Video surveillance

Regula, a developer of forensic devices and identity verification solutions, brought document verification to the catwalk at the annual Intergraf Currency+Identity conference. Regula’s molded lenses, magnifiers, and optical filter turrets became key design elements in a fashion show featuring iconic Milanese characters: the office worker, the curious tourist, the street performer, and the child eating gelato. Document verification solutions Intergraf conference connects technology developers with a range of institutional corps The Intergraf Currency+Identity conference connects technology developers with a range of institutional organisations, such as security printing companies, central banks, and law enforcement agencies from all over the world.  Responding to the rising need for robust document verification solutions, Regula presented various devices, from compact magnifiers to full-scale video spectral comparators. Magnification of IDs’ security features While small devices provide high-quality magnification of IDs’ and banknotes’ security features to examine their authenticity, advanced equipment (such as the High-Resolution Photospectral Scanner Regula 88XX) allows for the most detailed inspection of all sorts of documents, as well as collectibles and art objects.  Sharing its passion for art and creativity, Regula was honoured to contribute to the fashion defilé held on the opening day of Intergraf Currency+Identity. Partnered with NABA  The conference organisers partnered with NABA, an art and design academy in Milan The conference organisers partnered with NABA (Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti), an art and design academy in Milan, to launch a creative project titled “A Pocket Full of Milan.” Within this project, young designers developed several fashion outfits representing typical street characters of the city, such as an office worker, a policeman, a fashionista, a commuter, and a tourist. The icing on the cake: the central character of this lineup was a pickpocket who stole costume parts from other characters while they were walking the catwalk, and ended up as the most dressed-up one. Document security features To create two of these outfits, NABA’s students chose the spare parts that Regula uses to manufacture its devices. For example, Regula’s in-house molded lenses (generally used to enable the anti-Stokes effect for examining document security features) became suit embellishments of the costume of a true Milanese office worker, or Office Siren, as it was called by the creators. Regula’s video spectral comparators Regula’s video spectral comparators to create the right light source for precise document review Additionally, magnifiers that were provided by Regula turned out to be a handy tool for a tourist perusing a city map. Finally, optical filter turrets that are used in Regula’s video spectral comparators to create the right light source for precise document examination appeared as vibrant outfit accessories for two more Milanese characters: the street performer and the child eating gelato. Innovative identity verification solutions “At Regula, we believe technology and creativity go hand in hand. Developing new technologies is always a creative process—it requires imagination, experimentation, and a willingness to see possibilities beyond the obvious. That’s why we were especially excited to support the artists at the Intergraf Currency+Identity fashion show. Just as we push the boundaries of forensic technology to develop innovative identity verification solutions, artists push creative boundaries to bring new ideas to life." "Seeing our precision-engineered components transformed into fashion pieces was a perfect reflection of this shared spirit of innovation. It was an honour to be part of an event that celebrates both technical excellence and artistic expression,” says Alex Lewanowicz, Director of Hardware Engineering at Regula. 

Keynetics, the provider of the well-recognised SentriGuard key management solution, is set to showcase its latest integration with AJAX alarm systems at The Security Event, taking place at the NEC Birmingham from 8-10 April. Visitors can find Keynetics on stand 5/L80, where they will also be able to experience live demonstrations of its unique key safe, app, and platform. Keynetics new AJAX integration One of the highlights of this year’s Keynetics offering will be the new AJAX integration, which allows alarm systems to be automatically disarmed and reactivated via the key safe access app when collecting and returning keys Stuart Wheeler, Managing Director at Keynetics, comments, “AJAX integration is just one of several developments we have planned for 2025. We are continuously developing new features that work seamlessly with other security solutions on the market, whether alarm systems, video surveillance, or other security technologies.” Keynetics new partnerships SentriGuard key safes have achieved an unrivalled, certified security grade from LPCB SentriGuard key safes have achieved an unrivalled, certified security grade from LPCB. Additionally, the SentriGuard solution has been shortlisted in the Outstanding New Security Product category at the UK Outstanding Security Performance Awards (OSPAs) 2025, reinforcing their industry-pioneering position in the access control sector. Beyond the UK and US markets, SentriGuard is experiencing significant growth across Europe. In light of this expansion, Keynetics will announce new partnerships with major global players in the vacant and void property, security, and facilities management sectors at the event. SentriGuard demonstration Stuart added, “We look forward to reconnecting with our partners, existing clients, and all visitors at The Security Event.” “While our diaries are quickly filling up with meetings, we will ensure that every stand visitor receives a full SentriGuard demonstration and leaves with the information they need to transform their keyholding processes effectively.” The Safety & Security Event Series The Security Event is part of The Safety & Security Event Series that welcomed a record-breaking number of attendees in 2024 when nearly 50,000 visitors over three days at the NEC. This must-attend exhibition brings together security professionals, including manufacturers, installers, distributors, contractors, and end users.

Hikvision, a world-pioneering manufacturer and supplier of security products and solutions that deliver the ideal combination of high performance and extreme value, is unveiling the advanced surveillance capabilities of AR Live Interaction during its March 20 webinar, where attendees will gain exclusive access to special discounts. This innovative technology, powered by HikCentral Pro (HCP), seamlessly integrates with TandemVu PTZs and PanoVu panoramic cameras, creating a real-time, interactive security environment that enhances situational awareness and accelerates threat response. Hikvision’s AR Live Interaction Hikvision’s AR Live Interaction eliminates these inefficiencies by overlaying critical security data Traditional surveillance systems often leave security teams sifting through multiple video feeds, causing delays when rapid action is critical. Hikvision’s AR Live Interaction eliminates these inefficiencies by overlaying critical security data onto a real-time, interactive digital map, ensuring that security professionals can monitor, analyse, and respond with precision. How organisations manage security operations "Security technology should work for you, not slow you down. With AR Live Interaction, we’re turning video into actionable intelligence, helping security teams eliminate blind spots and respond faster than ever," said John Xiao, Vice President of Marketing at Hikvision USA. “By combining AI-powered analytics, interactive AR mapping, and seamless integration with TandemVu and PanoVu cameras, we are transforming how organisations manage security operations.” Hikvision’s advanced camera technology AR Live Interaction works in conjunction with Hikvision’s advanced camera technology to enhance security operations. Key capabilities include: AR-enhanced surveillance – Overlays live security data onto interactive maps, improving real-time decision-making. AI-driven insights – Accelerates threat detection and response, reducing operational risks. Seamless integration with TandemVu PTZ cameras – Provides both wide-area surveillance and detailed zoomed-in views, ensuring no movement goes undetected. Enhanced situational awareness with PanoVu panoramic cameras – Eliminates blind spots across large areas, delivering comprehensive coverage. Exclusive webinar offer Security professionals who attend the March 20 webinar will receive an exclusive 30% discount on the HCP AR Live Interaction Module and special discounts on select TandemVu camera models for 30 days after the event.

Featuring the Wisenet Road AI solution, the camera combines long-range licence plate detection with make, model and colour recognition (MMCR) for over 600 vehicle models. Hanwha Vision, a global pioneer in video surveillance and security solutions, has launched the PNO-A9311RLP – a 4K AI bullet camera with 31x zoom and the intelligent traffic solution Wisenet Road AI. Smart traffic monitoring PNO-A9311RLP delivers precise vehicle recognition while reducing server and bandwidth demands Ideal for smart cities, the camera offers long-range licence plate detection and can monitor two lanes of traffic at speeds of up to 65mph (100km/h). 4K resolution provides clear images while the edge-based Wisenet Road AI solution comes pre-installed and licensed to aid vehicle identification and investigation searches. With Wisenet Road AI, the PNO-A9311RLP can accurately identify type, make, model, and colour of detected vehicles, across 70 automotive brands, 600 models, and 10 colours. As analysis is carried out on the camera (at the edge), server space and bandwidth requirements are reduced. Enhanced traffic insights Operators can gain greater insights into road usage, with planners able to take trends into account when considering the widening of roads or the creation of new bus and cycle lanes. Furthermore, the pre-installed Road AI solution’s dashboard visualises key statistics such as the number and type of vehicles, e.g. cars, buses and trucks, identified per day or week. Optimised vehicle identification AI-powered vehicle recognition help investigators identify suspects even when plates are swapped or incompleteEyewitness accounts, particularly with regards to vehicle licence number plates, can quite often be inaccurate or incomplete.  The ability to search for vehicles by partial plate numbers or letters, vehicle type, make, model and colour is of great help to investigating teams when searching footage of a vehicle involved in an incident, for example. Additionally, with criminals frequently swapping the licence number on vehicles to avoid ANPR, police can use make, model, and colour search criteria to cross-reference against reports of stolen vehicles or vehicles involved in an incident.   Improved vehicle identification The PNO-A9311RLP has an IR viewable length of 70 metres so licence plates and the make and model of cars can be easily identified in dark scenes. Furthermore, a 6.91~214.64mm (31x) zoom lens enables operators to see the finer details of a vehicle for identification assistance. John Lutz Boorman, Head of Product and Marketing at Hanwha Vision Europe, said, “The PNO-A9311RLP is a powerful camera for ensuring smooth traffic flows in busy areas." "Edge-based Wisenet Road AI provides invaluable contextual information to improve incident responses and investigations, enhancing road safety and traffic efficiency throughout the day.”

The European Union’s GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) framework represents some of the toughest and most secure privacy laws in the world. Their creation signaled the EU’s dedication to individual privacy rights and generated new standards and requirements for an organisation inside or outside of the EU wanting to do business in the region. This privacy stance raises an interesting question: to what extent (if any) will France be utilising AI-assisted security and biometrics - at the upcoming Paris Summer Olympic Games?  AI-assisted security systems As France prepares to host this global event, certain AI-assisted security systems like algorithmic video monitoring have been tested and are planned to be in use. The country also passed a law with a legal framework for addressing provisions of hosting the Games in their country, Law No. 2023-380. These technologies will support the police and security efforts to detect sudden crowd movements, irregular vehicle, and pedestrian movements, abandoned objects, people lying on the ground, and more, any of which could indicate an attack. Local connectivity One recent French poll found that an overwhelming number of respondents support the use of smart cameras Such technologies, which can be connected directly to localised command centers and police departments, provide an opportunity to prevent deadly incidents like the bombing at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, GA. There are signs that citizens of the EU are becoming more receptive to such measures, with one recent French poll finding that an overwhelming number of respondents (89 percent) support the use of smart cameras in stadiums for this purpose.  Biometric technology The general public and private use of biometric technology (face matching, face liveness, and other biometric modalities), on the other hand, continues to run into challenges with adoption in this privacy-focused region. For the most part, laws ban facial recognition, permitting its use only once someone has been convicted or is suspected of having committed a serious crime. Limitations of video surveillance Limiting the utility of biometrics to only video surveillance for an event of the Paris Olympics’ magnitude is not the best approach. The ability to quickly identify or de-identify possible suspects from regular attendees greatly strengthens the activities of the police and helps protect the rights of regular attendees. Consider the example of New York City detectives using facial recognition to identify a man who, in 2019, left a pair of potential bombs in the Fulton Street subway station. Benefits of facial recognition technology Many believe that the use of facial recognition could have expedited and solved the Boston Marathon bombing tragedy With facial recognition technology, it took only one hour to identify the suspect - a process that previously would have taken several hours or even days, leaving the possibility of further damage unresolved. Citing yet another example, many believe that the use of facial recognition could have expedited and solved the Boston Marathon bombing tragedy much sooner and more efficiently, aiding investigators who reportedly had to sift through 120,000 photos and nearly 13,000 videos before identifying the perpetrator. Need for real-time video With an estimated 16 million visitors expected to descend upon France for the Games - and an environment that is harder to protect from bad actors - is limiting the use of biometrics to video surveillance the most effective? In our minds, in certain high-urgency cases, such as tracking kidnapping cases or possible terrorism activity, it should be permissible for facial recognition to be applied to recorded video in real-time and without delay. Public safety Beyond this obvious good that biometrics can bring from a public safety perspective, there are other ways that biometrics can be woven into the fabric of the Summer Olympics to support a faster, more enjoyable experience for all. Consider queue management. In a few weeks, an estimated 2.3 to 3.1 million ticket holders will form lines to access Olympic events. Fingerprint scanning technology People could pass through lines in mere fractions of a second, versus having to fumble for a paper ticket If fingerprints were captured at the point of ticket purchase and fingerprint scanning technologies made available on-site, people could pass through lines in mere fractions of a second, versus having to fumble for a paper ticket that may be torn or damaged, or an e-ticket on a phone with a dead battery. This would speed up the processing of queues tremendously.  Olympics-focused gambling activity Another area where biometrics can be beneficial is in Olympics-focused gambling activity, which is expected to gain steam as the Games get underway. Biometrics can be used to match facial images with legal documentation for age verification, and then combined with geofencing to ensure gambling participants are of legal age, depending on where they are physically based. Biometrics also makes it possible to identify, beyond the shadow of a doubt, all of the activities of particular individuals, which can help track nefarious activities like money laundering.  Evolution of privacy and security We believe biometrics can be a force for major good in our society and around various facets of the upcoming Paris Olympics, most notably public safety. It will be interesting to watch both the 2024 Summer Olympics and the ongoing evolution of privacy and security laws and practices in France and the European Union.

Security manufacturers throw around the term “scalable” a lot these days, but few dive into what scalable really means for modern organisations and their security programs. Achieving true scalability, or as I like to refer to as “expandable with a purpose,” takes planning and coordination from security pioneers alongside the broader organisation. Implementing a flexible strategy is critically important in the age of advancing analytics and intelligence-driven technology. So what exactly do we mean by “scalable”? "Scalable" refers to the capability of a system, process, or technology to handle growth or increased demand without compromising performance, efficiency, or quality. To put it simply, scalability refers to the ability of a solution to expand or adapt to accommodate larger workloads, higher volumes of data, or increased complexity without requiring significant changes to its underlying architecture or design. It’s not enough to create a “fix it and forget it” security program. Not only do the needs of the organisations shift, but growth (or even shrink) is inevitable. How to Approach Growth Pioneers must be prepared to adapt their strategies and approaches to manage security risks For many security pioneers, growth has a trickle-down effect. Expansion through mergers and acquisitions or organic growth, in addition to decreases in facility or employee count, directly impacts the security program. Whether it’s an increase or decrease in size, workload, or scope, these pioneers must be prepared to adapt their strategies and approaches to efficiently manage security risks while maintaining operational efficiency.  Here are some ways security pioneers can approach growth: Assess the here and now: Begin by looking at the current state of your security program, including the resources, capabilities, processes, and technology infrastructure. Understanding existing strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement can help inform planning for the future. Align with the business: This might be one of the most important considerations to make, but ensuring security pioneers understand the organisation’s growth objectives, priorities, and risk tolerance levels is critical to the success of a security program. The most successful security pioneers will be able to align security strategies with business goals to ensure security investments and planning are enabling the company’s growth initiatives. Invest in scalable solutions: Invest in solutions that offer flexibility and can adapt to the changing needs of the organisation. Closed systems that can’t integrate fully with new technologies will severely limit the security team’s ability to seamlessly manage the security portfolio. Optimize processes: Reviewing security processes and workflows – or investing in a platform that can streamline this for you – can improve efficiency and effectiveness for your security team. Identifying opportunities for automation and standardisation can allow for scaling as business needs change.  Collaborate across departments: Preparing for growth initiatives requires extensive communication across departments, including leadership teams, human resources, legal, IT, facilities, and many other stakeholders ensure that security priorities, challenges, and requirements are effectively communicated and integrated. Adopting these approaches helps put security teams in the driver’s seat, effectively managing periods of growth and change without compromising the safety and security of the organisation. Technology considerations As security pioneers navigate investments in new technologies that achieve some of the approaches listed above, such as aligning strategy with business goals, optimising processes, and cross-departmental collaboration, there are several considerations to make. Looking at how technology can support (or even hinder) future growth. For example, when making a buying decision around access control systems, security pioneers must consider the number of users, number of credentials, server requirements, facilities, hardware end points, and software features. As these items are being addressed in an RFP or in conversations with a vendor, security pioneers must ask themselves, “Is there a scenario where my program will outgrow the system’s capabilities in any of these areas?” If so, the answer might be to select a different solution. Security pioneers must consider interoperability. We talk a little about this above, but the importance here cannot be overstated: integration is key. The ability to leverage multiple point solutions, such as access control systems and video surveillance cameras – regardless of manufacturer – provides growing companies with the ability to scale quickly and more efficiently than ever before. Centralising the ability to pull these solutions into a single security operations management platform allows security pioneers a better view of their security programs in a current – and even future – state. Cloud-based solutions can provide the ultimate scalability factor, providing flexibility and accessibility advantages compared to traditional on-premise systems. Cloud-based, or Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platforms, can easily scale up or down based on changing needs, accommodate distributed environments, and provide remote access and management capabilities, making them well-suited for scalable physical security deployments. Data-driven insights and analytics can drive decision-making beyond security, making technology investments that provide these critical. Automated workflows, event-triggered alerts, and AI-driven analytics can streamline security processes, improve threat detection capabilities, and reduce manual intervention, enabling security teams to manage larger environments more efficiently. Centralised management of technology investments can create cohesion for security teams. Centralised management and monitoring of physical security systems across multiple locations or facilities enables personnel to efficiently oversee and control security operations, access controls, and incident response activities. Being able to manage security in a single platform provides security pioneers with the ability to assess staffing levels, streamline training, allocate resources effectively, and scale to additional sites and/or solutions as needed. Tasked with building a security program that can adapt to the changing needs of the organisation, security pioneers must consider a number of factors when setting strategy. First and foremost, taking a close look at the existing program to identify strengths and weaknesses, then truly assessing the technology and processes in place, is the best way to move forward and future-proof the organisation.

The days of being reactive are over. That’s right, we as an industry, can no longer afford to be reactive. As threats evolve, the need for proactive security is critical. While traditional methods, including physical barriers and security personnel, are still necessary, the future of our approach is built on the backs of emerging technologies.  Substantial vulnerabilities As an industry, we’ve operated reactively for decades, it has been common for security teams to address threats only after they occur. The growing risk landscape proves that this approach has significant limitations. Human oversight, delayed responses, and the inability to monitor large areas have exposed substantial vulnerabilities.  Emergence of AI AI enables real-time monitoring, advanced data analysis, and more accurate risk detection Times are changing though and it’s largely due to the emergence of AI. AI is revolutionising the security landscape by making technology smarter. It enables real-time monitoring, advanced data analysis, and more accurate risk detection. This ensures a higher level of security and safety, minimising potential incidents' impact while enhancing overall safety.  Focus on strategic aspects AI's ability to process vast amounts of data quickly and accurately is, quite frankly, a game-changer. It can identify patterns and anomalies that can provide stakeholders with critical insights to respond in a more prepared manner. By automating routine tasks and highlighting potential issues, AI also allows operators to focus on more complex and strategic aspects of security management, rather than responding to false alarms.  The future is AI  The future of security lies in AI. The Security Industry Association (SIA) has recognised AI as one of the top security megatrends in 2024. However, the challenge is not adopting AI, it is about effectively using it to enhance security.  AI can enhance video surveillance by improving object detection and enabling real-time, informed responses AI systems can easily integrate with existing infrastructures, providing a layered defence that combines traditional methods with more modern technology. For example, AI can enhance video surveillance by improving object detection, reducing false alarms, and enabling real-time, informed responses. This ensures that security measures are adaptive, scalable, and capable of addressing the evolving risk landscape.  Don’t react, anticipate  One of AI's most significant benefits is its ability to provide proactive insights. AI can predict potential breaches by analysing behaviour patterns and detecting anomalies allowing security pioneers to do something before an event happens. This shift, from reactive to anticipatory measures, marks a significant advancement in asset protection and risk management.  AI systems can also continuously analyse data and distinguish between everyday events and real-world threats. It’s AI's continuous learning capabilities that mean the systems can adapt and improve over time to become more accurate and efficient in threat detection and response.  Save money, scale on demand  Contrary to common belief, adopting AI technologies will not put a security department over budget. It may be surprising, but these solutions offer cost-effective and scalable alternatives to traditional security measures. An initial investment in AI technology can result in substantial long-term savings (and ROI) by reducing the need for physical infrastructure and on-site security personnel.  Customisable solutions The ability to scale and customise AI solutions makes them an efficient choice for enhancing perimeter defence AI systems are also inherently scalable and can be tailored to meet the specific needs of different environments. This ensures the system can evolve with emerging threats and technological advancements without requiring a complete system overhaul. The ability to scale and customise AI solutions makes them a practical and efficient choice for enhancing perimeter defence. How’s that for staying within budget?  Embrace the possibilities  Integrating AI into perimeter security is the future of proactive and intelligent security. As these technologies continue to evolve, we can expect even more refined solutions that are predictive, autonomous, and capable of directly addressing new and emerging threats. We’re experiencing an exhilarating transformation as AI becomes more trusted, precise, and advanced on multiple levels. This evolution is bigger than pilots and small, low-profile deployments. AI in perimeter security For instance, France is preparing to deploy AI-powered video surveillance as it gears up to host the 2024 Olympics, part of its efforts to detect sudden crowd movements, abandoned objects, and suspicious activities. Think about the sheer scale of that project.  We’re finally moving forward, and staying one step ahead must be our priority. But this shift requires a significant change in mindset. Are you ready to make the change?

As the pioneering security event in the United States, ISC West is truly the global focal point for bringing together professionals across the physical and cybersecurity landscape. The event seeks to showcase innovation in security technology, nurture professional development, and explore the security implications of today’s connected world. Future of security  With the growth of cybersecurity programming and the established Cybersecurity & Connected Internet of Things (IoT) pavilion, ISC West is addressing the future of security head-on. “As the lines between the digital and physical worlds blur, collaboration and shared learning among defenders have never been more critical,” says Mary Beth Shaughnessy, Event Vice President at RX USA, who oversees all aspects of the ISC brand. Shaughnessy previews what’s new at ISC West 2025 and shares other insights in our interview. Q: For long-time attendees at ISC West, what will be the biggest surprise at the 2025 show? Shaughnessy: Long-time attendees know to expect top-tier educational content through the SIA Education@ISC West program (produced by the Security Industry Association (SIA)) in addition to cutting-edge security innovations showcased by 700+ exhibitors. New this year is our focus on technology, training, and education around cyber-physical threats. In today’s connected world, physical and cybersecurity defenders must take a unified, holistic approach to protecting their people, assets, and data. ISC West serves as a bridge between those two worlds, helping organisations tackle the complex security landscape. Q: Presenting a high-profile music concert as part of ISC West is a fun value-add for attendees. Describe how this feature has been embraced by longtime attendees, and the plans for 2025. Shaughnessy: We’re thrilled to announce that the legendary Gin Blossoms will headline the ISC West Concert, sponsored by Wavelynx. This tradition began last year and became a celebrated highlight, offering professionals a chance to unwind and connect with colleagues and peers after a productive day on the show floor. When choosing a performer, we focus on acts that resonate across generations, making the experience both entertaining and memorable for our diverse audience. We are excited to continue this fun and exciting event and networking opportunity. Q: In the past, the education program at ISC West has been seen as secondary to the Expo event. How have you sought to increase the profile of the education program, and what new features will attract more attendees in 2025?   Shaughnessy: We’ve expanded the SIA Education@ISC programming from three to four days, now beginning two days before the expo hall opens. These dedicated education days ensure professionals can engage in thoughtful discussions and gain actionable insights without overlapping with the Expo. This year, we’re proud to partner with RSA to introduce a new “IT for Security Professionals” track while also offering our core tracks, including AI & Digital Transformation, Critical Infrastructure & Data Protection, Cybersecurity & IT, InfraGard National Members Alliance @ ISC, and Video Surveillance. We will also be welcoming powerful keynote speakers — Rachel Wilson, Director of Cybersecurity, Morgan Stanley Wealth Management; Will Bernhjelm, Vice President of Security, Mall of America; and Kate Maxwell, Chief Technology Officer, Worldwide Defense & Intelligence, Microsoft. Q: What else is “new” at ISC West in 2025? Shaughnessy: Our educational programming has grown significantly — this year’s SIA Education@ISC program is our most extensive yet, offering more than 115 sessions led by over 200 distinguished experts. With broader and deeper topics, the program emphasises the critical convergence of cyber and physical security, providing unparalleled insights for today’s security professionals. We are also significantly ramping up our cybersecurity offerings and expect to have more than 50 exhibitors in our Cybersecurity & Connected IoT pavilion with names such as Entrust and Ontic. Q: Networking is a critical aspect of ISC West. How are show organisers working to increase networking opportunities? Shaughnessy: Networking remains a top priority at ISC West, with countless opportunities to build valuable connections. Professionals can join peers at popular spots like The Bridge, The Cyber Hub, and the Career Zone (sponsored by: TEECOM). These spaces offer the chance to learn from industry experts, explore the challenges and innovations shaping the security workforce, and engage in dynamic discussions with peers. Also, returning by popular demand, the ISC West Concert, proudly sponsored by Wavelynx, delivers a vibrant evening of music and networking in a relaxed atmosphere. Together, these experiences ensure networking at ISC West is both impactful and memorable. Q: What is the biggest challenge for organisers of ISC West (and related events), and how are the organisers seeking to address the challenges? Shaughnessy: As with most events, there is a lot of pressure on organisers to ensure there’s “something for everyone,” add meaningful value, and introduce fresh, exciting features. At ISC West, we work to raise the bar each year by expanding our content with more thought pioneers, showcasing a broader range of innovative technologies, and fostering additional networking opportunities. Achieving top-quality results is no small task — it demands careful planning, collaboration, and a dedication to continuous improvement. This means actively listening to the needs of our attendees and exhibitors, staying ahead of industry trends, and ensuring we provide an experience that informs, inspires, and connects the security community.

Big news on the mergers and acquisitions (M&A) front is closing out 2024, a year in which several shifts changed the face of the physical security manufacturer community. Announced in December, German giant Bosch Group is selling its Building Technologies division’s product business for security and communications technology to the European investment firm Triton.  Bosch division selling to Triton  The transaction encompasses three business units – Video, Access and Intrusion, and Communication – and thus the entire product business of Bosch Building Technologies that was offered for sale. All 4,300 associates employed in these units at more than 90 locations worldwide will be taken over. The transaction reflects a growing confidence in the security market among private equity companies such as Triton, Becklar, and Volaris.   Sharing best practices Acre Security and Bosch will remain independent, standalone companies under Triton’s ownership Acre Security, previously acquired by Triton, has benefited from Triton’s strategic guidance and expertise, according to the company, which is confident Bosch will experience the same level of support and opportunity to thrive. Acre Security and Bosch will remain independent, standalone companies under Triton’s ownership, but will benefit from the potential to collaborate and share best practices as part of the broader Triton portfolio.  Resideo acquires Snap One  Earlier in 2024, there were other large M&A transactions. In the spring, Resideo Technologies, Inc., a manufacturer and distributor of technology-driven products and solutions, agreed to acquire Snap One Holdings Corp., a provider of smart-living products, services, and software to professional integrators. The transaction is valued at $1.4 billion, inclusive of net debt. Upon closing, Snap One becomes part of Resideo's ADI Global Distribution business.  Honeywell buys Carrier’s Access Solutions  In late 2023, Honeywell announced plans to enhance and strengthen its building automation capabilities with the acquisition of Carrier Global Corporation’s Global Access Solutions business for $4.95 billion, in an all-cash transaction.  The acquisition, which played out through 2024, includes both hardware and software solutions, adding three respected brands to Honeywell’s portfolio with a focus on life safety and digital access solutions. Acquired brands include LenelS2, commercial and enterprise access solutions; Onity electronic locks; and Supra cloud-based electronic real estate lock boxes. Hirsch reemerges as an iconic brand  The Identiv sale was originally announced in April, subject to regulatory approval Identiv announced plans to sell its physical security business and assets to Vitaprotech, the security solutions provider that also acquired British manufacturer, TDSI, in 2019. The Identiv sale was originally announced in April, subject to regulatory approval.  As a result of the sale, Hirsch, a global security technology pioneer advancing physical security, video intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital identification solutions, announces the relaunch of its iconic brand and strengthened focus on the industry’s most complete high-security, end-to-end platform.  Ease of use security solutions The move seeks to reposition Hirsch as the global pioneer in physical security, video intelligence, and identity solutions, protecting everything from small enterprises to critical national infrastructure. With a 43-year-strong foundation in the industry, Hirsch’s mission has always been empowering a secure, connected world, combining government-grade high security with ease of use. Milestone and Arcules unite  Effective July 1, 2024, global video technology company Milestone Systems announced its merger with the cloud-based video surveillance solutions provider, Arcules. Both companies are owned by Japanese multinational Canon Inc. Based in Irvine, Calif., Arcules was spun off from Milestone in 2017. The merger brings together Milestone and Arcules’ best-in-class capabilities within video management software (VMS), video analytics, and video surveillance as a service (VSaaS), providing a complete video technology offering.  More M&A stories in 2024  In other M&A moves in 2024, cloud-based workforce management software provider Synerion USA Inc. acquired cloud-based video surveillance and access control solutions platform Qumulex Inc. Also, the global pioneer in airspace awareness and security, Dedrone, became part of the public safety and technology company Axon. The acquisition unites two companies with a shared mission to improve public safety and national security by staying ahead of persistent and escalating threats, enabling faster, more effective responses and ultimately protecting more lives in more places.

The pattern of veins in the hand contains unique information that can be used for identity. Blood flowing through veins in the human body can absorb light waves of specific wavelengths. Irradiating the human palm with near-infrared light waves yields an image of the vascular pattern. A venous distribution map can be processed and compared to pre-registered data to match and confirm identity.    Palm vein biometrics The idea of palm vein biometrics goes back to the 1980s when palm vein scanners emerged as commercial products in the 1990s. The devices gained some traction in military-grade and high-security applications, although the technology was too expensive to become popular among mainstream applications such as physical access control.    Anviz Global is expanding palm vein technology into mainstream applications, featuring a lower price point that will open new market opportunities.    Palm vein technology “Palm vein technology has been viewed as a boutique product because it is costly and has not developed as a mainstream product,” says Mark Vena, Senior Director of Business Strategy and Development for Anviz Global. “With a more compelling price point, the market can see the technology more broadly. We can change the game in terms of how people think about palm vein technology.”  FAR and FRR Palm vein technology is more accurate than either fingerprint (0.0001% FAR) or facial recognition (0.001% FAR) Iris recognition is considered the gold standard in biometric identification, but palm vein technology can almost achieve the accuracy of iris. The false accept rate (FAR) for palm vein technology is 0.00008%, compared to 0.00005% for iris recognition systems. The false reject rate (FRR) is comparable at 0.01% for either technology. Palm vein technology is more accurate than either fingerprint (0.0001% FAR) or facial recognition (0.001% FAR). Palm vein identification occurs in less than half a second.   M7 Palm “Anviz is seeking to bring a high level of capability to more mainstream commercial applications,” says Vena, specifically providing a lower-cost palm vein unit. The M7 Palm by Anviz can achieve next-generation biometric access control for greater security and intelligence. The door-mounted unit combines palm vein recognition with an RFID card reader and PIN code (using a 17-button keypad), all configurable for multi-factor authentication.   Outdoor applications The robust unit, including a narrow metal exterior design, provides strong vandal resistance (IK10) and stability for outdoor applications. To ensure a weatherproof design, the IP66 rating indicates the product is completely protected against dust and can withstand strong jets of water from any direction. Power-over-ethernet (PoE) enables centralised power management and the ability to remotely reboot devices.  Wiegand-out interface The unit communicates using RS-485 or TCP/IP and can connect locks, exit buttons, door contacts, doorbells, etc The unit communicates using RS-485 or TCP/IP and can connect locks, exit buttons, door contacts, doorbells, etc. The Wiegand-out interface can connect to standard third-party controllers, or a built-in relay can trigger a lock directly. Capacity is 500 users.   Because palm vein recognition originates from the physiological characteristics of the human body, it represents a “credential” that cannot be forged, lost, or left at home. It is not easily counterfeited or worn out.  Multi-factor authentication Applications include industries requiring high security such as government, judicial, and banking. Multi-factor authentication eliminates fraud and ensures safety at banks, data centers, airports, prisons, and government.   An end user might opt for higher levels of access control for a laboratory or server room. For dealers and integrators, palm vein technology, including multi-factor authentication, provides an additional option for customers seeking to protect high-security areas on a large campus. Card readers Card readers may suffice for most of the doors, but an important laboratory or cash-handling area requires more protection.  Palm vein technology can secure a casino cash cage or a room containing corporate secrets.   Time of Flight ToF laser-ranging uses a laser to measure the distance to an object by calculating the time Time of Flight (ToF) laser-ranging achieves accurate measurement to ensure the right distance for operation. ToF laser-ranging uses a laser to measure the distance to an object by calculating the time it takes for the laser light to travel to the object and back. Palm vein technology operates in the range of 10 to 30cm (4 to 12 inches). The proprietary BioNANO palm vein recognition algorithm enables accurate and fast scanning speed.  Non-contact biometric The non-contact biometric performs in touchless environments and does not contribute to lingering health concerns in the post-COVID world. The technology is accurate across all hand types and skin tones. Users may feel more comfortable scanning their hands than their eyes.   Optimal human-machine interaction M7 Palm’s optimal human-machine interaction and user experience include a low-power-consumption OLED screen to deliver clear text notifications to the user.  Advantages of M7 Palm include accuracy, stability, security, and privacy. Features include easy installation with standard processes and no special tools, centralised power management, simplified cabling, and less maintenance.  Managing the system is expedited by integration with the Anviz CrossChex Standard access control and time management dashboard, used by more than 30,000 enterprises, and the system can be integrated with any access control system.   Security for SMBs Anviz Global is a converged intelligent security provider for SMBs and enterprise organisations Anviz Global is a converged intelligent security provider for small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and enterprise organisations. The company’s product line includes biometrics, video surveillance, and security management solutions based on the cloud, Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.  Privacy concerns Anviz is part of the Xthings family of companies, which includes Ultraloq (smart locks), Utec (smart home), Bright (smart lighting), Secu365 (SaaS Platform), and Ulticam (smart cameras).  Privacy concerns are minimised because palm vein recognition does not directly store the original image but rather extracts feature information through algorithmic models. Personal data is protected through obfuscation and encryption.

ZeroEyes, the creators of the only AI-based gun detection video analytics platform that holds the full U.S. Department of Homeland Security SAFETY Act Designation, announced that its proactive gun detection and intelligent situational awareness solution has been deployed by Union Community School District (UCSD) across La Porte City and Dysart, Iowa to protect students and staff from gun-related violence. Formed through the merger of the La Porte City Community School District and the Dysart-Geneseo Community School District, UCSD serves communities covering Benton, Black Hawk, and Tama counties, including Buckingham, Dysart, Garrison, Geneseo, La Porte City, and Mount Auburn. Multilayered approach ZeroEyes is the latest addition to the district’s security methods, enhancing its multilayered approach The district educates approximately 965 students across a preschool, two elementary schools, a middle school, and a high school. ZeroEyes is the latest addition to the district’s security methods, enhancing its multilayered approach to protecting students and staff from gun-related threats and ensuring a safe learning environment. Safety and security "It is a privilege for the Union Community School district to be the only district in eastern Iowa to collaborate with a well-known, respected company like ZeroEyes to enhance our school environments,” said John Howard, superintendent of UCSD. “Our number one goal has always been and will continue to be, the safety and security of our staff and students. Adding the equipment, technology, and personal expertise associated with ZeroEyes to our current measures further helps us achieve this goal on a daily basis. I am proud of all those who made this possible." Digital security cameras ZeroEyes' AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness software layers onto UCSD’s cameras ZeroEyes' AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness software layers onto UCSD’s existing digital security cameras. If a gun is identified, images are instantly shared with the ZeroEyes Operations Centre (ZOC), the industry's only U.S.-based, fully in-house operation centre, which is staffed 24/7/365 by military and law enforcement veterans.  If these experts determine that the threat is valid, they dispatch alerts and actionable intelligence — including visual description, gun type, and last known location — to first responders and local staff as quickly as 3 to 5 seconds from detection. Advanced security methods “Every student deserves a safe learning environment,” said Mike Lahiff, CEO and co-founder of ZeroEyes. “It's inspiring to see communities such as Union Community School District emphasise the importance of advanced security methods through the deployment of proactive measures such as ZeroEyes.”

Genetec Inc., the pioneer in enterprise physical security software, announced that it has been selected by the City of Brampton in Ontario to support a new public safety initiative. Genetec solutions will be used to help Brampton provide regional law enforcement agencies with critical data to expedite crime investigations and improve community safety. Genetec AutoVu™ SharpV LPR Brampton’s project will see the deployment of 200 Genetec AutoVu™ SharpV LPR cameras As the first project of its kind in Canada, Brampton’s project will see the deployment of 200 Genetec AutoVu™ SharpV Licence Plate Recognition (LPR) cameras at major intersections. These cameras will not be used for issuing speeding tickets; instead, they will function exclusively as an investigative tool to support Peel Regional Police in solving crimes and monitoring vehicle-related incidents. 360-Degree street cameras By capturing key vehicle details—such as licence plate numbers, make, colour, and type—they will assist law enforcement in investigating offences and enhancing public safety. Data from AutoVu SharpV and 360-degree street cameras from Axis Communications will be managed through Genetec™ Security Centre. The platform will enable investigators to correlate vehicle information with corresponding video footage to enhance situational awareness and enable faster incident response. Clearance digital evidence management system System will operate in full compliance with municipal, provincial, and federal privacy laws In the event of a reported incident, the City of Brampton will be able to quickly and securely share video evidence and ALPR data with law enforcement using the Genetec Clearance digital evidence management system. This will help expedite investigations by ensuring critical evidence is readily accessible when needed. Security and data privacy remain paramount with this initiative, and the system will operate in full compliance with municipal, provincial, and federal privacy laws. New innovations and technologies All captured information will be securely managed and used solely for law enforcement investigations. Only authorised personnel will have access to the data, with all user activities and case-related actions being logged to maintain the integrity of the chain of custody. “Peel Regional Police is committed to utilising new innovations and technologies to better support the critical work of our officers and enhance public safety," said Deputy Chief Anthony Odoardi, Peel Regional Police.  All captured data will be securely managed and used solely for law enforcement studiesOdoardi added: "This welcomed investment by the City of Brampton will provide our service with increased access to data, improving our ability to investigate and respond to traffic-related crimes and safety concerns. By working together, we will continue to strengthen our efforts in keeping our communities safe.”  “Too many victims and families have suffered heartbreak at the hands of criminals and enough is enough. Residents made it clear through the 2025 budget process that they want to see action from the City to address community safety, and we are delivering," said Patrick Brown, Mayor, City of Brampton.  Expansion of investigative tools Brown added: "By investing in cutting-edge technology, we are giving law enforcement the tools they need to track down offenders and hold them accountable." "This is a major expansion of police investigative tools making Brampton the worst place in Canada to commit a crime. It is a game changer in protecting our community and sends a message to criminals that if you commit a crime in Brampton, you will be caught.”  Video surveillance and digital management solutions “The City of Brampton is demonstrating exceptional leadership in using technology to enhance public safety in a responsible and effective way,” said Alain Bissada, Area Vice President - North America at Genetec Inc. “The deployment of our licence plate recognition cameras, alongside our video surveillance and digital evidence management solutions, will provide law enforcement with high-quality, real-time data to support their investigations while ensuring that privacy remains a top priority.”

An integrated video surveillance and intercom solution from IDIS is boosting profitability and supporting expansion for Anytime Fitness health clubs in Belgium and the Netherlands.  Part of a global franchise of more than 5,200 gyms, all 130 Anytime Fitness clubs in the Benelux region now benefit from IDIS video surveillance which allows efficient and flexible remote management of the gym facilities on phones and tablets, via the IDIS Mobile Plus app. IDIS Video Intercom (DC-I6216WRX) New location in Dongen on-duty staff including physiotherapists and tutors can use the IDIS system In addition, the latest system – installed by IDIS integration partner SPIE Fire Protection & Security -  also now include integration with award-winning the IDIS Video Intercom (DC-I6216WRX), making it easy to provide smooth but secure access for club members, 24/7. A key attraction of the Anytime Fitness brand is that members enjoy a consistent, high-quality experience wherever they are worldwide, with any club accessible with just one key. Now, for enhanced user convenience and security, at the new location in Dongen on-duty staff including physiotherapists and instructors can use the IDIS system to see who is at the door without having to interrupt what they are doing, preventing tailgating and ensuring a warm welcome for members. IDIS end-to-end approach Crystal clear images from the intercom can be viewed on staff phones or tablets and the door opened remotely with a simple tap on the screen. In the event of any incident or query, images can be easily retrieved along with the ID of any members who were using the premises at the time.  The IDIS end-to-end approach which has proved so successful at Anytime Fitness - with a combination of IDIS 2MP dome and bullet cameras, NVRs, VMS software, intercoms units, and system accessories, all instantly compatible - reduces cabling and installation time and ensures efficient system use. Quality of the video footage Crystal clear images from the intercom can be viewed on staff phones or tablets Lars Bijleveld, Anytime Fitness franchise owner in Dongen and Made, praised the quality of the video footage captured by the IDIS system, including the video intercoms: “The added value of the Video Intercom quickly becomes apparent,” Mr. Bijleveld said. “When someone rings the doorbell, you can quickly see on your phone or tablet who is there, communicate and open the door if necessary. The physiotherapist also no longer has to leave his treatment room. And if a prospective member is at the door during unmanned hours, I can immediately schedule an appointment.” Integrated video solution “We are delighted that IDIS video technology is contributing to the profitability and success of Anytime Fitness in the Netherlands,” said Carlo Kuijer, CEO, IDIS Nederland. “Working with our partners SPIE Fire Protection & Security, we have created a seamless integrated video solution that combines outstanding  performance, ease of use, and low total cost of ownership (TCO).”

Genetec Inc., the global pioneer in enterprise physical security software, announced The City of Edinburgh Council is using Genetec™ Security Centre as the backbone of its Smart City Strategy. The software is transforming public safety, city services and urban planning by allowing the council to manage all smart city technologies from a single interface. New applications and technologies The council’s Smart City Strategy focuses on introducing innovative technologies to manage aids The council’s Smart City Strategy focuses on introducing innovative technologies to manage resources more efficiently and improve public services. A key barrier to this vision was the city's outdated public space security system, which lacked the ability to integrate new applications and technologies. With funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and in partnership with North, Edinburgh has launched a state-of-the-art Smart City Operations Centre built on Genetec Security Centre, a unified platform that combines video surveillance, analytics and IoT sensors, through one platform. Open hybrid-cloud architecture “All truly connected Smart Cities start with unified security as success depends on centralising your operations under one platform. Otherwise, every new IoT device deployed will make you data-rich but information poor,” comments Ben Durrant, Account Executive, Genetec Inc. "Our platform differs from conventional alternatives because of its open hybrid-cloud architecture that offers the flexibility and functionality needed to evolve and keep pace with new requirements.” Capabilities beyond physical security The system not only supports day-to-day functions and the control of large-scale events With a unified platform in place, Edinburgh has been able to expand CCTV coverage in public spaces and enable secure data sharing with partners like Police Scotland, the Fire Service, and Transport for Edinburgh. The system not only supports day-to-day operations and the management of large-scale events such as the Edinburgh Fringe, the Royal Military Tattoo, and the Hogmanay celebrations, but it also extends its capabilities beyond physical security. Security Centre ecosystem Andrew Foster, MD, Public Services at North comments: "The Security Centre ecosystem allows us to gather and visualise useful data sets from advanced analytics IoT sensors on how the city is actually being used by residents and visitors." "This enables the council to make more informed decision making on how Edinburgh can become even safer, greener and better maintained." Improved quality of footage The council credits the software with saving hundreds of man hours that were yet spent manually The council credits the software with saving hundreds of man hours that were previously spent manually trawling through surveillance footage. As well as with helping it to more than double the number of viewing requests from Police Scotland that it can positively respond to. The improved quality of footage submitted as evidence is also expected to increase the number of early guilty pleas, reducing the time police officers must spend attending court to give evidence. Smart City strategy “The benefits for Edinburgh residents are massive. Enhanced public safety, improved services, optimised traffic flow, better infrastructure and city planning,” concludes Gavin Brown, Head of Network Management & Enforcement, Edinburgh City Council. “Genetec and North have proved instrumental in helping deliver our Smart City strategy.” 

A software platform designed to centralise and manage various physical security systems within an organisation used to be called a PSIM (physical security information management) system. Generally speaking, however, the PSIM term has fallen out of favour because the systems were seen as expensive and difficult to manage. The phrase has been replaced by command-and-control, referring to software that combines access control, video surveillance, intrusion detection, and other systems into a unified platform. It’s a ripe area for innovation in the physical security space. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What’s new in command-and-control systems, and what is the impact? 

While technology like cameras, alarms, and access control systems are crucial components, they are only as effective as the people who use and manage them and the systems that deploy them. When installing physical security systems, the focus should be on the holistic operation of the system rather than the functioning of individual components. However, in the end, overlooking critical factors can undermine the totality of system performance. We asked this week's Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the most overlooked factor when installing physical security systems?

With the new year well underway, 2023 seems almost like a distant memory. However, a bit of distance might be just the thing to enable us to examine the impact of the year 2023 on the physical security marketplace. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What factors had the biggest impact on the security marketplace in 2023?