Security access systems

Global provider of critical comfort and security solutions primarily in the residential sector, Resideo Technologies, Inc. has announced that Bob Appleby will join its ADI Global Distribution business as vice president and general manager of ADI North America, effective immediately. ADI North America head In his new role, Appleby will oversee all of ADI North America’s business operations across the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico, and will help ADI deliver on financial commitments, modernise operations and continue to reinforce its commitment to customer service excellence. Appleby will be based in Melville, N.Y., and report directly to ADI Global Distribution President Rob Aarnes. Appleby will be based in Melville, and report directly to ADI Global Distribution President Rob Aarnes Prior to joining Resideo, Appleby served in the pharmaceuticals distribution industry as president of H.D. Smith, now part of AmerisourceBergen. As president, he managed a business with 600 employees, 5,000 customers and 10 distribution facilities. During the first year of integration with AmerisourceBergen, Appleby and his team achieved more than 90% customer retention and over-delivered on their financial targets. Security services expert Prior to H.D. Smith, he spent a decade at Cardinal Health in various roles, including vice president of business development for the company’s Pharmaceuticals Supply Chain Services division. Appleby holds an MBA from Drexel University and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Ohio State University. “Bob is an accomplished leader in the distribution industry with a proven track record of exceeding financial results while delivering exceptional customer service,” said Rob Aarnes, president of ADI Global Distribution. “His deep expertise and understanding of the needs of the customer will help ADI drive growth and deliver on our commitment to serving the professional contractor channel.” 

One can customise the way they want to run their own CLIQ® access control installation. The CLIQ® Web Manager makes it easy to program, reprogram or audit every CLIQ® key, cylinder, padlock or updater. And because the interface is accessible from anywhere with a Web connection, via secure login over https:// and multifactor authentication if required, one can manage access whenever and wherever they choose. ASSA ABLOY’s intuitive CLIQ® Web Manager boosts one's efficiency. One can filter access to specific locks according to the precise security needs of their site and users. For any CLIQ® system, one can create individual schedules for key-holders, doors or audit trails. Local software installation In a few clicks, a CLIQ® key or system can require users to revalidate keys regularly, making it safer to issue time-limited access to contractors or visitors. The Web Manager offers this same degree of customised efficiency when one manages CLIQ® electromechanical locks or fully electronic eCLIQ locks. The CLIQ® Web Manager has the flexibility to integrate with existing access control and other customer software It powers the interface between CLIQ® Connect keys and the Bluetooth-powered CLIQ® Connect app, for secure remote key updating for mobile workers and contractors — with added PIN protection. The CLIQ® Web Manager has the flexibility to integrate with existing access control and other customer software. Its architecture supports multiple administrators or sites, across different time zones if one needs. Workflows become easier. The Web Manager also gives the option to administer access in a self-hosted IT environment or completely free of local software installation with two different CLIQ® Software as a Service solutions. Manage access software For the highest levels of access security and scalability, the CLIQ® Web Manager comes with a Software as a Service (SaaS) option. When one opts for CLIQ® SaaS, they can select a Shared SaaS solution or Dedicated SaaS with hosting just for them, choosing maintenance schedules which suit their business best. Both SaaS options are hosted by ASSA ABLOY. They save businesses the cost of extending in-house server capacity or employing dedicated IT staff to manage access software. Security infrastructure budgeting becomes more predictable. With CLIQ® SaaS, the data benefits from complete redundancy, so it can meet regulatory and compliance requirements without stress. ASSA ABLOY includes round-the-clock support, maintenance and incident reporting in standard Service Level Agreements delivering up to 99.5% availability. And with a SaaS solution, the company’s CLIQ® software is always, automatically up to date — a big plus for cyber-security resilience. CLIQ® SaaS and the CLIQ® Web Manager saves one's time, money and worry.

Recognising the need for emerging applications to build on a strong foundation that supports interoperability among all categories of devices, four sponsor members – The ASSA ABLOY Group which includes HID Global, and NXP Semiconductors, Samsung Electronics, and Bosch, leading companies in access, secure connectivity and mobile/CE device solutions – announced the launch of the FiRa Consortium. The new coalition is designed to grow the Ultra-Wideband (UWB) ecosystem so new use cases for fine ranging capabilities can thrive, ultimately setting a new standard in seamless user experiences. Sony Imaging Products & Solutions Inc., LitePoint and the Telecommunications Technology Association (TTA) are the first companies to join the newly-formed organisation. Delivers unprecedented accuracy UWB technology outperforms other technologies in terms of accuracy, power consumptionThe FiRa name, which stands for ‘Fine Ranging’, highlights UWB technology’s unique ability to deliver unprecedented accuracy when measuring the distance or determining the relative position of a target.  Especially in challenging environments, UWB technology outperforms other technologies in terms of accuracy, power consumption, robustness in RF connection, and security, by a wide margin. “As an industry consortium, we believe UWB technology can transform the way people experience connectivity, and we’re committed to the widespread adoption of interoperable UWB technologies,” says Charlie Zhang, Chair of the FiRa Consortium and VP Engineering, Samsung Electronics. The starting point for UWB technology is the IEEE standard 802.15.4/4z, which defines the essential characteristics for low-data-rate wireless connectivity and enhanced ranging. It is the aim of the FiRa Consortium to build on what the IEEE has already established, by developing an interoperability standard based on the IEEE’s profiled features, defining mechanisms that are out of scope of the IEEE standard, and pursuing activities that support rapid development of specific use cases. Usage of UWB technology in multiple areas  The unique capabilities of UWB promise to make it an essential technology in many areas including: Seamless Access Control – UWB can identify an individual’s approach towards or away from a secured entrance, verify security credentials, and let the authorised individual pass through the entrance without physically presenting the credential. Location-Based Services – UWB offers highly precise positioning, even in congested multipath signal environments, making it easier to navigate large venues such as airports and shopping malls or find a car in a multi-story parking garage. It also enables targeted digital marketing campaigns and foot traffic data. Retailers can present customised offers, government agencies can tailor their notifications, and entertainment venues can personalise recommendations during events. Device-to-Device (Peer-to-Peer) Services – By providing precise relative distance and direction between two devices, UWB lets devices find the relative location of each other even without infrastructures such as anchors or access points. This allows people to easily find one another in crowded spaces or find items even when placed in hidden areas.  Suited for use with NFC, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi UWB is well suited for use with other wireless technologies, including NFC, Bluetooth, and Wi-FiDue to its low power spectral density, UWB offers little to no interference with other wireless standards, so it is well suited for use with other wireless technologies, including Near Field Communication (NFC), Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi. There are also adjacent markets that leverage UWB in other ways, especially automotive. “The FiRa Consortium’s commitment to a complete ecosystem means we will work with other consortia and industry players to develop approaches and define parameters,” says Charles Dachs, Vice-Chair of the FiRa Consortium and GM & VP Secure Embedded Transactions, NXP Semiconductors. FiRa Consortium members will have the chance to influence industry trends, gain early access to technical details, certify interoperable products, expand the UWB ecosystem, and share expertise. Ramesh Songukrishnasamy, Director and Treasurer of the FiRa Consortium, and SVP & CTO of HID Global says, “We encourage anyone, from any relevant industry area, who has a vested interest in the success of UWB to join us and contribute to the Consortium’s work.” Fully-integrated UWB test solution Kazuyuki Sakamoto, Senior General Manager, FeliCa Business Division, Sony Imaging Products & Solutions Inc. says, “We believe that UWB technology will bring the new benefit of connectivity to industries along with other wireless technologies.” Device-to-device fine ranging technology without additional equipment is very useful for home or industrial applications""UWB opens up new and complementary wireless connectivity use-cases,” said Adam Smith, Director of Marketing at LitePoint. “We're excited to help establish an ecosystem in which companies can utilise these new technologies by providing a fully-integrated UWB test solution, making it simple to validate the performance of UWB devices. At LitePoint, our mission is to help companies bring cutting-edge UWB products to market and that’s why we’re pleased to be part of the FiRa Consortium team.” Yongbum Park, Vice President, Telecommunications Technology Association says, “Device-to-device fine ranging technology without additional equipment is very useful for home or industrial applications. We believe that FiRa technology will change our lives.”

Ping Identity, globally renowned provider of identity defined security solutions, has announced the release of PingCloud Private Tenant, a private cloud identity solution for the enterprise. Cloud identity, access management PingCloud Private Tenant provides cloud identity and access management (IAM) by combining highly-configurable capabilities within a dedicated environment. Enterprises can provide authentication for all users with a highly-configurable global authentication authority that includes versatile single sign-on (SSO) and highly-scalable directory services, while also maintaining data and resource isolation. This allows global organisations the ability to automate IAM operations, simplify management and achieve their cloud-first objectives. PingCloud Private Tenant Enterprises need a dependable way for customers, employees and partners to sign-on to their services and applications Enterprises need a dependable way for customers, employees and partners to conveniently sign-on to their services and applications. However, this requires companies to support multiple standards, different authentication flows, a wide range of identity and service providers while operating and maintaining the solution. For this reason, PingCloud Private Tenant allows enterprises to automate the operation of their IAM solution, so IT staff can focus on innovation, in addition to providing a global authentication authority. PingCloud Private Tenant provides the following capabilities and benefits: Coud IAM: Practically limitless configuration options combined with a dedicated cloud environment means enterprises control their data and security while also automating IAM operations. Highly-configurable authentication and directory services: Regardless of where applications or resources reside, enterprises can leverage PingCloud Private Tenant’s extensibility for their diverse user populations and identity types. Simplified identity management and minimised costs: Moving IAM solutions from on-premises to the cloud can save companies significant IT operational costs. PingCloud Private Tenant provides the convenience of centralised configuration via self-service and concierge support options, allowing enterprises to save without compromising support for challenging and complex enterprise use cases. Architected for enterprise hybrid IT: PingCloud Private Tenant reaches every corner of an enterprise’s hybrid IT or multi-cloud environment without the need to install, update and manage separate on-premises proxies and agents. Automated operations to reduce complexity: IT teams are able to respond more quickly and easily to global demand for IAM services by reducing geographical deployment complexity and simplifying IAM operations. Multi-tenant cloud solutions PingCloud Private Tenant expands on the range of deployment options that Ping provides to enterprise customers PingCloud Private Tenant allows them to create different environments for development, test and production as needed, with regional configuration options to comply with geographic or regulatory constraints. PingCloud Private Tenant expands upon the broad range of deployment options that Ping provides to its enterprise customers, spanning multi-tenant cloud solutions, private cloud solutions and on premises software. These solutions cover the range of enterprise deployment preferences and use cases, and can operate independently or work together seamlessly as needed to support complex hybrid IT environments. Hybrid IT environments “Enterprises increasingly straddle hybrid IT and multi-cloud environments, as they prioritise a high standard of security and customer experience,” says Loren Russon, vice president of product management, Ping Identity. “PingCloud Private Tenant is designed to simplify identity management while providing the ability to retain full control of data and security.”

Secure units for vulnerable children and their families are one of the most complex developments to provide security for, but thanks to its tailored solutions and vast experience, ASSA ABLOY High Security and Safety Group has helped to improve resident safety at numerous facilities.  The amount of time young adults are spending in Secure Units is increasing by up to 20%, putting added pressure on these types of facilities. This is also putting strain on the need for security solutions that will not only keep vulnerable children safe but provide the right level of security. Non-intrusive but robust security solutions Security solutions should be non-intrusive but robust enough to provide complete safety for all"ASSA ABLOY High Security and Safety Group has been meeting the needs of these facilities, improving the security at Clare Lodge in Peterborough, Swanwick Lodge in Southampton and Vinney Green in Bristol. Michael Dunn, Commercial Director for ASSA ABLOY High Security and Safety Group, said: “Secure Units present a unique challenge – the management of resident and staff safety, combined with ensuring the environment is completely secure but also welcoming for residents. Security solutions should be non-intrusive but robust enough to provide complete safety for all. “Although we have worked on numerous Secure Units, there are no one-size-fits-all solutions. We always take the time to review each project and make sure we adapt our solutions and products for the needs of the individual facility and its residents.”

Honeywell announces the release of 30 Series IP Cameras, a new suite of video cameras that strengthens building safety and security through advanced analytics and secure channel encryption. The Honeywell 30 Series IP cameras are designed for use as part of video systems that comply with U.S. government procurement standards instituted under the John S. McCain National Defence Authorisation Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (NDAA Section 889). With the new cameras, end users can also benefit from lower total cost of ownership and lower risk as well as improved picture quality without increased storage needs. Telecommunication equipment Honeywell is in the business of protection – from the buildings to the data and people within" NDAA Section 889 prohibits the U.S. government from procuring video and telecommunication equipment from certain companies and their subsidiaries. Many security end users outside of the government are also looking to follow these provisions. “Honeywell is in the business of protection – from the buildings to the data and people within,” said Jeremy Kimber, video global product management director, Honeywell Commercial Security. “With the release of the 30 Series IP Cameras, we are providing advanced secure channel encryption that guards against unauthorised access and unsanctioned distribution of data and video to help end users seamlessly integrate security into any business.” Increasingly stringent requirements Honeywell 30 Series IP Cameras are available in dome, bullet, ball and fisheye models that feature: Secure channel encryption: In addition to enabling end users to follow the provisions in NDAA Section 889, the new cameras provide HTTP over TLS1.2 (HTTPS) encrypted streaming to Honeywell MAXPRO Network Video Recorders (NVR). They also adhere to the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS). Together, these elements help meet the increasingly stringent requirements being set by IT Departments to shield businesses against unauthorised access and unsanctioned distribution of data and video – potentially saving end users up to $3.86 million, the average global cost of a data breach. Traditional motion detection Advanced motion people detection: Traditional motion detection only detects pixel changes, leading to a higher false alarm rate. Advanced motion people detection is designed to reduce false alarm rates as it will only create an alarm when the moving object is recognised as a person. A higher quality camera resolution of up to 5MP deliver exceptional images Enhanced storage space and image quality: A higher quality camera resolution of up to 5MP deliver exceptional images and comes with a user-friendly interface for secure remote viewing. The H.265 smart codec feature allows for storage of longer clips, lower bandwidth consumption and enables images to take up to 50% less storage space, which decreases operating costs. Access control management The new line of cameras are fully integrated using HTTPS encrypted streaming with MAXPRO® Network Video Recorders. They can also be used with Performance Embedded NVRs linked to the MAXPRO Cloud multi-site video and access control management platform and with the ADPRO XO range of NVRs with on-board video analytics. With its advanced analytics and encryption capabilities, Honeywell 30 Series IP Cameras offer an array of quality options for all small-to-medium businesses, entry-level enterprise and critical applications where compliance is essential such as banking and finance, government, utilities, campuses, retail and premium commercial.

With the recent news headlines about store closures and the collapse of well-known chains, alongside clear adjustments in business strategy amongst established high street favourites, there is no denying that the UK retail industry is under huge pressure. A recent report suggests growing issues are leading some retailers to increase risk-taking in the supply chain. But here, Steve Bumphrey, Traka UK Sales Director, looks at ways to help retailers embrace the storm, including paying attention to security, management processes and efficient customer focus. Challenges plaguing retail industry It’s been an awful year to date for UK retail if you believe the cacophony of negative headlines about the health of the UK economy and the confidence levels of the UK consumer. The sector is facing huge challenges in dealing with the evolution in on-line and smart mobile retailing The sector is undoubtedly facing huge challenges in dealing with the evolution in on-line and smart mobile retailing. Further concerns include an unwillingness of policymakers to address the changing retail environment and how business rates and general business taxation and regulation is making a difficult situation worse. Supply Chain Risk Report According to the latest Global Supply Chain Risk Report, published by Cranfield School of Management and Dan & Badstreet, those under pressure, are now facing increased exposure to risk if they are forced to cut costs in their supply chain. The report cites data for the retail sector that shows increased levels of risk-taking since Q4 2018, with retailers reporting high levels of dependency on suppliers and indicating a propensity to off-shore to low-cost, high-risk countries where suppliers are more likely to be financially unstable. In-store technology revolution The underlying evolution of technology taking hold of the retail industry and consequential changing consumer behaviour is what is really forcing the industry to step up and act. This is not only in the shift to online and smart mobile purchases, but also with the increased use of technology in store. Self-scanning and checkouts In a bid to enhance the physical shop experience, especially in supermarket outlets across the UK, retailers are increasingly giving customers autonomy with self-scanners and checkouts and need to be able to trust them to ensure an honest transaction. And for the shoppers, this dependency on technology and not human interaction to complete a shop means scanners must be instantly available and ready for use. Many different underlying competing challenges impact the retail industry Compensators At the recent British Retail Consortium’s ‘Charting the Future’ conference, looking at retail crime and security, Dr Emmeline Taylor, a criminologist at the City University of London identified in self -service shops, several new types of ‘offenders’ such as so-called ‘compensators’ including the atypical ‘frustrated consumer’ who, “fully intended to pay but were unable to scan an item properly”, adding to the security challenge. There are clearly many different underlying competing challenges impacting the retail industry. Arguably, the increase in technology and autonomous shopping, where less staff are present (or staff cuts planned) throws up more vulnerabilities, such as the opportunity for store theft. Use of body cameras Staff needs emerging technology such as body cameras to act as a deterrent to crime and keep employees safe Furthermore, staff may need greater use of emerging technology such as body cameras to act as a deterrent to crime and help keep employees safe. In essence, prevention is better than cure, and it’s certainly cheaper. Whether combating crime physically or online, or looking to find ways to counter the high street trends, working together, sharing information and taking a more holistic approach will help the development of a shared language between retailers. Retail banking It is also here where common approaches can help to deliver on efficiencies, in time, resource and budget that can serve to operate right through the supply chain, and minimise, or even negate the need to take any risks. It can even serve to enhance the customer experience, increasing confidence in the shopping environment. Of course, when discussing the high street, it is not just the department stores and chains that are feeling the impact. Well known banks are also having to redefine their priorities and role on the high street, with customers (especially younger generations) demanding a more efficient service than ever before. Well known banks are also having to redefine their priorities and role on the high street Asset protection Leading the way is Nationwide, globally renowned building society, which prides itself on being one of the largest savings providers and mortgages provider in the UK, promoting itself as running purely for the benefit of its customers, or ‘members.’ Richard Newland, Director of Branch & Workplace Transformation at Nationwide said, “Even more than getting a good ‘deal’ from a building society, the quality of our welcome, or our renowned level of service, we make sure our members feel safe with us, enough to trust us with their greatest assets. We are doing everything we can to evolve our business and focus our efforts on providing the best and most secure services that people value.” Key management systems Traka has supported Nationwide with the introduction of dedicated key management systems So committed to its branch network, it has pledged to its 15 million members that every town and city with a Nationwide branch, will still have one for at least the next two years. A bold statement in today’s climate. Traka has supported Nationwide with the introduction of dedicated key management systems, moving its branch network into a more digital system. Keys no longer need to leave site and the audit trail capability has helped to remove the manual paper recording, allowing status of keys to be established instantly, at any time. Changes in retail market This example, together with Traka’s portfolio of high street brands and globally renowned department stores that cannot be named for security reasons, demonstrates the need for retailers to embrace the need for change, both from a product offering and operational running perspective to achieve aspirations of resonating with customers. They also prove the opportunities for success, in an unquestionable difficult market environment. If retailers can listen to customers and respond accordingly, taking into consideration staff safety and security, alongside an ability to respond quickly to personalised enquiries and expectations. This way, perhaps, the current environment can be seen as an opportunity to innovate and embrace technology to form the high street of the future.

The healthcare sector is a crucial part of a functioning society as it provides life-saving care and reassurance to the population. A key part of ensuring the professionals in this industry have the best work environment is the ongoing security of the facilities. Overcoming environmental challenges Hospitals are challenging environments for security integrators. There is little room for mistakes because staff, patients and assets cannot be compromised. Medical centres and their facilities can be vast complexes and security teams must be confident in their ability to identify and nullify threats as soon as possible.  Chubb provided Queensland Children’s Hospital's security team with a simple and easy-to-use tool Chubb Fire & Security offers a range of intelligent video and access control systems to solve these challenges. The Queensland Children’s Hospital in Australia, formerly named Lady Cilento Children’s Hospital, is the major specialist children’s hospital for families living in Queensland and Northern New South Wales. The facility not only provides care to the local families but also the state’s sickest and most critically injured children who need highly specialised care. This state-of-the-art hospital, coupled with a leading academic and research facility and the high calibre staff, provides a platform to continue to develop as a leader in paediatric health care, education and research. Comprehensive security solution Chubb developed a solution for Queensland Children’s Hospital that included access control, video management, communications and asset tracking. By creating a common infrastructure for all security systems managed through a comprehensive user interface, Chubb provided the hospital’s security team with a simple and easy-to-use tool that enables them to resolve situations as they happen and action events automatically on command. Chubb also developed a 3D model of the building that allows the security team to respond quickly to a wide variety of events. The protection of patients and staff is naturally a hospital's number one priority Also crucial to the implementation of security systems in a hospital is minimal disruption to its everyday operations. Professionals in hospitals are working 24/7 so there is little time when it comes to disabling security systems for maintenance or repairs. Continued maintenance and upgrades are vital elements to Chubb’s work and key to this is a great deal of collaboration with clinical and operational stakeholders. Securing mission-critical environment Hospital facilities are not always state-of-the-art and often face the slow upgrade process that a limited budget imparts. However, through the audit and update of security systems, steps can be taken to ensure continued operations without external disruption. The protection of patients and staff is naturally a hospital's number one priority and Chubb shares the same commitment to making sure the environment is safe and secure. Carrying out a technically demanding project in a large, mission-critical environment like a hospital takes strong teamwork, including expert strategic partners, and collaboration between stakeholders.

In 2017, IoT-based cyberattacks increased by 600%. As the industry moves towards the mass adoption of interconnected physical security devices, end users have found a plethora of advantages, broadening the scope of traditional video surveillance solutions beyond simple safety measures. Thanks in part to these recent advancements, our physical solutions are at a higher risk than ever before. With today’s ever evolving digital landscape and the increasing complexity of physical and cyber-attacks, it’s imperative to take specific precautions to combat these threats. Video surveillance systems Cybersecurity is not usually the first concern to come to mind When you think of a video surveillance system, cybersecurity is not usually the first concern to come to mind, since digital threats are usually thought of as separate from physical security. Unfortunately, these two are becoming increasingly intertwined as intruders continue to use inventive methods in order to access an organisation's assets. Hacks and data breaches are among the top cyber concerns, but many overlook the fact that weak cybersecurity practices can lead to physical danger as well. Organisations that deploy video surveillance devices paired with advanced analytics programs often leave themselves vulnerable to a breach without even realising it. While they may be intelligent, IoT devices are soft targets that cybercriminals and hackers can easily exploit, crippling a physical security system from the inside out. Physical security manufacturers Whether looking to simply gain access to internal data, or paralyse a system prior to a physical attack, allowing hackers easy access to surveillance systems can only end poorly. In order to stay competitive, manufacturers within the security industry are trading in their traditional analogue technology and moving towards interconnected devices. Due to this, security can no longer be solely focused on the physical elements and end users have taken note. The first step towards more secured solutions starts with physical security manufacturers choosing to make cybersecurity a priority for all products, from endpoint to edge and beyond. Gone are the days of end users underestimating the importance of reliability within their solutions. Manufacturers that choose to invest time and research into the development of cyber-hardening will be ahead of the curve and an asset to all. Wireless communication systems Integrators also become complicit in any issues that may arise in the future Aside from simply making the commitment to improve cyber hygiene, there are solid steps that manufacturers can take. One simple action is incorporating tools and features into devices that allow end users to more easily configure their cyber protection settings. Similarly, working with a third party to perform penetration testing on products can help to ensure the backend security of IoT devices. This gives customers peace of mind and manufacturers a competitive edge. While deficient cybersecurity standards can reflect poorly on manufacturers by installing vulnerable devices on a network, integrators also become complicit in any issues that may arise in the future. Just last year, ADT was forced to settle a $16 million class action lawsuit when the company installed an unencrypted wireless communication system that rendered an organisation open to hacks. Cybersecurity services In addition, we’ve all heard of the bans, taxes and tariffs the U.S. government has recently put on certain manufacturers, depending on their country of origin and cybersecurity practices. Lawsuits aside, employing proper cybersecurity standards can give integrators a competitive advantage. With the proliferation of hacks, malware, and ransomware, integrators that can ease their client's cyber-woes are already a step ahead. By choosing to work with cybersecurity-focused manufacturers who provide clients with vulnerability testing and educate end users on best practices, integrators can not only thrive but find new sources of RMR. Education, collaboration and participation are three pillars when tackling cybersecurity from all angles. For dealers and integrators who have yet to add cybersecurity services to their business portfolios, scouting out a strategic IT partner could be the answer. Unlocking countless opportunities Becoming educated on the topic of cybersecurity and its importance for an organisation is the first step Physical security integrators who feel uncomfortable diving headfirst into the digital realm may find that strategically aligning themselves with an IT or cyber firm will unlock countless opportunities. By opening the door to a partnership with an IT-focused firm, integrators receive the benefit of cybersecurity insight on future projects and a new source of RMR through continued consulting with current customers. In exchange, the IT firm gains a new source of clients in an industry otherwise untapped. This is a win for all those involved. While manufacturers, dealers and integrators play a large part in the cybersecurity of physical systems, end users also play a crucial role. Becoming educated on the topic of cybersecurity and its importance for an organisation is the first step. Commonplace cybersecurity standards Below is a list of commonplace cybersecurity standards that all organisations should work to implement for the protection of their own video surveillance solutions: Always keep camera firmware up to date for the latest cyber protections. Change default passwords, especially those of admins, to keep the system locked to outside users. Create different user groups with separate rights to ensure all users have only the permissions they need. Set an encryption key for surveillance recordings to safeguard footage against intruders and prevent hackers from accessing a system through a backdoor. Enable notifications, whether for error codes or storage failures, to keep up to date with all systems happenings. Create/configure an OpenVPN connection for secured remote access. Check the web server log on a regular basis to see who is accessing the system. Ensure that web crawling is forbidden to prevent images or data found on your device from being made searchable. Avoid exposing devices to the internet unless strictly necessary to reduce the risk of attacks.

The devil is in the details. The broader implications of the U.S. Government ban on Chinese video surveillance manufacturers are being clarified in the federal rule-making process, and a public hearing in July gave the industry a chance to speak up about the impact of the law. Ban on equipment The hearing centered on Section 889 of Title VII of the National Defense Authorisation Act (NDAA) for FY 2019, specifically paragraph (a)(1)(B). The paragraph "prohibits agencies from entering into a contract (or extending or renewing a contract) with an entity that uses any equipment, system, or service that uses covered telecommunications equipment or services as a substantial or essential component of any system, or as critical technology as part of any system." “Covered equipment” refers to products and services from Huawei, ZTE Corp., Hytera, Hikvision and Dahua “Covered equipment” refers to products and services from Huawei Technologies Co., ZTE Corp., Hytera Communications Corp., Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Co. and Dahua Technology Co. Hikvision and Dahua are two of the largest manufacturers of video surveillance equipment, and Huawei manufactures HiSilicon chips widely used in video cameras. ‘Chinese ban’ provision The public hearing was part of the rule-making process for paragraph (a)(1)(B), which the industry has informally referred to as the “blacklist” provision of the NDAA. However, the “Chinese ban” provision [Paragraph (a)(1)(a)] is not at issue, was not covered by the public hearing, and is already scheduled to go into effect a year after the law was signed by President Trump (August 13, 2018).   There were seven presentations at the public hearing. Presenters included the Security Industry Association (SIA), two Hikvision integrators, a representative of communications manufacturer Hytera, an economist and an attorney on behalf of telecommunications company Huawei, and Honeycomb Secure Systems, a federal contractor. There was no livestream or transcription of the meeting, although PowerPoint summaries of the 10-minute presentations were published.   SIA emphasises on clarity In its presentation, the Security Industry Association (SIA) emphasised that contractors need clarity, i.e., that paragraph (a)(1)(B) applies to an entity's use of covered equipment or services in the performance of federal contracts, but NOT to non-federal sales or use of covered equipment by a contractor that is unrelated to federal work. SIA also focused on the distinction (and contrasting risk profiles) between video surveillance equipment, which are endpoint devices that may or may not be on the Internet, and telecommunications equipment. In contrast, telecommunications equipment is essential to Internet infrastructure and manages all data on a network, encrypted or not.    Fully-compliant video surveillance products Security equipment suppliers and integrators doing federal work can offer fully compliant video surveillance products" SIA's presentation included the following "outcome" statement: "Security equipment suppliers and integrators doing federal work can offer fully compliant video surveillance products in the federal market, while offering other products tailored to technical requirements, price points and specific customer needs that vary widely for non-government commercial sectors – e.g. malls, banks, convenience stores, etc.” In other words, involvement in government contracts should not restrict an integrator’s flexibility to offer any and all products and services (included those from the listed Chinese companies) to non-government customers. The two integrators made similar points, specifically about their business with Hikvision. One presenter was Rick Williams, General Manager of Selcom, a systems integrator in Selma, Ala., with 10 employees. They have been a Hikvision partner since 2012 with a year-to-date revenue from Hikvision products of approximately $400,000. Hikvision integrators speak out A second integrator at the hearing was Mark Zuckerman of Clear Connection Inc., a security company in Beltsville, Md., with 32 local employees, that focuses on electronic security, telecommunications and IT. Clear Connection designs, installs and services systems throughout Metro DC and Baltimore, including commercial entities, schools and non-profit organisations. They do about $120,000 a year in business as a Hikvision partner and have over $500,000 in business awaiting federal NSGP [Nonprofit Security Grant Program] approval. In two almost identical presentations, the integrators sought clear guidance on how to comply with the language of the law as written, specifically confirmation that Section 889 of the NDAA does not apply to non-federal sales or use of covered equipment. "This is critical to my company as I provide integrated security solutions across multiple government and commercial markets, using a mix of products from different manufacturers tailored to the technical requirements, price points and customer needs that vary widely for each sector," said Williams. Hytera speaks at hearing It is not clear what Section 889 means, who it applies to, or how far its prohibitions extend" "It is not clear what Section 889 means, who it applies to, or how far its prohibitions extend," commented Zuckerman. "If interpreted broadly, some of my customers would be barred from entering into a federal contract because they have covered products installed in their facility to protect their property and staff.” Also presenting at the hearing was Hytera, a manufacturer of open standard digital mobile radio technology. The presentation emphasised that Hytera does not sell to U.S. telecommunications carriers, and does not supply 5G components or video surveillance equipment. Hytera equipment is used by federal customers such as the National Gallery of Art, National Archives, National Zoo and the Holocaust Museum. Impact on clients and commerce "These federal entities do not play a role in national security, and the Hytera systems do not connect to any critical systems," says the company. "However, the lack of clarity in the implementation of the NDAA has a significant impact on Federal, state and commercial clients, impacting competition and choice." Hytera's presentation continues: "Hytera has never been informed by any U.S. government entity that its equipment posed a national security risk and as such has not been given the opportunity to respond to any concerns. The result of Section 889 is the creation and circulation of misinformation in the marketplace." Hytera also said that the federal proposed rules and regulations should exempt federal agencies that do not include a national security component, and equipment not interconnected with the public network. Impact on cybersecurity Consolidating the number of equipment suppliers hinders rather than helps cybersecurity" James E. Gauch, an attorney with James Day speaking on behalf of Huawei, offered a global argument that could be applied to any of the banned companies: “Virtually all equipment manufacturers rely on a global supply chain and face security risks from a wide range of sources, excluding may be one or two vendors based on their national origin will not address these risks.” He adds, “However, consolidating the number of equipment suppliers hinders rather than helps cybersecurity. Creating a small number of dominant suppliers, regardless of national origin, reduces the incentives of those suppliers to embrace industry-leading standards and creates greater exposure to vulnerabilities of a single supplier.”

Critical infrastructure facilities are vulnerable to many security challenges, from terrorism to natural disasters. Challenges also include vandalism, theft, employee identification and verification, access control, regulations, and the increasing infiltration of connectivity and the Internet of Things. In addition, many critical infrastructure facilities are housed in harsh and hazardous environments, which adds to the challenges to keep employees and facilities secure. The security risks facing a utility, telecom provider or other critical infrastructure facilities can have far-reaching consequences, including major disruption of core services. It’s essential to minimise the risk of any incidents that could disturb operations and lead to a loss of income or fines. Providing security to critical infrastructure often requires incorporating legacy systems, integrating siloed solutions and automating error-prone manual operations.  Data capture form to appear here! Locks remain essential CLIQ locking system from ASSA ABLOY can simplify security and workflow for critical infrastructure entitiesAs a tool to address the complex security scenarios facing critical infrastructure, locks are indispensable. In critical infrastructure environments, locks are often required to be resistant to extreme temperatures, dust and toxic substances, fire and explosions. Locks must also perform in environments that are even more challenging, including rain and manipulation. Critical infrastructure facilities can benefit from a high-security locking system that combines electronic and mechanical security; in effect, providing an intelligent combination of both. CLIQ locking system from ASSA ABLOY can simplify security and workflow for critical infrastructure entities. With terrorism posing a serious threat, perimeter fencing, doors and their locks are the first line of defense against potential intruders at installations such as chemical and power plants, gas terminals, oil refineries, utilities, transport, hospitals, research facilities and other major areas which need controlled access. With terrorism posing a serious threat, perimeter fencing, doors and their locks are the first line of defense against potential intruders CyberLock smart keys CyberLock electromechanical lock cylinders and smart keys record access details of who opened, or attempted to open, every lock, providing critical information when investigating a security breach. In addition, CyberLock enables users to instantly add or delete electronic keys. This eliminates exposure due to lost or stolen keys, and also allows users to assign customised access privileges based on time, date, and authority level. CyberLock cylinders are designed to operate in a variety of applications where high security is required, such as entry gates, chemical feed areas, watersheds, and other water sources. The system’s electronic keys cannot be duplicated or copied, and can be deactivated if lost or stolen, thus reducing the risk of unauthorised entry. Key management solutions Traka has been a source of key management solutions, providing asset protection and process controlThe flexibility and protection of key management is another area of improvement that critical infrastructure companies are benefitting from. With multiple facilities sited at different locations, staff can quickly be granted authorisation to access keys with the press of a button, allowing supervisors to adjust their security based on the needs of the business. Because of the customisation ability, the use of key management systems is continuing to grow throughout the utility sectors as assets increase and varying levels of access management can be set through the system. Traka has been a source of key management solutions, providing asset protection and process control for the industry with smart cabinets and lockers integrated alongside efficient software.

Physical security has been stuck in a forensic and siloed mindset for decades, while the rest of the enterprise has evolved and transformed into proactive, connected operations. A new security management platform based on artificial intelligence (AI) seeks to change that status quo by using modern tools for unification, analytics and controls. AI-based security management  “Security teams are managing more moving parts than ever,” says Clayton Brown, Co-Founder of ReconaSense. “As it stands today, the industry can’t keep pace with the digital transformation and the ‘smart’ movement. Physical security must transition from forensic security to proactive, risk-adaptive security.” ReconaSense says the company is changing the physical security industry with AI-based technology and a risk-adaptive approach ReconaSense says the company is changing the physical security industry with AI-based technology and a risk-adaptive approach. “We’re focused on making security integrated, adaptive and proactive,” says Brown. The flagship product, ReconAccess, is a risk-adaptive physical access control system. It controls who can go where, when, in a building. Taken a step further, ReconAccess analyses risk to prevent an authorised person from entering a room if there is a danger or threat present. It also can spot abnormal activity that may warrant further investigation, i.e., insider threats. ReconAccess unification security solution ReconAccess is part of a unification platform that includes geospatial AI, mobile apps and analytics. ReconaSense helps organisations to mitigate risk effectively in two ways. First, the system pulls in data from disparate systems into a unified language. And then, it enables users to proactively identify risk and threats before they become issues. “We provide actionable guidance and unprecedented visibility so that they can implement appropriate controls for quick remediation and risk mitigation,” says Brown.  In general, ReconaSense will improve life safety, future-proof physical security, and provide enhanced situational awareness, he says. Application programming interfaces (APIs) By creating a database translation layer through application programming interfaces (APIs), ReconaSense normalises diverse data into a common language, or database. Previous unification platforms have presented data from different systems into a common presentation layer. ReconaSense goes deeper by extracting, transforming and loading these diverse languages into a common format for humans and machines alike to understand what is going on across their operation in real-time. ReconaSense was honoured with the Security Industry Association (SIA) New Product Showcase Award for Access Control Software at ISC West 2019 Security and risk unification The ReconaSense security and risk unification platform integrates and translates siloed data across systems, devices and applications into a common language, which makes it easier to focus on what matters most and keep risk at bay. “We can change permissions in real time based on any individual behavior or environment,” says Brown. “Being able to assess risk on both sides of the door enables organisations to not only improve security but also improve life safety. We are also positioned to detect insider threats and to streamline operations overall.” Security and data integration ReconaSense provides a common operating picture integrating all the incoming security and relevant data across an organisation ReconaSense provides a common operating picture integrating all the incoming security and relevant data across an organisation. The security intelligence platform can detect early warning signs and abnormal events and implement remediation actions swiftly. The platform can more deeply integrate 3rd-party data systems, analyse and score the data for risk trends, and then activate changes with a native access control system based on this intelligence. ReconaSense works with traditional security integrators as its exclusive channel. They are actively adding more dealers to the network. At this point, distribution is not on the roadmap, but could be beyond the current horizon as the industry matures. Intelligent approach to physical security "The market is ready for the new technology", says Brown. “We must continue to educate integrators and end users on the need to move to a more proactive, intelligent and integrated approach for physical security,” he says. “We have to help demonstrate that AI is not as scary or far away as you think. It’s here today.” In one year, ReconaSense expects to grow its team and partner network significantly and to be deployed in a variety of sites across North America. The current team consists of technologists, engineers, IT and physical security experts and data scientists. ReconaSense is headquartered in Austin, Texas, and has a technology center in New York.

Health services and their funding have long been in the news, with social care and mental health coming in for particular attention. Both of these core areas are seeing a growing need for their services. While nationally this is a problem, there is good news in East Anglia with the opening of the 16 bedroom Samphire Ward at Chatterton House, a new acute care mental health facility in King’s Lynn, Norfolk. The build comprised of a refurbishment of two redundant wards linked to create one modern compliant 16 bed facility at a cost of £4m which is operated by North and West Norfolk Care Group, part of Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (NSFT). NSFT provides inpatient and community-based mental health services in both Norfolk and Suffolk. It is also commissioned to provide in some of its localities, learning disability services, along with other specialist services including medium and low secure services and wellbeing. Continuim access control system Many of these sites use a legacy building access control system called Continuim The new facility is one of many sites across Norfolk and Suffolk that fall under management of the trust. Managing over 4,000 staff and controlling over 1500 access controlled doors across multiple sites. Many of these sites use a legacy building access control system called Continuim which is a bolt on module to Trend BMS, where all doors on this system are required to be wired on-line. Several years ago the trust wanted a more modern contactless access control solution for their facilities in Norfolk and Suffolk. They specifically wanted a solution that offered cost savings by not having to wire all doors. SALTO access control was chosen for fitting to new and refurbishment projects, with a view to possibly retro-fitting the new solution across all the existing sites on a rolling upgrade basis as time and future budgets allow. SALTO access control solution Security and Infrastructure Manager for the Strategic Estates department at the trust, Paul Evans, says “By choosing SALTO the trust were able to specify a mix of online and offline equipment. The cost saving for offline equipment enables the trust to specify more internal offline doors to become controllable as part of the access control system, thus giving us greater flexibility and security for our facilities.” Evans continues “Given the nature of our work and that some of our service users can have really challenging behaviour issues, it is vital that for their safety and that of the staff, we are able to control access simply and easily yet securely into and around the many different areas of the ward, the administration area and indeed the rest of the rooms in the building.” Contactless smart access control Reduced-ligature hardware working with contactless smart access control was needed in the user areas A standard off-the-shelf access control solution was not suitable as reduced-ligature hardware working with contactless smart access control was needed in the user areas together with anti-barricade doors, vision panels, automatic lockdown abilities, locker locks and a host of other special items and so we wanted a company with specialist experience in this field to carry out the supply and installation.” After going out to a competitive open tending process, local security specialist and certificated SALTO partner AC Leigh, based in Norwich, won the contract to secure the new facility. One of their lead designers, Simon Clarkson, worked with Paul and his team to design and deliver the system. Central monitoring system Clarkson, Health and Safety Director at AC Leigh says “We listened to what Paul and his team needed and especially how they wanted to manage and control the building and delivered a completely focused solution that allows central administration of the facility using hardware and software from SALTO Systems as the core of the solution.” On-line wall readers are used to control access into and around the building and these have been installed on main entry points, alongside bedroom doors and in ‘airlocks’ to control access from one area to another. SALTO slave control units Paul Evans says, “The latest SALTO online CU4200 control units were used on this project where data can be shared to SALTO slave control units via a single master control unit. This reduced the load on the already exhausted IT infrastructure which has meant that more online doors can be added to the SALTO system.” Bedroom doors are all fail secure with mechanical key override and are also anti-barricade. The facility has the bespoke ability to operate a standard 8 male, 8 female bedroom configurations. However, the trust wanted the flexibility to extend either male or female bedrooms to 10 bedrooms. This was achieved by two swing corridor doors. Electro-magnetic locks In standard operation, these powered swing doors are held open with electro-magnetic locks In standard operation, these powered swing doors are held open with electro-magnetic locks. In their swing scenario a key switch can be operated which releases the hold open magnet and energises the SALTO system powering a separate electronic locking device on the door. This enables the trust to easily maintain the required gender separation within the bedroom areas. Paul Evans comments “AC Leigh were able to configure the required solution easily and train the staff in its operation accordingly.” Aelement Fusion smart locks Other doors are fitted with Aelement Fusion smart locks. AC Leigh worked closely with the trust to design and manufacture special reduced ligature handles and reader covers to ensure that ligature points were reduced in conjunction with DHF technical specification TS001:2013 enhanced requirements and test methods for anti-ligature hardware. “The consultation between AC Leigh and the trust took several months with multiple prototypes being presented to the trust for approval.”, Evans says, adding “After looking at all the various options, the trust is happy that the best solution for this type of battery operated offline door has been chosen and installed at Chatterton house.” He also confirms that the bespoke design would be used as their preferred solution on future projects for this type of door. XS4 Mini locks Meanwhile in staff areas XS4 Mini locks are fitted. In open common areas, lockers are equipped with smart XS4 locker locks enabling each service user to have a secure storage place for their individual personal items. To operate the various doors, staff use their smartcard ID badges to gain access while service users use wristbands to access their bedroom, locker and certain permissible doors. SALTO SPACE electronic locking Tying all this together is SALTO SPACE a flexible, fully integrated electronic locking and software platform Tying all this together is SALTO SPACE a flexible, fully integrated electronic locking and software platform that enables operators to effectively manage every door and user access plan on-site via powerful web-based access control management software. Audit trail information from the doors is held for 31 days before deletion in accordance with the trust data policy.  Simon Clarkson concludes “The client needed precise tailoring of access levels and the SALTO access control solution has empowered them with an intuitive, easy to use but adaptive system. The use of this standalone largely battery operated access control system will provide significant cost savings over the years to come compared with other systems, and will deliver a reduction in engineer call-outs and simplify system administration making for a long term secure and reliable access control solution for the trust.”

Ping Identity, the provider of Identity Defined Security, announces its successful completion of the Financial-grade API (FAPI) conformance testing, as part of the process defined by Open Banking Ltd. This builds on Ping Identity’s previous success as the first identity platform to pass all 70 technical security tests, as set by Open Banking Ltd., with zero warnings. The most recent set of FAPI conformance testing evaluated the latest versions of the Ping Intelligent Identity platform, including PingFederate, PingAccess and PingDirectory, within a mock banking environment. Additional technical requirements It switches to an API model with structured data that utilises a token model such as Open Authorisation The inclusion of FAPI within the Ping Identity solution for Open Banking helps allow banks to overcome insecure practices such as screen scraping by using stored user credentials. Instead, it switches to an API model with structured data that utilises a token model such as Open Authorisation. FAPI is a technical specification developed as a multi-industry standard by the FAPI Working Group of OpenID Foundation (OIDF). It leverages OAuth 2.0 and OpenID Connect (OIDC) to define additional technical requirements for the financial industry and other sectors requiring higher security. For banks specifically, FAPI provides various advantages. This includes enabling applications to securely interact with financial accounts, while also enhancing the user’s ability to control security and privacy settings. Secure identity requirements In concurrence with the specification, OpenID Foundation maintains a cloud-based testing suite for conformance testing by banks, certified third-party security providers and platform vendors—such as Ping Identity. The Ping Intelligent Identity platform is used by hundreds of financial services enterprises, including many of the CMA 9 and Open Banking Ltd. itself. Additionally, FAPI is of increasing relevance to the growing number of new fintech start-ups in areas such as investment, wealth management, insurance, payments and even real estate. “This is significant beyond the Open Banking and financial services sector,” explains Rob Otto, EMEA Field CTO, Ping Identity. “Other digitally-focused sectors, with similar secure identity requirements, now have a proven template that can allow them to quickly deploy their own security controls, which have been stringently tested by the largest financial institutions in the UK.”

New Covent Garden Market is the largest wholesale fruit, vegetable, and flower market in the United Kingdom. Redevelopment work launched in 2015 included a new security monitoring system, as well as a migration from analogue security equipment to an IP solution from FLIR Systems. New Covent Garden Market is a phenomenon in London, to say the least. The world-famous wholesale market provides 40 percent of London’s fresh fruit and vegetables eaten outside the home and serves 75 percent of London’s florists. With more than 175 affiliated businesses, New Covent Garden Market is the largest wholesale market in the UK. IP-based security system Redevelopment construction works started in 2015 and should continue until 2022 When London authorities decided to redevelop the entire site on Nine Elms and Battersea in order to meet future needs, it was clear that New Covent Garden Market was facing a huge operational challenge. Redevelopment construction works started in 2015 and should continue until 2022. In addition to a better road layout, improved waste management, and upgraded parking facilities, the market authorities wanted better security so that employees, tenants, customers and suppliers would feel safer. The organisation wanted to upgrade its legacy analogue CCTV technology to an IP-based security system capable of incorporating future upgrades. Surrey-based company Phoenix Integrated Security Limited, which had been the security solution provider for New Covent Garden Market for years, oversaw the security overhaul, as well. Future-proof system “We designed a security system together with the end customer and the site constructor so that it could meet today’s security standards again,” said Trevor Hearn, Director at Phoenix Integrated Security Limited. “We were looking for a future-proof system that was able to monitor this complex site and that was easy to work with for our security guard personnel. We looked at various manufacturers for this, but FLIR Systems was the only company that ticked all the boxes.” Phoenix opted for FLIR United VMS, which includes FLIR’s enterprise-level software solution Latitude, and a wide range of FLIR IP cameras. At the end of 2018, New Covent Garden Market already had more than 300 IP cameras installed across the entire site it intends to gradually upgrade all analogue systems over a five-year period. Wide range of cameras The image quality of the FLIR IP cameras represents a huge improvement over analogue The site combines a wide range of cameras, including the FLIR Quasar 4K fixed box camera, the FLIR Ariel Quad HD bullet camera, and the Quasar 1080p PTZ camera. The cameras offer high evidentiary detail and discreet, compact form factors. According to Hearn, the image quality of the FLIR IP cameras represents a huge improvement over analogue. Image quality is not the only benefit of using United VMS. Another valued feature is the platforms scalability. From 2016 onwards, New Covent Garden Market has been gradually replacing analogue cameras and storage equipment across the entire site, and Latitude has the flexibility to incorporate an unlimited number of channels. Body-worn cameras Operators have the flexibility to present their video sources on screen where they want and define user profiles to see only specific video sources from a given particular building, for example. “This project is an engineer’s dream,” said Hearn. “The FLIR Latitude system allows New Covent Garden Market to easily expand their camera network whenever they feel the need and to connect with practically any camera they want, including body-worn cameras. The Latitude system is also easy to couple with third-party systems, such as intercom and access control systems.”

Crossword Cybersecurity plc, has announced that Stevenage Borough Council, Peterborough City Council and East Hertfordshire District Council (‘the Councils’), will use Rizikon Assurance to manage compliance with the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) with their suppliers and for wider information governance. GDPR compliance GDPR makes many requirements of organisations, including taking adequate steps to ensure data is both encrypted and anonymised, so that in the event of a breach, the data cannot be exploited. Infringements under GDPR can lead to fines of €20 million, or 4% of annual global turnover for an organisation. Data breaches can be accidental, through the loss of a laptop for example, or as a result of an intentional breach or cyber-attack With a combined residential population of over 430,000, the Councils have a duty to ensure that the personal information of all residents is adequately protected against the risk of data breach, either by the Councils themselves or the third-party suppliers and agencies with which they work. Data breaches can be accidental, through the loss of a laptop for example, or as a result of an intentional breach or cyber-attack.  GDPR risk exposure Using Rizikon Assurance, the Councils will improve the process and accuracy of securing third party assurance. This will support compliance with GDPR, and establish a way to manage on-going assurance checks when needed at regular intervals. Additionally, the Councils will be in a position to identify GDPR risk exposure across their supplier portfolio, so that remedial action can be taken to improve the protection of citizen data. Jake Holloway, Director responsible for Rizikon Assurance, commented, “The role of every public service organisation is to serve its citizens, often holding personal information about them on many sensitive topics such as health, benefits and education. With that comes the responsibility of ensuring that information is protected, especially when it needs to be shared with partner organisations.” Rizikon Assurance Jake adds, “Rizikon Assurance will help any organisation dramatically improve the speed and reliability of its third-party assurance processes, covering areas such as GDPR, health & safety, the Modern Slavery Act and any other requirements that they may have.  It moves third party assurance from a siloed and reactive activity, to a connected, proactive continuous process that delivers a complete view of third-party risk.”

Siemens Mobility and globally renowned mission critical communications (MCX or MCC) enabler, Softil have jointly announced an agreement that will see a range of next generation communications solutions come to market for use in Long Term Evolution-Railway (LTE-R) railways as well as Mission-Critical Push-To-Talk (MCPTT) metro applications like underground/tram buses, etc. Siemens Mobility adopts Softil's BEEHD client framework to bring best-of-breed mission critical communications solutions to LTE-R rail networks; solutions will also support the UIC's FRMCS strategy to build a Global Rail Traffic Management System for the entire rail industry MCX solutions The MCX solutions will support the Future Railway Mobile Communications Systems of the UIC The MCX solutions will support the Future Railway Mobile Communications Systems (FRMCS) of the International Union of Railways (UIC) to build a Global Rail Traffic Management System (GRTMS) for the entire rail industry, bringing significant economic and operational benefits and efficiencies to operators in the process. "The rail industry is at the forefront of the mission-critical communication revolution and GSM-R based systems have already been replaced by LTE-R solutions in Asia Pacific (APAC) and the trend is expected to widen across other markets in 2019/20," says Pierre Hagendorf, Softil's CEO. "With Softil's BEEHD client framework at the heart of Siemens Mobility's next generation LTE-R offerings, the rail industry will have a range of supremely reliable solutions packed with rich communication features." The new radio system for the Railway industry has to guarantee the interoperability with GSM-R while delivering on these three main areas: Critical communications - Secure voice communication between driver and signaller, provision for emergency and group calls, real-time video imagery for any occurring incidents and the intelligent bearer for European Train Control System (ETCS) and Automatic Train Operation (ATO) operation; Performance communications - Track condition monitoring, Connected Driver Advisory System (C-DAS), on-train telemetry, maintenance of non-critical infrastructure, non-critical real-time video, wireless communication for on-train-staff; Business communications - passenger information system, passenger entertainment and passenger communication connections. Siemens Mobility will enable existing GSM-R users to develop a migration plan that will enable all of the above. BEEHD client technology LTE-R is the foundation for the railway variant of the 3GPP MCC over LTE/5G (MCPTT) standard "The rail industry is facing unprecedented challenges in handling increasing numbers of passengers and freight traffic loads," says Russell Clarke, General Manager, Mobile Communications at Siemens Mobility. "After careful analysis of market options, Siemens Mobility chose Softil's BEEHD client technology as the outstanding Software Development Kit (SDK) for our developers to build best-of-breed LTE-R communications solutions for the rail industry in the shortest timeframe." LTE-R is the foundation for the railway variant of the 3GPP MCC over LTE/5G (MCPTT) standard. What sets the LTE-R technology apart from the currently used GSM-R is that it brings the full power of broadband networks including voice, video, text, images, location and more and not just simple voice. LTE-R technology The Softil BEEHD framework is LTE-R compatible and will enable Siemens Mobility's solutions to deliver stable voice as well as data communications on trains running at speeds in excess of 400km/h. LTE-R technology makes possible live tracking of a train and transmitting railroad information to engine drivers, and also enables multimedia-based group calling and SMS services on top of voice call services. Additionally, real-time group/individual communication is made possible between train engineers and control centers. BEEHD IP communications solution is a cross-platform framework designed for system integrators BEEHD IP communications Softil's BEEHD IP communications solution is a cross-platform framework (SDK) designed for chipset vendors, device manufacturers, system integrators, application developers and service providers looking to accelerate the development of IP-based voice and video over LTE (VoLTE, ViLTE and MCPTT/MCX) solutions. The quality of the award-winning SDK is unmatched within the communications industry and BEEHD was proven to satisfy all required key performance indicators (KPIs) set by the 3GPP MCX standard, as well as often even stricter KPIs required by global carriers and service providers.

NiskhamSWAT, a charity that provides hot meals and everyday essentials to homeless people in the UK, has partnered with Videx Security, to overcome their access control and entry challenges. The charity, which was established in 2009 in West London, now serves disadvantaged communities in Oxford, Reading, Milton Keynes, Birmingham, Slough, Windsor and Lancashire as well as London. It’s run by volunteers and the charity currently has 1,300 volunteers across the country, serving those who need it the most. Need of a convenient access control solution We needed a more flexible and convenient access control solution that still provided a high level of security too"Randeep S. Lall, Global Operations Director at the charity, said: “We provide 3,000 meals per week to those in need which means our main warehouse in London is extremely busy 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Security and appropriate access and entry are so important." “Although we have a secured electric gate that drivers have to report to in order to gain entry, it meant someone had to permanently stay at the warehouse to grant delivery and collection vans access. This wasn’t sustainable given we are a completely volunteer led organisation. We needed a more flexible and convenient access control solution that still provided a high level of security too.” NiskhamSWAT, who have recently won a Queen’s Award for voluntary service, worked with leading access control and door entry distributor, ADI to overcome their entry challenges. GSM audio kit with code lock Joseph Davies at ADI explained: “We recommended a GSM access control system to NiskhamSWAT to help solve their entry issues. After researching which solution would work best, we advised that the charity used a Videx two-way GSM audio kit with code lock and proximity access control in a 4000 series style panel.” The GSM system we’ve donated to them enables people to answer calls to their front door or gate from mobile phone" Neil Thomas, National Sales Manager at Videx, continued: “When ADI contacted us, we were more than happy to help provide a system that could solve NiskhamSWAT’s access problem. The GSM system we’ve donated to them enables people to answer calls to their front door or gate from their mobile phone or landline, so they never have to miss that important visitor and are made aware of who has visited even when they are not there.” Easy programming of the entrance panel For NiskhamSWAT, this means that no one is required to remain at the warehouse 24/7 to authorise access. If a van arrives for a collection or delivery and no one is there, the system will call the designated number for access and has the facility to divert to another number if the first call is not answered, with a maximum of up to four numbers per button. Programming the entrance panel can easily be carried out either by SMS or dialling into the system using a telephone without a keypad. Randeep at NiskhamSWAT added: “Huge thanks to ADI and Videx for the donation and free installation from Image Security too. It’s helped us out massively as it meant no one has to stay at the warehouse, freeing up precious volunteering time that can be put to better use elsewhere. It’s so much more convenient to receive a call when someone is asking for access. I can verify the caller and swiftly authorise or deny access.”

Passwords are one of the most familiar elements of information systems, but also one that can be overlooked or underutilised. New alternatives are emerging, and the role of passwords is evolving in the age of the Internet of Things. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How is the role of passwords changing in physical security systems?

One impact of Chinese companies entering the physical security market has been an erosion in product pricing, creating what has been called the "race to the bottom". However, political forces and cybersecurity concerns have presented new challenges for Chinese companies. Adding cybersecurity increases costs, and the addition of more functionality to edge devices is another trend that has impacted product pricing. We asked this week's Expert Panel Roundtable: Has price erosion ended (or slowed down) in the security market? 

Artificial intelligence is on the verge of changing the face of multiple industries – from healthcare to entertainment to finance, from data security to manufacturing to the cars we drive (or that will drive themselves!) In the physical security market, AI has garnered a lot of attention as a buzzword and as a harbinger of things to come. We asked this week's Expert Panel Roundtable: What security markets are most likely to embrace artificial intelligence (AI)?