Institute security

At this year’s Security and Policing, 3DX-Ray announced a contract for the sale of another ThreatScan®-LS3 system to a European Law Enforcement Agency. This sale is a follow-on order for similar systems already in service with the agency's EOD and search teams. 3DX-RAY ThreatScan®-LS3 is a compact yet powerful portable x-ray scanning system, ideal for mobile operations. The 305mm x 256mm imaging area is large enough for typical bags and packages to be scanned in one scan. 3DX-Ray on stand B5 3DX-Ray will showcase their newest portable x-ray system, the ThreatScan AS2, at this year’s exhibition They will find 3DX-Ray on stand B5 at this year’s Security and Policing, which starts at the Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference Centre, where we will be demonstrating the ThreatScan®-AS2, ThreatScan®-AS1(ISC), ThreatScan® LS systems, and the world’s most capable mailroom scanner the AXIS™-CXi Cabinet System. 3DX-Ray will showcase their newest portable x-ray system, the ThreatScan AS2, at this year’s exhibition. The smaller AS2 panel has been specifically designed for operators working in areas where access is very restricted. It has a smaller footprint and uses the latest glassless technology inside to reduce size and weight. It boasts an excellent dead zone cut off, down to less than 3 mm on two sides. Another advantage of the AS2 panel is that its reduced size and weight make it ideal for backpacking and rapid deployment. ThreatScan®-AS1(ISC) The 3DX-RAY ThreatScan®-AS1(ISC) is a robust amorphous silicon portable x-ray inspection system. It comprises as standard a detector panel with an imaging area of 43cm x 35cm, a new high penetration 150kV generator, and a laptop along with batteries, chargers, the user-friendly 3DX-RAY ThreatSpect software, wireless communication and transport case. The AS1(ISC) is simple to use and produces extremely high quality, sub-millimetre resolution images in real time. User applications and threat scenarios ThreatScan®-AS1(SC) offers high flexibility in deployment to meet the wide variety of user applications The system is fully integrated, with a primary display, computer, communications and power supplies consolidated into a single, waterproof rugged case.  With the addition of a secondary display tablet, ThreatScan®-AS1(SC) offers high flexibility in deployment to meet the wide variety of user applications and threat scenarios. ThreatScan®-LS portable systems The portable ThreatScan® LS systems allow bomb technicians to perform rapid and accurate threat assessment in a wide range of operational scenarios. Each system consists of a generator, a detection panel and an imaging station as standard.  The detector panel is lightweight and incredibly thin and is available in either large or compact format. General security inspection The complete system can penetrate up to 34 mm steel at 120kV while producing high quality images The complete system can penetrate up to 34 mm steel at 120kV while producing high quality, sub-millimetre resolution images. ThreatScan® can be used to inspect suspect bags and packages in mass transit areas as well as general security inspection by first responders such as Police, Military and Private and Government Security agencies. AXIS™-CXi cabinet system The CXi is a cabinet scanning system with materials discrimination to aviation standard. The benefit of the materials discrimination image is that it highlights organic material in orange and metallic material in blue – if it is a mixed composition, it is coloured green. The system represents these materials accurately and has been verified according to the standards used by the aviation sector. This added image information is extremely helpful for an operator as it makes their assessment of potential threats easier and more reliable.

At Booth E11, Asis Europe 2025 (March 4-6th, Convention Centre Dublin) Vismo demonstrated its app-based solutions for risk management, employee tracking, monitoring and mass notification. They include standalone emergency response, travel security and lone worker safety, and any mix of these. The app, Vismo Locate & Protect, works with smartphones and tablets - and satellite devices for heightened security and where network signals are weak or out of range. Range of satellite-focused services For the first time, Vismo demonstrated its satellite-based Garmin inReach Messenger security offering, after adding the device to its range of satellite-focused services in January this year. “The Vismo-Garmin inReach Messenger bundle includes our full employee security suite, which works seamlessly with the device and echoes the theme of this year’s conference – ‘From risk to resilience’,” says Colin Dale, Director of Global Sales, Vismo. “And like all our satellite packages, the device comes with the most appropriate, and competitive, airtime plans.” Vismo’s location technology Also at booth E11 was the ACR Bivy Stick, which utilises satellite technology and Vismo’s location technology Also at booth E11 was the ACR Bivy Stick, which utilises satellite technology and Vismo’s location technology to help optimise employee safety.  Dale adds, “Vismo helps organisations stay ahead of emerging threats. We discussed best practices in risk mitigation, crisis response and how real-time mass notification tools can strengthen duty of care for our customer’s employees worldwide.” Robust employee protection Founded in 2012 and with many employer organisations in the FTSE 100, Fortune 500 and NGOs as customers, Vismo provides robust employee protection services globally. The services extend to any at-risk urban and rural locations where layers of security for employees, contract staff and volunteers are strongly advised.  Vismo’s layers include its app, around which are wrapped, via a secure portal, mass notification, geofencing, responses to the app’s panic button being activated, highly accurate personnel location capabilities, and intelligence streams alerting app users and their employer organisations of known or expected threats to life and well-being. Business continuity “Vismo identifies and responds to events that pose risks to organisations’ employees, executives included,” says Dale. “By doing that we help to build real resilience in organisations and add a valuable foundation to their business continuity.”

Toshiba Europe Limited announces that its commercially available quantum key distribution (QKD) systems now natively incorporate the latest post quantum cryptography (PQC) standard, bringing an additional layer of security to its quantum-safe networking platform.  The connected society relies on the encryption of the private data to maintain its secrecy. The security relies on ‘one-way’ mathematical functions, which are easy to calculate in one direction, but are almost impossible in reverse, even using the most powerful supercomputers. Quantum-safe networks EU published a recommendation calling for co-operation in developing quantum-safe networks However, as a quantum computer will be able to solve efficiently all the one-way problems commonly used in cryptography today, there is a pressing need to develop new cryptographic methods that are secure from quantum attacks.  Recognising this need, in 2024, the EU published a recommendation calling for co-operation in developing quantum-safe networks. Secure encryption keys across optical networks QKD and PQC are the two main methods that have been developed to protect against future quantum-based attacks. QKD is a hardware-based method that uses particles of light to distribute secure encryption keys across optical networks.  The protocols used for QKD can be proven to be secure from all computational attacks, including both those using a quantum computer, and those which have yet to be discovered. Developed and commercialised over two decades, QKD has already been deployed in networks globally.  Toshiba quantum-safe platform PQC more closely resembles the cryptography used now in that it is also based on algorithms In contrast, PQC more closely resembles the cryptography used now in that it is also based on algorithms, but uses new one-way functions, for which no attack with a quantum computer is known now.  Following stringent testing, the US-based National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) released standards defining the first set of PQC algorithms in 2024, which have now been incorporated into the Toshiba quantum-safe platform.  Combining QKD and PQC for defence in depth  QKD and PQC each have respective benefits and trade-offs in terms of hardware-based absolute security and software-based scalability. A combination of PQC and QKD can utilise the benefits of both methods, providing crypto-agility and ensuring ‘defence in depth’ for users.  Toshiba’s new capability means that its commercial QKD systems can now natively use the current NIST PQC Key Encapsulation Mechanism (ML-KEM) standard. QKD keys can be combined with PQC keys and conventional Diffie Hellman keys, if required. New Toshiba QKD systems PQC algorithms released by NIST in the future can be easily added to the Toshiba quantum-safe platform This capability is provided as an option on new Toshiba QKD systems and available as a software upgrade to already deployed systems. In addition to this, new PQC algorithms released by NIST in the future can be easily added to the Toshiba quantum-safe platform.  This makes it easier for organisations to simultaneously deploy both QKD and PQC to better protect their networks from quantum-based attacks.  Enhancement to QKD systems “Organisations need to take action now to protect their communications against quantum computing-based attacks, and this enhancement to our QKD systems makes doing so much easier,” said Andrew Shields, Head of the Toshiba Quantum Technology Division. “Natively supporting the deployment of PQC algorithms within our QKD systems is a huge step forwards in giving our customers the flexibility and agility to adopt the right quantum-safe strategy for their organisation, while also allowing for further futureproofing as quantum threats evolve.”

Access control solutions will continue their evolution in 2025 as organisations assess and adapt to dynamic and increasingly dangerous threats. Trends to watch include the growing adoption of mobile access credentials and digital IDs, and the integration of digital and physical security and other technologies. Other ongoing trends include the integration of AI into access control solutions and the increasing adoption of contactless biometrics for enhanced convenience.  New access control innovations As these trends gather momentum, they highlight the pivotal role access control systems play in combining security and convenience, every hour of every day. Organisations must strike the ideal balance between a secure environment and satisfying user experience if they are to meet increasingly vocal demands for both. Achieving this balance not only delivers the expected user experience but also delivers multi-layered threat protection while introducing exciting new access control innovations.  Digital technologies and open standards Modern access control solutions deliver a faster pace of innovation and dramatically improved capabilities Modern access control solutions deliver a faster pace of innovation and dramatically improved capabilities as compared to what was possible in the past. The primary objective is no longer simply to secure places and assets so they are beyond the reach of the wrong people. Now it also must be as easy as possible for authorised individuals to enter a building or access digital assets. Mobile access credentials and digital IDs are increasingly a preferred solution for achieving this seamless and convenient access experience. Technology convergence is happening at a rapid pace and this convergence makes it possible to integrate digital and physical security with real-time location systems and other technologies. Together, these converged technologies provide multi-layered protection against both cyber and physical threats while also enabling valuable new capabilities.  2024 State of Physical Access Control Report As AI is increasingly incorporated into access-control solutions, we will see even more powerful ways to leverage access control data for analytics use cases. Almost 40% of respondents to our 2024 State of Physical Access Control Report said they were looking to do this. Equally consequential is the rise of fast, frictionless and easy contactless biometrics solutions in a wide range of applications including healthcare, where 32% of respondents to our recent 2024 State of Healthcare Security Report said their facilities have already implemented this technology for authentication. Looking at the broader marketplace, nearly one in four (23%) respondents to our 2024 State of Physical Access Control Report cited biometrics when asked to “name the top three trends shaping the wider access control industry in the near future.” Evolution of access control solutions As access control solutions become increasingly central to secure and convenient daily life, these and other trends will have an ongoing impact on all market sectors from healthcare and banking to the corporate real estate enterprise and business and college campuses. At the same time, those responsible for a facility’s digital and physical assets know that these trends – and security in general – will never be a static proposition. The only constant is change. Threats will never stop evolving, and those tasked with protecting organisations against these threats must never stand still. The evolution of access control solutions that we saw during 2024 will continue through 2025 and beyond, and organisations will need to remain thorough and vigilant as they address today’s ever-expanding attack surfaces and ever-evolving attack schemes.

Digital access control has well-known benefits over traditional security, of course, but also costs attached to each stage of its lifetime. However, these costs are not fixed. Many factors – including building size, shape, type, location, national regulations and more – impact affordability and efficiency calculations. Crucially, the type of access solution a business selects – wired or wireless – impacts total operating costs, including during installation, running and any potential expansion or reconfiguration stages. Wireless installation Wiring premises can be expensive. So, the potential cost savings from choosing wireless digital access begin at the very start. Installation stage is the largest contributor to potential cost savings when businesses go wireless. In calculations for one report, access experts at ASSA ABLOY examined projected costs for a fictional 100-door installation. Labour savings for those who chose wireless over wired locks were 82.5%. Why? Firstly, because wireless installation is much faster. It is also less intrusive. Most wireless locking devices require little or no drilling of the door, whereas wired security needs cabling through and partly around a door – which means not just door damage, but the contracting of specialist electrical installers who may require multiple site visits. These costs add up. Digital access technology Torus aims for the highest level of LEED certification for all its new properties In Poland, for example, developer Torus aims for the highest level of LEED certification for all their new properties around Gdansk. Where possible, they choose products with Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) and Green Circle documentation, favouring access solutions which reduce their carbon footprint. Wireless digital access technology is a natural choice. “The lack of wiring significantly reduces materials use, reduces costs, and ensures quick installation,” confirms Torus’ Roman Sokolowski. There’s no cabling, which cuts power consumption. There’s less damage to the building fabric and fitters make fewer journeys to and from the site. Adaptable locking solution By choosing a wireless solution, organisations also upgrade building security with little disruption. A wireless system makes it easier to improve security at an existing building via a retrofit process which does not inconvenience staff or disturb work routines. This was one goal at Plexal, a £15 million flexible work environment for London enterprise and academia. Plexal chose battery powered wireless locks integrated with DoorFlow, NetNodes’ online platform for managing and auditing building access. “Plexal required an adaptable locking solution for a range of different doors and, with no wiring required, it was quick and easy to install ASSA ABLOY Aperio® devices with minimal disruption,” confirms Stewart Johnson, Director at NetNodes. Cost savings with improved energy efficiency Choosing wireless over wired locking can play a vital role in reducing ongoing energy use Choosing wireless over wired locking can play an important role in reducing ongoing energy use – and, therefore, expenditure. Wholesale electricity prices in Europe are approximately double what they were in 2019, according to the IEA’s “Electricity 2024” report. For a variable cost such as energy, where businesses have little control over unit prices, it is critical to control usage, especially if high and/or changeable energy prices become what analysts at ING called “the new normal for business”. Thus, the fact that battery-powered locks consume much less energy than traditional wired solutions is increasingly relevant and important. Additional saving on energy costs Traditional wired door access devices often work via magnets connected permanently to mains electricity. These doors draw power around the clock to remain locked. Wireless locks work differently.  They only “wake up” when presented with a credential, to make the access decision. This translates to an additional saving on energy costs during operation: more than 70%, or thousands of euros over a typical access system’s lifetime. Wireless digital access Wireless locks only need a change of their standard battery, which may be rechargeable Related energy and materials costs during in-use stage are also lower. Wireless locks only need a change of their standard battery – which may be rechargeable – typically once every two years. No specialist maintenance is required, saving on specialists and their travel to and from the site(s). By choosing wireless digital access, businesses help protect themselves against these ongoing costs, notably energy price increases and volatility. Cost-efficient flexible working, for staff and facilities managers Perhaps harder to quantify, but equally easy to imagine, the financial benefits of choosing a wireless digital solution are felt in the increased convenience and efficiency of daily operations. In the co-working sector, for example, flexible access to offices is a priority. As “fixed” office space rented by corporations continues to fall, co-working spaces are expected to keep growing, with one estimate suggesting almost 18% CAGR to 2030. To stand out from the competition, the founders of ULab in Alicante sought the latest innovations in access and design to create their 21st-century business centre. Part of the suite of digital access solutions from ASSA ABLOY, a SMARTair® system gave ULab real-time access management via battery-powered locks and Openowä, the Mobile Key solution for SMARTair, without any need to wire doors and other openings. SMARTair TS1000 Web interface With SMARTair and Openow, workspace residents can carry virtual keys on their smartphone With SMARTair and Openow, workspace residents can carry virtual keys on their smartphone; ULab’s security team update their rights over the air. An office manager can perform any operation remotely from the SMARTair TS1000 Web interface. In case of an emergency, they could lock-down the site or open doors remotely, for example. It’s convenient, efficient and boosts ULab’s security, benefiting users and managers. And because of SMARTair’s flexibility, they can comfortably welcome many more than their usual 100 daily users. “In addition to regular daily traffic, weekly traffic can almost multiply by 10 if an event is held,” says Enrique Burgos Pérez, Director at ULab. “We needed an access control system as flexible and convenient as SMARTair.” ASSA ABLOY benchmarking report Choosing wireless locks also adds flexibility – and can reduce costs – when an organisation reconfigures or expands their commercial space. High-quality wireless devices like SMARTair can typically be reinstalled at another opening without impacting reliability. They move to wherever is convenient. If a business is rethinking workspace to encourage flexible or hybrid work patterns, for example, cost efficiencies could be significant. Typical savings on office relocation or expansion are estimated at around 30% with wireless over wired locking, according to the same ASSA ABLOY benchmarking report. Cost efficiency and more control with ASSA ABLOY digital access To refit and improve their student accommodation, managers at the University of St Andrews sought energy- and cost-efficient access control. They chose Aperio, another innovative digital access solution from ASSA ABLOY. Approximately 1,600 doors so far are equipped with battery-powered Aperio escutcheons – without cabling.  Aperio devices integrate fully with both the university’s existing central security system and their student ID card. University security managers continue to enjoy the efficiency benefits of monitoring and controlling access from a single point and in real-time, including for doors across multiple buildings. Aperio, another innovative digital access solution from ASSA ABLOY. Benefits of cost-efficiency  In comparison to a wired solution, Aperio offers significant cost-efficiency benefits. Devices are wireless, so can be installed with little energy use and no need for wiring to the mains. They consume near-zero energy when idle and run on standard batteries, consuming little power during operation. Through the entire product life-cycle, Aperio combines reliability with cost effectiveness. “Aperio gives us central management and control,” says Pauline Brown, Associate Chief Information Officer at the University of St Andrews, “and contributes to our award-winning track record in energy efficiency.”

These days, business is more collaborative, adaptable and connected than ever before. In addition to offering new identities and access privileges, new applications and data also increase the attack surface available to cyber criminals, hacktivists, state actors and disgruntled insiders. These new identities need to be handled carefully. CISOs must develop an identity management strategy that is consistent across on-premises, hybrid and cloud systems. Good security is built on solid identity governance and administration (IGA) principles. From ransomware to supply chain intrusions, high-profile cybersecurity events frequently take advantage of weak identity and access management procedures. The Identity Defined Security Alliance found that 84% of organisations experienced an identity-related breach during its one-year study period. Robust IGA system Consequently, organisations need to find best-of-breed solutions for each section of the fabric Some of the most well-known cyber-attacks have not been made possible by a nation-state exploiting a remote zero-day vulnerability; rather, they have been made possible by something as basic as a hacked orphaned account. This resulted in lateral movement from an insecure platform to a high-value system, illegitimate privilege escalation or unsanctioned access to a computer system. To safeguard against such attacks, organisations must be aware of who has access to their systems and apps, and guarantee that access is revoked when it is no longer required. Here, a robust IGA system is helpful. It is not the whole picture, though; IGA is part of a larger identity fabric. A report by KuppingerCole noted that “Identity Fabrics are not necessarily based on a technology, tool or cloud service, but a paradigm for architecting IAM within enterprises.” The report pointed out that the paradigm is created using several tools and services. That’s because, contrary to marketing claims, no one vendor has a platform that provides all the needed elements. Consequently, organisations need to find best-of-breed solutions for each section of the fabric. Threats to the new corporate landscape Due to their exclusion from the corporate firewall and the security culture that comes with working on-site, remote employees and third parties are desirable targets for hackers. The transition to online office suites is another vulnerability that hackers are taking advantage of–for instance, through bogus authentication login dialogues. Additionally, hackers are using technologies like machine learning and artificial intelligence to circumvent current security tactics. A cyberattack powered by AI will imitate human behaviour and develop over time. Even publicly available information might be used by this "weaponised AI" to learn how to get past a target’s defences. CISO and the business users Attackers will finally find an entryway, but firms can protect the new perimeter–their identities It's no longer possible to secure the traditional perimeter. Attackers will eventually find an entryway, but businesses can protect the new perimeter–their identities. To defeat these threats, organisations must look again at identity and access management tools and how they are weighed against the impact on the organisation. Should you mandate multi-factor authentication (MFA) more often and earlier? Should only company-owned devices have access to networks, or should access be restricted to specific business hours or regions? Should access to sensitive information and critical systems be given just temporarily or should it be offered on a task-by-task basis? Both the CISO and the business users they assist should be asking these questions. Staying ahead of threats with identity Access control limits decrease dangers but can come with a cost. If you give your users too much access, your organisation becomes susceptible; if you give them too little, productivity suffers. But there are ways to strike a balance with security, compliance and productivity. More CISOs are turning to Zero Trust–which is based on the principle of maintaining strict access controls and not trusting anyone by default–to protect their systems from new attack types. However, Zero Trust is reliant upon having a thorough and baked-in strategy that underpins it.  Other actions that companies can take include implementing automation for identity management, such as automating workflows for approval. This would significantly lessen the administrative burden and friction that security solutions like multifactor authentication (MFA) or time-restricted access to critical systems have on business users. This might include restricting access to particular devices, capping access hours during the day or enforcing MFA based on user behaviour. Identity fabric: Putting it all together Make sure your identity architecture is scalable, secure, and provides a seamless user experience These are just two elements of the identity fabric approach. Most organisations today have implemented pieces of an identity fabric, which is basically an organisation’s identity and access management (IAM) infrastructure and typically includes a mix of modular IAM solutions for multi-cloud and/or hybrid environments. Now, organisations need to define, enhance and develop this infrastructure. They must also institute guiding principles for how it should operate, meet current and future business requirements as well as identity-related cybersecurity challenges. In doing so, businesses can move past identity platforms and adopt an identity fabric perspective. The key is to make identity governance the starting point of your identity fabric strategy, ensuring seamless interoperability within your identity ecosystem. Make sure your identity architecture is scalable, secure, and provides a seamless user experience. Aligning security with business Due to the increase in knowledge workers using the cloud and working remotely, attackers are focusing on this group. These employees are easier to compromise, give access to valuable data and offer more attack targets. Knowledge workers also lack an administrator’s level of security expertise. Therefore, as part of their security fabric strategy, enterprises require a scalable IGA system. It is easier to comply with security and access regulations and takes less time for IT teams to do normal administrative activities when they invest in IGA, a crucial tenet of identity security. CISOs and boards, though, are currently looking at more than identity management. IGA is at the centre of the debate about security and governance. Taking an identity fabric-based approach, with a foundation built on modern, cloud-based IGA, will safeguard identities, increase productivity, and make staff adherence to organisational procedures easier.

GSX 2023 has its share of new product announcements, although many of the new products are enhancements to technologies shown at last spring’s ISC West show in Las Vegas. Booth traffic on the first day seemed busy at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, although one exhibitor complained that it takes some time for the traffic to make its way to the farthest areas of the show floor. Apparent throughout the GSX show is an expanding idea of what constitutes security. Increasingly, ‘security’ technologies offer benefits throughout other parts of a company or institution. Security is also being broadened to encompass ‘safety,’ including emergency response and wider issues of keeping a company safe. Managing multiple systems People look at the systems they have, and they are looking for more information" Manufacturers at GSX are talking about more than new products. Rather, they are offering new approaches to turn products into ‘solutions’ for customers. Among the benefits of new systems is the availability of more data.  “People look at the systems they have, and they are looking for more information and data and insights from their systems,” says Kyle Hurt, Genetec’s Area Vice-President of Sales for the US and Canada. “In the past, if I’m managing multiple systems and spending time and resources, I am making sure systems are operational. Today, it’s more like: How do I make my enterprise more efficient? I spend less time on making sure systems are working together but more time on how we can use the information.” Manufacturers at GSX are talking about more than new products Security control room Genetec is enhancing its Security Center 5.11 version with a newly redesigned web client that provides new capabilities related to system audio, including the ability to trigger a public address from a mobile device in an emergency, two-way audio to and from the security operations centre, and the ability to record an incident. The new web client offers new levels of “Security on the go,” says Hurt. A mobile device becomes an extension of the security control room. “Customers want to have more remote capabilities and have their security personnel out and about, not tied to a desk,” says Hurt. The new web client works to unify the four pillars of the Security Centre— video, access control, license plate recognition, and now audio.  Single source manufacturer Audio can now be used to broadcast a message, respond to an incident, and notify people" “Audio has taken time to develop legs in our ecosystem,” says Hurt. “We have been developing partnerships and use cases beyond an intercom at the door. Audio can now be used to broadcast a message, respond to an incident, and notify people en mass of what’s going on.” Manufacturers are also fine-tuning how they work to meet customers’ needs. “Customers want one point of contact, a single source manufacturer, and a solution that reflects the manufacturer is listening to the voice of the customer,” says Jerry Burhans, Managing Director of ASSA ABLOY Global Solutions - Critical Infrastructure, which seeks to be a global partner to critical infrastructure industries. The Critical Infrastructure business works across the various product groups of the notoriously siloed company to bring together solutions aimed at meeting each customer’s need. Manufacturers are also fine-tuning how they work to meet customers’ needs Best-in-class technology “We try to have best-in-class technology and collaborate within ourselves to make sure we have what customers need,” says Burhans. Critical infrastructure industries such as water, power and energy, oil and gas are developing standards to help support preparedness of the nation’s infrastructure, and ASSA ABLOY Global Solutions is helping operators secure access and provide audit trails on locking hardware and keys within their security perimeters. Managing customer assets Johnson Controls’ new OpenBlue Service for the security device market seeks to proactively manage customer assets (equipment) as a service. The company’s software platform of connected solutions monitors and manages security devices across vendors and provides remote support services including skilled engineers who can work to ensure that a company’s assets, including cameras and access control readers, operate dependably. Working remotely, OpenBlue analyzes the performance of each system component  Johnson Controls estimates that, unfortunately, up to 25% of a company’s security assets may not be working as intended, whether they lack the latest firmware update or are not connected. Working remotely, OpenBlue analyses the performance of each system component and responds to ensure equipment operates as intended. “We believe we can close that gap with our solutions,” says Greg Parker, Vice President, Innovation & Portfolio Management for Johnson Controls.  Physical security equipment A big advantage of OpenBlue for security customers is the ability to manage cybersecurity and threats at the edge, which may not currently be addressed by the IT department. The OpenBlue offering includes an embedded ‘air wall,’ which is a zero-trust architecture for physical security equipment. OpenBlue also helps customers manage the ever-changing lifecycles of various assets. Another concept prompting discussion at GSX 2023 is the gap between what a customer expects from a product and what the product can realistically deliver. With endless promotion in the last several years centring on concepts such as artificial intelligence (AI), is it any wonder that customers may sometimes have unrealistic expectations about what a technology can accomplish? The good news at GSX is that, as progress marches on, newer technologies are getting closer and closer to delivering on customers’ most ambitious expectations. The forward momentum of technology development is evident throughout the GSX 2023 show floor, reflecting the promise of even greater product capabilities in months and years to come.

A pioneer in the access control sector since 1971, AMAG Technology is looking to the future and the next generation of products that will expand its services to customers. “In our vision, we have advanced approaches that will not only provide our partners with advanced technologies but also ones that are easier to install with tools to expand their services,” says David Sullivan, who was appointed President of the venerable access control company in September 2022. New challenges at AMAG Sullivan brings a new outlook to the AMAG business, a part of Allied Universal, and a new vision to lead the company into the future. We caught up with David Sullivan to discuss his new challenges at AMAG and the journey ahead as the company looks to the future. Q: How does your background inform your approach to leading AMAG? I believe that it helps me to define a vision for AMAG that will be unique and on the leading edge of our industry David Sullivan: With the exception of only a few short years, my career has been in access control. I have experience with several systems and have had the privilege to manage several successful access control companies. As a result, I bring a great deal of experience into my role at AMAG. I believe that it helps me to define a vision for AMAG that will be unique and on the leading edge of our industry. Q: How would you describe AMAG’s journey over the last several years and how do you see the future? Sullivan: Prior presidents of AMAG always shared their leadership vision and direction with senior leaders located in the United Kingdom. This had an impact on the full direction of the business, sometimes limiting its ultimate success. Before I became a part of AMAG, these senior leaders that were located in the UK retired, placing for the first time the full management responsibilities of the president. This has allowed me to integrate the business into a single team, with single objectives, and a single vision. We expect to begin to reveal this new vision in the coming weeks. We are excited about the future of AMAG and believe we will surprise the industry with our new products and approach in the coming months and years. Q: How important is it that a manufacturer provides both hardware and software solutions? How does AMAG’s approach (in general) differentiate it in the market? We can design the complete solution, providing functionality that others may find more difficult to accomplish Sullivan: Regardless of the manufacturer, we all provide hardware and software. An access control solution is not complete without both. Some of us choose to make our panels, and others do not. Those who are dependent on third-party suppliers are restricted to the developments and direction of that company, and while it might be perceived to be an open technology, it still is proprietary to the hardware manufacturer. AMAG has controlled its manufacturing of panels from day one. The result means that we can design the complete solution, providing functionality that others may find more difficult to accomplish. Q: How does the breadth of AMAG’s product suite provide advantages to customers and/or integrators? Sullivan: AMAG’s product portfolio is unique and provides the end user with an end-to-end identity management solution from one company. Our Control Room PSIM, Symmetry CONNECT Identity Management Solution, Symmetry Access Control, and Symmetry GUEST solutions all integrate to provide the user with a broad set of features and capabilities from a single provider. There is no finger-pointing when we come to support your system. We hold full responsibility for making it work and can quickly provide a resolution to any application difficulties the user may be experiencing. Q: How does AMAG address the divide between on-prem and cloud systems? How do you help customers make the transition and/or plan for the future? We are in the early stages of developing our next generation of access control in which we intend to provide on-prem Sullivan: In our current product portfolio, we have three products that are cloud-based. Our mobile credential platform (Symmetry Mobile), our visitor management solution (Symmetry GUEST), and our physical identity and access management solution (Symmetry CONNECT) are all offerings that operate in the cloud. We are in the early stages of developing our next generation of access control in which we intend to provide on-prem, web client, and cloud-based offerings. One of the primary objectives is to ensure that the large installed base of systems that are out there today will be able to migrate not only to our next generation but as well to the cloud if the client so desires. Q: What is AMAG’s approach to mobile credentialing? Sullivan: As an access control provider, adding Symmetry Mobile credentialing to our portfolio just made sense. We want our customers to have a forward-thinking solution with the opportunity to save money not only on the physical badges but the cost of printing and distributing badges. Mobile credentials can be easily issued and revoked remotely, reducing administrative overhead, and eliminating the need for physical inventory management. Organisations can centrally configure what devices are used and the read range for each type of device and operating system, thus providing flexibility. Symmetry Mobile offers a customised questionnaire that controls access and reduces liabilities. Q: What has surprised you the most in your first year or so leading AMAG? Not many companies are blessed with such a broad portfolio that is supported by a resource-rich company Sullivan: I wouldn’t say I was surprised by this as much as happy to see, but I would say that the quality of our people was a pleasant surprise. As well, the AMAG product offering is broad and has some unique elements. When coupled with the depth of the resources that we have in AMAG, I know that we are second to none. Not many companies are blessed with such a broad portfolio that is supported by a resource-rich company that has so many talented people. Q: Please describe your dealer channel, and how you are seeking to expand it. Sullivan: The AMAG products are sophisticated and typically are installed for higher-end applications. With this sophistication comes a need to be well able to install such a solution. We have a strong group of certified and loyal partners who help us to deliver these enterprise solutions. We desire to provide our existing partners with updated and competitive systems to offer to their end users. Q: What is the security industry’s (and/or AMAG’s) biggest challenge in the next five years? We need to find ways to provide both our channel partners and the customers with solutions that are easily integrated Sullivan: I believe that the advancements that we are seeing in technology provide our industry with the opportunity to truly change how security is provided to our collective customers. As we advance these solutions, we will need to do so responsibly and in a way that helps the channel’s abilities. We need to find ways to train our partners to both install and support these more complex solutions. At the same time, we need to find ways to provide both our channel partners and the customers with solutions that are easily integrated, moving away from proprietary closed systems to open and cohesive solutions. This will ensure that the users get the best, and most complete solutions. Q: What does the industry as a whole misunderstand about AMAG -- time to set the record straight! Sullivan: Well, I am not ready to openly share where we are heading. We are in the process of putting together some advanced approaches to how we will do business with our partners. We are focused on providing tools that will enhance their services to their customers, and with products that are leading edge. I can only state that all should keep their eyes on AMAG, because over the next few years, we are going to surprise some people, and more importantly make our loyal partners quite powerful.

Well attended and generating levels of excitement not seen since before the pandemic, ISC West may provide just the shot of adrenaline we need to drive industry success through the uncertain economic times ahead. Buzzwords like artificial intelligence (AI) and the cloud were still prevalent at the conference and exhibition in Las Vegas, but the hype of yesteryear seemed more subdued. Rather than breakthroughs to be celebrated, AI and cloud were discussed more as ways systems can realise even greater potential. Rampant cybersecurity attacks Rather than hype, discussions seemed much more practical and down-to-earth, encompassing shifting customer needs and how to address pain points. There was more discussion of the shift of security from a cost center to a profit center, where industry technologies can contribute to an enterprise’s bottom line. More companies seemed to be vigorously addressing the challenges of cybersecurity More companies seemed to be vigorously addressing the challenges of cybersecurity, although perpetually an obstacle. The industry seems more devoted than ever to protecting physical security systems in an age of rampant cybersecurity attacks. But more than in years past, it was the ISC West event itself that generated the most buzz. The crowded aisles of the exhibition seemed both reminiscent of the pre-covid past and prescient of the industry’s even brighter future. From booth to booth and attendee to attendee, the enthusiasm was both conspicuous and contagious. Everybody was thinking: ‘Wow! What a show!’ Pushing technology to the edge “The practice of physical security is about more than understanding threats, and end users are thinking now about the bigger picture of security and how networks work in the broader context of the business,” said Andrew Elvish, Vice President, Marketing at Genetec. Problems of latency and miscommunication are elements pushing technology to the network edge, he says. For example, in an access control scenario, decision-making should be as close to the door as possible to avoid network congestion, delays, or failure. Andrew Elvish, Vice President, Marketing at Genetec, displays Axis network door controller ‘powered by Genetec’ Elements pushing technology Reflecting the philosophy is a new collaboration introduced at the show called ‘Axis Powered by Genetec,’ an enterprise-level access control offering that combines Genetec Synergis software with A1210 and A1610 network door controllers by Axis Communications. Elvish says lines are blurring when it comes to edge versus cloud technologies. Rather than choosing ‘either-or,’ a blending of approaches is optimum, always ensuring that “Decision-making is close to the point of actuation,” he says. On-premise versus cloud systems Elvish also points to changing assumptions about the industry roles of on-premise versus cloud systems Elvish also points to changing assumptions about the industry roles of on-premise versus cloud systems. Historically, the assumption was that on-premise systems are most appropriate for enterprise customers, while the cloud is the best approach for small- to medium businesses (SMBs). Depending on the end customer’s needs, a system can be either or both at the same time.  Rather than debate cloud versus edge, customers should consider the outcomes they seek, and how technologies can be merged to provide those outcomes. “They should consider a solution where they do both, with the gradation of controls provided at their fingertips,” says Elvish. Combining security into one platform Unifying security and related functions on a single platform was a widely evident trend at ISC West. An example is Verkada which now offers a unified platform that includes video, access control, and intrusion detection, as well as other functions such as air quality sensors, visitor management, and a door intercom. David Tsang, Product Director of Verkada, predicts demand to combine technologies into a single platform will grow in the industry. Furthermore, as data is collected in the single system, enterprises will find new ways to ‘connect the dots’ to provide better business intelligence. Air quality sensors Verkada’s cloud-based system enables fast deployment of the single platform “Our approach to building products is based around the idea that every company has different needs, and they want technologies to integrate seamlessly and operate off the same platform,” says Tsang. In addition to seamless integration, each product must also be able to stand on its own. Tsang manages Verkada’s various product categories, including access control, air quality sensors, intercoms, etc. Verkada’s cloud-based system enables fast deployment of the single platform, and the company works with dealers to ensure delivery of a 'better partner experience.' What happens after a binge of acquisitions?  Acre Security unveiled a new corporate ‘identity’ and a big booth highlighting the technology brands the company has acquired over the last several years. Brands such as Feenics, ACTMobile, Comnet, Razberi, and others reflect Acre’s acquisition of these companies but are now being promoted as technology choices under the ‘one Acre’ approach.  Don Joos, CEO of Acre Security, looked ahead to the future of the company at ISC West Visitor management product categories Change is in the air, and the booth’s unified visual design signifies the new direction for the company, says Don Joos, Acre’s CEO. Various technologies can be delivered via the cloud, through an on-premise installation, or using a hybrid approach Acre is highlighting ACTMobile’s mustering capability, useful in the K-12 market In tying technologies together, the ACTMobile product will play a key role in two major verticals -- command-and-control and K-12 schools. Acre is highlighting ACTMobile’s mustering capability, useful in the K-12 market, which was adapted from a technology used in the cruise industry. The Acre approach is to embrace the variety of opportunities available in the access control, intrusion, and visitor management product categories within a broad definition of ‘security’ that embraces both core capabilities and ‘adjacencies,’ says Joos. Acre seeks to enable customers to protect people, facilities, and critical assets. They manage customers’ security data and provide the insights they need. Ensuring a cohesive security system A challenge in the industry is combining various single products into a cohesive whole. “There are many products that do one thing well, but it’s harder to build a cohesive security platform,” says Ryan Schonfeld, Founder and CEO of Hivewatch. Hivewatch is a software platform that performs the functions previously associated with a ‘PSIM,’ which is a physical security information management system. The term PSIM has earned a questionable reputation in the industry, plagued by added costs and the perpetual challenges of integrating with ever-changing software platforms. Information management system Hivewatch seeks to bypass other software systems and to integrate as closely as possible with devices Hivewatch seeks to bypass other software systems and to integrate as closely as possible with devices on the edge, thus avoiding the impact of software system changes. They integrate with data in a ‘different way’ that eliminates the need to conform to other software systems.  In today’s climate, the term ‘security’ could be seen as limiting when it comes to the various functions our industry’s systems can perform in the broader enterprise, says Schonfeld. Traditional enterprise reporting structures that have physical security reporting to the facilities or real estate department are limiting the broader role security can play in the enterprise. Positioning physical security Changing norms are positioning physical security to report to the CIO or CISO, thus reflecting physical security’s role in collecting and analysing data. Higher visibility within the enterprise can help security expand its influence and impact. “Security is too limiting, and it can keep us from getting a seat at the table,” says Schonfeld. “We need to shift from being a cost center to generating revenue and/or driving business — and data is the key. Rather than leading by fear, we need to show the value security can drive.”

The City of Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and the second most populous city in the country. It is the seat of the Scottish Government and the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. As well as serving a vital role in government, the city is economically significant for the region, attracting global tourism as well as being home to a world-renowned university. Protecting citizens and visitors as they move through the city and keeping Edinburgh’s roads running smoothly is of the utmost importance.  Transforming into a smart city City of Edinburgh Council leadership modernises security and surveillance across the capital The City of Edinburgh Council leadership needed to modernise security and surveillance across the capital. This involved upgrading the control centre to a new smart city operations centre to receive real-time data from Edinburgh’s surveillance network. The centre also integrates with traffic and transport platforms to enhance operational management and improve city planning. Hanwha Vision IP cameras The new control centre gives operators access to real-time data and analytics, for insights that improve response times and situational awareness. Smart technology solutions provider, North, designed a security solution built with more than 100 high-resolution Hanwha Vision IP cameras including the PNM-9322VQP multi-directional PTZ camera and XNO-8080R 5MP IR bullet camera. The solution also incorporates a video management system from Genetec. Comprehensive coverage and intelligence Multi-directional cameras are ideal for monitoring large and complex areas such as city centres Multi-directional cameras are ideal for monitoring large and complex areas such as city centres. The multi-directional PNM-9322VQP features five camera sensors in a single device, minimising the amount of cabling and server infrastructure required compared to installing five separate devices, to improve cost-efficiency while streamlining installation. The XNO-8080R is a 5MP IR bullet camera with accurate video analytics. These analytics - carried out on the device to reduce server needs - include loitering, directional detection, audio detection and sound classification. It features Hallway View to cover narrow areas such as alleyways. Additionally, using the proprietary compression technology WiseStream II improves bandwidth by up to 75% while retaining video quality. Best-in-class cybersecurity Cybersecurity is crucial in a smart city, given the number of connected devices that could be exploited. Hanwha Vision has been hardening its cybersecurity measures for many years with the National Defense Authorization Act compliance (NDAA), UL CAP Certification, and a dedicated security vulnerability response team (S-CERT). Furthermore, North is part of Genetec’s “network of trust” initiative, signalling the close partnership between the two solution providers and their shared focus on securing network and critical surveillance infrastructure. Low-carbon technology Hanwha Vision has been hardening its cybersecurity measures for many years with the NDAA “The new operations centre has been years in the making and it’s fantastic to see it live in action,” said Councillor Jane Meagher, Council Leader, The City of Edinburgh Council. “With cutting-edge low-carbon technology designed to keep the city moving and our communities safe, it drastically steps up our capabilities as a council. Edinburgh is fast becoming an example of a truly smart city and it’s thanks to trailblazing projects like this.” New video surveillance system Andrew Foster, MD – Public Services at North, added: “Helping to drive positive change through smart technology and improved operational systems across Edinburgh is something that North is incredibly proud of. Working together, the city now has access to real-time data that will influence the future of city planning, improve large-scale events and create a greener environment for generations to come.” The new video surveillance system provides Edinburgh with a future-proofed smart city solution with the option to expand and add connected devices such as air quality sensors, smart parking applications and flood sensors.

The university encountered a significant challenge with the competitor’s attendance tracking solution for its teaching staff. Seeking a more precise and seamless method of capturing daily attendance across multiple campuses, the institution aimed to establish a centralised platform for attendance management. The key objectives included enhancing ease of access for employees to view their attendance records and efficiently manage leave requests. A notable consideration was the need for a specialised provision to accommodate professors who frequently moved across campuses for lecture commitments. This case study delves into the university’s pursuit of a robust attendance management solution for 3000 users to address these specific challenges and optimise operational efficiency. Challenges The major challenges that the university faced for the smooth operation of Its Attendance Management System were: Inefficient Existing Attendance Management Solution: The university encountered difficulties with a competitor’s attendance management system, which proved more cumbersome than facilitative. Managing attendance across various faculties became a challenge, exacerbating complications in understanding university-level payroll processing. Irregularity in Daily Attendance Marking for Teaching Staff: A critical requirement for the university was the seamless daily marking of professors’ attendance. The need for effective channelisation of attendance arose to ensure precise tracking and streamlined payroll management. Improper Attendance Management across Multiple Campuses: Given the multi-location setup of the campuses, there was an urgent need for centralising attendance data. This centralised approach was essential for easily managing attendance across all locations. Delayed Data Transmission from Devices: The existing solution faced challenges as punch data from devices was not transmitted to the system in a timely manner. This delay resulted in complications, necessitating manual synchronisation efforts to address the issue. Inability for Employees to Access Attendance Data and Leave Management Issues: Staff faced limitations in checking their attendance data using the current system. Additionally, the absence of support for leave request submissions led to improper leave management practices, creating a need for more efficient solutions. These operational challenges prompted the university to seek innovative solutions, aiming to enhance the overall efficiency and effectiveness of its attendance management processes. Solution To tackle the pressing issues confronted by the client, Matrix successfully deployed a thorough solution that efficiently resolved the organisational issues they were facing. Matrix Implemented its Attendance Management System to achieve: Implementation of Comprehensive Attendance Management System: Matrix successfully deployed an Enterprise-grade Time-Attendance Solution, effectively addressing the client’s organisational challenges in attendance management. This solution streamlined the entire attendance process, eliminating complexities across diverse campuses. Effortless Attendance Marking for Teaching Staff: Matrix introduced biometric devices across various faculties, enabling seamless attendance punching for teaching staff. The widespread availability of devices ensured precise tracking and efficient payroll management. Centralised Attendance Management Across Multiple Campuses: Matrix implemented a centralised solution for attendance management, consolidating data from multiple campuses. This centralised approach facilitated efficient control and management of attendance across diverse locations. Automatic Data Transmission from Devices: Matrix Time-Attendance terminals were deployed with automated data push technology. This feature ensured timely and automated data transfer from devices to the server, eliminating the need for manual synchronisation and enhancing operational efficiency. User-Friendly Employee Self-Service Portal: Matrix provided a comprehensive solution, including an Employee Self-Service portal. This portal allowed users to view attendance data on their devices and submit leave requests. With its hierarchy-based approval system, Matrix streamlined the leave management process. The innovative solutions offered by Matrix not only addressed the client’s challenges but also significantly improved attendance operations, fostering enhanced efficiency throughout the organisation. This case study underscores Matrix’s ability to tailor solutions to meet unique client needs, ultimately optimising business processes. Results Matrix biometric devices facilitated seamless marking for teaching staff, ensuring efficient control Matrix’s deployment of its Enterprise-grade Time-Attendance Solution remarkably transformed the operations of the historic Vadodara-based university. Overcoming challenges posed by an inefficient attendance management system, Matrix streamlined the entire process, offering clarity in payroll processing and easing attendance tracking across diverse faculties. Matrix biometric devices facilitated seamless marking for teaching staff, ensuring efficient payroll management. Centralised attendance management system The introduction of a centralised attendance management system across multiple campuses enhanced control and efficiency in handling attendance data. Matrix addressed delays in data transmission by deploying terminals with automated data push technology, eliminating manual synchronisation. The implementation also included a user-friendly Employee Self-Service Portal, enabling staff to effortlessly view attendance data and submit leave requests. Matrix provided a hierarchy-based approval system that helped to streamline the client’s leave management requirements. The tailored solutions significantly improved operational efficiency, resulting in a more streamlined, accurate, and transparent organisational operation. Matrix’s success in optimising attendance processes underscores its commitment to delivering innovative solutions tailored to the unique requirements of its clients.

Edinburgh is Scotland’s capital city and home to over half a million citizens. It’s also a worldwide tourist hotspot that attracts more than 4 million visitors each year. The City of Edinburgh Council is responsible for providing all local government services for the city and its immediate surroundings. In recent years, the city council created a Digital and Smart City strategy. The goal was to introduce innovative new technologies to help solve challenges, better manage our resources, and improve public services. The challenge The existing public security system was no longer fit for purpose and couldn't seamlessly integrate Only one issue stopped the city council from realising its smart city vision. The existing public security system was no longer fit for purpose and couldn't seamlessly integrate new applications and technologies.  “It really was a barrier that prevented us from moving forward with our Smart City ambitions,” said Gavin Brown, Interim Service Director-Operational Services at The City of Edinburgh Council. The solution Unified public safety tech With the Security Centre unified security platform, operators can manage CCTV, analytics, and IoT sensors from one interface. They are now more confident and in control when handling day-to-day operations. Powerful analytics and AI-based tools Implementing advanced video analytics and AI-based tools has empowered operators. This greatly enhances situational awareness, allowing them to quickly pinpoint and respond to threats. Greater intelligence from IoT The Council has connected smart waste sensors to reduce pollution, smart building tech to predict dampness and mold issues, and travel monitoring to inform sustainability initiatives. Better collaboration Investing in unified security has enhanced collaboration between city partners Investing in unified security has enhanced collaboration between city partners. Video and data can be securely shared with Police Scotland, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, and Public Transport. “The Genetec Security Centre platform has proved truly transformational. Being able to manage all our smart city technologies through a single intuitive interface gives us a more comprehensive view of what’s happening in our city,” Gareth Barwell, Interim Executive Director of Place at The City of Edinburgh Council. Results Edinburgh’s city council credits Genetec™ Security Centre with saving their operations team hundreds of hours previously spent manually reviewing surveillance footage. It has also enabled them to fulfil more than double the video requests from Police Scotland. As a result, Police Scotland recognises that enhanced coverage across Edinburgh City Centre will improve their ability to identify, charge, and convict offenders. With higher-quality footage submitted as evidence, they anticipate a reduction in time officers spend in court providing testimony.

College campuses are meant to be places of learning, growth, and community. Fostering such an environment requires the deployment of policies and technologies that ensure safety and security. Considering the growing role of security technology in the higher education market, we asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the new applications for security technology in the college and university markets?

There is safety in numbers, or so the expression goes. Generally speaking, several employees working together tend to be safer than a single employee working alone. Even so, some environments require that workers complete their jobs alone, thus presenting a unique combination of security vulnerabilities. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) defines a lone worker as “an employee working alone, such as in a confined space or isolated location.” We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How can security technologies help to protect "lone workers?" 

Headlines of violence in our schools are a reminder of the need to keep educational institutions safe. In fact, if there is a positive aspect to the constant bombardment of headlines, it is that it keeps our attention perpetually focused on how to improve school security. But what is the role of physical security systems? As the new school year begins, we asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: Are schools safer because of physical security systems? Why or why not?