Mall security

DigiCert, a pioneer in intelligent trust, announces accelerating momentum for DigiCert® Trust Lifecycle Manager (TLM), with annual recurring revenue growing 38% year over year as enterprises increasingly automate certificate management and prepare for shorter certificate lifespans and post-quantum cryptography (PQC). TLM's growth reflects a broader shift in enterprise security. Public TLS certificate maximum validity is on a path to just 47 days in 2029, significantly increasing the certificate management workload. That workload is compounded by the growing number of certificates spread across increasingly complex enterprise environments. Post-quantum transition DigiCert's 2026 Global PKI Research underscores the challenge: only 34% of organizations have a complete, up-to-date inventory of their digital certificates, while 73% are very or extremely concerned about outages caused by expired certificates. “Certificate management has become core infrastructure for the enterprise,” said Deepika Chauhan, Chief Product Officer at DigiCert. “A single missed renewal can trigger a costly outage, and shorter lifespans leave less room for error when managing thousands of certificates. The growth we’re seeing in Trust Lifecycle Manager reflects customers’ urgency to automate renewals, keep critical services running, and build the crypto-agility needed for the post-quantum transition.” Manual certificate management Leading brands around the world are turning to DigiCert Trust Lifecycle Manager to modernise how they manage digital trust, including American Red Cross, Agilent Technologies, Circle K, Hitachi, MediData, MGM Resorts International, Nokia, Schweiserische Mobiliar, and W.L. Gore & Associates. “As certificate lifespans continue to shrink, manual certificate management becomes increasingly challenging at enterprise scale,” said Kenneth Nydegger, Product Owner at Schweizerische Mobiliar, one of Switzerland's pioneer insurers. “DigiCert Trust Lifecycle Manager provides the visibility and automation we need to manage certificates more efficiently and reduce operational risk. At the same time, it helps us prepare for future cryptographic requirements and supports a more agile and sustainable security strategy.” Certificate lifecycle operations “Reliability is fundamental to the digital connections that support Switzerland's healthcare system,” said Michael Stocker, Lead ICT-Infrastructure and ICT-Operations at MediData AG, Switzerland's leading provider of secure healthcare data exchange. “With 24,000 participants exchanging more than 120 million documents through our protected digital data space each year, we need certificate management that can scale without interrupting critical workflows. DigiCert Trust Lifecycle Manager helps us automate those operations and maintain trusted connections across this ecosystem.” Organizations across all industries are using DigiCert TLM to discover certificates and cryptographic assets, centralize visibility, and automate certificate lifecycle operations across increasingly complex environments. Large enterprises with certificate environments exceeding 100,000 certificates are using DigiCert Trust Lifecycle Manager to centralize visibility and automate lifecycle operations. TLM helps reduce manual work, lower outage risk, and keep critical services running as certificate lifespans shrink. As certificate lifespans shorten, that automation becomes increasingly important to keeping services running. Risk of unauthorized enrollment DigiCert continues to expand TLM’s capabilities with new innovations that remove manual work and strengthen security across the certificate lifecycle: Continuous Validation, powered by UltraDNS, automates Domain Control Validation, keeping domains continuously validated and ready for certificate issuance and renewal without recurring manual intervention. Apple Device Attestation verifies hardware-backed device identity before certificates are issued. Combined with DigiCert’s existing Jamf integration, it enables automated certificate enrolment for managed Apple devices while reducing the risk of unauthorized enrollment. Enterprise trust store management extends automation to the roots and intermediate certificates that systems rely on to validate trust. Centralized controls and automated distribution help keep trust stores consistent across enterprise environments, reducing the risk of outages and supporting future cryptographic transitions. Private certificate authorities DigiCert is also expanding the TLM integration ecosystem with technology leaders including BeyondTrust, F5, Fortinet, HashiCorp/IBM, HPE, Imperva, and NetScaler, helping organizations extend certificate automation into the applications, infrastructure, and security platforms where certificates are deployed. DigiCert was named a Leader in the IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Certificate Lifecycle Management 2026 Vendor Assessment. The assessment highlighted TLM's centralized discovery, policy-based governance and end-to-end automation across public and private certificate authorities, along with its ability to help smaller teams automate high-volume certificate environments. Real-world applications “Certificate lifecycle management is a strategic requirement for organizations contending with shorter certificate lifespans, rapidly expanding machine identities, and the transition to post-quantum cryptography,” said Jennifer Glenn, Research Director, IDC. "DigiCert offers capabilities required by enterprises navigating this shift. Trust Lifecycle Manager supports CA-agnostic automation, certificate discovery and governance, and operation across large, hybrid environments. These capabilities address both near-term certificate management needs and the longer-term requirement for enterprise crypto-agility." In September, DigiCert Trust Lifecycle Manager was named a recipient of TMCnet's inaugural 2026 Quantum Computing Product of the Year Award, recognizing products and solutions advancing the quantum computing ecosystem and its real-world applications.

The increased adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is transforming the roads, but as with any innovation, it is also creating new opportunities for criminals. Within the EU, EV sales increased 31% YoY from 2024 to 2025, spurred on by Government grants, tax and road toll exemptions, and investment in public charging infrastructure. Yet, it is this infrastructure that is increasingly targeted for its valuable equipment and components, notably copper within the charging cables. Combined with vandalism driven by anti-EV sentiment, this can cost thousands per unit for a charging operator to replace. The impact can extend far beyond the immediate cost of replacing broken equipment. A single incident can disrupt an entire charging site, leaving multiple bays unavailable and creating frustration for drivers who rely on accessible and reliable charging. In a market where customer experience and availability are critical to building trust in EV adoption, prolonged downtime can directly affect revenue, reputation and long-term customer loyalty. Public charging infrastructure The scale of the challenge is growing. German operator EnBW alone recorded more than 900 cases of cable theft at over 130 locations in 2025, resulting in damages amounting to several million euros. Danish energy company OK reported a three-fold rise in charging cable theft in the first half of 2025. And across the UK, more than 200 incidents of theft and vandalism against EV chargers were reported between 2022 and mid-2025. This figure is likely only part of the picture, with many incidents going unreported and some police forces unable to provide relevant data. The issue is not limited to the UK. In Germany, charging operator EnBW reported more than 900 cases of cable theft across more than 130 locations in 2025, resulting in damages of several million euros. As charging networks continue to expand, the number of vulnerable assets available to criminals will inevitably increase. Personal charging cables There are several reasons why EV charging infrastructure is under threat, from the high scrap value of copper and the ease of removing this from charging stations, to the remote locations of many charging stations that make it difficult for operators to continuously monitor. In minutes, thieves can use bolt cutters to remove charging cables. Personal charging cables are also targets, being unplugged while in use at charging stations or when left in the boot of a car. Some charging operators have also reported vandalism linked to opposition towards EV adoption. Plus, unlike traditional petrol forecourts, many EV charging locations operate without permanent staff presence. Chargers are often installed in car parks, retail locations, roadside areas and other remote sites where incidents can occur without immediate intervention. Advanced video analytics Investing in a comprehensive video security solution can make a significant difference, supporting operators in a proactive approach that prevents damage from occurring in the first place. Video surveillance in car park environments can reduce crime by up to 37% and by up to 52% if the system is actively monitored. Modern cameras are equipped with advanced video analytics and AI that help operators identify unusual activity, spot repeat offenders, and provide real-time alerts to aid faster intervention from ground teams. Positioning such cameras to provide complete coverage of charging bays, entrances and exits ensures that operators can maintain visibility across the entire charging environment. AI-powered analytics can identify unusual behavior, such as a person entering a charging bay when no vehicle is present or a vehicle remaining in a charging area for an extended period without actively using the charger. Virtual alarm zones Real-time alerts can help security teams respond quickly, while integrated deterrence measures, such as triggered lighting or audible warnings, can help prevent incidents before significant damage is caused. This type of intelligent monitoring enables security teams to focus on genuine exceptions rather than constantly reviewing hours of footage. For example, virtual alarm zones can automatically adjust based on expected activity. When a vehicle is charging normally, the system recognises the activity as expected. Once the vehicle leaves, the area can automatically return to an active monitoring state, triggering an alert if someone enters the space without a legitimate reason. Cloud-based recording Jack Turnell, Commercial Product Manager agrees, stating that “The real value comes from turning intelligent detection into a coordinated response. By connecting camera analytics with cloud-based monitoring, alarm management and remote incident tools, operators can protect distributed charging sites from anywhere while also improving uptime and operational efficiency.” Taking a more proactive approach to EV charging station security offers benefits beyond theft prevention. When incidents do occur, cloud-based recording and remote incident management provide operators with critical evidence to support investigations and insurance claims. Evidence can also be shared with law enforcement to prevent repeat offences and wider gang-related targeting. Monitoring charging infrastructure health Security systems can also support wider operational efficiency by monitoring charging infrastructure health. Through integration with charging units, operators can receive proactive notifications when equipment requires attention, helping reduce unexpected outages and maintain availability. As John Lutz Boorman, Head of Product and Marketing at Hanwha Vision Europe, explains, “Video has evolved beyond being merely a cost centre. When intelligently deployed, it can deliver a measurable return by helping operators prevent costly incidents, reduce downtime and maintain the availability of their charging network. By combining high-quality video with intelligent analytics and integration with charging infrastructure, operators gain greater visibility of their assets and can act earlier when something is wrong. The result is a security investment that can help reduce operational costs while protecting revenue, customer experience and the long-term value of the charging network.” AI-powered analytics As EV adoption continues to grow, protecting charging infrastructure will become increasingly important. Reliability is not just a technical requirement; it is a fundamental part of building confidence among drivers and businesses investing in a new EV. A smarter approach to security can help operators stay ahead of emerging threats. By combining high-quality cameras, AI-powered analytics and proactive monitoring, EV charging providers can protect valuable assets, minimize disruption and create safer, more dependable charging experiences for everyone.

Group-IB, a creator of predictive cybersecurity technologies to investigate, prevent, and fight digital crime, announces its contribution to Operation KillSwitch, an international investigation led by the Hamburg State Criminal Police Office (Landeskriminalamt Hamburg) and the Hamburg Public Prosecutor's Office, with the support of Europol and Eurojust, into KillSec, a ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) group linked to around 1,000 suspected attacks worldwide. On 30 September 2026, law enforcement took control of KillSec's leak site, securing at least 110 terabytes of stolen data, while three suspects were provisionally arrested and eight properties searched in Greece, Romania, Spain, and the United Kingdom. Investigators identified a 16-year-old as the group's suspected main operator. Group-IB supported the investigation with intelligence on the group's operations, infrastructure, and key enablers. Law enforcement seizure notice Authorities from Belgium, Finland, Germany, Greece, the Netherlands, Romania, Spain, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States took part in the investigation. Over its course, five central servers used to manage the group's activities and store data taken from victims were brought under police control, and KillSec's domains were redirected to a law enforcement seizure notice. Investigators identified suspects believed to hold different roles within the group, including an administrator, a developer, a negotiator, and an affiliate. Around 500 of the suspected attacks have so far been identified as successful, a figure that may change as investigators examine the evidence seized. Public Telegram channels KillSec, also tracked as Kill Security and k1llsec, is a financially motivated Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) group that Group-IB first identified in 2024. Operating a dark web leak site and public Telegram channels, the group recruited affiliates to carry out attacks using its platform in exchange for a share of each ransom. Group-IB's High-Tech Crime Trends Report 2026 ranked KillSec among the ten most active ransomware groups of 2025 in Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East. By monitoring KillSec's leak site and Telegram channels, Group-IB identified 274 organizations publicly claimed as victims on the group’s leak site. Organizations in the United States accounted for around 35% of identified victims, followed by India at 17%, with Brazil, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Colombia each accounting for around 3%. By region, North America accounted for around 35% of victims and Asia-Pacific for 30%, followed by Europe -14% and the MEA at around 10%. Most affected sectors Financial services and healthcare were the most affected sectors, while the victim list also included government bodies and large enterprises, among them a major insurer, investment firms, and a consumer app with millions of users. Although KillSec declared hospitals off-limits in a January 2025 recruitment post, from late 2025 the group shifted its focus toward healthcare software and IT service providers, where a single compromise can expose the patient records of every clinic using the platform. Encryption was not a precondition for a KillSec listing. The group also sold stolen data outright, with asking prices ranging from USD 5,000 for a single company's records to USD 500,000 for the data it claimed to have taken from the global insurer, making KillSec as much a data broker as a ransomware operator. Shutting down virtual machines In October 2024, Group-IB researchers analyzed the KillSec 2.0 affiliate platform, a Tor-based panel used to manage victims, ransom negotiations, and payload configuration. At the time, the group's locker was a Windows-only encryptor, offered to affiliates for a USD 250 entry fee and a 12% share of each ransom. Unusually, affiliates could not generate builds on demand: each one required approval from the group's administrators. The restriction pointed to a small core team guarding its payload, and it carried over into every version Group-IB observed. The upgrades came quickly. In November 2024, KillSec announced a locker for VMware ESXi virtualisation hosts, capable of shutting down virtual machines, deleting snapshots, and erasing logs, removing the recovery points victims would otherwise rely on. By January 2025, the group was openly recruiting “skilled pentesters”, requiring a forum reputation or a USD 1,000 deposit, and had raised its share of each ransom to 20%. Identifying potential victims Some KillSec affiliates also worked with other RaaS programs, including LockBit, RansomHub, Qilin, and Bashe. According to Europol, investigators also uncovered how the group used AI to build and maintain its ransomware infrastructure and identify potential victims. Affiliates favored the path of least resistance. Alongside phishing, brute-force attacks on exposed Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) services, and exploitation of known vulnerabilities in internet-facing applications, a substantial share of claimed victims involved no network intrusion at all: data was taken from cloud storage left publicly accessible through misconfiguration. Supporting law enforcement Security controls stop individual attacks, but KillSec's operations depended on the small core team that developed the locker and approved each build. Group-IB's support to the investigation focused on providing intelligence on the group's operations, infrastructure, and key enablers. “KillSec's affiliates went after the organizations people depend on most: hospitals, government bodies, and financial institutions. Closing the gaps these groups exploit is essential, but it does not end an operation like this. Servers can be replaced in weeks; the people who build the platform and approve every attack cannot. Identifying them and supporting law enforcement in bringing them to justice is what turns a takedown from a pause into an end. We are proud to have contributed to Operation KillSwitch, and will continue to support Europol and our law enforcement partners in the fight against cybercrime,” said Dmitry Volkov, CEO of Group-IB. Prioritise patching of vulnerabilities Group-IB recommends that organizations treat external exposure as a first-order risk: maintain a continuous inventory of internet-facing assets, including cloud storage and remote access services; enforce multi-factor authentication on remote access; prioritise patching of vulnerabilities known to be exploited in the wild; and keep offline, immutable backups, with virtualisation platforms protected as critical systems. The same scrutiny should extend to software and IT service providers that hold sensitive data on an organization's behalf, while monitoring leak sites and underground markets helps organizations learn of an exposure early, rather than from a public listing. Operation KillSwitch is the latest in a series of international operations supported by Group-IB in collaboration with law enforcement agencies including Europol, INTERPOL, and AFRIPOL. To date, Group-IB has contributed to more than 1,600 high-tech crime investigations across 60+ countries.

ABUS UK has appointed Gary Major as Sales and Marketing Director for Home and Commercial Security. Gary joins ABUS with more than 30 years' experience across sales, marketing and business development, working with a range of manufacturing and retail businesses. He will lead the continued development of ABUS UK's Home and Commercial Security division. “The values of ABUS were a big part of what attracted me to the role,” says Gary. “The emphasis on family, honesty and fairness, together with the genuine commitment to customers and colleagues, really resonated with me.” Customer-first mindset “From my first conversations with the team, I could see the ambition within the business and the opportunities ahead. ABUS has a strong platform in the UK, and I’m looking forward to contributing to its continued development.” Adam Evans, Managing Director of ABUS UK & Ireland, said: “Gary brings a wealth of commercial experience and a proven track record of delivering growth.  While he joins us from outside the security industry, I see this as a real strength to bring fresh thinking, a customer-first mindset and a genuine passion for developing people and businesses.”  Developing people and businesses “As we continue to invest in the growth of our Home and Commercial Security division, Gary's expertise will play an important role in helping us realize the significant opportunities ahead." Away from work, Gary has been with his wife, Tracey, since they were 17, and the couple have been married for 38 years. They have two sons, Aran and James. Gary has also been involved in rugby throughout his life. He played for Northampton Rugby Club and represented the Saints youth setup and remains a passionate supporter of the club. He now keeps active through gym training and cycling with a local club in Swindon.

Netwatch, a pioneer in proactive video monitoring and AI-enabled security services, announces the appointment of Kris Slimmer as Senior Vice President of Sales. Slimmer will lead Netwatch’s North American sales organization as the company accelerates the adoption of its proactive security model across retail, banking, critical infrastructure, commercial real estate, and other priority markets. Slimmer brings nearly 30 years of sales, business development, and operations leadership in the security industry. He spent 13 years at Allied Universal, advancing through six leadership roles across sales and operations, ultimately responsible for a $400 million region. Proactive video monitoring Most recently, he served as Division Vice President at Admiral Security Services, where he led the company’s $ 100 million National Capital Region business. Earlier, as Regional Vice President at Empire Today, he led a $150 million region with more than 500 sales consultants. “Netwatch is entering a phase where the market is moving toward us. Customers want security that prevents incidents rather than simply records them, and our combination of AI detection and live operator intervention delivers exactly that,” said Justin Nagy, CEO, Netwatch. “Kris has run a $400-million P&L and built sales organizations that scale through both channel partners and direct enterprise relationships. What sets him apart is his focus on developing people and his discipline as an operator. He is the right leader to take our commercial organization into its next stage.” Strengthen relationships with customers Slimmer joins Netwatch at a time of continued growth for the company. In his new role, he will work across the business to strengthen relationships with customers and partners and pursue new opportunities across core markets. “Netwatch has built something the rest of the industry is still trying to catch up to: a proven model where AI and skilled operators work together to stop incidents in real time, at scale,” said Slimmer. “The channel relationships, the enterprise footprint, and the technology are already in place. My job is to help more organizations experience what proactive security means. I am looking forward to getting to work with the team, our partners, and our customers, to achieve this goal.”

Omdia market share data for 2025 continues to show Milestone as the market pioneer across the EMEA region, with a 19 per cent share of a market now worth USD 573 million. Milestone Systems is the largest single provider of video management software (VMS) and Video Surveillance as a Service (VSaaS) in Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA), according to 2025 market share data from technology research and advisory group, Omdia. Milestone has nearly one-fifth (19.1 per cent) of the overall EMEA market, which includes the UK and Ireland – a market-pioneer position that hasn’t altered since 2021. More informed decisions Across the EMEA region, the VMS and video surveillance as a service (VSaaS) market grew 10 per cent in 2025 to USD 573 million, and the Middle East and Eastern Europe saw particular growth. Omdia’s figures come at a time when organizations across EMEA are increasingly using video to support operational decision-making alongside security. Across traffic management, transportation, retail and manufacturing, video data is helping organizations better understand how sites and services perform and make more informed decisions. Morten Illum, Chief Revenue Officer, Milestone Systems, said: “This ranking reflects what customers across EMEA continue to look for: open, flexible video technology that gives them choice today and room to evolve tomorrow. Together with our partner community, we help customers design systems around their specific needs, while future-proofing their investment as AI and cloud technologies transform the value of video beyond security.” Strategically important markets Milestone’s leading position is built on three key offerings: Milestone XProtect® video management software, Milestone BriefCam® AI-powered analytics and Milestone Arcules® cloud VSaaS. Together, they give organizations the flexibility to deploy video on premises, in the cloud or across hybrid environments, while adding analytics without replacing existing systems. The UK and Ireland remain strategically important markets for Milestone. Earlier this year, the company opened its London Concept Centre, an interactive space where end users, integrators and partners can explore Milestone technology alongside solutions from partners including Axis, Bosch, Gallagher, Hanwha, Honeywell, i-PRO, ADI, Oprema, Zenitel and 2N before designing a system. AI anonymisation technology Martin McGrath, Sales Director for UK and Ireland at Milestone Systems, said: “The UK is a demanding market, and rightly so. Organizations increasingly expect their video systems to support business decisions as well as security needs, while continuing to adapt as their operations evolve. Our leading position across EMEA gives customers confidence that the platform they choose today will remain open, supported and continuously developed in the years ahead.” Milestone is also investing in the data foundations behind video AI through Project Hafnia, its regulatory-compliant video data library, and brighter AI anonymisation technology. Together, these initiatives are designed to give customers greater transparency into how AI models are trained.

A security camera installed today has more AI processing power than the systems that guided early autonomous vehicle prototypes. And yet the operator who mounts that camera on a wall will, in all likelihood, never use most of that capability.  Industry surveys bear this out: a wide gap persists between the number of security professionals who believe AI can improve outcomes and the much smaller share who have adopted it operationally. The reason has nothing to do with the silicon and everything to do with how the industry has asked people to configure these systems. The problem is not that the industry lacks algorithms. The problem is that physical security has never found a scalable way to personalize systems for each site. The personalisation dilemma hiding in plain sight The problem is that physical security has never found a scalable way to personalize systems for each site A surveillance deployment at an airport, a retail chain, a school campus, and a logistics yard can look strikingly similar in hardware terms. Each installation uses image sensors, edge processors, network connectivity, and a management layer. What changes is what the operator cares about. At a school entrance, the priority might be perimeter approach after hours and controlled access during the day. At a loading dock, the concern is tailgating, vehicle dwell time, and safety incidents near forklifts. At an airport, the operator may need queue-flow analytics one moment, unattended-item detection the next, and then a search for a specific person of interest carrying a particular bag. At a retail store, loss prevention teams want to correlate customer flow patterns with point-of-sale data and identify suspicious behavior near high-value merchandise. This range of needs forces a reality that the industry has acknowledged in principle but never resolved in practice: the application pool across the market is vast, yet each individual site typically requires only a narrow set of outcomes. Each deployment needs personalisation once, at commissioning, and then again whenever the environment or the risk profile shifts. The app store that never became a market For the better part of a decade, the industry’s most visible answer to the personalisation problem was the “app store” model. The logic was straightforward: curate a marketplace of trained neural network algorithms, let integrators browse a catalog, and download the right analytic for each job. Queue counting for a passport control hall. License plate recognition for a parking structure. Occupancy monitoring for a conference room. The concept borrowed directly from the consumer smartphone approach. In practice, it never matched physical security’s purchasing and operating rhythm. A phone owner discovers and downloads new apps continuously. A physical security deployment selects one or two analytics functions at installation and rarely revisits them. Another maintenance burden A queue-counting algorithm trained on airport data is excellent at queue counting The economic incentive to maintain, curate, and update a broad catalog across a fragmented ecosystem of camera OEMs, VMS platforms, and system integrators never materialised when the average buyer drew from only a thin slice of it. And the question of who would operate such a marketplace across that fragmented landscape was never satisfactorily answered. The deeper issue is that distribution was not the hard part. Personalisation was. A queue-counting algorithm trained on airport data is excellent at queue counting. It does not naturally become a general-purpose security tool for whatever the operator needs next. Once a model is trained for a narrow task, adaptation requires another project, another integration cycle, and another maintenance burden. AI-enabled cameras The examples that do exist are instructive. Schiphol Airport in the Netherlands has used trained camera systems for over a decade to measure queue length at passport control and alert staff when additional counters should open. Rome trailed AI-enabled cameras to track pedestrian wait times at crosswalks, measure bus queue length, and monitor parking occupancy to support active transport and reduce vehicle emissions. These are effective, well-regarded deployments. They also illustrate the limitation: each required its own trained model, its own integration effort, and its own maintenance cycle. The queue-counting camera at Schiphol cannot be redeployed to detect an abandoned bag. That is a separate algorithm, a separate procurement, and a separate project. What changes with agentic AI Applied to physical security, this translates into a simpler commissioning experience Agentic AI points to a fundamentally different approach. An agentic system can receive goals expressed in natural language, determine the appropriate actions to fulfill those goals, execute those actions using available tools, and verify the results. Applied to physical security, this translates into a simpler commissioning experience: the operator expresses intent in plain language, and the system configures itself to achieve that intent. Consider the practical implications. An installer commissioning cameras at a retail location could type or speak a set of instructions: “Alert the manager if more than five people are waiting at checkout for longer than two minutes.” A facilities director could ask the system to “Track vehicles that enter the east parking lot after 9 p.m. and flag any that remain for more than 30 minutes.” A school security coordinator might specify: “Notify campus police if anyone approaches the perimeter fence between midnight and 5 a.m.” Appropriate perception capabilities None of these instructions require the operator to select a specific analytic from a catalog, configure a detection model, or define pixel-level zones in a complex VMS interface. The system interprets the intent, selects the appropriate perception capabilities, configures thresholds and context, and validates behavior over time. When the operator’s needs change, a new instruction replaces the old one. The camera hardware stays the same. The AI adapts. This is the core of the shift: minimal user input, maximum flexibility, and a security system that personalises itself without requiring the operator to navigate the traditional customize-certify-deploy cycle. Vision language models make it practical A conventional neural network trained for people counting can count people The enabling technology is the vision language model, or VLM. A VLM combines visual encoders with language reasoning, allowing it to interpret images or video in the context of natural language prompts. This is a qualitative leap beyond traditional convolutional neural networks, which classify or detect predefined objects and have no mechanism for open-ended interpretation. A conventional neural network trained for people counting can count people. It cannot distinguish between a crowd of commuters exiting a train station and a crowd assembling in protest. A VLM, by integrating contextual reasoning with visual analysis, can draw inferences that a task-specific model cannot. It can assess behavioral patterns, interpret spatial relationships, and respond to queries about scenes it has never been explicitly trained to analyze. Where a neural network might register two people carrying objects, a VLM could infer whether the scene suggests travellers with luggage or workers transporting equipment, provided the visual context supports that inference. Supporting multimodal input This matters in physical security because operational questions are rarely phrased as taxonomy labels. Operators want to express outcomes. They want to say “show me anything unusual near the loading bay after hours,” and the system should be able to reason about what “unusual” means given the site context. VLMs also support multimodal input. Audio cues such as a raised voice, a scream, an alarm, or breaking glass can contribute to scene interpretation when paired with video. In security applications, where events routinely unfold across both visual and auditory channels, this capability adds a meaningful layer of situational awareness. The edge constraint that forces discipline Large language models in the cloud use hundreds of billions of parameters and consume hundreds of watts None of this works if the architecture assumes data center conditions. Most surveillance cameras operate under strict power and thermal limits. Power over Ethernet (PoE), the standard delivery mechanism, typically provides between 15 and 30 watts depending on the PoE class, and only a fraction of that budget is available for AI processing after the sensor, ISP, video encoder, and network stack have taken their share. In many installations, the AI workload must fit within a few watts. Large language models in the cloud use hundreds of billions of parameters and consume hundreds of watts. That scale does not translate to a camera mounted on a pole or embedded in a ceiling tile. For agentic AI to work at the edge of a physical security network, the models must be compact, efficient, and designed for the purpose. Neural network acceleration This is where smaller, domain-specific VLMs become essential. Models trained on industry-relevant image and text datasets, combined with techniques such as pruning, quantisation, and parameter-efficient fine-tuning, can deliver meaningful visual reasoning within the compute and memory constraints of an edge processor. The result is a VLM that fits inside a camera’s power budget and still responds to natural language instructions with useful accuracy. Ambarella’s CVflow AI architecture, now in its third generation, was designed for this class of workload. The architecture integrates advanced neural network acceleration with high-resolution image signal processing and video encoding on a single system-on-chip, allowing cameras to run complex AI inference alongside their core imaging functions without exceeding the thermal and power boundaries that define edge deployments. The company's latest addition to its portfolio, the 4-nanometer CV7, runs CNNs and vision language models concurrently across multiple video streams while consuming 20 percent less power than its predecessor. For infrastructure and robotic applications requiring heavier models, the 5-nanometer N1 family supports multimodal LLMs in multi-camera configurations. Distributing intelligence across far edge, near edge, and cloud This tier must respond in milliseconds and operate within a fixed power envelope A workable agentic architecture for physical security distributes intelligence across three tiers, each matched to the processing demands and latency requirements of its role. At the far edge, inside the camera itself, the processor handles real-time perception: object detection, tracking, zone logic, and initial event classification. This tier must respond in milliseconds and operate within a fixed power envelope. At the near edge, on a local gateway or network video recorder, a more capable processor orchestrates across multiple cameras, maintains state, correlates events, retrieves site-specific policies and procedures, and classifies incidents requiring more context than any single camera provides. At the cloud/server tier, available when connectivity permits, the system accesses heavier models for forensic analysis, fleet-wide analytics, model updates, and long-horizon reporting. Periodic cloud access This tiered approach keeps the most time-sensitive decisions local, where latency is lowest and data privacy is strongest. It also means agentic capabilities can scale incrementally. A small installation might run entirely at the far edge with periodic cloud access. A large campus might employ all three tiers, with near-edge orchestration coordinating PTZ patrol patterns across dozens of cameras while the cloud generates shift summaries and updates models based on fleet-wide telemetry. In practice, a security workflow built on this pattern often combines real-time detection at the far edge, behavior-tree orchestration at the near edge for multi-camera coordination, local retrieval over site playbooks, and conservative safe-mode escalation when system confidence is low. The discipline of deterministic guardrails and structured verification loops is essential in security operations, where unpredictable system behavior is not acceptable. A hybrid future, with VLMs orchestrating specialist models The transition to agentic AI does not eliminate specialized neural networks The transition to agentic AI does not eliminate specialized neural networks. Purpose-trained models will continue to deliver superior accuracy for well-defined, high-frequency tasks such as license plate recognition, face matching, and fire and smoke detection. In a mature agentic system, the VLM acts as an orchestrator. It handles open-ended perception and natural language interaction while routing to specialized models when a task demands their precision. A PTZ camera at a transportation hub might receive the instruction “monitor the west concourse for unattended items.” The VLM interprets the request, manages the interface, and reasons over broader scene context. Real-time video processing When it identifies a candidate object, it routes to a dedicated abandoned-item classifier optimized for that specific validation step. The VLM orchestrates. The specialist model validates. The operator receives a refined, actionable alert. That hybrid pattern places specific demands on the silicon. The processor must support both traditional CNN inference and generative AI workloads simultaneously while maintaining real-time video processing within the same power envelope. The value of a tightly integrated SoC, one that combines an advanced ISP, a deep learning accelerator, and a video encoder on a single die, is that it eliminates the multi-chip complexity and power overhead that would otherwise make this approach impractical at the edge. Making agentic AI deployable for the ecosystem Ambarella’s Developer Zone, launched at CES 2026, provides a centralized portal of tools Physical security is built on a broad ecosystem of camera OEMs, VMS providers, independent software vendors, module builders, and system integrators. For agentic AI to reach the market at scale, these participants need model-ready tooling, reference workflows, and a practical path from prototype to production. This is where developer ecosystems become part of the story. Ambarella’s Developer Zone, launched at CES 2026, provides a centralized portal of tools, optimized AI models, agentic blueprints, low-code templates, and documentation aimed at accelerating edge AI application development on Ambarella’s SoCs. Common software stack ISVs and integrators can evaluate models, prototype applications, and deploy using a common software stack that spans the company’s CV7 and N1 SoC families through the Cooper development platform. That consistency across the product range reduces per-project engineering cost and accelerates time-to-market for partners building perception and analytics solutions. The point is broader than any single portal: agentic systems require components that have already been tested and optimized for edge deployment, so that integrators can focus on solving their customers' problems rather than rebuilding the AI pipeline from scratch. The ecosystem participants who lead the transition to agentic AI in physical security will be the ones with access to tooling that fits into their existing development and deployment processes. What comes next Physical security has searched for years for a scalable answer to personalisation Physical security has searched for years for a scalable answer to personalisation. The app store model did not provide it. Manual configuration, while functional on a per-site basis, scales poorly across large portfolios of cameras and changing operational requirements. Agentic AI offers a credible path forward because it aligns with how operators actually think. They express outcomes, not model specifications. They want systems that adapt to new requirements without repeated engineering cycles. Traditional neural networks With VLMs as the interface layer, smaller domain-specific models at the far edge, orchestration at the near edge, and disciplined verification loops throughout, personalisation can become a standard part of deployment rather than a custom project. The building blocks are now in place. Power-efficient edge AI processors can run VLMs and traditional neural networks simultaneously. Developer ecosystems are maturing to support rapid prototyping and deployment. Reference architectures for distributing intelligence across far-edge, near-edge, and cloud tiers are solidifying. For an industry that already installs vast numbers of AI-capable cameras each year, the opportunity is to make the intelligence already embedded in those endpoints genuinely usable for the people who rely on them every day.

The physical security industry has been in love with the cloud for quite some time. And understandably so. The promise of instant scalability, centralized access, and simplified maintenance is hard to ignore, especially in an era of remote work and distributed facilities. But reality is catching up to the hype. For many, especially those dealing with video surveillance at scale, the cloud is no longer the catch-all solution it once seemed. Rising costs, bandwidth limitations, and latency issues are exposing its shortcomings. And the more resolution increases, from HD to 4K and beyond, the heavier that burden becomes. Modern security cameras This is where edge computing, specifically AI-enabled edge processing available in modern security cameras, starts to look less like an option and more like a necessity. But it’s not just about adding intelligence to cameras. It’s about how that intelligence is deployed, scaled, and maintained. This leads us to containerization and tools such as Docker, which are a revolutionary piece of the puzzle. When cloud isn't enough Cloud analytics for video sounds great in theory: stream everything to the cloud Let’s start with a basic issue. Cloud analytics for video sounds great in theory: stream everything to the cloud, let powerful servers do the thinking, then serve up results to end-users in real time. However, in practice, this model can break down quickly for many end-users. Raw video is heavy. A single 4K camera streaming 24/7 can generate terabytes of data per month. Multiply that by hundreds or thousands of cameras, and the bandwidth and storage costs become unsustainable. Then there’s latency. If AI needs to detect a person entering a restricted area or identify a license plate in motion, seconds count. Routing video to a cloud server for analysis and waiting for a response can introduce delays. Adding in concerns about uptime, such as what happens if the internet connection goes down, it becomes clear why relying exclusively on the cloud creates friction for mission-critical deployments. The edge advantage Edge processing turns that model on its head. Instead of sending everything out for analysis, edge-enabled cameras do the heavy lifting on-site. AI algorithms run directly on the device, interpreting what they see in real time. They generate metadata—lightweight descriptions of events, objects, or behaviors—rather than raw video. This metadata can be used to trigger alerts, inform decisions, or guide further review. The benefits are obvious: latency drops, bandwidth use plummets, and storage becomes more efficient. Edge processing solves many cloud deployment issues by keeping the compute where the data is generated, on the device. This frees the cloud up to do what it’s best at: providing scalable and centralized access to important footage. But where does the edge go from here? How do we evolve these powerful IoT devices to deliver even more situational awareness? Enter Docker: An app store for edge AI They package an app along with everything it needs to run: the code, settings, libraries, and tools This is where the concept of containerization and open development platforms like Docker comes in. Let’s start with an analogy that is helpful for understanding containers. Imagine you're getting ready for a trip. Rather than hoping your hotel has everything you need, you pack a suitcase with all your essentials: clothes, toiletries, chargers, maybe even snacks.  When you arrive at your destination, you open the suitcase and you’re ready to go. You don’t need to borrow anything or adjust to whatever the hotel has, since you’ve brought your own reliable setup. Containers in software work the same way. They package an app along with everything it needs to run: the code, settings, libraries, and tools. This means the application behaves exactly the same, whether it’s running on a developer’s laptop, on the edge in an IoT device, or in the cloud. Security camera with a powerful edge processor There’s no last-minute scrambling to make it compatible with the environment it lands in, because it’s self-contained, portable, and consistent. Just like a well-packed suitcase simplifies travel, containers simplify software deployment. They make applications faster to start, easier to manage, and more predictable, no matter where they’re used.  For a security camera with a powerful edge processor, it’s like giving the camera its own specialized toolkit that can be swapped out or upgraded without touching the rest of the system. It also means you can run multiple AI applications on a single camera, each in its own isolated environment. Integrators and end-users These applications don’t interfere with each other and can be updated independently Want to add fall detection to a healthcare facility’s camera network? Just deploy the analytics in a container. Need to monitor loading docks for pallet counts at a warehouse? Spin up a different container. These applications don’t interfere with each other and can be updated independently.  As a developer, if you use an open container platform like Docker, any system that supports Docker can utilize your software. This removes the need to do expensive custom work for each partner and ecosystem. This is one reason Docker containers are tried and true in the larger IT space and are just starting to get traction in the security sector. Docker also makes this scalable. Developers can build AI tools once and push them out to hundreds or thousands of devices. Integrators and end-users can customize deployments without being locked into proprietary ecosystems. And because containers isolate applications from core system functions, security risks are minimized. Metadata, not megabytes Traditional video analytics systems often require full video streams to be processed One of the most underappreciated aspects of this method is the way it redefines data flow. Traditional video analytics systems often require full video streams to be processed in centralized servers, either on-premises or in the cloud. This model is brittle and costly, and it’s also unnecessary. Most of the time, users aren’t interested in every frame. They’re looking for specific events. Edge AI enables cameras to generate metadata about what they see: “Vehicle detected at 4:02 PM,” “Person loitering at entrance,” “Package removed from shelf.” This metadata can be transmitted instantly with minimal bandwidth. Video can still be recorded locally or in the cloud, but only accessed when needed. This dramatically reduces network load and allows the cloud to be used more strategically: for remote access, long-term archiving, or large-scale data aggregation, without being overwhelmed by volume. Building smarter systems, together A single camera can run analytics from multiple third parties, all within a secure, containerized framework An equally important aspect of containerization is how it opens up the ecosystem. Traditional security systems are often built as closed solutions. Everything—from the cameras to the software to the analytics—comes from a single vendor. While this simplifies procurement, it limits innovation and flexibility. Docker flips that model. Because it’s an open, well-established standard, developers from any background can create applications for edge devices. Integrators can mix and match tools to meet unique customer needs. A single camera can run analytics from multiple third parties, all within a secure, containerized framework. This is a profound shift. Security cameras stop being fixed-function appliances and become software-defined platforms. And like any good platform, their value increases with the range of tools available. Hybrid: The realistic future So, where does this leave the cloud? It is still essential, but in a more specialized role. The most robust, future-proof architectures will be hybrid: edge-first and cloud-supported. Real-time detection and decision-making happen locally, where speed and uptime matter most. The cloud handles oversight, coordination, and data warehousing. Real-time detection and decision-making happen locally, where speed and uptime matter most This hybrid model is especially useful for organizations with complex deployments. A manufacturing plant might retain video locally for 30 days but push older footage to the cloud to meet retention requirements. A retail chain might analyze customer flow on-site but aggregate trend data in the cloud for HQ-level insight. Hybrid gives organizations the flexibility to optimize cost, compliance, and performance. Regulatory realities It’s also worth noting that not every organization can, or should, store data in the cloud. Privacy regulations like GDPR in Europe or similar laws elsewhere require strict control over where data is stored. In many cases, sensitive footage must remain in-country. Edge and hybrid models can make compliance easier by minimizing unnecessary data movement. Conclusion: Smart security starts at the edge The next wave of innovation in physical security won’t come from bigger cloud servers or faster internet connections. It will come from smarter edge devices, with cameras and sensors that don’t just record, but understand and classify events. And the foundation for that intelligence isn’t just AI, but how that AI is deployed. Containerization via platforms like Docker is unlocking new levels of flexibility, security, and scalability for the physical security industry. By embracing open standards, supporting modular applications, and rethinking how data flows through the system, physical security professionals can build solutions that are not only more effective but also more sustainable, secure, and adaptable. The cloud still has its place. But the edge is essential to the future for real-time intelligence, mission-critical uptime, and cost-effective deployment.

Retailers now often find themself in a precarious situation. Profit margins are being squeezed by widespread shoplifting: The Council on Criminal Justice reports that between the first half of 2023 and the first half of 2024, shoplifting reports increased by 24%. Meanwhile, the strategies used by shops to deal with this situation are alienating consumers and affecting total sales. Andy Jassy, the CEO of Amazon, stated during an earnings call that customers are now purchasing more pharmaceuticals from Amazon in response to other retailers locking their cabinets. Media reports This crisis impacts not only the large chains—more than 7,100 retail stores were closed in the U.S. in 2024, a 69% increase from the previous year—but also small, local businesses, whose profit margins are even narrower.  Media reports out of Los Angeles show that small businesses in regions with greater shoplifting rates are more likely to close, and small business owners' job satisfaction and general well-being are negatively impacted by the fear of crime. How to safeguard staff and inventory Unchecked retail theft demoralizes staff and makes the store less attractive to customers This is obviously not a sustainable situation. In addition to lowering revenue, unchecked retail theft demoralizes staff and makes the store less attractive to customers.  Unfortunately, making customers wait in line to enter a store or locking up toothpaste and deodorant only makes the customer relationship worse. Retailers need to figure out how to safeguard staff and inventory without alienating their customer base—and they need to figure it out fast. Advanced video security A new tool has come to the forefront of this fight: advanced video security. Of course, video surveillance has been used in stores for many years. However, the technology currently being used to reduce retail theft is very different from the outdated analog video systems of the past. With features like cloud-based flexibility and AI-enhanced analytics, this new generation of video surveillance systems has all the advantages of modern technological advancements, while also providing businesses with a competitive edge in the fight against retail theft. Security's new AI video standard Workers are constantly rushing from aisle to aisle in an effort to satisfy eager consumers Although the typical chain pharmacy may appear straightforward to the customer, retailers are aware of how intricate these spaces are. Hundreds or even thousands of shoppers may come and go on any given day, with a larger volume during busy seasons like holidays or special promotional events.  It's common for shoppers to pick up merchandise and put it down in another part of the store, often far away from its original location. Meanwhile, workers are constantly rushing from aisle to aisle in an effort to satisfy eager consumers, particularly during these busy seasons. How much can recorded videos reveal in a busy Using traditional CCTV, managers and security teams can monitor some of this activity, but their viewpoint of events will always be incomplete.  There is a limit to how much recorded videos can reveal in busy, fast-paced customer situations, and even the largest chain stores lack the staff and resources to continuously sort and evaluate all of the data they collect. When more customers are in the store for a special event, there’s also naturally a higher risk of theft. New generation of video security Using machine learning algorithms trained on large amounts of retail-specific data The new generation of video security aims to provide retailers with comprehensive intelligence that covers all aspects of their operations.  Using machine learning algorithms trained on large amounts of retail-specific data, they are focused on predictive actions and can recognize problematic behavior in real time from raw video footage. AI-powered surveillance For example, if someone entered a store with empty bags but bypassed the cashier and started heading to the exit with a full bag, AI could predict a potential theft before it happens. Instead of just recording the theft, security action could be triggered in the moment. AI-powered surveillance is like an all-seeing security officer, quickly analyzing the thousands of variables at play and spotting the warning signs of a possible crime before it happens. This is especially crucial during the holidays and busy shopping periods. Security personnel required to monitor cameras Imagine a chain store with 500 locations and 32 cameras each: that’s 1,600 cameras Cameras with AI can also alert human security personnel of events that would have otherwise been missed. Imagine a chain store with 500 locations and 32 cameras each: that’s 1,600 cameras. Now just imagine the number of security personnel required to monitor all of those cameras – when it comes down to it, traditional security is a numbers game. AI is the differentiator here that will allow retailers to win this game. VSaaS: A new tool to Deter Theft The emergence of Video Surveillance as a Service (VSaaS), a surprisingly under-discussed aspect of the broader SaaS revolution, is an important part of video security’s evolution. VSaaS solutions are especially helpful for chains that require a high level of centralization and coordination across hundreds or even thousands of locations. In addition to offering action alerts at the shop level, VSaaS offers comprehensive security systems accessible from any location. This gives corporate headquarters access to complete, aggregated insights on all aspects of business operations. Identify the best ways to deploy staff Retail operators are constantly in a state of triage, rushing to identify the best ways to deploy staff This is significant in part because of the importance that social engineering and store layout have in preventing theft. Stores are frequently more busy during specific hours than others, and consumers may congregate in particular areas of the store while others are comparatively empty.  Retail operators are constantly in a state of triage, rushing to identify the best ways to deploy staff and organize inventory while accounting for all of these variables. Cloud-based VSaaS solutions Cloud-based VSaaS solutions help streamline this process by eliminating uncertainty, highlighting blind spots and bottlenecks, and informing retailers of what truly works.  Another regrettable reality is that employees frequently steal from businesses they work at.  Here, too, VSaaS solutions—when combined with sophisticated, integrated access controls—are essential. AI analytics technology Implementation and deployment of VSaaS is also easier and less costly than CCTV Implementation and deployment of VSaaS is also easier and less costly than CCTV. When new AI analytic updates become available, the client software and hardware don’t need to be upgraded, and the onsite technology and cameras also don’t need to be replaced. The AI analytics technology is upgraded in the cloud, enabling faster deployment and implementation of new technology. New VSaaS solutions Theft will always occur at some level; it's just a part of doing business. However, the growth in shoplifting that retailers have experienced in recent years is unacceptable, and if these figures keep rising, the consequences will be disastrous. In a time of dire need for retail, new VSaaS solutions have come to the forefront and are already turning the tide.

Deploying artificial intelligence (AI) tools should be seen as a business initiative rather than a technology initiative, says Martin Soukup, CTO of Solink, a cloud-based video security and data intelligence platform. The approach makes a difference that plays out in practical terms. A technology initiative is tactical and solution-oriented, often solving an isolated problem within a single department's silo. In other words, it might solve just a security problem. In contrast, a business initiative is cross-disciplinary, driven by executive leadership to impact the entire organization in a measurable way. “Viewing AI tools as a business initiative ensures they adapt to multiple departmental needs and drive high-level strategic growth rather than just fixing a localised technical issue,” says Soukup. AI platform combines video and business systems Demonstrating the value of embracing AI as a business initiative is Solink’s new video intelligence platform Demonstrating the value of embracing AI as a business initiative is Solink’s new video intelligence platform that combines video with business systems to detect threats and send real-time alerts. The capabilities are designed to help security teams operate smarter and more efficiently, supporting the next generation of lean, intelligence-driven security operations centers (SOCs). And benefits of the platform extend beyond security to include other parts of the business. “At the end of the day, video cameras only tell part of the story, much like looking at a 2D shape,” says Soukup. “They capture dimensions and colors, but only from a single perspective, even with powerful AI analysis providing traffic metrics, wait times, product interaction, and compliance logs. The addition of operational data, such as inventory, shipping, labor, and sales data, fills out that shape into 3D, adding critical context.” For example, while a camera simply shows three people standing in a line, and AI data flags that those individuals have been waiting for over five minutes, operational data lets you know also that a cashier has not checked into their shift yet. Combining these data streams gives businesses full situational awareness, turning passive observation into immediate, contextual intervention. AI agents handle repetitive tasks The Solink platform uses AI Agents, which are software that operates autonomously to handle manual, repetitive, or high-volume tasks based on specific instructions and tools. For Solink users, AI Agents unify their existing camera and data source investments into a single automated workflow. “AI Agents transform Solink from a security tool into an operational investment that benefits all departments,” says Soukup. “Modern operational leaders are turning to AI to scale productivity without increasing overhead.” Integrating business intelligence Operations checks compliance, loss prevention investigates theft, and security assesses threats Customers already use Solink to centralize video, integrate business intelligence, and trigger real-world responses like real-world alerts, two-way communication, or smart locks. AI Agents tie these pieces together, analyze the data and identify what matters most, and then take action either without human intervention or with humans in the loop. Businesses currently watch video manually across separate workflows. Operations checks compliance, loss prevention investigates theft, and security assesses threats. However, a human must always watch the footage to get results. Solink AI Agents automate this entire workflow. If an operational event can be seen on camera and matters to the business, a Solink Agent can be integrated to automatically review, assess, and trigger the next step in the workflow across hundreds or thousands of locations simultaneously. Calling all stakeholders to the discussion When discussing applications, stakeholders should include revenue and marketing officers, compliance officers, and line-of-business executives. Agents leverage existing infrastructure by adding an intelligent automation layer that drives efficiency and grows revenue across the entire organization without large capital investment. Solink AI Agents will not replace employees; they empower lean teams to maximize their existing resources. Job descriptions will shift toward human-in-the-loop workflows where humans and machines collaborate. The AI Agent handles the high volume, filtering out noise and processing data at scale. Human employees set up and guide the Agents, give feedback to improve performance over time, and step in to make final decisions, managing the nuanced situations that require critical thinking, empathy, and deep context. Passive data visualization In contrast, a Solink AI Agent is deployed with a clear mandate for a specific task, deliverable, or outcome Given the convergence of physical and digital security, AI Agents, not dashboards, are the right unit of enterprise AI deployment. Dashboards typically aggregate data without evaluating the context or importance of the source. Data looks identical whether it comes from 10 sources or 100. In contrast, a Solink AI Agent is deployed with a clear mandate for a specific task, deliverable, or outcome. This approach shifts the focus from passive data visualization to active intent, creating a direct path of accountability and clear attribution for business results. With dashboards, everyone can see the problem, but nobody owns it. An agent with a mandate either did the job or it did not, and you can audit exactly what it saw and why it acted or did not. Overcoming obstacles to deploy AI agents The primary obstacles to integrating AI Agents into the physical security workflow are change management, building trust, and system interoperability. Physical security requires absolute reliability, which demands rigorous initial configuration to establish trust. Furthermore, Agents are only as effective as the data they can access. Overcoming these hurdles requires comprehensive team training, shifting organizational mindsets, and ensuring seamless integration with existing tools so the Agents have the full context needed to execute tasks accurately and integrate with human workflows seamlessly. Addressing common security challenges Several use cases are driving the deployment of AI Agents among Solink's customers Several use cases are driving the deployment of AI Agents among Solink's customers. Overnight guarding, loss prevention, and store readiness will be the first wave of use cases. These are proven, high-frequency scenarios in which Solink provides pre-built template Agents to address common security challenges out of the box. The second wave of use cases will include highly customisable occupancy tracking, health and safety, and food quality. Pre-built template Agents are coming for these next. In addition, custom, niche operational use cases can be tailored to a specific business environment. Just like hiring a specialized contractor, companies can deploy custom Agents to tackle unique operational challenges rapidly across all locations. Measuring the effectiveness of AI agents The effectiveness of AI Agents can be measured by multiple factors. Core Accuracy, and consistency and accuracy of detections and automated outputs. Business Outcomes delivered, such as reduced inventory loss, reduced fraud, and faster incident resolution. Financial Impact, measured through recovered budget, reduced operational overhead, and increased per-store conversion. There is a perception that AI Agents possess predictive or flawless capabilities, like stopping crime before it happens or operating perfectly in dark, chaotic environments. Not true, says Soukup. AI cannot understand ambiguous requests like "look for suspicious activity." Success requires explicit parameters, tools, and skills, defining what is acceptable, what is unauthorized, and how to handle the gray areas. Another misconception is that Agents need a fundamentally different security model than people. “I run security for this company as well as engineering, and I hold our own Agents to the same standard I would hold a third-party vendor,” says Soukup. “That means least privilege, full audit trails, anomaly detection, random audits, and no action they can't explain after the fact.”

The security landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, as evidenced by the innovations showcased at the ISC West Expo 2026. From dismantling of silos between physical and digital security to the ongoing transition to cloud and hybrid platforms, much of the discussion on the show floor was familiar, if somehow more urgent than ever. Clearly the industry is moving toward unified, cloud-native, and highly automated ecosystems. In a series of deep-dive meetings and demonstrations at the recent show, I got a first-hand glimpse of the future of the physical security marketplace. Spoiler alert: The future is now! HID Global: Tearing down the silos HID Global is addressing the long-requested convergence of physical and digital security. Recognizing that the industry has historically operated in silos, HID is now leading with a combined implementation team to leverage the power of both sides. HID is supporting the transition by combining its logical and physical security teams to help end users design secure, end-to-end journeys for their employees. By leveraging its massive existing footprint in physical access, HID is uniquely positioned to help organizations upgrade their cybersecurity posture without a total "rip and replace" of their hardware. HID is seeing a surge in demand for converged credentials that unite building access with digital identity. On the digital front, HID has implemented FIDO (Fast Identity Online) and passkeys to replace traditional passwords with more secure, biometric-backed authentication methods. Acre Security: Bridging the gap to the cloud Acre Security previewed a cloud-native video solution, reinforcing its cloud-first security strategyAcre Security is currently consolidating brands, bringing established names like Feenics and AccessIt under a single corporate umbrella. A primary theme for the company at ISC West is the migration of legacy systems to modern infrastructure. To facilitate the transition, they are launching "The Bridge," a technology designed to help on-premise customers transition to the cloud at a pace that suits their operational needs. The company is also expanding its portfolio into video. Attendees at the show received a preview of a new cloud-native video solution slated for release later this year, signaling Acre’s commitment to a holistic, cloud-first security suite. Acoem: Real-time acoustic threat detection With a 35-year foundation in vibration and acoustics—including military sniper detection—Acoem is providing gunshot detection through edge processing. Unlike systems that rely on the cloud and may suffer from latency, Acoem’s technology processes data at the sensor level for instant alerts. Their sensors are engineered for massive outdoor spaces, covering a 500-foot radius (roughly 11 football fields) and can detect high-powered rifle shots from up to half a mile away. The system provides critical intelligence by distinguishing between muzzle blasts and "mach noise" from bullet travel, delivering an audio file to the end-user that maps the location and direction of the threat. They use AI to filter out environmental false positives, such as skateboards hitting metal rails. Alarm.com: The all-in-one dealer ecosystem Beyond hardware, Alarm.com is leveraging AI to streamline the sales process Alarm.com is doubling down on "giving tools to dealers to help them be successful," with a focus on unified commercial solutions. A highlight at ISC West is their new fire communicator, which integrates fire monitoring into their single app, completing what they call the "fourth leg of the stool." The product allows fire systems to benefit from the same real-time customer engagement and push notifications that have long been available for intrusion and video. The key products, such as commercial-grade hardware, are now available for immediate purchase. Beyond hardware, Alarm.com is leveraging AI to streamline the sales process. Their new AI Proposal Builder uses customer meeting notes to automatically generate customized, value-driven sales proposals for dealers. Allegion: A global shift in credentialing Following the acquisition of ELATEC, Allegion is adopting a more global market approach and expanding its OEM business. The company is involved in the development of Aliro, the newly unveiled mobile credentialing standard. Allegion’s strategy is built on versatility: While Aliro serves the burgeoning mobile market, they also offer PKOC for plastic cards, allowing them to provide solutions regardless of the user's preferred credential type. The ELATEC acquisition has effectively filled previous gaps in their use-case portfolio, positioning them as a comprehensive provider for both physical and digital access needs. AtlasIED: Engineering for life safety Transitioning from audio to a fully automated threat detection company, AtlasIED showcased its new IPX line at ISC West. This modular platform uses a single PoE++ port to power various "plug-and-play" modules, allowing for easy system upgrades. Their gun detection technology achieves a 99% confidence rating by "stacking" AI models; it cross-references audio data with infrared signatures to detect muzzle flashes and air quality sensors for particulates. With systems already running in 80% of U.S. international airports, the company maintains 24/7 domestic engineering support to manage these "life-safety adjacent" environments. Axis Communications: Unifying connectivity Axis Communications is advancing network video with 4G/5G surveillance, reducing cabling needs Axis Communications continues to lead in network video, with a new focus on offering surveillance through 4G and 5G networks to eliminate the need for extensive cabling in long-range applications. Axis also introduced several specialized hardware pieces, including the P1486-LE global shutter camera for high-speed traffic monitoring and the Q2802-TE, which integrates thermal and visual monitoring into a single unit.  To assist technicians, they launched a new installer app that uses Bluetooth for easier camera pairing and management directly from a mobile device. Axon: De-escalation through enterprise wearables Focusing on frontline safety, Axon is expanding from law enforcement into the enterprise sector with its retail and healthcare-focused body camera. Weighing only 0.25 lb, these cameras are designed to be less intimidating, using colorful designs and acting as a primary de-escalator for aggressive behavior. A clear front display signals when recording is active, striking a balance between safety and a non-intimidating appearance. These devices feature live-streaming and panic alarms that connect workers to a Global Security Operations Center (GSOC). To ensure the footage is legally viable, Axon maintains a rigorous audit trail that authenticates every action recorded. Genetec: The value of the unified platform Genetec is advocating for unified platforms that reduce the time between incident detection and resolution. They argue that AI is becoming a commodity and that the true value lies in unified platforms that reduce the time from incident to resolution. Their approach emphasises the "outcomes" customers need, such as allowing security teams to coalesce around an investigation quickly. Genetec remains a strong supporter of open systems for enterprise customers, ensuring they have the choice to integrate diverse technologies rather than being locked into a manufacturer’s “walled garden.” This flexibility is critical for high-end security environments that require tailored, responsive systems. Johnson Controls: Large-scale enterprise solutions Johnson Controls has made a significant push into the enterprise video market with C-Cure IQ, a standalone VMS designed for major hubs like airports and large campuses. Through a partnership with Scylla, they have integrated 11 advanced analytics—including facial recognition and weapons detection—directly into their cameras. They also showcased new multi-sensor panoramic cameras capable of "stitching" multiple images into a single 360-degree view. While innovating in video, Johnson Controls also confirmed modern upgrades to their intrusion line, including their legacy DSC Neo line. The new DSC PowerSeries Neo 5, a high-end residential and commercial platform, features an all-new user interface and built-in PowerG+. They have also begun shipping the IQ5 family lineup, which is powered by a Qualcomm DragonWing processor.  ONVIF: Standardising the future of AI and cloud ONVIF continues to lead the charge in establishing common languages for the security industry. A major focus is their new "Cloud Profile," which enables cameras to connect directly to the cloud through a standardized protocol. They are also expanding into audio standards to ensure IP-based speakers can seamlessly connect to Video Management Systems (VMS). To combat the rise of sophisticated digital manipulation, ONVIF is developing "video signing" standards. ONVIF is actively seeking more diverse enterprise participation to help shape these emerging AI standardsThis feature protects the integrity of video for evidentiary purposes by embedding a digital signature and timestamp directly into the footage at the camera level. Additionally, the organization has formed an AI Working Group to develop common communication methods for "AI agents" within physical security systems. ONVIF is actively seeking more diverse enterprise participation to help shape these emerging AI standards. Roberto Licari is the new ONVIF Ambassador, seeking to attract new companies (even outside the security sector) to ONVIF as they look to expand their offerings. SwiftConnect: Bridging digital and physical identity SwiftConnect is redefining access control by shifting the focus from physical cards to digital identity. As a cloud-based "connected access network," the platform bridges the gap between IT identity providers (like Okta or Azure AD) and legacy physical access control systems. At the show's Security Experience Center demonstrations, SwiftConnect showcased its ability to integrate mobile credentials within Apple and Google Wallets across multiple technology platforms. By aligning physical security with Zero Trust principles, they ensure that access is governed by the same rigorous standards as digital networks. Their software-centric approach allows for a more seamless employee experience while simplifying the management of complex, multi-site building security. This emphasises a future where the mobile device becomes the primary tool for navigating the physical workspace. Wasabi Technologies: Redefining cloud storage economics With cloud technology becoming a baseline requirement at every booth, Wasabi Technologies highlighted its "hot cloud storage" as a cost-effective alternative to major hyperscalers. Their model claims to be 80% less expensive than competitors, notably removing hidden fees. Wasabi is increasingly bundled at the "back end" of security solutions through partnerships with integrators and end users. A key feature for law enforcement and high-security sectors is their "Object Lock" capability, which ensures that video evidence remains untampered with and immutable during defined retention periods. By providing high-performance storage without the unpredictable costs typically associated with the cloud, Wasabi is positioning itself as the foundational layer for data-heavy video surveillance applications that require long-term, secure retention. Wasabi is positioning itself as the foundational layer for data-heavy video surveillance applications ZKTeco USA: Versatile and integrated access ZKTeco USA showcased a range of integrated solutions, including turnstiles, visitor management, and access control. Their Atlas access control series offers versatility, supporting everything from traditional readers and keypads to QR codes and fingerprint scanning, with the flexibility to operate on-premise or in the cloud. For tight environments, they introduced the Mars 100 turnstile, which features a compact 2x3-foot footprint. They also highlighted the Omni series, an all-in-one standalone reader-controller that manages access, intercom, and visitor functions in a single device. Innovation in portability was evident in their new walk-through metal detectors, which consist of two poles with an 8-hour battery life—ideal for schools and temporary events. While they offer their own Armatura readers, ZKTeco emphasized that their solutions can integrate with other industry leaders to fit diverse customer needs.

2025 was another impactful year for mergers and acquisitions (M&As) in the security industry, which is undergoing an enormous transformation as global pioneers prioritise specialized technology to drive future growth.  The year 2025 has been defined by massive corporate reorganisations, most notably Honeywell and Resideo spinning off core divisions to unlock shareholder value. Simultaneously, an aggressive wave of mergers and acquisitions is reshaping the landscape, with giants like ASSA ABLOY and Motorola Solutions absorbing innovators in AI-driven surveillance, cloud-native access control, and identity management. From residential security shifts to critical infrastructure enhancements, this article will summarise how these strategic moves signal a decisive industry pivot toward integrated and intelligent security ecosystems. Resideo to spin off ADI business Resideo Technologies, Inc. announced its intention to separate its ADI Global Distribution business from its Products & Solutions (P&S) business via a tax-free spin-off to shareholders. The separation is expected to be completed in the second half of 2026. P&S will continue as Resideo, a building products manufacturer of residential controls The goal is to unlock value, enhance operational performance, and improve strategic flexibility for both entities. After the separation, P&S will continue as Resideo, a building products manufacturer of residential controls and sensing solutions. ADI will become an independent public company and remain a global wholesale distributor of low-voltage products, including security and audio-visual solutions. Honeywell separates into three companies There are big changes pending at Honeywell, another global security industry company. Honeywell announced plans to separate its Automation and Aerospace businesses into two independent, publicly traded companies following a comprehensive portfolio evaluation. Combined with the previously announced spin-off of Advanced Materials, this strategy will create three distinct industry pioneers. The Automation and Aerospace separation is targeted for completion in the second half of 2026 as a tax-free transaction for shareholders. The largest portion of Honeywell’s traditional security business (cameras, access control, and fire safety) sits within the Building Automation segment of the new Honeywell Automation company. This unit includes products from recent major acquisitions, such as LenelS2. SimpliSafe’s new chapter SimpliSafe has agreed to be acquired by private equity firm GTCR from Hellman & Friedman SimpliSafe has agreed to be acquired by private equity firm GTCR from Hellman & Friedman, another private equity firm. As the third largest U.S. residential security provider, SimpliSafe will continue under the leadership of the current CEO, while its founders remain significant investors.  GTCR, an experienced security industry investor, intends to support the company’s expansion and continued innovation in AI-powered, DIY home protection. This marks a new chapter in SimpliSafe’s mission to provide professional monitoring without long-term contracts. SimpliSafe is GTCR’s fifth investment in the security alarm industry, including prior investments in residential-focused security companies SecurityLink and Protection1, along with commercial-focused security companies HSM and Everon. Motorola grows technology portfolio Motorola Solutions grew its portfolio through acquisitions in 2025. The industry giant strategically expanded its safety and security ecosystem through the acquisition of four specialized technology firms. The company acquired Blue Eye to integrate AI-driven remote video monitoring and 24/7 security operations into its threat detection workflows. To support frontline workers, Motorola added Theatro’s voice-powered communication platform, which complements existing mobile and video technologies. Motorola further bolster its public safety capabilities with the acquisition of RapidDeploy, a cloud-native Next Generation 911 provider that offers real-time caller mapping and data analytics to accelerate emergency responses. Motorola also agreed to acquire InVisit to enhance its Avigilon Alta suite with cloud-based visitor management, streamlining guest registration and blocklist screening for enterprise security. These acquisitions aim to unify detection, communication, and response across various sectors, including retail, healthcare, and critical infrastructure. Allied sells majority stake in AMAG Allied Universal sold a majority stake in AMAG Technology to Shore Rock Partners In December, Allied Universal sold a majority stake in AMAG Technology to Shore Rock Partners. Shore Rock is a growth investor focused on critical infrastructure, with strategic backing from BellTower Partners. Allied Universal will retain a significant minority share. The sale is intended to allow 54-year-old AMAG, which provides integrated access control, identity, guest, and video management solutions, to operate independently from Allied Universal's services-based model for long-term growth. Shore Rock's plan is to invest in advancing AMAG's product line and customer relationships. With this transaction, David Sullivan, AMAG's President, will become CEO. Everon acquires ADT multifamily segment Commercial security provider Everon announced in September that it had entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the business-to-business (B2B) multifamily segment from ADT. This acquisition is a strategic extension that expands Everon's reach in the valuable multifamily market. It will allow the company to offer a more comprehensive portfolio of tailored solutions, including access control, video surveillance, and self-guided tour capabilities. Everon's CEO states that the deal enables them to help property owners and managers increase net operating income and improve operational efficiency. Dormakaba acquires TANlock and Avant-Garde Dormakaba, a global provider of access solutions, acquired TANlock GmbH in July Dormakaba, a global provider of access solutions, acquired TANlock GmbH in July. TANlock is a German firm specializing in innovative high-security access solutions for data centers and other critical infrastructure. The acquisition strengthens Dormakaba’s presence in the data center market.  TANlock's intelligent system provides enhanced server cabinet security using electromechanical rack locks and various authentication modules. This solution is scalable, future-proof, and can be integrated into existing IT infrastructures for both retrofits and new installations. Dormakaba also agreed to acquire Indiana-based Avant-Garde Systems Inc. to strengthen its North American entrance control portfolio. This move bolsters Dormakaba’s presence in high-growth sectors like airports and data centers. Acre acquires REKS for AI Recent M&A activity also reflects the growing importance of artificial intelligence. For example, Acre Security acquired REKS, a purpose-built generative AI solution designed to transform access control, allowing professionals to use natural language queries for instant data insights. Integrated into Acre’s cloud-native ecosystem, this AI-powered platform prioritises data privacy while streamlining operations. Led by a new AI Development Team, Acre plans to expand these capabilities into intrusion detection and visitor management. Two acquisitions for Allegion Global security provider Allegion, through one of its subsidiaries, completed the acquisition of ELATEC Global security provider Allegion, through one of its subsidiaries, completed the acquisition of ELATEC, a manufacturer of security and access technology, specializing in RFID credentials and readers solutions designed in Germany and sold globally.  ELATEC’s portfolio of readers leverages their internally developed software stack and ensures compatibility with nearly 100 credential types, making the company a pioneer in interoperability, which aligns well with Allegion’s partner-of-choice strategy. Allegion, also through one of its subsidiaries, acquired Brisant Secure Limited, a security hardware provider in the United Kingdom. Senstar acquires Blickfeld for LiDAR sensors Senstar Technologies Corporation has agreed to acquire Blickfeld, a specialist in 3D LiDAR sensors and software. Expected to close in Q1 2026, the acquisition integrates Blickfeld’s hardware into Senstar’s advanced security ecosystem. This strategic move expands Senstar’s addressable market into volume monitoring and traffic applications while enhancing its AI-powered situational awareness capabilities. Following the transaction, Blickfeld will operate largely independently as a subsidiary. ASSA ABLOY continues acquisition spree Global giant ASSA ABLOY was probably the most active company in the M&A market in 2025 Global giant ASSA ABLOY was probably the most active company in the M&A market in 2025, demonstrating aggressive market growth, strategically reinforcing its core business, and expanding its technological footprint across the global security marketplace. The acquisitions delivered on the company's strategy to strengthen its position in mature markets by integrating complementary products and solutions. A major theme for ASSA ABLOY was the enhancement of the door and perimeter security portfolio, particularly in the Americas. This effort included acquiring US-based Metal Products Inc. (MPI) for custom-made hollow metal doors and frames and International Door Products (IDP) for fire-rated steel door frames, both in the fall. Earlier in the year, ASSA ABLOY gained a stronger presence in Central Canada with the addition of Wallace & Wallace and Wallace Perimeter Security, a manufacturer, distributor, and installer of perimeter fencing, door, and gate solutions. The Entrance Systems Division also saw expansion with the acquisition of Belgium’s Kingspan Door Components, a manufacturer of sectional door panels. Furthermore, Door System, a Danish manufacturer of high-quality fire-rated doors, was signed for acquisition in the spring. Cloud-based platform ASSA ABLOY also made significant moves in electronic and access control solutions. Early 2025 saw two key acquisitions: Uhlmann & Zacher, a German supplier of access control handles and knobs, and InVue, a US-based provider of connected asset protection and access control solutions. Reinforcing this segment, SiteOwl, a pioneering cloud-based platform for physical security lifecycle management, was acquired in the summer. The spring acquisition of Pedestal PRO, a US manufacturer of access control pedestals and mounting solutions, further strengthens the electromechanical offerings in the Americas. ASSA ABLOY bolstered its capabilities in remote care technology with Germany’s TeleAlarm Group in late spring. HID Global expands in 2025 HID Global, a subsidiary of ASSA ABLOY, was also active on the M&A front in 2025 HID Global, a subsidiary of ASSA ABLOY, was also active on the M&A front in 2025, aggressively driving the convergence of physical and digital identity solutions and signaling a clear roadmap for security professionals. HID's move to purchase Vancouver-based IDmelon, announced in the autumn of 2025, targets the critical need for robust logical access control. IDmelon’s proprietary software platform transforms everyday identifiers, including existing physical credentials, smartphones, or biometrics, directly into enterprise-level FIDO (Fast IDentity Online) security keys. This approach streamlines an organization’s transition to phishing-resistant, passwordless multi-factor authentication (MFA) and minimizes the need for disruptive changes by integrating physical and digital access into a single, cohesive solution. Safer patient experience Separate from its focus on digital access, HID also bolstered its Identification Technologies Business Area by acquiring the Calmell Group. Calmell is a long-established manufacturer specializing in smart cards, smart paper, and magnetic tickets for the public transportation sector. This addition is expected to expand HID’s footprint and relevance in global public transportation ecosystems, allowing the Barcelona-headquartered firm to leverage HID’s core expertise in digital credentials to drive future-proof solutions for seamless mobility. Also, HID acquired Intelligent Observation to expand its Healthcare Real-Time Location Systems (RTLS) portfolio. Intelligent Observation provides a platform to reduce hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) by tracking hand hygiene compliance. The system uses wearable Near-Field Magnetic Induction (NFMI) devices and a cloud-based SaaS dashboard. This technology records and reports if healthcare workers sanitize appropriately, providing granular compliance data to administrators to enable a safer patient experience.

The challenge: Fifth Third Bank is one of America’s largest and fastest-growing financial institutions, with more than 1,500 financial centers and approximately 80 high-rise, high-density facilities across the United States. Referred to internally as financial centers, these branches serve as the primary touchpoint for customers and communities. As the bank expands beyond its Midwestern roots into the Southeast and Western markets, its security operations must scale without sacrificing reliability, compliance, or employee safety. “When we think about the branch of the future, we think about choices,” said Thomas Neltner, Director of Enterprise Workplace Services and Chief Security Officer at Fifth Third Bank. “March Networks gives us a strong foundation that lets us evolve at the right pace while maintaining the security and governance a bank requires.” That foundation is put to the test every day inside Fifth Third’s 24/7 Security Operations Center. Security concerns arise The solution: At the heart of Fifth Third’s security strategy is a centralized Security Operations Center that operates around the clock. It functions as the bank’s internal emergency response center, giving employees a direct line to live support when safety or security concerns arise. “Our Security Operations Center is the 911 center for Fifth Third,” said Darrin Steinmann, Vice President and Director of Corporate Security Investigations, Security Operations, and Security Strategy. “When employees call with a concern, we respond in real time with video, alarms, and coordination with law enforcement.” To support this mission across a rapidly expanding footprint, Fifth Third standardized on March Networks video surveillance and enterprise management software. Multi- sensor cameras Fifth Third has partnered with March Networks since 2004. Over more than two decades, its video infrastructure has evolved through multiple generations of technology, from early 4000 Series recorders to the 8000 Series and now the X-Series platform. This long-term approach has delivered continuity, stability, and a clear path for modernisation at scale. Today, March Networks supports more than 1,500 financial centers and 80 high-rise and high-density locations. The deployment includes more than 30,000 cameras and over 1,100 recorders, all centrally managed through a single platform. The camera environment is purpose-built for banking. It includes EL20 multi- sensor cameras for broad coverage, 360-degree cameras to eliminate blind spots, dome cameras for teller and lobby areas, and dedicated ATM cameras designed to capture clear facial images. “When you are responsible for security across this many locations, you need technology you do not have to worry about,” said Jason Walter, Senior Security Strategy Manager at Fifth Third Bank. “March Networks gives us that confidence.” Sharing critical information One of Fifth Third’s most impactful initiatives has been the rollout of exterior cameras across its branch network. Now approximately 60 percent complete, the program delivers full perimeter visibility around financial centers. That visibility has changed how the bank responds when incidents move beyond the branch interior. Teams can track suspects, identify vehicles, and share critical information with law enforcement in real time. “Our exterior cameras have changed the game,” Walter said. “They help protect our people, support law enforcement, and have driven apprehension rates above 80 percent.” Faster arrests also improve cash recovery and reduce long-term financial impact. Beyond investigations, exterior cameras support day-to-day operations. Property management teams use video to assess storm damage, snow removal, vandalism, and hurricane impacts without sending staff into unsafe conditions. Legal, retail, and fraud teams rely on video to verify incidents and resolve claims more efficiently. Law enforcement investigations Security at Fifth Third extends beyond the branch itself. Exterior coverage has strengthened the bank’s role as a community partner, providing video that supports law enforcement investigations for incidents occurring on or near bank property. From pedestrian accidents to crimes in adjacent areas, Fifth Third regularly assists local agencies through lawful video requests. The result is faster resolution, safer neighbourhoods, and a visible commitment to being a responsible corporate citizen in every market Fifth Third serves. Fifth Third’s technology strategy balances innovation with fiscal responsibility. The bank is midway through a multi-year upgrade from legacy 8000 Series DVRs to March Networks X-Series recorders. This phased approach extends the life of existing analog cameras while preparing the environment for future IP, hybrid, and cloud adoption. Health monitoring solution “The on-prem foundation gives us the control and cybersecurity confidence we need,” Walter said. “That puts us in a strong position to move toward hybrid and cloud solutions on our terms.” All locations are centrally managed through the March Networks Command platform. Security and IT teams can deploy firmware updates, apply patches, and monitor system health across the entire network without closing branches or disrupting operations. March Networks’ health monitoring solution also reduces unnecessary site visits by identifying issues remotely, helping lower operational costs and keep teams focused on higher-value work. Customer experience challenges Advanced use cases continue to emerge. In colder climates, for example, ATM vestibule loitering can create safety and customer experience challenges. Video analytics alert the Security Operations Center when someone remains in a vestibule without conducting a transaction. Analysts can verify the situation with live video, use two-way audio to request compliance, and escalate to law enforcement when necessary. “When an employee is dealing with a critical incident, having someone live on the phone, watching the video, makes a real difference,” Steinmann said. “That support matters in high-stress moments.” Safer banking environment The result: The relationship between Fifth Third and March Networks spans decades and is rooted in trust, accessibility, and collaboration. “I have worked with March Networks for over two decades,” Steinmann said. “They are not just a vendor. They are an extension of the Fifth Third family, and that level of access, support, and responsiveness matters.” As Fifth Third continues to evaluate AI, analytics, and cloud technologies, governance and compliance remain central to every decision. A strong on- premise foundation gives the bank flexibility to adopt hybrid and cloud solutions, including platforms like Searchlight Cloud, which links video with teller and ATM transactions for more intelligence, while meeting the cybersecurity requirements of a large financial institution. The result is a safer banking environment, stronger partnerships with law enforcement, and a scalable security strategy that supports Fifth Third’s continued growth.

Milestone Systems, a provider of open platform video management software (VMS), is helping Resorts World Las Vegas (RWLV) bring together security operations, investigations, gaming compliance, and operational intelligence through an open platform video ecosystem built on Milestone XProtect VMS. Located on the iconic Las Vegas Strip, Resorts World Las Vegas is one of the newest and most technologically advanced resorts in the United States. Opened in 2021, the $4.3 billion property spans 88 acres and includes multiple hotel brands, a large casino floor, entertainment venues, retail spaces, and dining experiences that collectively attract thousands of guests each day. Diverse set of technologies Managing safety, compliance, and operational efficiency at this scale requires highly reliable and flexible video technology capable of supporting thousands of cameras and multiple specialized applications. Milestone XProtect VMS serves as the backbone that connects approximately 5,800 cameras and multiple best-of-breed technologies. The open architecture enables Resorts World to integrate a diverse set of technologies that support gaming surveillance, fraud detection, forensic investigations, business intelligence, and operational analytics while allowing operators to work from a consistent interface. "We rely on the system every day to investigate fraud, theft, and any activity that could result in a loss. It gives us the visibility we need to quickly understand what happened and take action," said Lindsay Dever, CFE, Assistant Director of Fraud & Nightclub Surveillance, Resorts World Las Vegas. Supporting regulatory requirements The full security system integrates camera technologies from Axis Communications, Bosch, and Hanwha Vision, while BriefCam supports forensic video review, people counting, and heat mapping. Oosto provides facial recognition capabilities, Aeyesky supports card-counting and cheating detection, and AXIS Case Insight helps analyze foot traffic and customer behavior. “Large, dynamic environments like Resorts World Las Vegas require technology that can adapt to multiple operational needs without adding complexity,” said Tim Palmquist, VP Americas, Milestone Systems. “An open platform approach allows this Las Vegas casino resort to bring together best-of-breed technologies into a single ecosystem, enabling teams to improve investigations, support regulatory requirements, and generate operational insights that extend well beyond traditional security.” Time-sensitive investigations Resorts World Las Vegas is able to respond to incidents more quickly, conduct investigations more efficiently, and support law enforcement with speed and confidence. The impact is particularly evident during time-sensitive investigations. Looking ahead, the resort plans to expand its use of AI-driven capabilities, including enhanced people counting, behavioral analytics, and tools that can better track guest movement across the property. Future enhancements will also focus on streamlining operator workflows and creating a more proactive approach to investigations.

Stadiums and arenas are no longer places that come to life only on an event day. Increasingly, they are becoming year-round hubs for concerts, conferences, hospitality, retail, and community activity. The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is one such example of a venue generating additional revenue and audiences beyond football matches, with its 2025 commercial income rising from £255.2 million to £277.1 million, due to hosting four National Football League (NFL) franchises, high-profile boxing events, and a Beyoncé summer concert series. Positive visitor experience Yet, as these venues grow more complex and multifaceted, so does the challenge of keeping visitors and staff safe throughout the year. Security is no longer simply about responding to incidents.; Instead, it has become a strategic function that enables stadium leadership to tailor security to different event types and risk levels, keep on top of health and safety and maintenance, and add value to marketing, sales, operations, and more. More pointedly, venue operators will soon have to comply with the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, better known as Martyn's Law, which received Royal Assent in April 2025 and is expected to come into force in spring 2027. With less than a year before implementation is anticipated, organizations responsible for large publicly accessible venues are increasingly assessing how they can strengthen preparedness while maintaining a positive visitor experience. Wider readiness strategy Named in memory of Martyn Hett, a victim of the Manchester Arena attack in 2017, the legislation introduces new responsibilities for venue operators to consider the risk of terrorism and put appropriate measures in place to help prevent, respond to, and reduce the impact of a terrorist attack if it occurs. Notably, for venues with attendees of over 800 people, physical protection such as video surveillance, vehicle access control, ground security, and more, must be considered and evaluated on a regular basis. AI-powered video solutions can help organizations meet their obligation under Martyn’s Law as part of a wider readiness strategy. Video surveillance systems Traditional video surveillance systems have always played a critical role in venue security, but their effectiveness has often relied on human operators monitoring dozens, or even hundreds, of video feeds simultaneously. In busy environments, critical details can be missed, particularly when security teams are managing large crowds, multiple entry points, and fast-moving situations. With AI-powered cameras and video management systems (VMS), operators no longer need to continuously monitor multiple video, chat, and sensor data streams. Instead, AI does the monitoring, flagging any suspicious activity, unauthorized objects (people and vehicles), crowd congestion, and so on, for operators to respond to if needed. Operators are freed up to focus on other activities, while the system will quickly alert them to events that require intervention, helping them respond to events rapidly and prevent situations from escalating. Ground teams also benefit from contextual, AI-powered insights that can help them track and locate a person or vehicle of interest, such as clothing color, direction of travel, and if they are potentially carrying a weapon. Multi-directional models By enabling security teams to assess and respond to situations before they develop into something more serious, venues are better prepared for some of the objectives underpinning Martyn's Law. The legislation places particular emphasis on preparedness, requiring organizations to consider how they would respond to incidents through measures such as evacuation, lockdown procedures, and effective communication. Situational awareness is fundamental to all four. Modern-day cameras equip operators with high-definition footage of an event or object of interest. Most cameras available on the market start at 1080p definition, with 4MP, 6MP, 8MP or 4K resolution options. Camera form factors have also improved, with dome, flat eye, bullet, fish eye, pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ), thermal, and multi-directional models providing venues with a range of options to fit any sized area and surveillance need. Monitoring crowd movements Real-time intelligence from video surveillance provides operators with a clearer understanding of what is happening across a venue and its surrounding environment. Vitally, AI-powered video analytics and AI object detection help operators to avoid missing events that need their attention and action. During an emergency, security teams can monitor crowd movements, identify potential bottlenecks, move towards the last known location of a potential attacker, and direct the public away from dangerous areas. Information on an attacker’s location, physical appearance, and direction of travel, plus the location of any casualties or people hiding within the venue, can be shared with on-site personnel and emergency services, helping to coordinate a faster and more efficient response. Multiple analytics triggers To further refine operator response times and efficiency, alerts can be set based on multiple analytics triggers, for example, if a person is detected crossing a line and then remains in a pre-defined area for a set number of seconds. For post-event investigations, operators can search footage quickly using the metadata stored within video. For example, they can pull up all footage of all people wearing a grey top, or, to filter this further, a child wearing a grey top. This improves the efficiency and speed of carrying out investigations. Generative AI tool Moreover, if a video analytics tool supports it, operators can use an AI-powered search feature that enables them to input a phrase or sentence of what they are looking for, with the system showing them all relevant results. This feature, known as semantic search, is a more natural way of searching akin to prompting a generative AI tool to come to a result. Operators can also select a specific area of interest to view all footage related to that area, allowing them to quickly find motion within that area. They can see all motion within that section on all captured video footage, to see, for example, who left a suspicious package in a room. Some video analytics systems can also pull footage of similar objects across multiple cameras, which can help track the direction of a vehicle or person of interest as they move across a busy and large event space. Wider entertainment districts Modern venue security increasingly extends beyond the perimeter fence or turnstile. Many new stadium developments are embedded within wider entertainment districts, retail destinations, and mixed-use communities. As a result, operators are responsible for understanding activity not only inside a venue but also across surrounding public spaces where large crowds gather before and after events. AI-enabled video helps operators to monitor large areas efficiently, maintaining situational awareness across multiple locations and mixed-use premises (the arena, retail, transport links, storage and backroom areas, and so forth). Operators gain a comprehensive understanding of potential risks and a stronger ability to respond before issues escalate. AI-powered video analytics There are also value-added benefits to other departments, such as marketing, sales, maintenance, staffing, and cleaning. Understanding and predicting busy periods and crowd flow patterns, alerting to long queue lengths, identifying congestion points, and monitoring vehicle movements and parking spaces all help to improve the visitor experience and streamline event operations. This is particularly useful for multi-use venues where one day a football match may be hosted, the next day a corporate event, and the following day a concert, with different stadium areas being used each time. Operators need visibility of how people move through their spaces and where resources are best deployed. AI-powered video analytics can provide that intelligence in real time. Venue leaders have a short window of opportunity to strengthen their security strategies ahead of Martyn’s Law coming into force. Investing in AI-powered video security shifts security into a proactive, value-generating function that meets the needs of today’s multi-use event spaces and helps to deliver the visitor experience that attendees have become accustomed to.

Hochiki Europe, working with Italian installer ELE.CO SRL, has completed the installation of a combined fire detection and emergency lighting system at a KOKO Emporio store in the Turin area. KOKO Emporio is a well-established value and family retailer with several stores across Torino and Moncalieri, offering home, clothing and lifestyle products to shoppers across the region. The store in question spans 800 square metres across a ground floor and basement. As with any busy retail floor, aisles and stock displays can make it harder for customers to find the nearest exit in an emergency, particularly those unfamiliar with the layout. The store needed a fire detection system that met current compliance requirements alongside emergency lighting capable of guiding staff and customers to safety during a fire or power failure. ESP intelligent fire detection ELE.CO SRL specified Hochiki's FIREscape+, which combines ESP intelligent fire detection with emergency lighting on a single four loop control panel. ALN-EN smoke sensors with adjustable sensitivity were installed throughout to reduce false alarms, and EN 54-23 compliant visual alarm devices were added to make alarm activation clearly visible to every occupant, working alongside ESP sounders to give full audible coverage. The basement presented a particular challenge. It houses separate retail and warehouse areas with long aisles, stock boxes and stairways, so the emergency lighting needed to keep the space illuminated and evacuation routes clear during a power outage. High power luminaries connected to the FIREscape+ panel now cover this area, guiding staff and customers to the nearest exit if the power fails or an evacuation is needed. Multi-site retail environment Ervin Peza, owner of ELE.CO SRL, said: "Hochiki's FIREscape+ system reduced installation costs significantly compared to installing two separate systems, making it the right choice for this application. Combining fire and emergency lighting on a single panel and loop reduces cabling, which simplifies both installation and maintenance." He added: "KOKO's new integrated fire and emergency lighting system means the store can run smoothly, day to day, with customers confident that any fire will be picked up quickly and that they can find their way to safety. Hochiki's addressable technology means the system can pinpoint the exact location of an incident and guide people along the safest route out, even if the power goes down." The installation shows how a combined, addressable fire and emergency lighting system can meet the practical demands of a busy, multi-site retail environment, giving store owners one system to manage rather than two.

Carrefour Brazil is one of the largest retail groups in Brazil and Latin America, operating more than 1,000 stores and serving a high volume of customers every day. Its Pamplona store in São Paulo, for example, located in one of the city’s busiest areas, greatly reflects the operational complexity faced by modern retailers: maintaining safety, reducing losses, improving efficiency, and delivering a better shopping experience at scale. Limited real-time visibility Challenges - Carrefour needed to address several key pain points. Manual processes and disconnected systems created risks of inaccurate alarms and inconsistent service. High customer traffic increased exposure to theft, fraud, and checkout losses, while traditional investigation methods made incident tracing slow and inefficient. At the same time, limited real-time visibility into customer flow, queues, inventory, and in-store behavior made it difficult to optimize staffing, replenishment, store layout, and checkout efficiency. Unified retail ecosystem Solutions - To meet these needs, Dahua provided an integrated smart retail solution combining video surveillance, AI analytics, alarm linkage, customer flow analysis, and digital in-store technologies. The solution was built around Dahua’s DSS PRO platform, Retail Loss Prevention IVD/IVSS, Retail NVR, AcuPick intelligent search, people-counting cameras, Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) integration, alarm host, access control, electronic shelf labels, and digital signage. These systems work together to connect security, operations, and customer engagement within a unified retail ecosystem. Integration of video surveillance For loss prevention, Dahua’s video analytics can detect suspicious behaviors such as item concealment and issue real-time alerts to security staff. Integration with EAS and intrusion alarms provides immediate contextual information for each alarm, helping teams respond faster and more accurately. High-value merchandise is further protected with anti-theft tags, while restricted storage areas are secured through access control. In the event of an incident, AcuPick and intelligent video analysis can be used to track the movement paths of customers or employees, significantly reducing investigation time. The solution is also projected to checkout and self-checkout security. Cart analysis can help to identify unscanned items, while intelligent barriers at self-checkout stations prevent customers from exiting before completing payment. Looking ahead, the integration of video surveillance with transaction data can further support automated sales auditing, discrepancy detection, and faster resolution of operational variances. Data-driven store operations Beyond security, Dahua’s smart retail technologies support data-driven store operations. People-counting cameras, customer flow analysis, queue monitoring, and heatmap analysis provide Carrefour with insights into occupancy, peak hours, movement patterns, high-traffic areas, and dwell time. This can help to optimize staff scheduling, product placement, promotional planning, and checkout lane management. Shelf replenishment monitoring enable detection of low stock or abnormal product removal and triggers real-time alerts, helping prevent lost sales and improving product availability. Dahua also enhanced the in-store customer experience through electronic shelf labels and digital signage. Electronic shelf labels enable automatic price updates, reduce manual errors, and support promotional communication. Digital signage and point-of-sale displays provide product information, strengthen brand presence, and create a more interactive shopping environment. Interactive shopping environment Results - As a result, Carrefour Brazil now operates in a safer, more efficient, and more connected retail environment. The project improves operational visibility, strengthens loss prevention, accelerates incident analysis, supports better staffing and merchandising decisions, and enhances the customer journey from entrance to checkout. Through this collaboration, Dahua helped Carrefour transform traditional store management into an intelligent retail model powered by integrated security, analytics, and digital engagement.

Comelit-PAC has partnered with Optic Fire & Security Solutions to deliver an upgrade to the fire alarm system at Rampworx Skatepark, the UK’s largest indoor extreme sports center. Established in 1997, Rampworx is one of the UK’s longest-running skateparks and a major community facility in Merseyside. As a registered charity, it supports more than 1,000 young people every week and reinvests all income back into maintaining and developing its skatepark, programmes and retail operations. Multiple interconnected areas With a large and constantly active indoor environment, Rampworx required a fire alarm system capable of delivering consistent coverage across multiple interconnected areas. These included skate zones, spectator spaces, retail units and staff facilities while allowing daily activity to continue without disruption. Says Rachael Robinson at Rampworx Skatepark: “As a busy charity facility with thousands of weekly visitors, it was important for us to work with a company we could trust to guide us through the entire upgrade process for our fire alarm. Optic Fire Safety & Security Solutions understood the requirements and recommended a Comelit-PAC solution. The new system provides confidence and peace of mind, knowing it has been designed around us and the way we operate.” Live operational environment Optic Fire Safety & Security Solutions worked closely with Rampworx to design and install a tailored system using Comelit-PAC fire safety systems, ensuring the solution reflected both the operational demands and the unique layout of the building site. The installation was delivered within a live operational environment, requiring careful planning and coordination to ensure the skatepark remained open throughout much of the works. Optic Fire Safety & Security Solutions phased the installation to minimize disruption to visitors, staff and ongoing activities. Sase Boardman, Director at Optic Fire Safety & Security Solutions added: “Every area of Rampworx presented different considerations from a fire safety perspective. By working closely with the team and technical specialists at Comelit-PAC, we were able to carefully deliver a fire safety system known for its adaptability, reliability, and scalability to provide consistent protection across a complex, multi-use environment.” Fire detection coverage The completed system provides enhanced fire detection coverage across the entire facility, improving response capability and strengthening life safety provision for users, staff and volunteers. Mandy Bowden, Fire Systems Business Manager UK & ROI: “This project was delivered through close collaboration with Optic Fire Safety & Security Solutions and Responsible Persons on site, taking time to understand the specific requirements of the Rampworx environment. By combining this insight, we were able to specify a bespoke fire safety system, enabling a unified detection and control approach across areas with very different occupancy and risk profiles.”

Historically, physical security systems have protected retail companies’ assets, people, and profits. Security prevents theft (shrinkage), while maintaining order and ensuring a safe environment for customers and staff. Today’s retail business is changing by leaps and bounds, driven in large part by technology advances. Newer physical security systems are finding new ways to deter crime and provide operational data, in the process preserving brand reputation and ensuring the business remains viable and welcoming. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What's new in retail applications for physical security?

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?

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