access control is no longer satisfying; the client looked for an outdoor touchless face recognition access control solution with mask-wearing detection. Touchless recognition system  Users who have been using RFID cards will still be able to keep using them on FaceDeep 5 RFID module Anviz reliable and stable touchless face recognition FaceDeep 5 (temperature detection optional) offers the client a good outdoor solution to get access to their office building without touching the reader, and wearing a mask. In addition, users who have been using RFID cards will still be able to keep using them on FaceDeep 5 RFID module, due to Protech Security with the Gallagher Controller integration. 10pcs FaceDeep 5 was installed in their office building outdoor and indoor, all devices are controlled centrally by software, very convenient to check access records, manage users, etc. Project partner Protech Security, with more than 30 years of service in Northeast Ohio and a strong commitment to providing quality, cost-effective protection for homes, businesses, educational institutions, and government facilities.  Customer comments Anviz FaceDeep 5 is a very nicely designed and sturdy device, the recognition is very fast and precise even under outdoor strong sunlight, Truline Industries is very happy about this upgrading, which definitely brings the employees a safer and touchless access experience. Therefore, Protech Security provides excellent services and support; "we will surely recommend Anviz and Protech Security to our business partners." 

Visa chooses Callsign, as their preferred behavioural biometric digital and device intelligence identity provider. Under the agreement, Visa will introduce Callsign's behavioural biometric and device fingerprinting solutions to the Visa network of financial institutions, payment service providers (PSPs), and merchants across Europe. Callsign joins the Visa Fintech Partner Connect programme giving banks, merchants, and the wider card ecosystem access to Callsign's Intelligence-driven authentication solutions which positively identify consumers using inherent behavioural biometrics whilst detecting and preventing fraud. Allowing genuine access via MFA Callsign technology helps banks, merchants, and PSPs to answer two questions; is the user who they say they are? And are they permitted to access the service they are requesting? Callsign combines behavioural biometrics, device intelligence with MFA to help authenticate users' identities Using machine learning techniques Callsign combines behavioural biometrics, device intelligence, and geo-location with multi-factor authentication to help authenticate users' identities. This approach helps banks, merchants, and PSPs to secure and authenticate users' identities frictionlessly, stopping fraud early and only letting genuine customers access their service and transact safely and seamlessly. Need for secure and accurate user experience The agreement comes at a time of spiralling fraud, according to a recent report, every second fraudulent transaction in the finance industry was account take over. Card, not present fraud (CNP) accounted for 79% of all card fraud across the Single European Payments Area and, figures from UK finance suggest that in the money lost to Authorised Push Payment (APP) scams totalled nearly half a billion (479 million) in 2020. "The need to accurately identify users online for digital payments and online banking is critical due to the shift to online transactions in the past 18 months. Financial services organisations are looking for the technology that provides the most secure, accurate, and seamless user experience to incorporate into their solutions. We are pleased to be joining the Visa Fintech Partner Connect to work with Europe's leading fintech," concluded Amir Nooriala, Chief Commercial Officer, Callsign.

“Deep learning” is recently among the more prevalent jargon in the physical security industry, and for good reason. The potential benefits of this subset of artificial intelligence (AI) are vast, and those benefits are only now beginning to be understood and realised. But how can we separate the marketing hype from reality? How can we differentiate between future potential and the current state of the art? To clarify the latest on this new technology, we asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What is “deep learning?” How well does the security industry understand its full potential? 

Crime prevention is a basic goal of security, even if a security system merely convinces a criminal to seek out a different target. However, many of today’s security technologies are most useful after the fact, to provide forensic information about a crime that has already taken place. Solving a crime presents a whole new level of challenge. Surely, prevention is the best approach. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How successful is the security industry in crime prevention and reducing crime rates?

Artificial intelligence (AI) is simultaneously an emerging technology, a common term in popular culture, and a buzzword in the security industry. But these aspects of the term can lead to misunderstanding in the marketplace. AI technology is continuing to emerge, but what is the reality today? How do depictions of AI in popular culture impact how it is understood in the real world of security? As a buzzword, at what point does marketing hype garble our understanding of reality? We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the misconceptions about AI in security?