Store surveillance

Delta Scientific's 50th Anniversary Showcase Event that took place on June 6th was a success, bringing together nearly 100 guests to celebrate this significant milestone. The event was an opportunity to highlight the company's rich history and ongoing innovation in the industry. Attendees were treated to the debut of several new products set to launch later this year, alongside demonstrations of Delta Scientific's extensive current product line.  Technology of Delta barriers The event also featured shop tours, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the craftsmanship and the technology of Delta barriers. The anniversary celebration not only honoured Delta Scientific's five decades of excellence but also reinforced its commitment to future advancements. Stay tuned for more information on new portable products along with a new high-security speed beam!

Infosys, a global pioneer in next-generation digital services and consulting, announced the launch of Infosys Aster™ – a set of AI-amplified marketing services, solutions and platforms that deliver engaging brand experiences, enhanced marketing efficiency, and accelerated effectiveness for business growth. It drives AI-led transformation of marketing with integrated, real-time view across customers, brands and channels, enabling companies to increase ROI from marketing. With creative services, experience in design, digital commerce, MarTech orchestration, performance marketing and marketing operations, Infosys Aster™ brings agility to the marketing value chain for B2B and B2C brands. With Infosys Aster™, global brands have realised up to a 50% increase in repeat buyers, a 30% improvement in the cost of marketing operations, and a 40% increase in sales. Deliver engaging brand experiences  Infosys Aster™ helped the business turn millions of fans into lifelong customers Infosys Aster™ delivers lasting connections with its human experience design approach amplified by the power of technology. Utilising advanced technologies like real-time Unreal Engine 3D, AR/VR/XR, and digital twin CGI modelling, it delivers immersive experiences that foster customer intimacy. By taking advantage of AI-powered customer and marketing data platforms, it enables brands to unlock insights from data while also drawing on the power of ecosystems to deepen omnichannel engagement.  For example, as the creative partner for an international racing giant, Infosys Aster™ created a holistic digital ecosystem – with compelling visual experiences that were highly customised for user groups – to boost engagement. Taking advantage of a dynamic content engine along with a simple ticketing system, Infosys Aster™ helped the business turn millions of fans into lifelong customers. Enhance marketing efficiency Boosts efficiencies via marketing shared services by centralising and automating content Infosys Aster™ combines gen AI-amplified content and creative services, intelligent recommendations from the MarTech stack, and marketing insights to deliver cost-effective campaigns faster. It also boosts efficiencies through marketing shared services by centralising and automating content and design operations, reducing time and cost to activate campaigns.  The suite's AI capabilities, powered by Infosys Topaz™, help brands improve channel efficiencies by analysing performance data and adapting strategies in real-time. For example, a global health-tech company took advantage of Infosys Aster™ to accelerate their campaign management cycles – from setup to execution for 80+ markets driving savings in the cost of operations. Accelerate effectiveness for business growth Infosys Aster™ helps businesses create shared digital foundations, by integrating MarTech and enterprise systems, to create new avenues to value for sales and marketing. AI-driven analytics and customer insights help marketers increase customer lifetime value by personalising outreach, nurturing meaningful conversations, and garnering high-quality leads. This supports brands in driving effective lead-generation campaigns, marked by better cross-sell and up-sell opportunities. AI-driven analytics and customer insights help marketers increase customer lifetime value Marketers can also capture demand and nurture repeat purchases with the suite's real-time recommendations based on customer behaviour. Predictive insights also help in influencing pricing strategies. For example, a retail chain used AI-amplified insights from Infosys Aster™ to develop their app-based promotional loyalty program that resulted in a sales boost for them. The digital commerce platform, integral to Infosys Aster™, has a proven record in shaping e-commerce as an enterprise growth lever. Era of AI-first enterprise transformation Satish H C, EVP and Co-head of Delivery, Infosys, said, "Our clients want to tap into new avenues of growth, while deepening customer intimacy, efficiently, in near-real time. They understand the role that modern agile marketing, enabled by data and AI, can play to accelerate their strategy and disintermediate execution. Infosys Aster™ helps our clients' marketing organisations master the duality of marketing effectiveness and marketing efficiency to truly transform into customer-champions and growth-partners." "Businesses need marketing to be their core engine for reimagining customer experience and driving growth. In the era of AI-first enterprise transformation, CMOs have a unique opportunity to be the true C-Suite partner and orchestrator of value across the organisation," said Sumit Virmani, EVP and Global Chief Marketing Officer, Infosys. "At Infosys, we count on AI to amplify our capabilities – deepen brand experiences while driving effectiveness and efficiencies. We know that Infosys Aster™ – the same AI-amplified services, solutions and platforms that delivers value for us – can transform marketing into the powerful growth engine CMOs need for it to be." Infosys Aster's AI-led marketing capabilities Peter Bendor-Samuel, Founder & CEO, Everest Group, said, "AI presents immense value to marketers, from driving hyper-personalisation to promising enhanced efficiencies and effectiveness across insights generation, creative workflows, and customer support. This is enabling marketers to not only glean productivity improvements, but also drive growth mandates." "This journey is best enabled by partnering with a service provider that brings together strong tech capabilities with a deep understanding of the marketing domain. Infosys Aster's AI-led marketing capabilities, coupled with Infosys' experience of driving marketing and experience transformations, is well positioned to serve the needs of progressive marketers." Gen AI capabilities of Infosys Topaz™ Infosys' deep industry experience and expertise in connecting the complex enterprise ecosystem Infosys Aster™ has nurtured best-in-class digital agencies, proven AI capabilities, deep industry experience, decades of delivery excellence and a diverse partner ecosystem. WongDoody, Infosys' creative digital innovation agency, brings together unique capabilities in creative consulting, experience design, immersive experiences, and future-proof marketing. Infosys Aster™ uses the AI and gen AI capabilities of Infosys Topaz™ in a 'responsible by design' approach to amplify marketing capabilities and enhance effectiveness of the function.  Infosys' deep industry experience and expertise in connecting the complex enterprise ecosystem to the customer-facing marketing function, while managing organisational change, helps CMOs achieve strong business impact. With over 350 global awards, 20+ design studios, 50+ partners, and 400+ marketing assets including use cases, solutions, and platforms, Infosys Aster™ is accelerating experience, efficiency, and effectiveness for B2B and B2C marketers globally. New creative possibilities with gen AI Björn Schick, Chief Experience Officer and Member of the Executive Board, smart Europe GmbH, said, "At smart Europe, we share a similar value set with our strong partner Infosys Aster™, which prioritises the individual customer experience thanks to sustainable concepts and the appropriate use of technology. In today's dynamic digital landscape, smart must secure a strong presence to connect with customers at every touchpoint. Infosys' human-centered design studio, WongDoody, has developed a performative 3D digital twin-based platform for us." "This platform creates personalised customer journeys with our vehicles, enhancing the experience and unlocking new creative possibilities with gen AI. It simplifies and economises the production of on-demand personalised visual content, increasing our flexibility to present and promote our brand and its growing product portfolio effectively to customers worldwide." Predictability of engagement "Infosys Aster™ is bringing expertise to help us reimagine, engineer, and activate best-in-class omnichannel experiences for our customers, partners, and prospects enabling them to quickly access the relevant and up-to-date information they need." "We see the potential of AI to amplify these capabilities and significantly raise the bar in the delivery of personalised content, ensuring predictability of engagement. We are elevating the way we connect with our customers and how our customers connect with us," said Tom Portman, Group VP, Online Transformation and Group Head of Digital Channels, ABB.

Inverclyde security firm, Safer Group, has appointed Mark Walsh to the newly-created position of Chief Revenue Officer amid continued strong growth. Founded in 2016 by Greenock entrepreneur Ryan Clark, the Port Glasgow-based company specialises in protecting construction sites, infrastructure and assets with its high-tech intruder detection system, known as Safer PODs. It recently opened a second 6,000 sq ft unit at Kelburn Business Park as its new head office, after enjoying a record-breaking year in 2023, with turnover reaching £12m and headcount exceeding 60. Expanded into international markets Last year, the business also expanded into international markets through its partnership with VPS Group, which will bring Safer Pods to France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Ireland and the Netherlands, as well as the rest of the UK. Business also expanded into international markets through its partnership with VPS Group With more than three decades of experience in the construction and hire industry, Mark joins Safer Group from equipment hire firm HSS Hire, where he spent 15 years rising through the ranks and was most recently Sales Director. He also spent five years at Interserve where he ran the Heathrow procurement office, supporting large FM, retail and capital development projects. Huge boost for Safer Group Mark said: “I was looking to start a new chapter in my career with a company at the forefront of their industry, and where I could maximise my existing strong customer relationships and experience. After meeting the executive board at Safer Group, I was so impressed with the vision and values of the business that it was an easy decision for me to join the team on their exciting journey ahead. I’m looking forward to bringing fresh opportunities for continued growth across new markets to the table.” Safer Group’s CEO Ryan Clark added: “Mark’s impressive track record in building strong teams that maximise revenue makes his appointment a huge boost for Safer Group as we continue our expansion plans. It’s a testament to our growing reputation within the security industry that we’ve attracted someone of Mark’s calibre to join us.”

Robotic Assistance Devices, Inc., a subsidiary of Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc., is thrilled to announce the successful deployment of 4 RAD RIO™ (ROSA Independent Observatory) solar-powered mobile surveillance units (MSU) during the 2024 CMA Fest in Nashville, Tennessee.  The CMA Fest, one of the most significant country music events in the world, saw tens of thousands of fans flock to Nashville for an unforgettable weekend of music and entertainment. Ensuring the safety and security of such a large gathering is always a top priority, and this year, RIO played a crucial role in achieving that goal. Advanced AI technology Throughout the festival, the RIO units were strategically placed across key locations to enhance security coverage. The units operated flawlessly, providing continuous surveillance, monitoring for potential threats, and ensuring rapid response capabilities. RIO units were strategically placed across key sites to enhance security coverage The advanced AI technology embedded within the RIO units allowed for real-time analysis of crowd movement, immediate detection of any unusual activities, and swift communication with on-site security personnel law enforcement. Traditional security methods Steve Reinharz, CEO/CTO of AITX and RAD, commented on the deployment, stating, “The successful performance of RIO during the CMA Fest is a testament to our commitment to providing best-in-class security solutions. Our AI-driven technology not only enhances safety but also offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional security methods. We are proud of the role our tech played in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees.” “RIO has proven its effectiveness at several outdoor events and venues, capturing the attention of event organisers, security professionals and law enforcement,” said Troy McCanna, RAD’s Chief Security Officer and former FBI senior agent in charge of tactical operations in Michigan and Ohio. “The success of these deployments has demonstrated RIO’s ability to provide robust, reliable security in dynamic environments.” ROSA’s AI-driven security analytics  RAD expects to announce additional event deployments for RIO in the coming months Building on this momentum, RAD expects to announce additional event deployments for RIO in the coming months. Sitting atop a standard RIO 360 configuration are dual ROSA units. ROSA is a multiple award-winning, compact, self-contained, portable, security and communication solution that can be installed and activated in about 15 minutes. ROSA’s AI-driven security analytics include human, firearm, vehicle detection, licence plate recognition, responsive digital signage and audio messaging, and complete integration with RAD’s software suite notification and autonomous response library. ROSA’s high-resolution Two-way communication is optimised for cellular, including live video from ROSA’s high-resolution, full-colour, always-on cameras. RAD has published six Case Studies detailing how ROSA has helped eliminate instances of theft, trespassing and loitering at retail centers, hospital campuses, multi-family communities, car rental locations and construction sites across the country. RAD solutions are specifically designed to provide cost savings to businesses AITX, through its subsidiaries, Robotic Assistance Devices, Inc. (RAD), RAD-R, RAD-M and RAD-G is redefining the $25 billion (US) security and guarding services industry through its broad lineup of innovative, AI-driven Solutions-as-a-Service business model. RAD solutions are specifically designed to provide cost savings to businesses of between 35%-80% when compared to the industry’s existing and costly manned security guarding and monitoring model. Mobile robotic solutions RAD delivers these tremendous cost savings via a suite of stationary and mobile robotic solutions that complement, and at times, directly replace the need for human personnel in environments better suited for machines. All RAD technologies, AI-based analytics and software platforms are developed in-house. RAD has a prospective sales pipeline of over 35 Fortune 500 companies and numerous other client opportunities. RAD expects to continue to attract new business as it converts its existing sales opportunities into deployed clients generating a recurring revenue stream. Each Fortune 500 client has the potential of making numerous reorders over time.

Hikvision, a manufacturer and supplier of security products and solutions that deliver the ideal combination of high performance and extreme value, announces the launch of five high-performance 4K IP Camera Kits featuring NVRs, including select kits with Hikvision’s ColorVu-enabled Panoramic Turret Cameras.  Designed to provide unparalleled performance, seamless convenience, and unmatched value, these kits incorporate cutting-edge features like 4K resolution, Smart Motion Detection, and 180° ColorVu 24/7 panoramic views, setting a new benchmark for ease of use and effectiveness. Motion Detection 2.0 and deep learning "Hikvision's 4K IP Camera Kits exemplify the perfect fusion of simplicity and advanced technology. Spanning compact setups with four cameras to expansive twelve-camera configurations with NVRs, our new kits are tailored for diverse needs,” said John Xiao, Vice President of Marketing, at Hikvision USA. “Select kits feature our state-of-the-art ColorVu panoramic cameras, delivering seamless 180° views. With advanced features like Motion Detection 2.0 and deep learning technology, these kits enhance surveillance precision and effectiveness, setting a new standard in security.” 4K Camera Kit solutions  These kits enhance accuracy by distinguishing between people, vehicles, and other moving objects The Hikvision 4K Camera Kit solutions offer a seamless experience with a convenient setup and exceptional value. Featuring Smart Motion Detection technology and advanced deep-learning algorithms, these kits enhance accuracy by distinguishing between people, vehicles, and other moving objects.  These kits are designed to deliver exceptional security solutions for a wide range of environments, including business scenarios such as retail stores, residences, office buildings, warehouses, and parking lots. Panoramic views High-resolution 4K imaging captures scenes with remarkable clarity, ensuring no detail is missed. Panoramic views eliminate blind spots, providing a complete picture in a single image. With 24/7 colourful imaging and efficient compression technology, they deliver reliable performance while minimizing storage needs. Additional features include human and vehicle classification, strobe lights, audio alarms, and a water and dust-resistant rating, ensuring robust security and durability against environmental elements. Availability Five kits are available now: EKI-K42T84A: Four 4K IP cameras and a 4-Ch 4K NVR with 2 TB HDD EKI-K82T86A: Six 4K IP cameras and an 8-Ch 4K NVR with 2 TB HDD EKI-K164T812A: Twelve 4K IP cameras and a 16-Ch 4K NVR with 4 TB HDD EKI-K82T87A: Six 4K IP cameras, an 8-Ch 4K NVR with 2 TB HDD, and one Panoramic Camera EKI-K164T814A: Twelve 4K IP cameras, a 16-Ch 4K NVR with 4 TB HDD, and two Panoramic Cameras 180° views and 24/7 colourful images The panoramic camera addition is a standout feature of the Hikvision EKI-K82T87A and EKI-K164T814A 4K Camera Kits. Delivering immersive 180° views and 24/7 colourful images with ColorVu technology in the convenience of a kit, the Hikvision 4K Panoramic ColorVu Fixed Turret Network Camera stands out as a versatile and invaluable tool for comprehensive video security. Welcome to the epitome of convenience, ease, and performance with Hikvision’s 4K Camera Kits, affirming Hikvision’s commitment to innovation and customer-centric solutions.

LiveAction, the pioneer in-network intelligence announced deeper technology integrations within the Cisco ecosystem, further solidifying its commitment to empowering network and security operations teams with comprehensive, end-to-end network visibility, and packet capture forensics. Enhanced security and visibility The foundation of these integrations is the certification of LiveWire, LiveAction’s market-pioneering packet analysis solution, to run on high-performance Cisco Unified Computing Systems (UCS) C240 and S3260 servers. This certification enables Cisco customers to seamlessly deploy LiveWire physical or virtual applications on their Cisco UCS hardware, unlocking unparalleled performance, storage density, and enhanced security and network visibility for NetOps and SecOps teams. Integration inclusions LiveAction’s deeper integrations within the Cisco ecosystem include: Multiple data feeds from one appliance. LiveAction can now feed up to three of Cisco’s security platforms: SNA, Splunk, and XDR from a single appliance, thereby increasing overall security posture and decreasing Mean Time to Respond (MTTR) with cross-launch packet forensic capabilities. Seamless flow to packet workflow. LiveAction seamlessly integrates data sourced from native Cisco appliances and LiveAction sensors, with deep packet data. This holistic approach streamlines the telemetry-to-forensic workflow, significantly reducing the time network engineers need to pinpoint the genuine root cause of any issue. LiveAction sends ETA (Encrypted Traffic Analysis) flow to Cisco SNA. For customers with mixed infrastructure environments where SNA/ETA is not supported, LiveAction can emulate the flow feed for legacy and/or non-Cisco infrastructure for enhanced security. Unprecedented packet data storage. The next generation of packet storage is available on Cisco UCS. LiveAction on UCS is 17 times denser than common competitors, allowing users to: Capture network packet data at scale; Store network packets that matter most; Spend less time reproducing problems. Data analysis “These new integrations mark another significant milestone in our ongoing collaboration with Cisco and our commitment to providing Cisco users with the data and analysis they need to ensure the performance and security of their network,” said Francine Geist, CEO of LiveAction. LiveAction will be attending Cisco Live! in Las Vegas between June 2-6, 2024.

Amidst the challenges of a prevailing economic downturn, the retail sector finds itself grappling with an unparalleled rise in incidents of shoplifting, theft, and burglaries. The disconcerting scenes witnessed on London’s Oxford Street in August 2023,​ where crowds gathered, looting as many stores as possible, sent shockwaves across the nation’s retailers. This alarming surge in retail crime has put retailers on high alert, as they contend with a rising tide of security concerns.  Shoplifting concerns Recent data from the Union of Shop Distributive and Allied Workers (USDAW), has raised alarming concerns: shoplifting rates have surged by an unprecedented 24%.​ In the first half of 2023 alone, there were approximately 8 million reported shoplifting incidents. With the ongoing burden of the cost of living crisis and the approaching festive season, it is expected that these figures will keep surging.  Implementing robust security measures Theft and prevention strategies cost retailers approximately £2 billion in 2021/2022 While more help from the Government to support retail workers and the businesses shoplifters target is certainly needed, the implementation of robust security measures will significantly contribute to deterring these crimes from occurring in the first place. British retailers spend millions on tools to deter and catch shoplifters inside stores, from CCTV and security guards to electronic tagging and alarms. The Grocer reported that theft and prevention strategies cost retailers approximately £2 billion in 2021/2022. Despite these initial costs, other threats are at play beyond the shop floor. Break-ins by criminal gangs For many large town centre stores and supermarkets, and units in retail parks, the rear doors and delivery areas are commonly targeted by criminal gangs. It’s not uncommon for thefts to occur from pallets or cages that have been unloaded from lorries and sit waiting to be moved into the building. After-hours break-ins are a risk for all store owners too, particularly over the festive season when a lot of high-value stock has been delivered to shops and supermarkets. Addressing anti-social behaviour  The additional fencing was deemed an essential measure to safeguard the community Anti-social behaviour also poses a challenge for retailers. In 2022, an Aldi based in Derby​ invested in security fencing to protect staff and deter loitering groups. The additional fencing was deemed an essential measure to safeguard the community, as dangerous items were frequently found outside the store, including weapons and hypodermic needles.  So how do physical security solutions such as fencing and gates help better protect retail establishments such as supermarkets and edge-of-town retail park shops? Fencing and gates: a critical component of retail security  1. Risk assessment and target hardening  A thorough risk assessment will identify potential weak spots that require protection. ‘Target hardening’ involves implementing physical security measures that become more robust as they approach the target. This helps deter intruders while ensuring ease of access for customers and staff.  2. Effective perimeter security  Opt for difficult-to-climb security fencing that provides a robust obstacle against thieves, vandals, and intruders Selecting fencing solutions according to the potential threats, site characteristics, and topography is crucial. It is important to specify fencing that strikes a balance and maintains a welcoming appearance while safeguarding external areas of the store or warehouse from potential harm and unauthorised access. Solid fencing which provides concealment can help to conceal expensive goods and remove them as a target for opportunistic theft.  Opt for difficult-to-climb security fencing that provides a robust obstacle against thieves, vandals, and intruders. I recommend selecting a sufficiently tall and robust fence such as an acoustic barrier. Its noise-reducing properties are often beneficial for these types of sites too.  3. Controlling vehicular speeds and access  To enhance security, consider controlling vehicular speeds and access. One effective approach is the installation of bollards at the ends of traditional high streets. This practice is already commonplace as a means of safeguarding against hostile vehicle attacks, but it can also play a pivotal role in preventing quick getaways of vehicles involved in potential heists. Additionally, employing road blockers and sliding gates at the rear entrances of delivery areas would serve to fortify security further. These measures can help in delaying vehicles, allowing for necessary checks to be conducted.  4. Balancing security with aesthetics  The presence of high-security fencing can also make a site more of a target for vandals and burglars Another challenge is avoiding creating an imposing presence, especially important for areas situated near residential communities. The presence of high-security fencing can also make a site more of a target for vandals and burglars. To minimise this risk consider specifying timber fencing and traffic barriers to secure car parks, providing both security and a welcoming atmosphere for shoppers.  Taking an integrated approach Combine secure perimeter fencing with effective lighting in places with shaded areas and at doors, gates, and shop windows, alongside Perimeter Intrusion Detection Systems (PIDS), and strategically placed CCTV. These measures will hinder unauthorised entry and escape, increasing the likelihood of detection and apprehension.  Prioritising employee wellbeing  Installing robust security fencing, complemented by CCTV, good lighting, and guarding, creates a safe environment Installing robust security fencing, complemented by CCTV, good lighting, and guarding, creates a safe environment for employees. This not only safeguards their well-being but also provides peace of mind that they are protected effectively in the case of a burglary or crime.  When selecting security products for retail sites, it is advisable to opt for items that have undergone rigorous testing and carry relevant certifications for their security level. Each component should meet industry-specific standards for its intended purpose and originate from manufacturers accredited under ISO 9001:2015. This ensures a high standard of quality and reliability in safeguarding the premises.  High-quality security fencing As the cost-of-living crisis continues, crime rates increase, and the festive season approaches, the time to act and implement on-site security is now. By investing in comprehensive security measures, retailers can protect their assets, employees, and customers, ensuring a safer and more secure shopping environment for all. High-quality security fencing is also a sound investment, that requires little or no maintenance once installed. The best fencing solutions are extremely weather-resistant, and won’t suffer from rust or corrosion. With all sectors preparing to ride the rapids of recession in the coming year, improving on-site security while selecting cost-effective measures, is one surefire way to protect your people, your property, and your profits from harm. 

Open platform video technology software is more than just a product; it's a tool that helps customers achieve their desired business outcomes. Safety, round-the-clock security, and increased operational efficiencies are now the norm due to video technology. Responsible Technology Despite humanity’s impressive technological advances, we also recognise the immense responsibility that comes with technological innovation. It's not enough to focus solely on the positive impact video technology can make, we must also be vigilant in identifying and addressing any potential negative consequences it can have on society and its citizens. This is the role of Responsible Technology. Data privacy We want to use all the good things that technology innovation brings, whether it be video, AI, ML, facial recognition, etc. We want to use all the good things that technology innovation brings, whether it be video, Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, facial recognition, etc. to serve people in societies in a responsible way. That means making sure that we regulate technology in a way that respects human rights and data privacy. Addressing the challenges The challenge is, that rather often technology leaders and policymakers either have conflicting interests or collaborate too late. To be responsible, business leaders must support their societies and policymakers in making regulations in the interest of the common good. At Milestone Systems, we are actively looking at how we develop our software responsibly, how our partners responsibly sell our software, and very importantly, how our customers use our software with a responsible mindset. Ensuring good corporate governance As a long-time partner within the security industry, we’re celebrating our 25th Anniversary this year, we are supporting the regulation of video technology for the good of society. However, it of course needs to strike the fine line between the right legislation and not hindering innovation.  UNGP The UNGP is the most authoritative and widely adopted set of principles for responsible business At Milestone Systems, we want to play an active role in this and that is why we have pledged our support to the UN's Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGP). The UNGP is the most authoritative and widely adopted set of principles for responsible business. The principles call on governments and companies to identify, prevent, mitigate, and remedy actual and potential human rights abuses. Since its launch in 2011, the UNGPs have received wide support from states, civil society organisations, and the private sector, making them the key global foundation for business and human rights. Protect, respect, and remedy Through this commitment, we are taking steps to ensure good corporate governance and ethical standards in the development of our technology. We're generating mechanisms to prevent misuse and we are building educational practices internally. Based on the UNGP’s three pillars: protect, respect, and remedy, we are developing a set of Responsible Technology Principles and procedures for the development, selling, and use of our products. Need for video technology regulation In addition, we are currently evaluating all the various technology areas in which our video software can be used, such as with third-party integrations that utilise e.g., facial recognition. We are mapping out the advantages and disadvantages for societies. One key area of concern is how local authorities are mapping and storing data about us as individuals. This is the reason why we're inviting more legislation to regulate video technology rather than less. Engaging With policymakers We are meeting ministers and trade organisations as we believe this needs to be a joint effort where all parties are heard We are proactively reaching out to and connecting with policymakers and other relevant stakeholders to discuss our approach to and take on Responsible Technology and encouraging the political landscape to work with us around regulation and legislation. We are meeting ministers and trade organisations as we believe this needs to be a joint effort where all parties are heard and where we can openly weigh the advantages and the challenges of technology, whether it is video, facial recognition, machine learning, Artificial Intelligence, or other technologies. Striking a balance Implementing Responsible Technology is a journey, not a destination. To give it the focus needed, we have created a dedicated team to implement this initiative at Milestone Systems. At the same time, we are reaching out to the political landscape to discuss how we balance regulation without hindering innovation. Video technology used ethically We are a global company with worldwide operations, and we are having dialogues about how video technology is being used and how we can have meaningful talks about what regulation and legislation should look like. However, we don’t necessarily want to limit access to the technology itself. Facial recognition We encourage the policymakers to engage with us in the industry so that together we can strike the fine line Facial recognition is a great example of this. The EU is considering making live facial recognition illegal. That would be a huge inhibitor of proactive terrorism prevention. For example, if a well-known terrorist is walking down the street and is being mapped out against Interpol’s most wanted list, the authorities should be able to react. However, if a person walking down the street but is not mapped out or does not have any priors then the city should not be allowed to store the data of that individual’s whereabouts at that point in time. This potential legislation is concerning to me as a citizen of Europe. Instead, we encourage the policymakers to engage with us in the industry so that together we can strike the fine line for the better good of all of us. Maintaining high ethical standards We have a firm understanding and expectation that ethical standards are a huge driver in the security business. Citizens are not in favour of technology companies abusing data about them and monetising from things that they have not opted in to do. Soon, I think we will see many more companies and governments leaning toward suppliers that do have a responsible mindset and high ethical standards for partnerships. Ethical practices Our journey toward Responsible Technology is an ongoing process, and we must remain steadfast in our commitment to ethical practices and the protection of human rights. We recognise that the rapidly changing technological landscape continually presents new challenges and opportunities. For this reason, we continuously look into how we can improve, for example, our end user licence agreements to avoid potential human rights abuses. An industry responsibility Security companies must prioritise careful planning and preparation, including developing policies and procedures For Responsible Technology to truly become a reality, compliance with international human rights laws and data privacy regulations is critical. Security companies must prioritise careful planning and preparation, including developing policies and procedures that govern the ethical use of video surveillance systems. The secure and ethical community In today's technology environment where deep integrations, machine learning, and artificial intelligence are becoming the norm, Responsible Technology is more relevant than ever. The security industry has a unique opportunity to set an example for other sectors by promoting a secure and ethical development community that prioritises Responsible Technology, trustworthy data collection, and the protection of human rights. We must all rise to this challenge and embrace our role as ethical leaders for the greater good of both people and societies.

There’s been a long history of people thinking of “gates, guards, and guns” when referring to physical security. And for a long time, this was the norm. When analogue cameras required significant amounts of wiring and a dedicated guard to watch said feeds (think about any action movie from the 90s), the assumption was that security was protecting assets, but had little to do with the overall business.  Defining security with recent advancements Fast forward to more recent advancements in video surveillance, cloud-based solutions, and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven decision-making, and now the term “security” has reached a more complex fork in the road. “Security” is about a broader idea of protecting people, assets, and the brand from harm. So it’s only natural that the term used to describe the work practitioners do advances, as well. Why is the term outdated?  Today, security encompasses technology, the workplace, and culture, it touches so many facets “Security team” has a connotation that may no longer be accurate for the scope of work that the people on that team perform. Today, security encompasses technology, the workplace, and culture. It touches so many facets of the organisation. Security in retail Take retail, for instance. So many security leaders encompass not only loss prevention teams, but also asset management, brand protection, and retail security. Some companies combine the three of these or split them up based on the needs of the organisation. In this case, the “security team” may place a limit on what the department aims to accomplish.  Involvement of other teams Security teams also may be broader and include external individuals who still require a say in decision-making: Technology: Whether it’s the company’s CTO, CISO, or IT department, you can almost guarantee that they’re going to want to know what technology is going on in the network. Convergence is no longer a buzzword, it’s a necessity; especially when cyber risk is growing and cyber criminals are becoming more and more sophisticated.  Legal: There are so many jokes about lawyers ruining all the fun, but the joke’s on any company that doesn’t consider the legality of data collection or usage before investing in technology platforms. Consider the implications of using biometrics or facial recognition especially when it comes to emerging laws or regulations. Security may not just be about physical security, it might also need to be about protecting the business from legal action, as well. CISO: Threats that cross over between physical and cyber security departments are becoming more common, which means a coordinated approach to protection is necessary. This also means that investments in technology should be able to serve both departments. Additionally, as physical security becomes increasingly dependent on intelligent devices, it’s the cybersecurity team led by the CISO that develops the best practices and policies for managing and securing them. Their input is invaluable.  Decision-making in today’s business environment Like any good business decision, multiple stakeholders should be involved in decisions around technology Like any good business decision, multiple stakeholders should be involved in decisions around technology investments especially those who are directly impacted by the use of or benefit of the technology in question.  For example, if it’s an operational efficiency investment, a company’s CFO should be involved (even more so if it impacts cost savings).  Functional or operational changes Technology investments (even in the security space) should involve IT if there’s an infrastructure component to the implementation. From an electronic security standpoint, cybersecurity or information security leaders should have a chance to weigh in. As more decisions involve more people, security leaders need to think about what their investments in functional or operational changes can mean for other groups across the company.  Budget sharing It can help with C-suite discussions especially when there’s talk of “doing more, with less”  Whether the technology can enable marketing, facility managers, or IT, multiple uses can mean multiple ways to allocate funding to pay for technology investments. Budget sharing has become a popular way to pay for investments that help shift expenses away from a single department when many of them can benefit from the tech. It can help with C-suite discussions especially when there’s talk of “doing more, with less” happening at all levels of the organisation.  Benefits of security in an organisation “Security team” may not have a universal meaning anymore, but it’s safe to say that evolving the discussion around how security benefits the broader organisation is beneficial to practitioners. The more we talk about how we can protect people and assets, the more realisation there will be about how that impacts the business and the industry will be better for it. 

Companies at GSX 2023 emphasised new ways that technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the cloud can address long-standing issues in the security market. Among the exhibitors at the event in Dallas were companies seeking creative ways to apply technology, lower costs, and make the world a safer place. Reflecting on the exhibition, here are some additional takeaways. Expanding AI at the edge  i-PRO is a company reflecting the continued expansion of edge AI capability in the security market. Today, more than half of the company’s lineup supports AI at the edge so the customer has a wide choice of form factors when seeking to leverage the feature set.  AI processing relay, extended warranty i-PRO is increasing their warranty period from 5 to 7 years, which could be a lifetime warranty in some cases I-PRO also has an “AI processing relay” device that accepts non-AI video streams and applies edge analytics. AI has progressed from a high-end technology to a feature available in a variety of cameras at different price points. i-PRO is also increasing its warranty period from 5 to 7 years, which could be a lifetime warranty in some cases depending on a customer’s refresh schedule and lifecycle management. Active Guard, MonitorCast The company’s video management system (Video Insight) is continuing to build new features including “Active Guard,” an integrated metadata sorter. Their access control platform, MonitorCast, is a Mercury-based solution that is tightly integrated with Video Insight. Their embedded recorders now have PoE built in.  “We can move at a faster pace to fill out our product line since leaving Panasonic,” says Adam Lowenstein, Director of Product Management. “We can focus our business on adapting to the market.” Emphasis on retail and other verticals  Shoplifting is a timely issue, and retail is a vertical market that got a lot of attention at GSX 2023. “We see a lot of retailers who are primarily interested in protecting employee safety, but also assets,” says Brandon Davito, Verkada’s SVP of Product and Operations. “Shrinkage is a CEO-level priority.”  “Retailers are getting more engaged with security posture, instead of letting perpetrators walk,” Davito adds. Intrusion detection Verkada has an intrusion product that will notify a central station if there is an alarm On the alarm side, Verkada has an intrusion product that will notify a central station if there is an alarm, and operators can review videos to confirm the alarm. Other capabilities seeking to discourage trespassers include sirens, strobes, and “talkdown” capabilities.  International expansion Verkada continues to expand internationally with 16 offices in all, including Sydney, Tokyo, and London. The core value proposition is to enable customers to manage their onsite infrastructure more simply, including new elements such as PTZ cameras, intercoms, and visitor management. Verkada emphasises ease of use, including a mobile application to allow access to be managed across the user base. Forging partnerships “We are committed to the channel and industry, and we continue to build relationships and expand our reach,” says Davito. Among the industry relationships is a new partnership with Convergint, which was hinted at during the show and announced later the same day. They are also expanding their partnerships with Schlage, Allegion, and ASSA ABLOY.  Working with other verticals They offer new features for K -12 schools, and a new alarm platform is easier to deploy and manage Verkada has also found success across multiple other verticals, notably healthcare, where they integrate with an electronic medical records system. They offer new features for K-12 schools, and a new alarm platform is easier to deploy and manage. They are integrating wireless locks to secure interior doors in schools, looking to secure the perimeter, and installing guest management systems. Transitioning the mid-market to the cloud  Salient is squarely focused on the “mid-market,” a large swath of systems somewhere between small businesses and enterprise-level systems. Pure cloud systems are not as attractive to this market, which has a built-out infrastructure of on-premise systems. Adding a camera to an existing system is easier and less expensive than tying it to the cloud. Benefits of cloud It’s a market that may not be ready for the pure cloud, but there are benefits to be realised from adding a cloud element to existing systems. “We are continuing to augment our premise-based solutions with added cloud capabilities and flexibility,” says Sanjay Challa, Salient’s Chief Product Officer.  The feedback Salient hears from their customers is “I want to own my data.” The hybrid cloud approach offers the right mix of control, flexibility, and unit economics. Cloud add-on capabilities We want to provide the flexibility for customers to go full-cloud as it becomes more economically attractive" Cloud add-on capabilities include bringing more intelligence about system operation to the user via the cloud. Over time, Salient expects to sell more cloud-centric offerings based on feedback from integrators and customers. “We want to provide the flexibility for customers to go full-cloud as it becomes more economically attractive over time,” says Challa.  Vaidio AI technology Salient seeks to be a transition pioneer to help customers realise the path to the cloud. Their approach is “crawl, walk, run,” and helping customers make the transition at each stage. Salient has added AI to its product offering, incorporating Vaidio AI technology from IronYun into a powerful suite and broad array of on-premise analytics, which are gaining traction. The seamless approach makes it easy for customers to embrace AI analytics, although Salient remains broadly committed to open systems. Addressing ‘soft’ features for integrators AMAG is in the process of enhancing its product line with the next generation of access control panels. However, “product” is just part of the new developments at AMAG. In addition to “hard” features (such as products), the company is looking to improve its “soft” features, too; that is, how they work with the integrator channel. Integrator channel Rebuilding a process to make your organisation more efficient, is relatively easy; it just takes a lot of persistence" “We have the depth of our legacy customer base we can learn from, we just need to close the feedback loop quicker,” says Kyle Gordon, AMAG’s Executive Vice President of Global Sales, Marketing, and commercial Excellence, who acknowledges the value of reinstating face-to-face meetings after COVID. “We are laser-focused on nurturing our integrator channel,” he says.  “Developing new features takes time, but rebuilding a process to make your organisation more efficient, that’s relatively easy; it just takes a lot of persistence,” says Gordon. More cohesive internal communication is another useful tool, he says.  Disrupting the cloud based on price  Wasabi is working to make cloud applications less expensive by offering a “disruptive” price on cloud storage, $6.99 per terabyte per month (80% less than hyperscalers). Contending “hyperscalers” like AWS are charging too much for cloud storage, Wasabi is using its own intellectual property and server equipment co-located in data centres around the world. Wasabi sells “hot cloud storage,” which refers to the fact that they only have one tier of storage and data is always accessible. In contrast, a company such as AWS might charge an “egress fee” for access to data stored in a “colder” tier.  Cloud storage “We saw that several video surveillance companies had not yet adopted cloud storage, and we saw an opportunity to make it easy to use,” said Drew Schlussel, Wasabi’s Senior Director of Product Marketing. “We just install a little bit of software that allows them to store data in the cloud and bring it back from the cloud.” Performance, protection (cybersecurity), and price Wasabi works with integrators, resellers, and distributors and also integrates with VMS companies Wasabi works with integrators, resellers, and distributors and also integrates with VMS companies such as Genetec and Milestone. Emphasising performance, protection (cybersecurity), and price, their data centres are certified to SOC 2 and ISO 27001 standards.  Faster throughput for weapons detection Xtract One is a young company focusing on weapons detection in a time of accelerated concern about gun issues post-COVID. Founded in Canada and based on technology developed at McMaster University, Xtract One has found a niche in providing weapons detection at stadiums and arenas. These customers already have budgets, and it is easy to shift the money to a newer, faster technology. Madison Square Garden in New York City is among its customers.  Cost savings solution Xtract One can increase throughput to 30 to 50 people per entrance per minute (compared to 5 to 6 people per minute when using metal detectors). The solution doesn’t require anyone to empty their pockets and the system alarms on items beyond guns and knives. Using Xtract One allows customers to reduce the number of screening lanes and security staff, providing additional cost savings, all while getting fans through the screening process in half the time. Purpose-built sensors The system uses purpose-built sensors looking for specific characteristics, such as reflective and density properties In addition to stadiums and arenas, Xtract One, formerly Patriot One, is also getting “inbound” interest from schools, hospitals, manufacturers, and other verticals that makeup 50% of their business. “We’re on a rocket ride, mainly because the weapons issues are not going away,” says Peter Evans, CEO and Director at Xtract One. The system uses purpose-built sensors looking for specific characteristics, such as reflective and density properties, all correlated by an AI engine.  Providing early warning of violence ZeroEyes is another company focused on weapons detection. Their AI gun detection system works with video images to identify if someone is “brandishing” (carrying) a weapon. In other words, the system does not detect concealed weapons. Identifying someone carrying a weapon provides early warning of a possible violent act. Increased response with AI-enables images Images are identified by AI and sent to a monitoring centre where a human confirms the image before contacting first responders. Knowing the location of a shooter enables staff to lock entry points, move people to safety, and direct first responders. The company was founded to leverage existing camera views to stop mass shootings and gun violence by reducing response times. 

New buzzwords were abundant in the articles that generated the most clicks on our website in 2022. From the metaverse to the Internet of Things, from frictionless access control to artificial intelligence (AI), the topics most popular among our site’s visitors were at the cutting edge of change and innovation in the physical security marketplace. Here is a review of the Top 10 Articles of 2022, based on reader clicks, including links to the original content: Metaverse will promote collaboration and enable more efficiencies for security Metaverse is a familiar buzzword currently, but few people grasp what it means. In the simplest terms, the metaverse is an online “place” where physical, virtual, and augmented realities are shared. The term, Metaverse, suggests a more immersive online environment that combines elements of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). For the physical security industry, the looming creation of a complex online environment offers possibilities and challenges. Establishing identity will be a central principle of the metaverse, and various biometrics are at the core of ensuring the identity of someone interacting in the virtual world. Cybersecurity elements are also key. On the benefits side, the security market is already taking advantage of technologies related to the eventual evolution of the metaverse. For example, the industry has deployed AR to provide information about a door lock’s status on a screen, headset, or smart glasses as a patrolling guard walks by. What are the security challenges of the transportation industry? Because transit agencies rely on several IoT devices, they get exposed to higher cybersecurity risks Rapid technological advancement, increasing urbanisation, and the growing expectations of commuters and governments are pressuring transit industry players to modernise. Commuters, urban planners, first responders, and other stakeholders want to use transit data to support their decision-making. Transit agencies’ security and operations teams need closer collaboration to stay ahead. However, for many years, most transit agencies have relied on siloed, proprietary systems. Because transit agencies rely on an ever-growing number of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, they also get exposed to higher cybersecurity risks as there are more network access points to manage. The future is here: ADT’s innovation lab evaluating robots and indoor drones New robots and indoor drones for security applications are on the horizon, based on the work of ADT Commercials’ Innovation Lab, which is evaluating the latest technologies’ value to customers and some typical use cases. The ideal use of humanoid robots is to perform jobs that are considered repetitive, dirty, dangerous, and/or mundane. In security, that describes most security guard positions. As the name implies, autonomous indoor drones are focused on flying indoors versus the outdoor environment, which is heavily regulated by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Flying autonomously indoors not only eliminates FAA oversight but also will enable ADT Commercial to offer another choice to customers to further reduce their dependencies on and costs of human guards. Innovative security: the key to business efficiency, cost savings, and more Organisations have shifted business focus countless times since the onset of the pandemic. While many leaders have been primarily concerned with the immediate health and safety of their customers and employees, 2022 has given rise to a new trend. More than ever, business leaders are seeking security solutions that increase operational efficiency and cost savings as well as improve logistics and business insight. As working environments become more complex, organisations looking to drive higher productivity and profitability margins should consider security upgrades that prioritise integrated analytics and automation. Shoplifting today is more sophisticated, and so are the tools to fight it One tool to fight shoplifting is analytics, which can be used to determine where shrink is occurring Shoplifting is often viewed as petty theft by individuals, but that is not always the case. Overall, shoplifting is becoming more sophisticated and coordinated. Traditional “shoplifting” has two major differences when compared to organised retail crime (ORC). The differences are numbers and motivation. ORC consists of groups working together to monetise theft, very different than an individual taking an item they need. One tool to fight to shoplift is analytics, which can be used to determine where shrink is occurring. Understanding where crimes take place helps retailers make strategic decisions about where to place their loss prevention efforts. Oosto offers 10 reasons to switch to frictionless access control in commercial buildings Access control for buildings is nothing new. It’s only in recent years that the urgency to implement smarter, more efficient, and more convenient forms of access control has increased, in the context of public and private sector digital transformation. Upheavals from the COVID-19 pandemic have forced organisations to re-think, pivot, and invest in new technology solutions that will incorporate Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning, to gain speed in their operations, glean actionable insights from their video analytics, and enhance productivity with their teams. Which security trend is here to stay? Technologies and trends in the security marketplace come and go with some regularity. But how can you tell which trends are gaining traction and which amount to “the flavor of the month.” For example, while many physical security departments were hesitant to consider cloud-connected solutions in the past, they now better understand the benefits these solutions bring and how they can help them utilize their resources to achieve business goals while minimising overall operational complexity. Other technologies mentioned in the article include mobile credentials, AI-based analytics, video management systems, cybersecurity, and a new emphasis on data. What do these technology trends have in common? They are opening new possibilities for greater system efficiency and functionality. In short, they are playing a role in transforming our industry. GSX 2022 reflects changing technologies and evolving role of security The role of the security director increasingly will encompass facets of cybersecurity and physical security GSX 2022 in Atlanta highlighted the changing role of security in the enterprise. The role of the security director increasingly will encompass facets of cybersecurity as well as physical security. Transitioning to an operation that incorporates both disciplines requires a workforce that embraces education and building new skills. Education and the opportunity to build new skills are evident everywhere at GSX, including in the hundreds of education sessions and also in the knowledge shared on the show floor in the exhibit hall. Consolidation changing the face of the security market Consolidation is a dominant trend in the security marketplace. Large companies typically swallow up smaller companies as a means of expanding both their technology portfolios and their geographic reach. Sometimes a big fish is swallowed up by an even bigger fish. Despite the pandemic and resulting economic challenges, the security market has continued to be a desirable environment for both big players and startups, which then provide abundant acquisition targets for larger companies. This article highlighted recent mergers and acquisition news. Six trends at the intersection of video and AI Video has evolved beyond the capabilities of advanced imaging and performance to include another level: Artificial Intelligence. Video imaging technology combines with AI, delivers a wealth of new data, not just for traditional physical security applications, but for a much deeper analysis of past, present, and even future events across the enterprise. This is more than a big development for the physical security industry; it is a monumental paradigm shift that is changing how security system models are envisioned, designed, and deployed. Much of the heightened demand for advanced video analytics is being driven by six prevalent industry trends.

The Global Security Exchange (GSX 2022) in Atlanta in September 2022 is the latest example of the energetic post-COVID resurgence of security trade shows. On the vibrant show flow, discussions centered on topics such as the security industry’s need for more employees and the lingering impact of a months-long supply chain crisis. Against a backdrop of continuing industry challenges, exhibitors and attendees were diverted by a wealth of new opportunities as the industry rebounded. Several major players had big product announcements at GSX 2022 in Atlanta. Manufacturers unveil the latest technology  The big news at Genetec was “5.11.” That’s the newest version of Security Center, which is “all in,” i.e., providing everything Genetec offers in a single “unified” platform. The unified approach streamlines the process for systems integrators, makes quotes easier, and adds value for customers. Standard, Pro, and Enterprise versions provide video, access, and LPR “right out of the box.” Genetec is also launching a new web and mobile client for the “next generation operator.” Paid intern programme Kyle Hurt says the security industry’s biggest challenge is attracting personnel  Kyle Hurt, Genetec’s Senior Sales Director, North America, says the security industry’s biggest challenge is attracting personnel (even more challenging that the supply chain.) Genetec’s response is a robust paid intern programme, welcoming 120 interns into various departments for a full semester. The programme helps to feed Genetec’s need for new talent. “You can’t coach passion,” said Hurt. WiseNet Edge Hanwha Techwin introduced a “serverless camera” at GSX 2022, named the WiseNet Edge. It is a video camera with a built-in solid-state hard drive for storage. The camera can store its own video and take in other camera feeds. In effect, it operates like an NVR but is less expensive and with an internal solid-state drive. Video can be viewed through a cloud browser, and Hanwha’s WAVE software, loaded on the camera, enables the management of several cameras at a site. High-res video is stored inside the camera, and any information can be shared with the cloud according to the needs of the application. i-PRO Mini i-PRO launches its own Video Insight video management system and MonitorCast access control i-PRO has fully transitioned away from Panasonic and is charting its own ambitious future path. Seeking to be “bold, trusted, and flexible,” the company is releasing a raft of new products, filling in previous gaps in the line, and bringing forward new innovations, including a full complement of AI. In addition to hardware, they have their own Video Insight video management system and MonitorCast access control, which was part of the Video Insight acquisition in 2015. An i-PRO Mini is a tiny camera, smaller than a smartphone. All cameras are NDAA compliant. People are coming together “The show has been phenomenal,” said Josh Letourneau, Chief Commercial Officer, Prosegur USA. “It’s very nice to see that people are coming back. After the pandemic, we are finally in a position of coming together. Lots of organisations are coming to see us.” Intelligence-led risk management Prosegur is a global company looking to expand aggressively in the United States, creating multiple “metropolitan service areas,” where the company’s fully integrated offerings are available. What makes the company unique is its “intelligence-led risk management,” says Josh Letourneau, adding “It’s more than AI, it’s about human intelligence, too." Prosegur sees evolution and growth opportunities in the U.S. market. “We are one of the largest companies no one has heard of,” adds Letourneau. “The show seems as back to normal as possible,” said Keith Bobrosky, President of Delta Scientific, who attended the show although his company did not exhibit, adding “There seems to be a generally positive spirit about the show this year.” Physical security protocols Bobrosky sees data centres as the next big market for his company’s vehicle barriers Bobrosky’s company has worked aggressively to avoid the impact of supply chain issues, ordering plenty of extra inventory to avoid the possibility of a part running out of stock. “We got ahead of it and are past the worst of it,” he said. Bobrosky sees data centres as the next big market for his company’s vehicle barriers. “The government will mandate physical security protocols for cybersecurity locations because they house data that affects national security,” he says. Robots and indoor drones ADT Commercial highlighted robots and indoor drones for security apps at their booth. The newest versions of the humanlike robots offer extra padding, more fluid movement, and 360-degree viewing for a better virtual reality (VR) experience, including better peripheral vision. Robots can operate for four hours without a charge and “know” when to return to the charger (to “top off” every hour). Fully autonomous indoor drones can also replace guards, flying near the ceiling and generally after business hours. The use of either robots or drones can lower costs when compared to hiring human guards. Varied uses for canines in security Glen Kucera, Chief Executive Officer, MSA Security, highlighted the capabilities of canines for explosives and firearms detection. “People don’t realise the flexibility of what they can do,” he said. Kucera says canines provide a sophisticated solution to address the escalating active shooter and criminal threat. MSA Security was acquired last year by Allied Universal, adding to the company’s varied offerings for threat detection and management. Rather than individual products, Allied Universal’s emphasis at the show was on bringing solutions together. Their message: Risk is multi-dimensional and different from one client to the next. Access control  Access control needs to develop more modern interfaces to compete with new technology companies AMAG’s news at the show included a new president, David Sullivan, who highlighted AMAG’s role as one of the “last independent access control companies.” He said, “The beauty of AMAG is its installed base and loyal integrator channel.” Sullivan sees changing trends in how office space is managed in the wake of the pandemic. More workplace management applications will emerge, with one of the elements being access control. Access control also needs to develop more modern interfaces to compete with new technology companies entering the market. An encouraging sign is that AMAG had its best year ever in 2021. Orion Entrance Control Orion Entrance Control showed off one of its modern new turnstiles at the RealNetworks/SAFR booth at GSX 2022. The turnstile incorporates an access control module from Elatec to update and expand card reader functionality. Using the module streamlines Orion’s processes and avoids having to update a customer’s readers individually. The turnstile at GSX also incorporated a facial recognition system from SAFR, which could be used instead of, or in addition to, the access control reader. Balancing the cloud and on-premise systems Salient Systems is looking to balance the use of on-premise and cloud systems and emphasise data instead of video. Rather than a single market, Salient sees security as a variety of smaller markets, each focused on different needs. Salient’s customers are typically larger and have multi-site deployments with thousands of cameras. On-premise systems appeal here because they offer an element of control. Open-platform APIs Internal teams at customer sites are seeking out and finding new ways to leverage the data from video systems “People have a keen interest in control and ownership of their data,” says Sanjay Challa, Chief Product Officer, Salient Systems. Internal teams at customer sites are seeking out and finding new ways to leverage the data from video systems, and some of the uses fall outside the traditional “security” market. Open-platform application programming interfaces (APIs) enable more integration with various systems, and broader applications enable customers to leverage budgets from other stakeholders in an organisation. Add-on services “They’re unwilling to shift the entire solution to the cloud, but they want to leverage cloud technologies,” says Challa. For Salient, a cloud system provides remote access to monitor and service video installation remotely. “We enable the integrator to reach into your system to provide a higher level of service,” says Sanjay Challa. He concludes, “Our add-on services bring the best of the cloud to on-premise systems, and integrators don’t have to roll a truck to solve a problem with the system. We are focused on helping integrators succeed.” 

Geekplus, the global pioneer in mobile robot and smart logistics solutions, has deployed the first Shelf-to-Person PopPick project in the Nordics for one of the biggest online pharmacy wholesalers in the region, Med24.dk. System Teknik partnered on the Denmark project, which includes three PopPick stations and 30 Shelf-to-Person robots, bringing a flexible solution to a region where fixed automation still dominates. "With the rise of e-commerce, Med24.dk had been struggling with huge sales growth coupled with fast delivery demands from customers in Denmark, Norway, Sweden searching for pharmacy, health and beauty products. Peak season events had also caused considerable strain to their operations," said Blond Shkodrani, channel partner manager for the Nordics at Geekplus. "Due to their overwhelming success, Med24.dk needed a modular, automated order fulfilment solution for fast, efficient order fulfilment." Order fulfilment challenges Shelf-to-Person takes goods of all sizes while removing the need for infrastructure investment The Geekplus modular Shelf-to-Person solution optimises warehouse operations using mobile robots to transport shelves. In a region where fixed and cubic solutions have been the trend during recent years, Shelf-to-Person handles goods of all sizes while removing the need for infrastructure investment, making it the most flexible response to order fulfilment challenges. PopPick workstations use two retrieval arms and four presentation locations to present pickers with multiple, moveable 78-tote racks at one time, resulting in an industry-pioneering throughput of 450 totes per hour. PopPick can store goods of all types and sizes; the solution is not limited to small pieces and improves ergonomics for workers while picking. It also takes up less space than traditional systems, so customers can use more stations without adding facility space. Mobile order fulfilment solutions "We are very pleased to invest in flooring robots from Geekplus," said Med24.dk CEO Nils Træholt. "We believe that this new and innovative technology can help us realise our growth ambitions, while maintaining good delivery times for the benefit of our customers." Morten Kirch, System Teknik's CSO, added: "Due to Med24.dk's growth, we are thrilled to be able to deliver a tailor-made, automated solution that matches their needs." Geekplus offers a suite of Goods-to-Person mobile order fulfilment solutions-the only comprehensive robotic offering controlled by a single software platform. "Through trusted partners like System Teknik, we're showing customers all over Europe that Geekplus truly is a one-stop shop for modular warehouse automation," Shkodrani said.

Cequence announced that the world's largest navigation device manufacturer has chosen the Cequence bot detection and mitigation solution API Spartan, part of the overall Unified API Protection (UAP) platform, to secure its e-commerce experience and deliver a frictionless shopping experience for its customers. The company joins an already elite roster of clients, standing alongside industry giants spanning diverse sectors such as beauty, retail, government, telecommunications, systems integration, international voice traffic carriers, online automotive, motorcycle enthusiasts, and marine classifieds. Boosting online security As the company aimed to boost online security, it faced alarming numbers: about 100 million SSO login requests monthly, with 15 to 20 percent flagged as malicious. They also uncovered significant financial risks, with account takeovers costing anywhere from $50 (£40) to $12,000 (£9,500) each. Ignoring these unsettling numbers might have spelled financial disaster for the business, potentially surpassing the billion-dollar mark. Lack of behavioural analysis The previous solution relied solely on identifying bots based on bad IP addresses, which proved inadequate In light of the company’s previous experience with a prominent internet security provider that utilised rudimentary bot protection methods, it became evident that their efficacy in stopping malicious bots was compromised. The previous solution relied solely on identifying bots based on bad IP addresses, which proved inadequate in detecting many sophisticated malicious bots due to the lack of behavioural analysis. Consequently, the navigation device manufacturer faced challenges in effectively mitigating bot attacks and ensuring business continuity and customer experience. Cequence API Spartan Recognising the limitations of their existing bot protection measures, the customer sought a more proactive and comprehensive bot management solution like Cequence API Spartan to safeguard their business continuity, protect their online assets, and enhance the overall customer experience. Cequence's ability to distinguish genuine users from bots in real-time and adapt to evolving bot tactics resonated with the company, offering a reliable and future-proof solution to their bot problem. Proactive and comprehensive bot management "Bots aren't just a technical nuisance; they're customer experience assassins,” said Ameya Talwalkar, CEO of Cequence. “Imagine loyal customers, eager to purchase your products, locked out by an army of automated bad actors." "The frustration, lost sales, and reputational damage are a nightmare scenario no business can afford. That's why Cequence is dedicated to providing solutions that go beyond simple bot detection. We empower companies to proactively safeguard their legitimate customers and foster a thriving online environment where trust and genuine interactions flourish." Vulnerability due to automated bot attacks The OWASP API Security Top 10 highlights the vulnerability of poorly secured APIs to automated bot attacks. This blurs the line between traditional API and bot attacks, requiring unified security solutions that address both. Key features of Cequence API Spartan As the only API security solution with bot management capabilities, Cequence provides the navigation device manufacturer with: Continuous Behaviour-based API Threat Detection: Cequence leverages the behavioural fingerprint created by a machine learning-based analytics engine to track sophisticated attacks continuously. Supported by the largest API threat database in the world, with millions of behavioural and malicious infrastructure records, the analysis results are translated into policies and models that can be implemented on day one for high-efficacy protection. Integrated Security Ecosystem: While Cequence offers native real-time attack mitigation capabilities, it seamlessly integrates with existing security solutions such as web application firewalls (WAFs). This collaborative approach ensures holistic protection, allowing organisations to leverage the strengths of multiple security tools for enhanced API security and threat mitigation. Protection in Minutes: Cequence can be enabled to protect your APIs and web applications in as little as 15 minutes and can immediately begin reducing the operational burden associated with preventing attacks that can result in fraud, data loss, and business disruption. Advanced AI and machine learning The current e-commerce environment is increasingly vulnerable to bots exploiting loopholes in business logic. Cequence offers a robust solution to protect web and mobile applications, as well as their underlying API infrastructure, from business logic abuse. Leveraging advanced AI and machine learning, Cequence analyses incoming traffic to effectively identify and thwart even subtle attempts at exploitation.

The Body Shop has installed bespoke Traka RFID locker solutions at its main distribution centre to ensure intelligent management and accountability of assets, enhance security and streamline operations. As a global pioneer in ethical and sustainable beauty products, The Body Shop recognises the importance of responsible resource management, business practices and asset security. Traka intelligent locker systems At its main distribution centre in Littlehampton, three large-scale Traka intelligent locker systems have been installed to manage different devices. The first uses Traka’s multi-bay cradle locker solution to manage 30 VoCollect voice-picking devices and Bluetooth headsets, all charged and ready to operate. Three large-scale Traka intelligent locker systems have been installed to manage different devices  The second houses 40 Falcon handheld scanners, managed by Traka’s specialist Asset Master Locker range with charging and battery points located. The final system presents secure storage for a kit of equipment, specifically designed for the forklift truck drivers, with each locker compartment containing a Falcon scanner, Radio and Printer. Each intelligent locker solution is offered with RFID asset detection and specialist TrakaWEB software, to provide managers with instant audit control capability to establish exact times when physical devices are removed and returned to lockers. New standards in design Says The Shift Manager, responsible for the project: “To keep up with high demands, our distribution centre operates 24/7. It is constantly evolving, driving new standards in design and use of technology to ensure our products reach our stores to meet our loyal customer demands." “To operate at maximum capacity, we need to make it as simple and as quick as possible for authorised colleagues to not only gain access to the devices they need but also ensure they are operational and in good working order. With the introduction of Traka, we have eliminated manual control, plus we have a complete audit on all devices that we can access from anywhere. We have already noted increased accountability, traceability and fault logging, all coming together to reduce lost time and enhance operational efficiency.” Net 2 access control cards Access to other assets and tools can only be granted to authorised personnel for their job specification The three locker solutions have been installed in two separate locations around the distribution centre, to ensure staff can easily access equipment in their work area. Eliminating the need to travel to a central location and queue to access or organise equipment has led to improved productivity at the start and end of shift periods. Traka has also ensured all systems operate using existing Paxton Net 2 access control cards to minimise facility disruption during or after installation. Access to different assets and equipment can only be granted to authorised personnel for their identified job specification, with staff only able to take one device or kit at a time. Author's quote Lee Payne, Traka Business Development Manager added: “The introduction of Traka systems to a global distribution centre such as The Body Shop demonstrates how simple process enhancements can make a significant difference. From the initial brief through to implementation, we worked closely with the team to identify the exact requirements for each site and the accessibility needs for staff." “We understood the need for curfew notifications, fault logging and careful authorised access control. We planned with the team to separate out the systems into specific work areas and use the Traka orange to help the locker systems stand out, all to ensure vital time could be saved for staff and management. The result is a smoother, more efficient operation throughout the supply chain, helping The Body Shop continue its mission of delivering its best-loved ethical beauty products."

Required a reliable Indian brand that could provide pre and post-sales support throughout India. Matrix’s competitor brands had failed to provide tech support in some remote locations in India Need for effective monitoring in critical areas of the store: Entrances, Exits, Aisles, Cash Counters, and Inventory Need for a solution that provided valuable video evidence for dispute resolution and liability claims Required efficient monitoring at night to mitigate the risk of thefts Solution offered With growing stores across India, they chose Matrix again due to satisfactory results in the past The eyewear chain relied on Matrix for its video surveillance needs as they were highly satisfied with Matrix Access Control and Matrix Telecom solutions, previously. Earlier, they had installed Matrix IP Cameras, Video Recorders, and Matrix Video Management Software for centralised monitoring. With expanding stores across India, they chose Matrix again due to satisfactory results in the past. 1500+ store locations pan India were secured with Matrix IP Cameras and NVRs. A typical deployment in the store included installing 4 to 5 Matrix Professional Series Dome IP Cameras inside the store. Placement of the camera locations The cameras were strategically placed at the following locations: Outside the Store Premises Entry/ Exit of the Store Product Display Aisle to Monitor Customer Interactions Cash Counters Inventory In the Store Matrix SATATYA SAMAS VMS An 8-channel Matrix NVR with 1 SATA Port was installed within each store to record and store video footage from these IP cameras. A particular location in South India required a centralised monitoring solution. For this purpose, Matrix SATATYA SAMAS, Enterprise Video Management Software (VMS) was provided. With the help of this solution, various multi-location cameras could be centrally monitored from a single location. Products offered SATATYA MIDR20FL36CWS (5000+): 2MP IR Dome Camera with 3.6 mm Fixed Lens SATATYA NVR0801X (1000+): 8 Channel NVR with 1 SATA Port Support SATATYA MIBR20FL28CWS: 2MP IR Bullet Camera with 2.8mm Fixed Lens SATATYA CIBR50FL28CWS (10+): 5MP IR Bullet Camera with 2.8mm Fixed Lens SATATYA PZCR20ML33CWP: 2MP PTZ Cameras with 33x Optical Zoom SATATYA NVR6408X: 64 Channel NVR with 8 SATA Ports Matrix Licence Dongle 200: USB Dongle to Run License VMS Application SATATYA SAMAS PLT: Enterprise Video Management Software SATATYA SAMAS CAM100 (3 Nos.): 100 Camera Licence for Enterprise VMS Solution diagram Benefits Pan India Pre and Post-Sales Support: The team at Matrix ensured seamless deployment of cameras and NVRs even in the most remote locations of India. Further, the eyewear chain was assured of technical support whenever required. Comprehensive Security: Matrix IP Cameras and Network Video Recorders ensured robust security coverage for the brand’s retail outlets throughout India. Preventive Crime Measures: Intelligent Video Analytics and Instant Notifications played a crucial role in deterring and preventing shoplifting, vandalism, etc. Enhanced Night-time Security: The Motion Detection IVA feature in Matrix IP Cameras specifically addressed heightened security concerns during store closure. It triggered instant SMS and email notifications to relevant staff upon detecting motion, proactively preventing incidents even after closing hours. Efficient Bandwidth and Storage: The Adaptive Streaming and Smart Streaming Feature in Matrix IP Cameras intelligently managed bandwidth and storage usage, optimising resources. Customized Recording Retention: Matrix NVRs have camera-wise recording retention, enabling tailored storage duration for each camera’s recordings and backups, further enhancing storage efficiency.

About a year and a half ago, Peter de Jong introduced Dahua to Fred Koks, General Manager of KITT Engineering.  Since then, Dahua, KITT Engineering and Ocean Outdoor have completed five joint projects together. Follow-up appointments for the next two projects are already scheduled. "Let's see what happens," was Fred's reaction when introduced to Dahua. ''We evaluate our portfolio with suppliers every year,'' he explained. “We have to. So much is changing and new technology is developing incredibly fast. You have to keep up.” He knows better than anyone how mobile the market is. “Among suppliers of LED screens, there is a constant battle for market position and new technology. We all know the big providers and the market leaders. But it is not necessarily that they are also at the forefront of technology.” Indoor shopping centre But the initial learnings and experience with the screen were very good before we started" Erwin van Domselaar, Operations & Project Manager at Ocean Outdoor, says his company dares to blindly trust the expertise of Koks and his people when choosing a particular type of LED screen. "KITT Engineering is our technical supplier. They are very good at distinguishing good products from bad products, and we trust them completely on this. When they have a product they see a future in, they discuss it with us to see if we can take on a project together with it." In Dahua's case, that first project is a screen in a shopping centre called Koperwiek – an indoor shopping centre with more than a hundred fashion-related shops – located in Capelle aan den Ijssel. "That was a relatively small project," Erwin recalls. "The screen was not too big. But the initial learnings and experience with the screen were very good before we started. And the installation itself went off without a hitch. Exactly what we expected from this product." Not regarding the screen, but its coincidence with the renovation of the shopping centre Very pleasant cooperation Soon, a second project was launched. This time in a shopping centre called Sterrenburg in Dordrecht. "Here, not everything went smoothly right away. Not regarding the screen, but its coincidence with the renovation of the shopping centre.” “They had actually just finished. All the walls had been neatly plastered and at that moment we asked if a new cable could be drawn. Fortunately, all this was eventually dealt with and solved in a very pleasant cooperation with the project developer, but it took some time." We are always looking for something new and surprising Pure craftsmanship The third and fourth projects are true masterpieces. In Hoofddorp, KITT Engineering installed a corner screen. "A unique screen for us," says Erwin. "It is the first screen that goes around a corner. It is half a meter that goes around the corner, fitting in super nicely with the surroundings. On paper, a huge screen of forty square meters, but when you stand there, you don't notice it because it blends in so well with the surroundings. We are always looking for something new and surprising. And a screen that turns around the corner offers a lot of new possibilities. For example, in terms of 3D content." Trying various techniques The screen doesn't just go around the corner, it goes around the corner seamlessly" Fred adds: "The screen doesn't just go around the corner, it goes around the corner seamlessly. KITT is always trying to bring novelties forward so we've had corner screens before. But that was in art projects and things like that where requirements are a lot lower.” “In the process, we were able to try out various techniques and we also found out that the products we had at our disposal at that time were not one hundred percent ready. Then Dahua came up with a prototype, we were very pleased with the 'cold corner' as we call it. It is really LED on LED, without a seam." Making image seamless To understand how clever this feat of engineering is, it's worth realising that the margin you have to make the image seamless is the space between two LEDs. Millimeter work, on a length of ten by five meters. "The fourth project was placing a screen in the atrium of Zuidplein shopping centre in RoFerdam," Peter says. "The screen was placed against a glass elevator. When you see that, [it is] not normal the way it came together. You don't see a cable or anything. Really fantastic." For instance, it prevents the light intensity from being too high Monitoring primary system The fifth project collaboration between Dahua, KITT Engineering and Ocean Outdoor is a LED display screen in Westfield Mall of the Netherlands.  Something that can have major consequences in outdoor advertising In addition to the regular LED screen and the driving system, a screen control and monitoring system was also developed to monitor the primary system at every point. “We want to see remotely how our assets in the country are doing," Fred explains. From the video player to dysfunctional LEDs, everything can be monitored remotely. For instance, it prevents the light intensity from being too high. Something that can have major consequences in outdoor advertising.

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 solution has been chosen by Center Grove Community School Corporation (CGCSC) to proactively protect students and faculty against gun-related violence. The technology will be deployed across the district’s nine school campuses in Johnson County, Indiana, utilising funds awarded from the Indiana Department of Homeland Security Secured School Safety Grant. Emergency Operations Centre CGCSC was one of the first school districts in the nation to establish a public partnership with its local law enforcement and fire departments, establishing an Emergency Operations Centre for live camera monitoring across its campuses. ZeroEyes’ technology is complementary to these efforts and will help reduce the risk of rising gun-related violence in schools. 24/7/365 support We are always looking for ways to leverage technology as a force multiplier for our police department" “We are always looking for ways to leverage technology as a force multiplier for our police department,” said Center Grove Community School Corporation assistant superintendent Dr. Bill Long. “ZeroEyes enhances our security capabilities with 24/7/365 support and provides peace of mind in a time of unease by detecting illegally brandished guns on campus.” CGCSC CGCSC is a public school system that serves the residents of White River Township in Johnson County, Indiana, 20 minutes south of Indianapolis. One of the school’s core missions is to ensure students feel both emotionally and physically safe as they grow into knowledgeable, confident, and responsible citizens. ZeroEyes’ AI gun detection technology will help aid this mission and protect the district’s 1,200 staff members and 9,500 students in grades K-12 from gun-related threats. AI gun detection and situational awareness software ZeroEyes' AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness software will be layered on existing digital security cameras at Center Grove’s nine school campuses. If a gun is identified, images will instantly be 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 will dispatch alerts and actionable intelligence, including visual description, gun type, and last known location, to local staff and first responders in as fast as 3 to 5 seconds from detection. Identifies guns The platform does not store personal or biometric data or conduct any kind of facial recognition ZeroEyes’ technology is purely focused on identifying guns, not faces or body types. ZeroEyes employees do not monitor live camera feeds, and the monitoring screens in the ZOC remain blank unless a gun is identified. The platform does not store personal or biometric data or conduct any kind of facial recognition. School safety “Center Grove has shown its commitment to school safety with the establishment of the Emergency Operations Centre, and we are proud that ZeroEyes has been selected to augment the district’s security plan,” said Mike Lahiff, CEO and co-founder of ZeroEyes. “Schools across the nation can look to Center Grove as an example of how to proactively mitigate gun-related violence and ensure the safety of its community.”

Cloud implementations enable organisations to slash IT costs, boost performance, increase efficiency, and provide flexibility in a variety of applications. Cloud computing is a great way to store and access data from anywhere in the world, as long as you have an internet connection. In the case of video management, Video Surveillance as a Service (VSaaS) systems are becoming more popular, both as a means of managing costs and to deliver expectations of accessing video from any device anywhere in the world. But on-premise video management systems (VMSs) still have a role to play, don’t they? We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the continuing role of video management systems (VMS), given the growth in Video Surveillance as a Service (VSaaS)? 

Video storage has come a long way since rooms full of VCRs stored video from an entire system of cameras. Video storage equates to data storage, and there are multiple options ranging from hard disk storage to the cloud to storage on each individual camera using SD cards. Increasingly, cloud-based storage is an attractive option to store video footage conveniently and safely. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How is expansion of video storage capabilities impacting the security industry?

As physical security technologies become more complex, it is incumbent on the dealer/integrator to have the skills and expertise needed to ensure that a system operates smoothly. The value of integrators increasingly rests on the skill sets they bring to bear when installing a system. If the skills are missing, there is a problem. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What missing skills among security integrators can cause problems for customers?