Healthcare security

A man has been jailed for almost three years after he used a fake Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence to work at The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust and commit theft. £1425 cash theft Daniel Carter, who has a criminal history of fraud and deception, used his position as a security supervisor to steal £1425 cash from the hospital. The SIA worked closely with Leicestershire Police to investigate Carter, who had never held an SIA licence, despite being employed as a security supervisor. The investigation found he lied to his employer in order to work at the Trust from November 2022 until January 2023, when the theft took place. Investigation findings  In 2018, he was sentenced to more than a year in prison for fraud and theft for stealing bank details He pleaded guilty to 11 indictments, including 3 counts of theft by an employee and 8 counts of fraud and false representation. He was sentenced to 33 months' imprisonment on 28 October at Leicestershire Crown Court. In 2018, he was sentenced to more than a year in prison for fraud and theft for stealing bank details of customers while working as a security guard. Fraud and deception Jenny Hart, Criminal Investigations Manager at the SIA said, “Mr. Carter is a career criminal with a long history of fraud and deception. He used a fake SIA licence to deceive his employers and in doing so put the public he was there to protect in danger." “His deceitful actions not only undermined the trust placed in him as a security professional, but he used his position to target a hospital for his financial gain. His calculated dishonesty and theft will not be tolerated, and this case underscores our commitment to protecting the public by ensuring that only licenced, vetted professionals serve in trusted roles and bringing those seeking to break the rules to justice.” licenced security operatives licenced security operatives undergo robust training requirements to help them protect the public. Untrained and unvetted security operatives with fake or cloned licences put the public at risk. Anyone suspected of breaking the law should be reported. The SIA encourages security providers and buyers to check the SIA licences of security operatives to ensure they are genuine.

In light of the growth of IoT device deployments, coupled with the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber threats, the need for comprehensive cybersecurity solutions has never been more urgent. Recognising this imperative, the HyGARDE consortium has been established to develop a state-of-the-art cybersecurity solution to protect connected equipment, ensuring the security of the devices and the sensitive data that flows through them. This approach is essential to safeguard the entire ecosystem of connected technologies. Comprehensive cybersecurity solutions The HyGARDE consortium unites several players in the French cyber-security sector: IDEMIA Secure Transactions, project coordinator and a provider of cryptography and security solutions for payment and connectivity, IoT.BZH, an expert in cybersecurity and open-source embedded software, and SOLENT, a provider in critical device development and monitoring.  A special focus will be given on long-term certification and compliance management Together, the partners will work to create an off-the-shelf platform that will secure and maintain critical connected equipment throughout its lifecycle – from development to deployment and maintenance. A special focus will be given on long-term certification and compliance management, as these are essential to guaranteeing the sustained security of the equipment. Cost-effective solution Offering tools to support certification, monitor and maintain cybersecurity over-the-air, and support the lifecycle of equipment on the field, HyGARDE takes advantage of an onboard SIM or eSIM to protect the operating system and business applications. It offers businesses and governments a long-term, cost-effective solution that meets the stringent cybersecurity requirements mandated by NIS 21, the Cyber Resilience Act and the NIST Cybersecurity for IoT program, each coming into effect starting 2025. Renewable energies transition As a first use case, the HyGARDE solution will be used by SOLUTIONS HYDROGENE, a company specialised in the design of renewable hydrogen storage systems for industry, local authorities and private customers, to secure its new equipment. This equipment can be installed in residential houses, to complement solar panels or windmill energy, and is remotely managed. An AI-powered behaviour monitoring system will be tested on live systems in 2026 Funded by France 2030, the French government’s investment plan, the consortium has made significant progress since its launch in September 2023. The first prototype will be made available by the end of 2024, with the full platform – including a fully functional hydrogen storage equipment – set for release in Fall 2025. An AI-powered behaviour monitoring system will be tested on live systems in 2026. Securing critical infrastructures In the future, the solution may also be adapted to any critical systems connected to public or private networks, benefiting sectors such as automotive, transportation, industrial control systems, and healthcare devices. “As the digital world continues to grow, so do the risks associated with it. At IDEMIA Secure Transactions, we understand the need for robust, cost-effective cybersecurity solutions. The HyGARDE project highlights our dedication to securing critical infrastructures and promoting sustainability,” said Marc BERTIN, Chief Technology Officer at IDEMIA Secure Transactions

Wavelynx Technologies, a trailblazer in advanced, secure, and versatile reader and credential solutions, announced the launch of its Middle East and North Africa (MENA) operations, appointing Vishal Khullar, Director of Business Development, as Head of the region. Wavelynx's secure and interoperable access control solutions enable businesses to modernise their authentication technology at a pace that suits their needs. Tailored access control solutions "At Wavelynx, we're committed to providing our customers, including those in the MENA region, with tailored access control solutions," said Rob Lydic, President of Wavelynx Technologies. He adds, "Our advanced technology helps businesses secure their facilities and embrace the opportunities of a digital future." Access in commercial settings These systems play a vital role in enhancing property security and preventing unauthorised access The MENA region is experiencing a surge in demand for access control systems due to growing urbanisation. As cities expand and security concerns rise, access control systems are becoming essential for managing access in commercial settings. These systems play a vital role in enhancing property security and preventing unauthorised access, making them a priority for companies seeking to protect employee safety, data, and assets. Ethos readers, Configure, and Wallet Solution Wavelynx is strategically positioned to deliver advanced access control solutions tailored to the diverse needs of the MENA region’s commercial real estate, hospitality, education, and healthcare sectors. The company’s innovative technologies are designed to enhance security measures, streamline operations, and create safer environments. These include their state-of-the-art Ethos readers, Configure, and the Wavelynx Wallet Solution, which together offer streamlined security management, improved operational efficiency, and a modern approach to access control. Enhancing user experience To deliver tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of the MENA region, Wavelynx is collaborating with partners, including ACRE, AMAG, Genetec, and Tyco/JCI. By leveraging their expertise and market knowledge, Wavelynx is helping clients seamlessly integrate existing systems into the company’s open and secure access control platform, enhancing user experience and reducing operational costs.

Integrity360, one of the pioneering pan-European cyber security specialists, announced the launch of its Managed dSOC Services, an advanced security monitoring solution powered by Darktrace's AI-driven technology and Integrity360’s cyber security expertise. The partnership allows Darktrace customers to gain access to an expert team dedicated to ensuring continuous, real-time monitoring, with around-the-clock expertise that internal teams may lack and to fully optimise and benefit from the capabilities of the platform. Managed dSOC Service Integrity360’s Managed dSOC Service directly handles this challenge by offering a fully driven service The Managed dSOC Services are tailored to support businesses with proactive threat detection, rapid incident response, and continuous optimisation of their security investments, ensuring comprehensive protection against constantly evolving threats. According to a recent report from Gartner, organisations that do not optimise and manage their cyber security solutions effectively may see a 30% increase in security incidents over the next three years. Integrity360’s Managed dSOC Service directly addresses this challenge by offering a fully managed service that takes the burden off internal teams, allowing businesses to focus on growth while ensuring optimal protection. Darktrace ActiveAI Security Platform “As organisations look to invest in AI-driven security tools like Darktrace, their internal teams may lack the time or skills to fully leverage them to their greatest benefit. Integrity360’s Managed dSOC fills a crucial gap for those organisations, helping them maximise their cyber security posture and reduce risk." "Not only that, but Integrity360 experts build on the Darktrace ActiveAI Security Platform’s AI-driven detection and response with tailored services like proactive threat hunting and enhanced breach monitoring to provide an even greater level of protection,” says Eloina Pesce, Vice President of Channel, Darktrace. Real-time security insights Darktrace’s platform offers unparalleled threat detection and real-time security insights For Integrity360’s Darktrace customers, Integrity360’s Managed dSOC Services represent a critical enhancement to their cyber security investment. Darktrace’s platform, powered by advanced AI, offers unparalleled threat detection and real-time security insights.  Augmenting this with Integrity360’s service capacity and expertise to fully manage the system will help organisations harness the platform’s full potential. Companies with a managed service like Managed dSOC will experience enhanced security optimisation, increasing further their return on investment from their Darktrace platform. Benefits of Darktrace investment Integrity360’s Managed dSOC enables customers to fully capitalise on the benefits of their Darktrace investment, from 24/7 active monitoring to bespoke reporting and continuous AI model optimisation, ensuring clients not only detect threats in real time but also respond swiftly and strategically. With Integrity360’s specialised support, organisations can rest assured that their Darktrace environment is optimally configured, continually adapting to emerging cyber threats, and delivering maximum risk reduction. Traditional security operations Managed dSOC service goes formal security functions by not only managing day-to-day monitoring “Through our partnership with Darktrace, we’re bringing an unmatched level of expertise and proactive support to our clients, allowing them to unlock the full potential of their cyber security investment,” said Brian Martin, Director of Product Management at Integrity360. “Nobody else can extract the same level of value out of the investment that we can, with this level of service and expertise underpinning it 24x7. Our Managed dSOC service suite brings this additional value within reach of all organisations irrespective of size, resources, or skill levels.” The Managed dSOC service goes beyond traditional security operations by not only managing day-to-day monitoring but also providing ongoing tuning and optimisation, incident support, and threat analysis to keep clients’ defences agile and aligned with current threats. Three distinct tiers Integrity360’s Managed dSOC Services are available in three distinct tiers: Managed dSOC: Core operational monitoring and breach detection, with daily reports for complete visibility and monthly health check. Managed dSOC+: Adds 24/7 active monitoring, high-value asset tagging, and periodic threat reviews for a more robust approach to security. Managed dSOC + MDR: Delivers advanced capabilities including threat response and proactive threat hunting. Advanced threat detection Cyber security requires rigorous oversight and constant adaptation to new risks These flexible options allow businesses to select the level of support they require, from foundational monitoring to advanced threat detection and response, ensuring scalability as needs evolve. Cyber security requires rigorous oversight and constant adaptation to new risks and Integrity360’s Managed dSOC Service addresses a prevalent universal challenge for most organisations: the cyber security skills and resource gap. Integrity360’s dedicated team of Darktrace experts ensures that every deployment is tailored to the client’s specific needs, refining configurations and implementing high-value security protocols to reduce exposure and enhance incident management. Advanced AI capabilities As threats like ransomware, advanced phishing attacks, and supply chain compromises continue to surge, Integrity360’s Managed dSOC Services offer an essential service for companies seeking to strengthen their security posture while mitigating the complexity associated with managing AI-driven solutions. Managed dSOC Services represent a critical tool for businesses in high-risk sectors such as finance, healthcare, retail, government, and more, providing a comprehensive solution that combines advanced AI capabilities with expert oversight. By maximising the potential of Darktrace, organisations can minimise risk and confidently protect their critical assets.

As the backbone of community welfare, healthcare facilities cater to crucial public needs from emergency care to specialised medical treatments, and due to its position as a significant facet of the world's critical infrastructure, the healthcare sector faces a multitude of challenges in ensuring patient and visitor security, managing high traffic, and safeguarding sensitive data. Medical sites, such as large hospitals and urgent care clinics, see a wide variety of patients, medical staff, administrative teams, and visitors throughout the day. In addition to protecting patients, visitors, and staff, healthcare environments must protect medical and patient data, ensure immediate response to urgent medical events, and maintain 24/7 operations. Security challenges   Cloud-based solutions have made their mark on healthcare security, offering unparalleled scalability Addressing the security challenges presented by 24/7 availability and high patient and visitor traffic calls for a merging of technology, processes, and security strategies that go beyond what a typical security infrastructure would look like.  Cloud-based solutions have made their mark on healthcare security, offering unparalleled scalability, accessibility, and integration capabilities. These advancements address the multifaceted demands of healthcare organisations, ensuring seamless around-the-clock operations while prioritising patient care and safety.  Enhancing operational efficiency to save lives Cloud-based access control solutions have revolutionised how healthcare security professionals approach collaboration within medical facilities. These solutions offer unparalleled accessibility and insight into patient and visitor security information and access logs, improving coordination among security teams and leading to more accurate monitoring and response to developing medical events. By managing and operating access control solutions via the cloud, healthcare facilities can implement effective physical security measures while ensuring seamless collaboration among staff to deliver the highest medical care possible to patients across facilities.  Physical access controls Cloud-based access control systems allow users to securely access and manage physical access controls Cloud-based access control systems allow multiple users to securely access and manage physical access controls and visitor management data simultaneously, enabling them to keep track of patient movements as they are transferred throughout the facility or between different facilities. For larger hospitals or medical campuses with multiple facilities hosting access controls via the cloud empowers users with the ability to find patients and patient data in an instant, as well as opening the door to collaborate with teams separated by long distances, ensuring all team members have access to the information they need to continue saving lives. Scaling the way to top-notch care Healthcare institutions are constantly growing and changing in response to evolving industry regulations and standards, and the access control solutions these organisations rely on should be able to scale to meet their changing needs. To ensure their access control systems can keep up with these growing demands, healthcare security professionals can invest in access control solutions hosted in the cloud to avoid the tedious hardware constraints that come with traditional on-premises solutions. Cloud solutions offer significant levels of scalability, enabling healthcare organisations to adjust their storage requirements and computing resources based on changing requirements on the fly. This capability for flexibility ensures users can manage large amounts of data without significant upfront investments in hardware. Cloud-based access control solutions Cloud-based access control solutions provide healthcare organisations with the flexibility they need to expand their access In addition to compliance with changing regulations, cloud-based access control solutions provide healthcare organisations with the flexibility they need to expand their access control platform across a growing campus or multiple buildings. Larger healthcare facilities typically consist of multiple sites of varying sizes across diverse landscapes, each with distinctive security needs.  Systems hosted in the cloud provide scalability and flexibility for user organisations, allowing security teams to modify or expand upon their security infrastructure as needed without spending on costly new hardware. This adaptability is crucial for helping address varying risks over multiple sites, providing security personnel the flexibility they need to ensure patient safety over long distances. Ease of use for security teams To truly understand the value of a cloud-based access control system, healthcare security professionals must consider the long-term savings and ROI these solutions provide by bolstering operational efficiencies and enabling unprecedented scalability.  These systems ensure compliance with changing standards and deliver a simplified user experience across platforms, prioritising security and ease of use for security teams across the healthcare sector.

Rapid technological advancement, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are revolutionising traditional on-premises video security systems. These next-level tools are not just enhancing video data capabilities; they're transforming how businesses approach security, operational efficiency, and information analysis. Video analytics have been a part of security systems for many years, but the arrival of deep learning in 2009 marked a turning point. By training neural networks, basic analytics tasks like motion detection, object detection, and tracking objects within scenes have become commonplace. This leap forward has paved the way for more sophisticated AI and ML applications in video security. Proactive security measures AI-powered systems can perform complex tasks such as pose estimation and anomaly detection Today's AI-powered systems can perform complex tasks such as pose estimation, anomaly detection, and behaviour analysis. These capabilities extend far beyond simple, passive monitoring, offering organisations rich insights and proactive security measures.  For instance, analytics can now determine whether people are engaged in hostile or benign interactions, recognise unusual events that may signal safety hazards, and even predict potential security breaches before they occur — all based on analysing massive amounts of data that humans alone could never process. Enhancing on-premises infrastructure While the power of AI and ML in video security is clear, integrating these technologies into existing on-premises systems presents both opportunities and challenges. One of the primary considerations is the increased demand for processing power and storage capacity. As solution technology expands, hardware requirements will increase. This reality necessitates a strategic approach to system design and implementation. Organisations must carefully evaluate their current infrastructure and plan for future needs to ensure their on-premises systems can handle the computational demands of AI and ML tools. However, the benefits often outweigh the challenges. AI-enhanced on-premises systems offer several advantages: Real-time processing: On-premises AI can analyse video feeds in real time, allowing for immediate response to security threats. Data privacy: Keeping data processing on-site can help organisations meet strict data privacy regulations and protect sensitive information. Customisation: On-premises systems allow for greater customisation of AI models to meet specific security needs. Reduced latency: Processing data locally eliminates the need for constant cloud communication, reducing latency in critical security applications. The role of open platform video technology To fully leverage AI and ML capabilities in on-premises video security systems, open-platform video management software (VMS) plays a crucial role. An open platform VMS allows for seamless integration of various AI and ML tools, cameras, and other security devices, creating a highly flexible and scalable system. An open VMS can integrate thousands of cameras and sensors, allowing for centralised management and analysis of vast amounts of data. This approach enables security teams to quickly adapt to new threats and implement new and unplanned AI and ML solutions as they become available. Video system management  The hybrid approach to video system management combines on-premises infrastructure with cloud services It's important to note that many organisations choose to deploy a hybrid approach to video system management that combines on-premises infrastructure with cloud services. This strategy can offer the best of both worlds: the control and low latency of on-premises systems with the scalability and advanced capabilities of cloud-based AI and ML tools. For example, some cities have implemented hybrid data storage models, hosting critical real-time data on local servers while leveraging cloud services for long-term storage and advanced analytics. This approach allows for efficient management of large amounts of high-resolution video data while reducing costs associated with on-premises storage expansion. Practical applications and benefits The integration of AI and ML into on-premises video security systems is transforming security practices across industries, offering benefits that extend beyond traditional surveillance. These advanced technologies enhance security measures while providing valuable insights for operational efficiency and strategic decision-making. By analysing video data in real time, AI and ML-powered systems can detect patterns and automate responses in unprecedented ways. Here are some key examples of sector-specific benefits: Retail: AI-powered analytics can optimise product placement, track shopping patterns, and enhance loss prevention efforts. Education: K-12 schools can use advanced video analysis to address issues like vaping and bullying, monitor traffic, ensure that proper procedures are followed, and provide enhanced safety and security. Manufacturing: AI can streamline quality control processes, detect safety violations, and optimise production line efficiency. Healthcare: Intelligent video systems can monitor patient safety, manage access control, and even assist in documenting and verifying that procedures and protocols are followed appropriately. Transportation: AI-enhanced video systems can improve traffic management, enhance security in transit hubs, and assist in incident response. Challenges and considerations Ensuring access to robust, diverse, and representative data sets is essential for training AI models effectively AI and ML hold great promise for on-premises video security, but organisations may encounter challenges during implementation. The considerable upfront costs could discourage smaller businesses or those with tight budgets. Nevertheless, this should be viewed as a long-term investment with significant returns in enhanced security and operational efficiency. Implementing AI-powered systems in video security can be complex, often requiring specialised skills, potentially creating a gap within existing IT or security teams. To bridge this skills gap, organisations may need to invest in training or partner with external experts to address this challenge. Additionally, the quality of data is crucial for effective AI and ML implementation; poor or insufficient data can result in inaccurate analyses and unreliable results. Ensuring access to robust, diverse, and representative data sets is essential for training AI models effectively. Benefits of integrating AI and ML Ethical considerations surrounding privacy, consent, and potential algorithmic bias are also critical. Organisations must strike a balance between enhancing security and safeguarding individual privacy rights to maintain public trust in these technologies. Despite these challenges, the benefits of integrating AI and ML into on-premises video security systems often outweigh the difficulties. Careful planning, resource investment, and a strong focus on ethical and regulatory compliance can lead to more effective, efficient, and intelligent security solutions. Future outlook Edge computing capabilities will enable sophisticated AI processing directly on cameras The future of AI and ML in on-premises video security promises significant advancements that will address current limitations and unlock new possibilities.  Edge computing capabilities will enable sophisticated AI processing directly on cameras and other security devices, reducing strain on central servers and potentially lowering hardware requirements. This, combined with more efficient AI algorithms, will democratise access to advanced AI and ML capabilities for organisations of all sizes. AI-powered analytics Predictive analytics will become a cornerstone of future video security systems, marking a shift from reactive to proactive security measures. As AI models become more sophisticated, their ability to anticipate and prevent security incidents will improve dramatically, revolutionising risk management and incident response.  The integration between video security and other business systems will deepen, with AI-powered analytics providing insights beyond security into business operations and strategic decision-making. Data for training AI models Explainable AI will become more overall, which is vital for building trust in automated systems Automation of security processes will reach new heights, freeing human operators to focus on high-level decision-making and complex situations. To support this evolution, we'll likely see increased use of synthetic data for training AI models, addressing privacy concerns, and improving model robustness. Explainable AI will become more prevalent, which is crucial for building trust in automated systems and meeting regulatory requirements. For security professionals, embracing these technologies is no longer optional but necessary to remain competitive and provide the best possible service to clients. By leveraging open platform VMS and carefully planning system architectures, organisations can create flexible, scalable, and powerful video security solutions that not only protect assets but also drive business value. Enhanced video security systems The key to success will be finding the right balance between on-premises control and cloud-based capabilities while addressing important considerations around privacy, ethics, and regulatory compliance. With thoughtful implementation and ongoing adaptation, AI and ML-enhanced video security systems will continue to play an increasingly central role in safeguarding our businesses, institutions, and communities.

Choosing the appropriate fingerprint technology for a given application is dependent on factors including the required level of security and matching accuracy, the desired capabilities and features, and the usability to achieve adoption and productivity goals. A successful evaluation process will help ensure that this mature and proven user authentication method performs as expected. Fingerprint biometric advantages The speed, simplicity, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness of the fingerprint method have made it among the most widely used for biometric authentication across industry sectors ranging from banking and finance, retail, and healthcare, to government and law enforcement. It performs biometric technology’s “something you are” function while offering unique characteristics that make it particularly valuable for many applications. Unique identifier The fingerprint biometric has the permanency of being reasonably stable and consistent over time Among these characteristics is the pervasiveness and special nature of the fingerprint -- almost everyone has one, and each is a unique identifier. The fingerprint biometric has the permanency of being reasonably stable and consistent over time. It is also easy to acquire, measure, and process. High adoption rate Another key attribute of a fingerprint biometric is its ability to be protected against threats ranging from abuse and misuse to theft, imitation, and substitution. When it is used with recognition techniques the resulting solution performs with a combination of accuracy, speed, scalability, and ease of use. Fingerprint biometric solutions also have the highest adoption rate among biometric authentication solutions according to an industry report published by Payments Journal. Three interrelated components There are three basic components in any fingerprint biometric system as shown in Figure 1:  capture (using a sensor that can capture even the most difficult finger types); liveness detection (using the Presentation Attack Detection – or PAD – technique); and matching (including preventing rejection of a legitimate user). Biometric algorithm The sensor captures and pre-processes the fingerprint data. It must be able to successfully capture fingerprint images for a range of skin types and print conditions under diverse temperatures, humidity, light, surface oil, dust, dirt, and other environmental conditions. A biometric algorithm then extracts minutiae data about the fingerprint ridges (endings, bifurcations, islands, etc.) and their orientation and position. PAD technique Implementing a presentation attack detection (PAD) technique at this stage activates the fingerprint biometric system’s second key element: liveness detection. This verifies the fingerprint’s authenticity and that it belongs to a living person. The system’s third element – matching – occurs after the PAD-verified fingerprint dataset has been securely stored as a record, known as a template, inside an enclave with cryptographic protection. Check for liveness The corresponding template of the legitimate user is then retrieved from secure storage When the fingerprint is presented for matching, it is rechecked for liveness. The corresponding template of the legitimate user is then retrieved from secure storage and the process of matching the fingerprint with this template is executed. This must be completed accurately and without rejecting a legitimate user. Types of fingerprint sensing technologies There are four prevailing categories of sensing technologies used with fingerprint readers: optical, capacitive, thin-film transistor (TFT), and multispectral imaging (MSI).  Optical and capacitive method Optical is the most mature sensor technology and offers the benefits of a compact size, good capture Optical is the most mature sensor technology, and offers the benefits of a compact size, good capture and matching performance, a small enough size to fit in most desktop environments or shared workstations, and a high level of accuracy at a cost-effective price point across all use cases. The capacitive method, on the other hand, is less prone to fake finger attempts while also offering a thin and compact size for space-limited applications, the power efficiency to support battery-operated devices, and the ability to handle both indoor and outdoor lighting conditions. TFT technology The third technology goes a step further in capture accuracy. TFT technology can accurately recognise the smallest fingerprint features with ultra-high resolution and is used either as a larger-size matrix capacitive proximity detector (capacitive fingerprint sensor) or a larger-area matrix light detector (optical fingerprint sensor). It is ideal for in-the-field mobile identification applications that require a cost-effective, ultra-slim, and lightweight solution with low power consumption. MSI technology MSI technology differs from all three approaches, projecting multiple colors of light into the finger from different angles to collect both surface and subsurface biometrics data. It captures the most difficult fingerprints of diverse demographics, in a wide range of challenging environments. HID has used this patented technology in fingerprint readers that are compliant with ISO 30107-3 PAD Level 2 for advanced anti-spoofing against fraud. The technology also improves matching and offers sophisticated endpoint security that prohibits cyber criminals from gaining unauthorised access to networks by turning fingerprint readers into secure endpoints. Best practices for technology selection Much is expected of the current fingerprint solutions, including delivering a low total cost of ownership Much is expected of the current fingerprint solutions, including delivering a low total cost of ownership. There are three top considerations: security, suitability, and usability. Each is important and the best approach is to strike a balance between all three. Following are the questions to ask during the selection process: Security: What is the regulatory environment? Financial and government services, healthcare, and law enforcement are some examples of highly regulated sectors with elevated security compliance requirements. Are there mandates in place for advanced capturing and biometric authentication specifications? How important is it to ensure anti-spoofing through liveness detection? Will endpoint security be required so that, if the fingerprint device is hacked, no network, system, or data behind the firewall will be impacted? Suitability: Where will the biometric technology be implemented? There will be additional considerations if it is to be embedded in portable, battery-operated devices that require low power consumption. Where will the technology be used? Will it need to fit into small spaces or be used in challenging indoor or outdoor conditions and environments? Will durability be important? Some deployments will face unpredictable weather and difficult lighting conditions for image capture. Will the technology be used for mission-critical border control or a more common – and less demanding -- commercial use? Usability Is it critical that the technology easily and consistently perform capture and matching? Will there be high volumes of fingerprint captures and matches? Is “friction frustration” a concern? If so, the solution must perform matching quickly and accurately to sustain high levels of user productivity. Will the fingerprint device be used by one person exclusively, or multiple people in a shared workstation setting? How diverse is the user population? Some readers are designed to handle all types of fingerprints and diversified demographics. Different applications  Fingerprint biometrics is a proven solution to address real-world challenges, each with its requirements The answers to these questions will help determine the best choice of fingerprint technology. Different applications apply fingerprint biometrics to very different use cases but in all cases. It is a proven solution to address real-world challenges, each with its requirements. For instance, in a healthcare clinician’s terminal area or a similar shared environment with limited space, a durable, low-profile capacitive sensor may be the right answer. For an organisation in a highly regulated, mission-critical environment like a bank or border control agency, advanced technologies such as MSI readers may be needed to avoid the serious repercussions of a spoofed identity or the rejection of a legitimate one. Requirements for a biometric solution These are just a few of the requirements to consider when choosing a fingerprint solution. In banking and finance, alone, fingerprint biometrics is used for applications ranging from transacting at the ATM to customer onboarding (eKYC), compliance (AML/KYC), and fraud prevention.  The retail sector adds even more, including age verification, loss prevention, point of sale (POS) security, self-service checkout, and secure time and attendance.  Law enforcement organisations have their unique requirements, using fingerprint biometrics for background checks, criminal booking, crime investigation, inmate management, mobile identification, and more. For government agencies, typical applications include benefits distribution, border security, citizen ID, employ authentication (SSO/MFA), and voter registration. Each application requires a thorough assessment of the best fingerprint technology for the job. The right touch The right solution will deliver the optimal balance of security, suitability, and usability Fingerprint biometric solutions empower a wide range of use cases with the simple touch of a finger. The right solution will deliver the optimal balance of security, suitability, and usability based on an analysis of criteria including specific application requirements, the characteristics and size of the user population, and challenges posed by environmental conditions. Accuracy, efficiency, and security The world faces increasingly dangerous fraud, account takeover, and impersonation threats. As industries and enterprises work to improve and evolve their identity and access strategies to combat these threats, fingerprint biometrics continue to prove their value through solutions that meet the key selection criteria while delivering the highest levels of accuracy, efficiency, and security.

A distinguished nonprofit organisation recently launched a cutting-edge 1000-bed Multi Super Specialty Hospital and Research Centre in Surat, Gujarat. This initiative aims to address medical gaps, especially in highly specialised fields. To date, the hospital has served over three million outpatient (OPD) cases and performed surgeries for 800,000 patients. Renowned for its advanced amenities, the hospital attracts patients from local and international communities. It prioritises serving low-income groups and beneficiaries of the Ayushman Bharat Yojana. Moreover, the hospital delivers comprehensive services, including consultations and diagnostics, adhering to global standards. The NABH accreditation further solidifies its position as a pioneering healthcare provider in India. Challenges Despite their efforts to boost operations through day-to-day communication efficiency The client was previously associated with a brand of foreign origin. However, despite their efforts to boost operations through day-to-day communication efficiency, they encountered no improvements. Instead, their investment turned out to be an expensive affair. Their challenges can be summarised as follows: Advanced Functionality: The current brand could not offer advanced IP features. Recurring charges: An annual maintenance cost of almost 80 Lacs was proving a headache for the authorities. Safeguard existing investment: The existing devices had to be integrated and enhanced with new, but more advanced solutions. Solution The VoIP communication solution by Matrix was seamlessly integrated, with a gateway from another brand, incorporating an embedded IP PBX and premium Standard SIP desk phones. Below is a detailed description of the solution: The gateway allows an IP connection to a network switch, which enables two IP phone connections. An IP connection from the network switch extends to SPARK200 (Active and Standby). SPARK200 enables connection to multiple IP Phones.  Results Additionally, the scalability ensured the solution's readiness for future requirements The diverse needs of the multi-specialty hospital were carefully addressed with a Matrix VoIP communication solution. These solutions enabled effortless communication throughout the facility, thanks to a range of contemporary features embedded within the system. Additionally, the scalability ensured the solution's readiness for future requirements. Let's explore how this VoIP communication solution notably improved the hospital's operations. End to recurring charges: The Matrix Solution resolved their most pressing issue, providing a more sensible licencing structure to prevent any recurring costs, effectively conserving their resources. Safeguarding existing investment: The Matrix Solution seamlessly integrates with the current network infrastructure, optimising existing resources while simultaneously upgrading communication capabilities with advanced features offered by Matrix devices. Modern features: The hospital now benefits from a modern array of features provided by the Unified Communication solution. Features such as Auto Call Back, Scheduled Call Forwarding, and Department Group Call Forwarding, among others, have been integrated to enhance operational efficiency. Operational efficiency: The VoIP communication solution facilitated a smooth flow of information, significantly enhancing workflow efficiency. Consequently, the hospital is experiencing a seamless exchange of information.

A distinguished pharmaceutical company, based in Saudi Arabia, has been unwavering in its dedication to establishing a state-of-the-art pharmaceutical manufacturing complex. Their ambitious initiative is geared towards combating chronic and life-threatening diseases, reflecting the company's vision to address unmet needs in the pharmaceutical sector within Saudi Arabia and the broader MENA region. By steadfastly committing to this mission, the company positions itself at the forefront of advancing healthcare solutions, poised to make a significant impact on public health. Mobile attendance capabilities Overview - The client encountered a diverse set of challenges, ranging from outdated hardware in their Access Control and CCTV systems to the intricate integration of advanced access control features and payroll data with SAP. Amidst disruptions to work continuity, these challenges encompassed preserving the functionality of the existing system, consolidating monitoring for emergency response, and introducing mobile attendance capabilities within specific areas. Client faced a diverse set of challenges, ranging from outdated hardware in their Access Control Matrix's all-encompassing solution effectively tackled these multifaceted obstacles, utilising expertise to seamlessly integrate systems and deliver customised resolutions. This ensured optimal resource utilisation and a streamlined workflow for the client. Procuring essential resources Challenges - The challenges confronted by the client were inherently complex, spanning from outdated hardware issues to the intricacies of payroll integration. The client faced difficulties in procuring essential resources for implementing effective solutions, resulting in disruptions to work continuity and impeding the optimal utilisation of resources. Challenges faced in Access Control and Attendance Management: Obsolete Hardware Components: The client faced the dilemma of dealing with ageing infrastructure, as the Access Control and CCTV hardware, installed a decade ago, approached obsolescence. Implementation of Advanced Access Control Features: The client articulated the need for advanced access control features, introducing the challenge of seamlessly integrating these capabilities with their existing access control system while ensuring the preservation of the current system's functionality. Integration for Streamlined Monitoring: A pivotal challenge revolved around integrating access control and surveillance systems to enable unified monitoring on a single screen. The client sought features like Alerts and Video Pop-ups to enhance emergency response, monitor door access, and identify Access Rules Violations. Integration of Employee Attendance Data with SAP: Seamlessly integrating employee attendance data with SAP for efficient payroll processing was a requirement. This presented a challenge in ensuring compatibility and accuracy in the synchronisation of data. Implementation of Mobile Attendance within Designated Locations: The client aspired for a solution enabling mobile attendance within the geographical confines of their head office and plant locations. This posed a distinctive challenge in providing flexibility without compromising security. Against this intricate backdrop of challenges, Matrix applied its expertise and innovative solutions to deliver a comprehensive and customised resolution. Proactive security measures Payroll processing demonstrated Matrix's commitment to delivering more than just a solution Solution - Embarking on a transformative path, Matrix provided a seamless resolution to address all client concerns. The integration of video surveillance, implementation of proactive security measures, and streamlined payroll processing demonstrated Matrix's commitment to delivering more than just a solution–a customised and future-ready security ecosystem for the client. Matrix tailored a solution for Access Control and Attendance Management: Seamless Integration of Existing Access Control and Video Surveillance Systems: Utilising the Matrix COSEC application, Matrix integrated the client's current access control system with the Matrix COSEC ARC DC200P. Concurrently, Matrix linked the existing video surveillance solution with Matrix Server Grade Enterprise Network Video Recorders and Matrix IP Cameras. This strategic approach not only maximised the use of the client's current infrastructure but also resulted in significant cost savings, presenting a seamlessly integrated solution. Implementation of Advanced Access Control for Heightened Security: To address the client's demand for advanced access control features, Matrix integrated the existing system with its access control solution. This integration expanded security measures with features like Man Trap, Time-Based Access, Zone-Based Access Policies, and Fire Alarm Integration. The outcome was a comprehensive security framework, enabling centralised control over employees' movements within secure areas. Unified Monitoring and Proactive Security Measures through Video Surveillance: Matrix's R&D team achieved a unified monitoring system with alerts and video pop-ups for emergency door access and Access rule violations. This seamless integration between access control and video surveillance established a responsive and proactive security infrastructure. The result was a unified monitoring experience on a single screen, enhancing the client's ability to address security concerns in real time. Effortless Payroll Processing with SAP Integration for Enhanced Attendance Management: Matrix's time-attendance solution facilitated the integration of the client's active directory for user master data and seamlessly incorporated processed attendance data with SAP. This integration streamlined the payroll process, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in salary calculations. The client experienced a trouble-free payroll integration, mitigating the risk of errors in the salary processing workflow. Mobile Attendance Solution within Geo Attendance Capabilities: Matrix met the client's requirement for mobile attendance with the COSEC APTA mobile application. This solution enabled the client to establish a geo-fence around their head office and plant locations, allowing employees to mark their attendance via mobile phones within the designated limits. This innovative approach provided flexibility without compromising security, aligning with the client's specific needs. The seamless integration of solutions in this comprehensive security system not only addressed the client's challenges but also elevated them to a pioneering position in advanced security and access control technologies. Application scenario case Demand for integrated solutions Beyond fortifying security, this integrated system offers a streamlined monitoring experience Results - In the constantly evolving realms of security and organisational management, the demand for integrated solutions has become crucial. Client's journey encapsulates the challenges stemming from outdated hardware in their Access Control and CCTV systems, pioneering to the intervention of Matrix's R&D team. Consequently, a comprehensive solution emerged, seamlessly integrating CCTV and Access Control functionalities. Beyond fortifying security, this integrated system offers a streamlined monitoring experience, eliminating the necessity for disparate applications. Furthermore, the inclusion of video pop-ups and email alerts ensures a proactive response to exceptions. In addition to enhancing security features, the solution integrates their centralised Attendance system with SAP, optimising not only security but also administrative processes. This holistic approach underscores Matrix's dedication to delivering innovative and efficient solutions tailored to the client's evolving needs. Products Offered COSEC PANEL200P: Access Control Hub COSEC ARGO FACEI: Face-based Door Controller COSEC ARC DC200P: Two-Door Access Controller COSEC ATOM RD100KI: Reader with Keypad SATATYA NVR06408XCTS: 64 Channel Enterprise grade Network Video Recorder SATATYA MIDR50FL28CWS: 5 MP Professional Series Dome IP Camera SATATYA CIBR50FL28CWS: 5 MP Project Series Bullet IP Camera with Fixed Lens SATATYA CIBR50MV12CWP: 5 MP Project Series Bullet IP Camera with Motorised Lens COSEC CENTRA ACM: User Licence for Access Control Management COSEC CENTRA TAM: User Licence for Time-Attendance Management COSEC CENTRA FR: User Licence for Face Recognition COSEC CENTRA ESS: User Licence for Employee Self-Service SATATYA SAMAS CAM20: Camera Licence

ZeroEyes, the creators of the only AI-based gun detection video analytics platform that holds the US Department of Homeland Security SAFETY Act Designation, announced that its proactive gun detection and intelligent situational awareness solution has been deployed at JPS Health Network in Fort Worth, Texas to mitigate gun-related violence. Located in Tarrant County, the 582-bed hospital includes an acute care facility, outpatient care centres, and psychiatric emergency room. Its Level I Trauma Centre receives over 125,000 emergency department visits annually from local and air EMS agencies, as well as others outside the county. HIPAA-compliant AI gun detection If these experts determine that the threat is valid, they dispatch alerts and actionable intelligence “At the hospital, we witness first-hand the impact of gun violence, which is why we strive to safeguard our patients, staff, and visitors,” said Randell Hayen, Chief of the Tarrant County Hospital District Police Department.  “Along with our onsite police department, adding ZeroEyes gives us another tool to use to do just that.” ZeroEyes' HIPAA-compliant AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness software is now layered onto existing digital security cameras at JPS Health Network. If a gun is identified, images are instantly shared with the ZeroEyes Operations Centre (ZOC), staffed 24/7/365 by specially trained U.S. 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 the on-site hospital police department as quickly as three to five seconds from detection. Deployment of ZeroEyes The ZeroEyes Research Centre has found that nearly 50% of gun violence incidents at healthcare facilities take place within the building-among these incidents, 42% are targeted attacks, while 39% are spontaneous. Although hospitals are entrusted with caring for the victims of gun-related violence, this surge in violent incidents within healthcare facilities has prompted approximately 40 states to enact or strengthen laws regarding violence against healthcare workers. “Hospitals are inherently fast-paced environments where people are already vulnerable, and the size of the JPS facility makes the job of its police force and security teams even more challenging,” said Mike Lahiff, CEO, and co-founder of ZeroEyes. “I personally believe that the hospital’s deployment of ZeroEyes underscores its unwavering commitment to staying ahead of the curve in safety and security while providing exceptional care for its community.”

Overview: Due to the pandemic and Delta cases in Israel, the first hospital in Israel for treating coronavirus patients was established. The hospital needed to offer more beds and create more special wards for the infected patients. The head of the hospital requested for an advanced system that could monitor patients on-site or remotely to protect the doctors and nurses from cross-infection in the hospital. Non-contact communication Challenges: Lack of devices for contactless communication: The hospital did not have enough equipment to realise non-contact communication between staff and patients, which could have increased the risk of cross infection. Insufficient remote surveillance: The hospital needed to build larger wards for infected patients, which a 24/7 monitoring system must cover. Installing the right cameras for such a large space could be very challenging. Video intercom solution Highlights: Video intercom solution: The patient’s bed is equipped with Dahua's VTO. Once an emergency occurs, the patient can directly call the VTS management device at the nurse’s station through the VTO. At the same time, through the real-time preview function of VTO, the staff in the nurse station can remotely monitor the patient's condition and communicate with the patient in real-time to provide necessary care. Monitoring & management system: Through Dahua's DSS management platform, the entire CCTV monitoring system and video intercom system in the hospital can be unified and managed. For the hospital managers, it not only improves the efficiency of monitoring and management, but also provides additional security for hospital workers to a great extent! Professional CCTV devices Significance: Dahua provided the hospital with video intercom products and Dahua professional CCTV devices that greatly helped them prevent direct contact with patients to reduce cross-infection inside their premises. With the help of Dahua’s solution, the hospital was able to centralise all their surveillance systems for easy management.