Security service

Getronics has been recognised as a Pioneer in the UK by ISG, a pioneering technology research and advisory firm, in its 2025 Provider Lens™ Report for Cybersecurity – Services and Solutions.  This recognition specifically places Getronics as a Leader in Technical Security Services for the Midmarket, highlighting the company’s growing impact and commitment to protecting organisations across the UK. Integration-ready security solutions ISG noted that: “Getronics offers practical, integration-ready security solutions to the needs of midmarket clients in zero trust, cloud and OT environments, emphasising flexibility and rapid deployment.” Stuart Deignan, Chief Executive Officer, said: “We are incredibly proud to be recognised in the ISG Provider Lens™ Report as a Cybersecurity – Services and Solutions Leader in the UK. This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our entire team and reflects our relentless focus and commitment to safeguarding our clients in the UK.”

Allied Universal, a world pioneering security and facility services provider, is expanding further in the northeast region of the U.S. with the acquisition of Mulligan Security.  For more than 30 years, Mulligan Security has provided security and fire safety services to clients in and around New York City. Its clients range from commercial properties and corporate facilities to hospitals and museums. Combining the strength “Combining the strength of our businesses and leadership teams will create new opportunities to expand our innovative security solutions to meet the needs of our clients,” said Steve Jones, global chairman and CEO of Allied Universal. “Mulligan Security’s deep expertise and strong presence in Greater New York City help strengthen Allied Universal’s footprint in the region. Together, we’ll continue serving clients in New York City and beyond with outstanding service, greater value, and continued innovation.”

As the race for the best AI technology heats up, manufacturers are turning to liquid immersion cooling to stabilise the servers of the future. While this technology provides far superior cooling properties compared to traditional fans, it also brings a new set of challenges, particularly around maintenance. Server blades are packed extremely tightly in a small space and immersed in liquid coolant, which can make it difficult to remove a single blade for service. Introducing the RA Rack Attach During maintenance, screws can be dropped and lost in the enclosure and hands can slip on slick metal as technicians try to lift heavy, liquid-covered hardware. These mishaps risk costly damage to server blades, and more importantly, loss of server uptime. In this AI race, the more time they spend running the better off they are, and every second counts. That is why Southco is introducing the RA Rack Attach. Integrated trigger in the Rack Attach handle The RA Rack Attach replaces traditional screws that normally secure a server blade to a rack The RA Rack Attach replaces traditional screws that normally secure a server blade to a rack. Instead, those screws are used to attach the RA to the blade, and an integrated pawl secures the blade to the rack. This pawl retracts when a technician presses an integrated trigger in the Rack Attach handle, providing easy release from the rack, and a secure grip for the technician as they lift out the blade in one fluid motion. No more screws slowing down maintenance, and increased uptime for servers as they support the tech of the future. Implementing the Southco RA Rack Attach While space is at a premium in these liquid-cooled server racks, the RA Rack Attach barely takes up any. The device is only 7 mm thick, but its steel construction enables it to support 50 kg of weight. Technicians get a strong, ergonomic grip with barely any space used by the Rack Attach. These features drastically decrease maintenance time and risk of damage and injury to technicians. Implementing the Southco RA Rack Attach means lower costs, increased uptime, and a leg up in the race to power the technology of the future.

Evolution, the pioneering employee-owned electronic security and life safety systems integrator, has opened a new office in Leeds, to better serve and support the needs of its clients across the north of England. The new office, located in Priestley House, Elland Road – with quick and easy access to the M62 corridor, will be home to a new account management, service and support base to enable the business to meet and exceed ever-changing client needs with its innovative and technical integrated service capabilities. Diverse security needs of customers  The new office in Leeds follows Evolution's opening of its new flagship UK office in Marlow Nick Wardle, Area Sales Manager at Evolution, who will serve as Evolution’s dedicated lead across the north of England, says the new office provides a strategic hub to serve customers throughout the region: "Our new facility in Leeds represents a significant step forward in our continued and rapid growth across the UK."  He adds, "Strategically located along the M62 corridor, the new office gives us direct access to each of the key cities and towns across the North – from Liverpool, Manchester and Newcastle to Sheffield, Hull and beyond."   Nick Wardle continues, "It also allows our dedicated local team to provider faster, on-the-ground support, as well as delivering tailored support and solutions to the meet the diverse security needs of our customers across the region." Evolution's opening in the UK Nick Wardle further adds: "The North East, North West, Yorkshire and the Humber, represent a hugely important market for us, and this investment reinforces our commitment to providing exceptional service to both existing and new clients where they need it."  The new office in Leeds follows Evolution's opening of its new flagship UK headquarters in Marlow earlier this year and adds to its growing portfolio of UK locations, which also includes offices in Belfast, Birmingham, and Edinburgh.

Allied Universal®,  the world’s pioneering security and facility services company, is proud to announce that six of its team members, its entire executive protection team and one of its training programs have been named finalists for the 2025 U.S. Outstanding Security Performance Awards (OSPAs). The OSPAs recognise and celebrate the work of individuals, companies, and teams that deliver outstanding security products and services. The U.S. OSPAs awards ceremony will take place on Sept. 28 at the Global Security Exchange (GSX). Finalists in five categories Allied Universal celebrates its 2025 U.S. Outstanding Security Performance Award finalists in five categories: Outstanding Contract Security Manager/Director Michael Leatherman: Ed Nishi William “Billy” Reynolds: David Serafine Outstanding Security Team  Executive Protection Team Outstanding Security Training Initiative  Enrichment Manager Onboarding Program Outstanding Security Officer Ryan Reed Outstanding Young Security Professional  Ariana Bolainez (and her canine partner Brando) OSPA program’s mission “Allied Universal is honoured to be named a finalist across multiple categories for the 2025 Outstanding Security Performance Awards,” said Global Chairman and CEO Steve Jones. “These recognitions are a testament to the unwavering commitment of our team members who work each day to help protect the public and make a meaningful difference in the communities we serve.” Allied Universal shares the OSPA program’s mission to highlight the dedication of security companies, teams, and professionals and demonstrates that commitment by continuing to deliver excellent security services to clients every day.

Atos announces it has been named a pioneer in ISG’s Provider Lens™ Mainframes – Services and Solutions, Europe, for the fourth year in a row. In 2025, Atos further reinforced its position on the market, being named a pioneer in four quadrants: Mainframe Optimisation Services, Application Modernisation Services, Mainframe as a Service (MFaaS) and Mainframe Operations. Atos’ comprehensive product ISG confirms Atos’ wide product and service offering, strong market presence and set competitive position ISG confirms Atos’ comprehensive product and service offering, strong market presence and established competitive position, as well as innovative strength. ISG elevated Atos’ from a Product Challenger to a pioneer in the Mainframe Optimisation Services quadrant, assessing the services to modernise and optimise mainframe environments. ISG emphasises Atos’ European roots, the decades of mainframe experience, the delivery of scalable and flexible services, and the innovative AI modernisation with an advanced mainframe optimisation portfolio. Atos’ risk-averse modernisation approach ISG’s Application Modernisation Services quadrant assesses advanced mainframe application modernisation methodologies and tools for automation. ISG highlights Atos’ risk-averse modernisation approach, its migration and modernisation framework enabling secure, phased transformations for complex mainframe environments, and the integration of GenAI into the modernisation efforts. In the Mainframe as a Service (MFaaS) quadrant, ISG assesses Atos’ capabilities in offering shared mainframe services. Atos stands out with its risk-averse approach supporting hybrid environments and providing tailored migration strategies. Atos’ delivery of comprehensive operations ISG sets service providers that offer functions services for mainframes on or off clients’ premises Atos mainframe hubs deliver an all-inclusive mainframe infrastructure, combining decades of IBM expertise with cloud-aligned mainframe scalability, by partnering with Hyperscalers. In the Mainframe Operations quadrant, ISG assesses service providers that offer operations services for mainframes on or off clients’ premises, including performance optimisation, backup, restore, system upgrades and security patches. ISG highlights Atos’ delivery of comprehensive mainframe operations services with a focus on automation, cost efficiency and hybrid IT integration. Atos end-to-end services Oliver Nickels, Lead Author, ISG said: “Atos has expanded in Europe by combining a strong localised presence in European countries with dedicated services for risk-aware optimisation, minimising compliance risks and system disruptions.” Michael Kollar, EVP, Head of Cloud & Modern Infrastructure business line, Atos said: "We are extremely proud to be rated by ISG as a pioneer in all four quadrants. Atos provides end-to-end services, from operations to managed and optimisation services as well as full-scope application modernisation to the cloud of their choice." Atos Cloud and Modern Infrastructure portfolio Kollar added: "The report is testament to our long-term expertise and 45 years of mainframe innovations. We support our clients and their end-to-end journey of transforming their existing mainframe, leveraging AI-enabled modernisation and automation.” The Atos mainframe operations and services are delivered worldwide and are part of the Atos Cloud and Modern Infrastructure portfolio.

Physical security isn’t a one-time project or a static system. It’s a dynamic, ongoing process and program that requires constant attention and management to remain effective. While the initial implementation of a security system — what we often call Day 1 — is critical, the ongoing maintenance, service, and adjustments made after systems are operational, or Day 2, are equally essential. Security program long-term Organisations that fail to focus on post-occupancy security operations risk falling victim Organisations that fail to focus on post-occupancy security operations risk falling victim to a phenomenon known as "program drift," where systems and policies gradually deviate from their intended standards over time. To manage your security program long-term, you often need an outside perspective. By engaging a security partner to provide managed services, organisations can achieve a strategic solution for maintaining their security programs' integrity, effectiveness, and efficiency over the long term. Let’s look at the reasons why. Moving beyond Day 1 Day 1 is the milestone moment when a security system is launched — whether it’s a new system, an upgraded access control platform, or a transition to advanced surveillance technology. On this day, all components align with established policies and standards. Yet, Day 1 is only the beginning of a security program's lifecycle. What happens on Day 2 and beyond is often where the real work begins. Without a robust plan for ongoing service and maintenance, security systems can quickly fall out of compliance. Policies become outdated, configurations drift, and vulnerabilities emerge. This gradual degradation — program drift — occurs not due to neglect but as a natural result of decentralised management; competing operational priorities; and the lack of dedicated, knowledgeable resources to oversee the systems. Avoiding program drift Drift is particularly pronounced in physical security because, unlike other building systems Program drift occurs when a security program’s elements — such as access controls, camera placements, or intrusion detection settings — gradually become misaligned from their intended standards. Think of a straight line representing perfect compliance on Day 1. Over time, various factors push individual components off this line. Left unchecked, these deviations accumulate, leading to significant vulnerabilities and deferred remediation costs that would be much easier to manage and predict with a more proactive approach. Drift is particularly pronounced in physical security because, unlike other building systems such as lighting or HVAC, security measures are often viewed as inconveniences. Even when systems function as designed, features like turnstiles, visitor management, or additional access controls may face pushback for being "in the way" of daily operations. This resistance and the Day 2 problems that often result — along with the lack of centralised oversight — exacerbate the risk of misalignment and ongoing inefficiencies. Why centralised post-occupancy management matters Post-occupancy management is critical for maintaining the long-term health of a security program. Facility managers, who are often tasked with overseeing security systems, may lack the technical expertise or bandwidth to handle the complexity of modern security infrastructure. Partnering with dedicated professionals to help meet these responsibilities ensures systems are managed effectively and vulnerabilities are addressed proactively. It also helps improve system availability and uptime, accelerate break/fix response and resolution times, lower ownership costs by reducing unnecessary and repeat service dispatches, and achieve a more consistent end-user experience. Moreover, centralised management provides a consistent framework for handling security systems across multiple sites. This consistency is vital in preventing Program Drift, ensuring that local variations or individual decisions do not undermine the organisation’s overall security posture. The case for managed services Hiring outside consultants offers a proactive and professional approach to mitigating program drift Hiring outside consultants offers a proactive and professional approach to mitigating program drift. Specialised providers have the expertise, tools, and resources to manage complex security systems effectively and ensure those systems remain aligned with organisational policies and performance expectations. By acting as a dedicated external resource and interfacing regularly with your security team, your consultant can help you build, manage, and optimise a variety of services that help keep your program on track. These services range from system health and availability management (break fix); move, add change management; system configuration administration; and program/project management offices. Key benefits in the following areas Let’s look at how a managed services a partner can yield key benefits in the following areas: Standards compliance. Centralised management ensures that security systems and processes remain in compliance with established policies and standards, reducing vulnerabilities caused by ad hoc changes or decentralised management. Operational efficiency. Managed services streamline maintenance and support workflows, minimise downtime, and ensure quick issue resolution. Enhanced security resilience. Proactive monitoring and maintenance reduce the likelihood of system failures and improve overall system reliability. Standardised processes for move-add-change (MAC) activities ensure that security configurations remain consistent across locations. Cost savings. Outsourced providers help organisations optimise resources, avoid errors, and benefit from economies of scale in service delivery. Strategic focus. Outsourcing also allows internal teams to shift their focus from routine operational tasks to higher-value activities, such as strategic planning, threat analysis, and incident response. Long-term value of security investments While Day 1 success is the foundation of a comprehensive program, what happens on Day 2 determines your ability to realise the long-term value of your security investments. As the complexity of security challenges grows, pioneers must prioritise sustained management and professionalised oversight to protect their organisations, making the conversation around post-occupancy security more critical than ever.  By adopting innovative strategies, implementing mature toolsets and processes, and leveraging specialised expertise, organisations can ensure their programs remain robust, aligned, and prepared to meet the challenges of tomorrow.

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

In the realm of physical security, the distinction between being perceived as a security vendor and a security partner holds great importance. While both may seem interchangeable at first glance, how an organisation is viewed by its clients can have a huge impact on the success of its security programmes. At the heart of this differentiation is the concept of relationships and how they shape the dynamics between providers and their clients.  Time, care, and diligence For security vendors such as systems integrators, security dealers, monitored services providers or manufacturers that sell directly to the end user elevating from supplier to partner requires a greater investment of time, care, and diligence. However, the eventual payoff can be incalculably advantageous to the organisation. Not only does this approach better serve the client but it also cultivates longer-term business and is more likely to generate referrals. Clients will change vendors often but stick with partners for the long haul.  Simple installation and/or service Security end-users should look to their security products and service providers to partner with them Security end-users should look to their security products and service providers to partner with them, be vested in their success, and be part of the solution. They should seek out and expect more than a simple installation and/or service in the absence of any real, tangible, and value-added relationship with stakeholders. That means looking deeper than the similar cameras or equipment most vendors provide. Doing so brings benefits from the partnership in solving problems and creating strategies for mitigation.  Vendors have short shelf lives  A security vendor is typically seen as a transactional company that offers products or services to address specific security needs or challenges. When an organisation engages with a vendor, the focus is primarily on the exchange of goods and/or services for a fee. The relationship tends to be more transactional, with limited interaction beyond the scope of the security solution being provided.  Tools, technologies, or service offerings The relationship between a security vendor and a client is often short with a one-time purchase Security vendors often play a crucial role in the security industry by offering specialised tools, technologies, or services that can help organisations improve their defences against threats. Examples would be video surveillance, access control, intrusion detection, or fire/life-safety systems, as well as the monitoring of any of them from a central monitoring station or security operations command centre. The thing about it is, however, that the relationship between a security vendor and a client is often short with a one-time purchase and limited ongoing engagement or consultation.  Partners prove their value  On the other hand, a security partner is viewed as a member of the team that works closely with an organisation to address its security challenges. Unlike a vendor, a security partner is invested in the long-term success of their clients and is committed to building a strong relationship based on expertise, trust, and transparency.  Creating custom solutions Security partners go beyond offering products or services by engaging with companies and organisations Security partners go beyond offering products or services by engaging with companies and organisations to understand their unique security needs, goals, and challenges. They work concurrently with organisations to develop customised security solutions, provide support and guidance, and adapt to ever-changing threats and risks.  When this kind of scenario is developed, the potentially distracting and detracting focus on monetary cost moves to the back burner because the value and return on investment (ROI) are so thoroughly compelling.   Relationships bring real benefits  The core of the difference between being perceived as a security vendor and a security partner hinges on the crucial role of relationships. While vendors focus on transactions and sales, partners prioritise collaboration and a sense of being in it together. Building strong relationships based on trust, communication, and shared goals is essential for forging a successful security partnership.  Personalised approach Security partners navigate complex security challenges, drive innovation, and deliver incredible value over the long term Security partners are not just providers of security solutions; they are trusted advisors who are invested in the success and well-being of their clients. They can be reached easily when needed and emphasise a personalised approach with custom-tailored solutions. By building strong relationships based on respect and understanding, security partners navigate complex security challenges, drive innovation, and deliver incredible value over the long term.  Operational opportunities Businesses and facilities often encounter or face very specific security needs that can only truly be solved in concert with a vendor that essentially acts like an extension of the end-user organisation. Furthermore, when communicating and collaborating on that level, additional security/safety and sometimes even operational opportunities for improvement come to light. This amplifies the value for both the end customer and their security vendor. Talk about a win-win!  Prosper with partner power  While vendors offer products or services, partners offer teamwork, expertise, and a shared commitment At the end of the day, the difference between being a security vendor and a security partner is not merely a matter of semantics. It is about the fundamental difference in approach and mindset toward physical (electronic and networked) security. While vendors offer products or services, partners offer teamwork, expertise, and a shared commitment to reducing losses and crime.   Quality of relationships Ultimately, it is the quality of relationships that separates providers in the security space and determines the success of security initiatives in the current rapidly changing security landscape. This unification of intent, practice, and purpose enables practitioners and the public alike to harness the full power of pioneering-edge technologies that support the security industry’s core mission of protecting people and property. Security partners are not just providers of security solutions; they are trusted advisors who are invested in the success and well-being of their clients. 

The shift from standalone systems to fully integrated solutions is one of the biggest shifts the security industry has experienced in recent years.  There is a higher demand for integrated solutions that go beyond just security at the device and software level, and manufacturers have been continuously developing improved application programming interfaces (APIs), and hybrid and cloud-connected solutions.  Artificial intelligence (AI) Also, artificial intelligence (AI) plays an important role in modern intrusion systems by helping enable automated threat detection, real-time response, and predictive analysis. AI algorithms can analyse vast amounts of data to identify patterns and anomalies that may indicate security breaches. Security solutions are being developed with a focus on AI and machine learning to provide more proactive and resilient defences against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. Benefits of AI AI-driven security solutions can continuously learn and adapt to new threats, providing more robust protection “The practical benefits of AI in security systems include enhanced accuracy in detecting threats, reduced response times through automation, and the capability to anticipate and prevent potential vulnerabilities before they are exploited,” says Sergio Castillejos, President, of Commercial Security at Honeywell. Additionally, AI-driven security solutions can continuously learn and adapt to new threats, providing businesses with more robust and dynamic protection. Unified Intelligent Command user interface Honeywell meets the challenge of better-integrated systems with a unified Intelligent Command user interface (UI). Castillejos says Honeywell continually innovates with the latest analytics and encryption to keep up with evolving threats. Honeywell’s products integrate with many offerings for partners to construct a robust and modern system relevant to their security needs.  Advanced cloud-based security Advanced cloud-based security technologies have been developed that offer real-time monitoring, automated threat detection Advanced cloud-based security technologies have been developed that offer real-time monitoring, automated threat detection, and remote management, essential for hybrid work environments, says Castillejos. “These solutions enhance scalability, improve data analytics capabilities, and provide seamless updates reducing significant maintenance costs that help companies to respond swiftly to emerging threats and enable robust, adaptive security measures.” Physical and digital security The best security systems are a combination of physical, digital, and national security, says Castillejos. While Honeywell focuses on providing the best in physical and digital security within their solutions, protecting sensitive and/or personal information must also be within the responsibility of the organisational policy.   Cybersecurity for connected devices Some of the challenges in the next five years will likely include integrating advanced technologies Security systems can safeguard this information by being highly configurable while also notifying users of unwanted activity. Sometimes, just restricting access to sensitive areas can be enough. However, in the world of data analysis and machine learning, security systems can audit and report on users who have accessed data to ensure that the protections are in place. Some of the challenges in the next five years will likely include integrating advanced technologies such as AI and the Internet of Things (IoT) while securing cybersecurity for connected devices, notes Castillejos.  Balancing act “Additionally, there will be a growing need for skilled professionals to manage and maintain these complex, connected systems,” he says. “Balancing cost-effectiveness with the demand for resilient security solutions will also pose a significant challenge, especially for smaller businesses.” Legacy systems that are susceptible to vulnerabilities like cloning or unauthorised access present the largest challenge to overcome. “However, as technology evolves, it becomes more challenging for a customer to manage a unified security system rather than a collection of unique solutions that all operate independently,” says Castillejos. Disruptive technology But investing in the newest analytics, AI and IoT will not improve a company’s physical security systems if they do nothing with the data. “They are not a replacement for the devices that keep people and property safe,” says Castillejos. “They can enhance a user’s experience and speed up the time to respond when they are planned correctly.”  The best security systems will look at disruptive technology as another tool in the overall system. However, the focus should remain on the user experience. If the latest technology is not properly integrated or configured, it will turn into more noise that most operators will ignore. {##Poll1720586145 - Which is the most useful benefit of artificial intelligence (AI) in security systems?##}

Fueled by mounting concerns about the cybersecurity vulnerability of U.S. ports, President Joe Biden has signed an Executive Order aimed at shoring up defences against cyberattacks. Cybersecurity initiative The cybersecurity initiative marks a significant shift in policy, empowering key agencies and outlining concrete actions to bolster defences.  By empowering agencies, establishing clear standards, and fostering collaboration, the initiative aims to strengthen U.S. ports against the evolving threat of cyberattacks, safeguarding the nation's maritime economy and national security.   Expanded authority for DHS  The proactive approach aims to prevent incidents before they occur The Executive Order grants expanded authority to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Coast Guard to address maritime cyber threats. DHS gains the power to directly tackle these challenges, while the Coast Guard receives specific tools. The Coast Guard can compel vessels and waterfront facilities to address cyber vulnerabilities that endanger safety. The proactive approach aims to prevent incidents before they occur.   Real-time information sharing Reporting any cyber threats or incidents targeting ports and harbors becomes mandatory. This real-time information sharing allows for swifter response and mitigation efforts. The Coast Guard also gains the authority to restrict the movement of vessels suspected of posing cyber threats. Inspections can be conducted on vessels and facilities deemed risky.  Mandatory cybersecurity standards  The standardisation aims to eliminate weak links in the chain and prevent attackers from exploiting Beyond these broad powers, the Executive Order establishes foundational elements for improved cybersecurity. Mandatory cybersecurity standards will be implemented for U.S. ports' networks and systems, ensuring a baseline level of protection across the board. This standardisation aims to eliminate weak links in the chain and prevent attackers from exploiting individual vulnerabilities.  Importance of collaboration and transparency Furthermore, the initiative emphasises the importance of collaboration and information sharing. Mandatory reporting of cyber incidents fosters transparency and allows government agencies and private sector partners to work together in mitigating threats.  Additionally, the Executive Order encourages increased information sharing among all stakeholders, facilitating a unified response to potential attacks.  Maritime Security Directive The Executive Order encourages investment in research and development for innovative cybersecurity solutions To address specific concerns, the Coast Guard will issue a Maritime Security Directive targeting operators of Chinese-manufactured ship-to-shore cranes. This directive outlines risk management strategies to address identified vulnerabilities in these critical pieces of port infrastructure. The long-term success of this initiative hinges on effective implementation. The Executive Order encourages investment in research and development for innovative cybersecurity solutions, recognising the need for continuous improvement and adaptation to evolving threats.  Recognising the urgency of cyber threats  The initiative has been met with widespread support from port authorities, industry stakeholders, and cybersecurity experts who recognise the urgency of addressing cyber threats. However, some concerns exist regarding the potential burden of complying with new regulations for smaller port operators.  Effective communication, resource allocation, and collaboration among all stakeholders will be crucial to ensure the successful implementation of this comprehensive plan.  Enhancing cybersecurity The more impactful and noteworthy piece is the associated NPRM from the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) “This Executive Order is a positive move that will give the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) additional authority to enhance cybersecurity within the marine transportation system and respond to cyber incidents,” comments Josh Kolleda, practice director, transport at NCC Group, a cybersecurity consulting firm.  The more impactful and noteworthy piece is the associated Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) from the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) on “Cybersecurity in the Marine Transportation System,” adds Kolleda. Portions of the notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) look similar to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Security Directive for the rail industry and the Emergency Amendment for the aviation industry.   Coordinating with TSA on lessons learned  The USCG should be coordinating with TSA on lessons learned and incorporating them into additional guidance to stakeholders and processes to review plans and overall compliance, says Kolleda. “At first glance, the NPRM provides a great roadmap to increase cybersecurity posture across the various stakeholders, but it underestimates the cost to private companies in meeting the requirements, particularly in areas such as penetration testing,” says Kolleda. Cyber espionage and threats The focus is on PRC because nearly 80% of cranes operated at U.S. ports are manufactured there “It is unclear if or how the federal government will provide support for compliance efforts. As this seems to be an unfunded mandate, many private companies will opt for the bare minimum in compliance.”  “Cyber espionage and threats have been reported by the Director of National Intelligence from multiple nation-states including China, Russia, and Iran,” adds Paul Kingsbury, principal security consultant & North America Maritime Lead at NCC Group. The focus here is on the People’s Republic of China (PRC) because nearly 80% of cranes operated at U.S. ports are manufactured there, he says.  Destructive malware “The state-sponsored cyber actors’ goal is to disrupt critical functions by deploying destructive malware resulting in disruption to the U.S. supply chain,” says Kingsbury. “These threat actors do not only originate in China or other nation-states but also include advanced persistent threats (APTs) operated by criminal syndicates seeking financial gain from such disruptions." "The threat actors don’t care where the crane was manufactured but rather seek targets with limited protections and defences. The minimum cyber security requirements outlined within the NPRM should be adopted by all crane operators and all cranes, regardless of where they are manufactured.”  PRC-manufactured cranes Kingsbury adds, “The pioneering risk outlined in the briefing is that these cranes (PRC manufactured) are controlled, serviced, and programmed from remote locations in China." "While this is a valid concern and should be assessed, there are certainly instances where PRC-manufactured cranes do not have control systems manufactured in PRC. For example, there are situations in maritime transportation system facilities where older cranes have been retrofitted with control systems of European Union or Japanese origin.”  Monitoring wireless threats  “The Biden Administration’s recent Executive Order is a critical step forward in protecting U.S. ports from cyberattacks and securing America’s supply chains,” says Dr. Brett Walkenhorst, CTO at Bastille, a wireless threat intelligence technology company. “To ensure proper defence against malicious actors accessing port-side networks, attention must also be paid to common wireless vulnerabilities." "Attacks leveraging Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and IoT protocols may be used to access authorised infrastructure including IT and OT systems. Monitoring such wireless threats is an important element in a comprehensive approach to upgrading the defences of our nation’s critical infrastructure.”

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. 

Founded in 2020 by a team of energy professionals in Milan, Sunprime is a fast-growing independent renewable energy producer that develops sustainable photovoltaic plants across Italy. Their focus is mainly commercial and industrial (C&I) segment, ground-mounted systems on industrial land and industrial electricity storage systems. Challenges With global initiatives toward green sustainability and carbon neutrality, the demand for photovoltaic power generation construction is growing rapidly.  Sunprime's project pipeline currently consists of several projects, many of which are located in very remote and often unattended areas (e.g., Maleo, Lodi Province), making it vulnerable to thieves that steal valuable cables and panels. Securing the vast area of photovoltaic plants requires a comprehensive surveillance system that can monitor the site at all times.  Solution Dahua and Sunprime enabled the project team to come up with an effective design The technical and commercial partnership between Dahua and Sunprime enabled the project team to come up with an effective design, implement cutting-edge technologies and pay great attention to the positioning of the cameras. In order to safeguard one of the client’s solar power plants covering approximately 70,000 m2, more than 1,500 hybrid cameras (thermal cameras + traditional cameras) equipped with AI algorithms were deployed around the area, actively monitoring for potential intrusion 24/7. These state-of-the-art Dahua products can stably operate even under harsh weather conditions, making them ideal for outdoor applications. They are equipped with advanced AI algorithms capable of generating accurate alarms while filtering out false positives, which makes monitoring more efficient and more convenient for the client. Dahua AirShield wireless alarm system In addition, through fibre optics, the video steam from the cameras are sent to the technical rooms in the solar park via Dahua’s industrial switches. The signals are then managed by another row of switches and finally transmitted to high-resolution recorders. The Dahua AirShield wireless alarm system was also installed in each technical room in the park, providing another level of protection for the central equipment. What’s more, all the systems of Sunprime’s solar parks are now centralised through local routers thanks to the Dahua DSS management software installed in the surveillance operations centre. Results Dahua has assisted Sunprime from pre-sale stage to the implementation of the products Sunprime’s solar power plant has witnessed how Dahua’s thermal perimeter protection solution can be utilised to safeguard its property and assets located in remote and secluded areas. In addition to early business communication, Dahua has assisted Sunprime from pre-sale stage to the implementation of the products, with plans and designs based on the actual needs of the customer. The high-quality service offered by Dahua has gained praised from the client. Dahua secured new projects “The implementation of this type of systems was made possible thanks to the support of the Dahua projects department, which assisted us from the pre-sale stage up to the implementation of the products,” says Mr. Michele Vianello, Asset Manager at Sunprime. “I take this opportunity to once again thank them for their support throughout the entire project,” he added. After the successful completion of this project on the first site, Dahua has secured new projects for another 80 sites with approximately 20 thermal imaging cameras for each site, generating a total supply of 1,600 thermal imaging cameras.

Interface Systems, a managed service provider of security, actionable insights, and purpose-built networks for multi-location businesses, announced that Nicker Management, a fast-food franchise operator in the Los Angeles area, has successfully implemented Interface’s Virtual Security Guard solution. By deploying Interface’s advanced security technology, Nicker Management has enhanced safety, reduced operational costs, and provided a secure environment for employees and customers. Nicker Management Nicker Management, led by sisters Nicole Harper Rawlins (CEO) and Kerri Harper-Howie (Co-owner), operates 24 fast-food restaurants across South LA, Compton, Lynwood, and Carson. Faced with persistent security challenges, including loitering, panhandling, and criminal activity, the company sought a modern, cost-effective solution to protect its employees and guests. Addressing critical security concerns Nicker Management chose Interface Systems to implement the Virtual Guard solution at one of its restaurants “We’re faced with lots of challenges with crime, unhoused people, and individuals suffering from mental and/or substance abuse issues,” said Harper Rawlins. “It creates significant risk at our restaurants. Over the years, we experimented with a range of security solutions, and hiring on-site guards quickly became costly and unsustainable.” After evaluating various options, Nicker Management chose Interface Systems to implement the Virtual Guard solution at one of its restaurants, ensuring a proactive and scalable approach to security. How can Virtual Guard Solution help? 24/7 Monitoring & Rapid Response – Trained intervention specialists continuously monitor restaurant locations to deter loitering, panhandling, and aggressive behavior in real time. Automated Voice-Downs – Proactive announcements throughout the day signal active monitoring and reinforce security presence. Virtual Tours – Scheduled and unscheduled remote video assessments help identify threats, suspicious activities, and compliance issues. Employee Security Escorts – Live monitoring ensures employees' safe passage to and from their vehicles during vulnerable times such as shift changes, and opening, and closing hours. Secure working environment “Knowing there’s a professionally trained security team on standby gives us confidence that we can maintain a secure working environment at all hours,” said Harper Rawlins. The deployment of Virtual Guard has streamlined security operations at Nicker Management’s restaurant, allowing staff to focus on providing excellent customer service without the burden of handling security incidents. 24/7 monitoring With 24/7 monitoring by Virtual Guard, employees and customers feel safer, and staff no longer have to handle security threats alone. In addition, automated alerts also remind employees of key procedures during shift changes. The system's effectiveness was demonstrated during a recent incident when a loiterer refused to leave the restaurant lobby. The staff triggered a silent alarm, and the Virtual Guard team immediately responded with a voice-down, prompting the individual to leave without further incident. Optimises costs “Interface’s Virtual Guard solution empowers franchise businesses like Nicker Management to address security risks effectively while optimising operational costs,” said Sean Foley, Chief Revenue Officer at Interface Systems. “Our innovative approach allows employees to focus on delivering excellent service, knowing their safety is in trusted hands.”

There are well over 1,200 road tunnels in Norway. Camera-based incident detection is the preferred way to keep these tunnels safe and support tunnel operators in organising a fast incident response. Camera-based detection Gradually introduced since the nineties, camera-based detection is well established. Both visual and thermal imaging cameras have proven to be a fail-proof solution for 24/7 automatic incident detection inside tunnels. With the latest camera technology upgrade of the Damsgård Tunnel in Bergen, Norway is premiering AI-enhanced dual-vision cameras as a new evolution in incident detection. Damsgård Tunnel technology upgrade In 2024, the tunnel will undergo a comprehensive technology upgrade, with the replacement The Damsgård Tunnel is part of Norwegian National Road 555, which runs from Fjell to the city center of Bergen. The road tunnel opened in 1992 and has two tubes of around 2.3 kilometers in length, each carrying two lanes of traffic through the Damsgårdsfjellet mountain.In 2024, the tunnel will undergo a comprehensive technology upgrade, with the replacement of ventilation systems, lighting, drainage, and camera technology. AI-enhanced dual-vision cameras Unique to this project is that, for the first time in Norway, AI-enhanced dual-vision cameras will be used. The traffic cameras from sensor specialist FLIR combine thermal and visual imaging technology in a ruggedised housing and rely on advanced deep learning algorithms that enable the camera to detect stopped vehicles, wrong-way drivers, queues, crossing pedestrians, and even smoke and fires in their early stages. Approximately 80 FLIR cameras are scheduled for installation in the second half of the year. The history of tunnel incident detection in Norway The Damsgård tunnel upgrade is another milestone in Norway’s long-standing efforts to secure the country’s vast number of tunnels. Due to Norway’s complex landscape, with fjords, mountains, and islands, road tunnels have always been a way to solve the region’s unique transportation challenges. Norway has embraced the use of automatic incident detection in its road tunnels ever since the technology came into being, with FLIR setting the pace of this evolution since the beginning. In 1995, FLIR cameras were already used in the 1,500-meter-long Ekeberg Tunnel near Oslo. FLIR automatic incident detection system In 2004, a European directive on road tunnel safety prompted the roll-out of incident detection systems In August 1996, when a bus stopped and caught fire in that tunnel, the FLIR automatic incident detection system generated an alert to the tunnel operators, enabling them to close the tunnel entries and exits and activate warnings to oncoming motorists. In 2004, a European directive on road tunnel safety prompted the roll-out of incident detection systems in tunnels continent-wide and since then the technology evolution has not stopped. Visual and thermal incident detection Initially, visual CCTV cameras were used to detect incidents. The technology enabled first response teams to be deployed minutes, even seconds after an incident or an irregularity (a fallen object, a pedestrian, a car slowing down) was detected. About ten years ago, FLIR introduced thermal incident detection cameras in tunnels. These cameras are established as critical assets that guarantee operators' accurate detection throughout the tunnel infrastructure. 24/7 traffic detection  The use of thermal imaging cameras has especially proven valuable for tunnel entrances and exits. There, shadows or direct sunlight can obstruct the view of visible-light cameras and therefore disturb traffic detection. Because thermal cameras detect heat, not light, they have no issues with these phenomena. As a result, thermal cameras can detect traffic 24/7 and in all weather conditions. Fire detection FLIR thermal cameras can also spot fires at the stage of ignition, making them the fastest One of the biggest advantages of thermal cameras in the field of tunnel safety is that they can effectively see through smoke. This makes them the ideal technology for tunnel safety operators or emergency response teams to find their way through a smoke-filled tunnel or for incident detection systems to spot issues in time. FLIR thermal cameras can also spot fires at the stage of ignition, making them the fastest and most reliable technology for fire detection inside road tunnels. The role of dual-vision cameras Both visual and thermal cameras have their merits. A visual camera may provide operators with more detail to assess the nature of an incident, while thermal cameras have proven to be unbeatable in detecting incidents in complete darkness and challenging weather conditions. Currently, both detection technologies can be combined into one system, hereby offering operators a more comprehensive view of the environment and improved accuracy compared to single-sensor systems. FLIR’s TrafiBot Dual AI camera is an example of such a combined system. ITS-Series Dual AID cameras In 2018, FLIR’s ITS-Series Dual AID cameras were installed at the entrance and exit of the Lyderhorn Tunnel near Bergen. In 2021, technology integrator Trafsys also installed 332 of FLIR’s dual-vision cameras in the Hundvåg and Eiganes tunnels, which are part of the extensive Ryfast project. The cameras’ fire detection functionality proved effective when a car fire occurred in the Hundvåg tunnel in July 2020; the FLIR ITS dual thermal AID camera detected the fire within 7 seconds of visible flames, following an initial alert for a stopped vehicle and pedestrians. Artificial Intelligence in incident detection AI algorithms embedded in the FLIR camera analyse captured images in real-time and full-resolution FLIR’s TrafiBot Dual AI, installed in the above-mentioned Damsgård Tunnel announces a new wave of incident detection cameras. The camera also combines a visual and a thermal camera in one unit, but what makes it stand out is the use of artificial intelligence and deep learning. AI algorithms embedded in the FLIR camera analyse captured images in real-time and full resolution. This latest addition to FLIR’s portfolio of AI cameras is setting a new standard for automatic incident detection in tunnels, generating extremely accurate traffic data, incident detection information, and live track data. Video image analysation Of course, analytics on traffic cameras are not new. Early cameras from decades ago already used some form of AI. So, what’s the difference with this new generation of AI cameras? Much has to do with how detection systems analyse video images. Early generations of smart cameras analysed the variation of gray levels in groups of pixels in successive video frames. Smart predictions When a vehicle enters a detection zone, the pixel value within that zone changes, and detection is activated. AI systems, however, look at the entire camera image and use object detection techniques to analyse the traffic scene. This results in much better presence detection, better classification of traffic users, and the ability to determine position, speed, and direction. These new AI systems can handle more complex traffic situations and they are much better at making smart predictions. Identification and classification of objects Computing speeds have increased, hardware prices dropped, and the exponential growth of data has worked It’s not hard to see where this is coming from. Over the past decades, computing speeds have increased, hardware prices dropped, and the exponential growth of data has worked as fuel for making AI better and more efficient. Instead of rule-based analytics—if x happens, then y—data-based systems are now in the lead. These systems can be trained on large datasets of images and learn how to identify and classify objects in an image. They use this knowledge to make decisions based on new images that they have never seen before. Benefits of AI-based detection systems AI-powered detection systems are much more accurate than their non-AI alternatives. For tunnel operators, this is a big deal. Nothing is a bigger nuisance for control room operators than having to pay attention to continuous unwanted alarms. AI can help filter out unwanted alarms by distinguishing between routine activity, weather phenomena, and actual incidents. High performance As an important aspect of their accuracy, AI-based systems are much more successful in detecting different vehicle classes. Detectors from FLIR will easily distinguish between a car and a van, or between a small and a large truck. It’s even possible to train a system to detect specific objects or incidents. And because cameras are so smart, installers nowadays are more flexible in installing their equipment. Even in less ideal camera positions, the detection performance of AI-based systems is high. Vehicle parameters Based on vehicle parameters such as speed and direction, they can easily see where a car is going FLIR’s AI detectors can also predict vehicle trajectories. Based on vehicle parameters such as speed and direction, they can easily see where a car is going, even if for part of that trajectory the view of that car is occluded by a passing truck. This makes detection much faster and more accurate. Operators can even be warned by so-called pre-alarms for cars that are slowing down and likely to cause a collision. Reduces human monitoring For traffic or security operators, AI offers many benefits. Since incidents can be detected much faster and with more accuracy, operators will be able to make better-informed decisions, especially in high-stress situations, and they will be able to deploy emergency teams more quickly. AI will also reduce the need for constant human monitoring, allowing operators to focus on other tasks.AI will benefit traffic planners too. Data collected from a camera can be analysed over time to identify trends, patterns, or areas with a higher potential for incidents. This can be valuable for proactive traffic planning, infrastructure improvements, or for overall risk management. Data as the cornerstone of AI performance AI-based detection systems will become the norm very swiftly. Since these systems depend on massive data sets, it’s easy to understand that the detection performance will soon be determined by the quality of the data it is trained with. High-performance systems will need a lot of data for training—in case video images of traffic—but not just any data that has been plucked from the internet will do. Challenges with publicly available datasets The problem with that approach is that, more often than not, publicly available datasets are limited Some camera manufacturers rely on publicly available datasets to train their AI systems. The problem with that approach is that, more often than not, these datasets are limited or of low quality. For example, internet data sets hardly have any thermal images, traffic images are mostly collected during sunny weather or friendly daytime conditions, and they are often taken from useless angles. FLIR model and prediction AI-based products from FLIR, on the other hand, are trained on datasets that have been collected in-house, over more than 30 years, with data samples that are relevant for practically any traffic scene you can think of. What’s more, FLIR’s datasets are continuously growing and with it the quality of its models and predictions. For FLIR, data is the true quality mark which stands for high-performance, accurate traffic detection. The future is AI Norway and FLIR share an interesting history of evolving incident detection technology. A lot has changed since the installation of the first FLIR automatic incident detection system in the Ekeberg tunnel in 1995. Currently, incident detection systems combine multiple sensors—visual and thermal—and, most importantly, they use AI, which enables them to improve their detection performance over time with every new video image they process. Artificial intelligence has a promising future in incident detection. Norwegian tunnels, and the average daily traffic of 40,000 vehicles in the Damsgård Tunnel, will only benefit from it.

Allied Universal®, the security and facility services company announced its collaboration with Clery Center to support programmes and initiatives that help create safer higher education campuses across the U.S. “Our continued collaboration with Clery Center enables Allied Universal to expand its position as a security provider for higher education campuses,” said Mahsa Karimi, director of higher education for Allied Universal. Campus safety awareness and training “The Clery Center partnership provides our security professionals with the training and resources they need to better understand compliance requirements." "As we continue to grow our campus partnerships, campus safety awareness and training for our campus partners and safety professionals is essential. We make campus safety a priority.” Improve campus safety Providing security professionals with the training and resources needed to better understand compliance Allied Universal will work with the Clery Center’s board of directors and members to help ensure that college and university officials meet the standards of the Jeanne Clery Act. The Jeanne Cleary Act requires colleges and universities to report campus crime data, support victims of violence, and publicly outline the policies and procedures they have in place to improve campus safety. Providing security professionals with training and resources needed to better understand compliance requirements, supports efforts to enhance overall campus safety. Safe environment for students, faculty, and staff “We are pleased to continue our long-standing collaboration with Allied Universal in 2025,” said Jessica Mertz, executive director of Clery Center. “With over 30 years of experience in campus safety, Clery Center is dedicated to fostering safer environments for students, faculty, and staff. Joining forces with organisations like Allied Universal allows us to build on shared expertise and advance this important mission.”

In 2024, Hualien, Taiwan experienced devastating earthquakes and typhoons, necessitating rebuilding efforts and tourism revitalisation. VIVOTEK (3454-TW), the global pioneer security solution provider, has stepped in to support the local economy by organising the 4th "Safety Map" sustainability event. This year, the event was held in the historically significant Dachen New Village in Hualien, home to over 400 households.  Model safe-tourism destination With 2025 marking the 75th anniversary of the migration of Dachen Island residents from Zhejiang, China, to Taiwan, the area is promoting tourism despite challenges like an aging population and increasing environmental risks. VIVOTEK’s team devised diverse solutions to address safety concerns, aiming to combine smart security with local revitalisation efforts. Their goal is to transform Dachen New Village, the largest settlement of Dachen residents in Taiwan, into a model safe-tourism destination that attracts visitors to experience its unique culture. Caring is the core Expanding Social Impact Through a "Safety Map" “VIVOTEK is dedicated to becoming the most trusted security brand in society. We aim to use our expertise to improve safety and forge a unique path of corporate sustainability. In its fourth year, the scale of our ‘Safety Map’ initiative continues to grow,” stated Alex Liao, VIVOTEK’s President. "This time, our work in Dachen New Village benefits over 1,500 residents and ensures that visiting tourists can explore without safety concerns. Additionally, having our team directly observe and address safety issues helps refine our product design to meet users' needs better." Local revitalisation and tourism Boosting the Tourism Economy Through Immersive Experiences The VIVOTEK team also had an immersive theatrical experience created by Lamb Social Innovation Studio The VIVOTEK security team also had an immersive theatrical experience created by Lamb Social Innovation Studio that delved into Dachen’s history. By understanding the area’s unique needs, they developed tailored safety solutions. “VIVOTEK incorporates “concern for others’ cares” as a core value in our sustainability efforts,” said Allen Hsieh, VIVOTEK’s Spokesperson and Director of the Global Marketing Division. Enhancing safety "Over the years, our ‘Safety Map’ events have spanned neighborhoods, mental retardation training institutions, and schools, fostering a friendlier environment and expanding social impact." "After the natural disasters that recently struck Hualien, leaving behind numerous safety hazards and declining tourist numbers, we hope to use our security expertise to collaborate with residents in enhancing safety and revitalising Hualien’s tourism industry for a win-win outcome." Safety awareness “This is the first in-depth collaboration between Dachen New Village and a corporation. The VIVOTEK security team genuinely considered the needs of the community’s residents." "The event was a co-creation process where everyone brainstormed together, raising safety awareness among residents and inspiring optimism for the community's future transformation,” said Chao Hsiao-Yen, Social Innovation Lamb studio founder. Customised security solutions with AI Building a Safer Dachen New Village At the Ruan Bi Zhenjun Temple, the team explored ways to protect temple assets and visitor donations VIVOTEK’s security team, in collaboration with the local revitalisation group Social Innovation Lamb Studio, worked with residents and elders to identify areas where safety could be enhanced. At the iconic tourist hotspot Ruan Bi Zhenjun Temple, the team explored ways to protect temple assets and visitor donations better while enhancing environmental friendliness, allowing elderly or mobility-impaired individuals to enter and exit freely. Preserving nostalgic charm In the local park, they aimed to reduce disturbances caused by stray animals, improving the overall environment for residents. In the narrow alleys that showcase the history of Dachen’s settlers, the goal was to preserve the nostalgic charm of the village while optimising the environment to make landmarks more recognisable for visitors. For family members living away from home, the community explored innovative technological solutions to enable remote monitoring of loved ones, strengthening familial bonds and care. Various security solutions  To address these challenges, VIVOTEK proposed a variety of security solutions. They included installing accessible spaces at the temple to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges, implementing smart lighting systems to enhance nighttime safety, and utilising AI cameras for real-time image analysis and stranger identification. Security solutions included installing accessible spaces at the temple to accommodate visitors The team also designed shared activity spaces to promote intergenerational interactions between the youth and seniors, fostering a sense of community. Emphasising the importance of safety education, the team worked to raise awareness among residents. Generative AI tools Additionally, the project incorporated cutting-edge generative AI tools from the Taiwan Design Research Institute, which visualised proposed solutions quickly and effectively. This approach made it easier for residents to understand and implement the ideas, to transform Dachen New Village into a safer, more livable community, fully prepared to welcome tourists.

Modernising a town's transport hub requires a careful balance of effective security, useful functionality, and sleek design.  Jacksons Fencing successfully completed a fencing solution for the Newbury Bus Station redevelopment - an innovative, secure, and sustainable fencing solution that enhances both safety and aesthetics at this key transportation spot. Modern redesign Jacksons Fencing was specified to deliver a key that not only met rigid security ideals As part of West Berkshire Council's ambitious project to upgrade public transport infrastructure, Jacksons Fencing was specified to deliver a solution that not only met stringent security standards, but also blended seamlessly with the station's modern redesign. The result; a smart, sturdy, and sustainable boundary that helps keep the station running smoothly, without compromising on visual appeal. Modern gateway for the community Newbury Bus Station is a central part of West Berkshire's revitalisation plan. Located in a historically rich area, it replaced an old coach parking lot and was designed to offer an "impressive sense of arrival" for both visitors and locals. As a key part of the town’s efforts to create a modern, vibrant, and accessible gateway, the station plays a crucial role in improving the local transport network. To complete the transformation, the station needed a fencing solution that would secure the perimeter, safeguard passengers, and maintain an appealing appearance. Expertly engineered Jacksons Fencing installed 90 metres of Sentry® vertical bar fencing, modern vertical bar railing system Jacksons Fencing installed 90 metres of Sentry® vertical bar fencing, a robust and modern vertical bar railing system designed for high-traffic public spaces.  Constructed from hot-dip galvanised tubular steel, the Sentry fencing system is lightweight, yet incredibly strong, capable of withstanding the daily wear and tear of a busy bus station. The sleek, industrial design fits perfectly with the station’s contemporary look, blending seamlessly into the surroundings without being intrusive or creating a hostile environment. Structure for enhanced security The system features a welded pale-through-rail construction, which provides a tamper-resistant structure for enhanced security. Concealed fixings ensure a clean, vandal-resistant finish, while the flat-top construction and non-protruding pales give the fence a non-threatening appearance—ideal for a public space. Additionally, the fence is built to last, backed by a 25-year Service Life Guarantee that reduces maintenance needs and guarantees long-term durability. Combining sustainability with security In extra to its sustainability benefits, the fencing provides a high level of security One of the biggest wins for this project was its alignment with West Berkshire Council’s sustainability goals. The Sentry fencing system is not just tough and reliable; it’s also designed with environmental impact in mind. The durable materials and extended lifespan promise long-lasting performance with minimal need for replacement or maintenance, cutting down on lifetime costs and reducing its environmental footprint. In addition to its sustainability benefits, the fencing provides a high level of security. Its strong, tamper-resistant construction safeguards passengers while preventing unauthorised access without compromising the station’s modern look. Cohesive and secure infrastructure Peter Jackson, Managing Director of Jacksons Fencing, commented: "Contributing to the Newbury Bus Station redevelopment demonstrates our commitment to delivering tailored solutions for local authorities like West Berkshire Council that combine functionality, sustainability, and design." "The success of this project builds on our earlier work at Newbury Train Station in 2022, where we installed 160 metres of Bow Top fencing. Together, these two projects enhance the town’s transport hubs, delivering cohesive and secure infrastructure that supports a vibrant and accessible community.”

In many cases, architectural design and layout dictate optimal placement of security devices like cameras, access control readers, and sensors. Poor design can lead to blind spots, reduced coverage, and ineffective surveillance. However, planning that involves all the various stakeholders can maximise both security and design elements. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: When are building design and physical security systems complementary? When are they at odds?

New technology advancements significantly increase efficiency and productivity in any industry, including physical security. Enhanced innovation both creates new products and services and improves existing products, all for the benefit of security manufacturers, integrators, and end users. Companies that embrace new technology stay ahead of the curve and gain a significant competitive advantage. In addition, they can differentiate themselves in the marketplace. We asked this week's Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the most promising new technologies in the physical security industry?   

2025 is likely to see further advancements in artificial intelligence, with potential impacts on various aspects of society, including the security industry. The new year will also require security professionals to adapt to changing market conditions and develop contingency plans for unforeseen events. Industry changes will accelerate and challenge everyone in the security market to keep up. Making specific predictions for the new year can be a struggle, but we asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What will be the big news for security in the year ahead?