Surveillance systems

Digital Watchdog (DW®), the pioneer in digital recorders, surveillance cameras, and related management software, announces the appointment of three new Sales Engineers and one new Field Engineer to support the DW sales team and partner integrators. As a DW Field Engineer, Julian Garcia is primarily responsible to help with Technical Support escalations. In addition, as DW Sales Engineers, Joseph Koehl, Bobby Dick, and Rafael Saenz help with the planning of systems and overcoming technical issues with existing systems, create training materials, and author technical collateral. Meeting customer needs “The increasing demand for Digital Watchdog products is commensurate with our customers’ growing needs for technical sales support,” said Steve Adamczak, Vice President of Sales — North America, Digital Watchdog. “With the popularity of our Channel Partner Program and its many benefits, we are pleased to build our staff of sales engineers to meet our customers’ sales and support needs.” A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, most recently Mr. Garcia was Technical Support Specialist III at Panasonic Avionics where he attended to in-flight aircraft experiencing connectivity issues. He previously oversaw and trained technical support personnel on CCTV products as Technical Support Supervisor at Hunt Electronics. Video surveillance system Mr. Koehl will have a primary focus as Sales Engineer for the Central United States Earlier in his career, Mr. Garcia supported the entire Latin-American customer base with all their technical support requirements as Field Applications Engineer at EverFocus Electronics and was MOC Controller (Management of Change) and Customer Support Manager at Rockwell Collins Passenger Systems. He joins DW with more than 20 years of networking and video surveillance system technical experience. Mr. Koehl will have a primary focus as a Sales Engineer for the Central United States. Most recently, he was Product Support Manager for Stanley Security where he selected and validated potential product solutions. Mr. Koehl was previously a Product Support Technician for Stanley. He was HP System Administrator and Business Analyst for HH Gregg Appliances, as well as the company’s IT Team Leader. Mr. Koehl joins DW with more than 20 years of industry technical experience. Industry technical experience Mr. Dick will have a primary focus as a Sales Engineer for the Southern United States. Most recently, he was with Hikvision USA where he served in multiple capacities including Sales Engineer, Product Test Engineer, and Director of Learning and Development. Mr. Dick joins DW with more than 20 years of industry technical experience. Mr. Saenz will have a primary focus as a Sales Engineer for the Western United States. Most recently, he worked at Hikvision in Technical Support. His experience is in technical support and customer service. Mr. Saenz has multiple certifications for computer networking. He joins DW with more than 12 years of industry technical experience.

The new FLEXIDOME IP starlight 8000i X series cameras offer enhanced image quality for low-light scenes and fast-moving objects, thanks to two resolution offerings of 2- or 4-megapixels and next-level HDR X and starlight X technologies. HDR X and Starlight X technologies HDR X enables the cameras to optimize video capture in scenes with fast-moving objects with a dynamic range up to 144 dB, ensuring perfect exposure, while reducing motion-related artefacts and blur in the daytime. The new Starlight X technology helps to significantly improve image quality during the day and excels in near-dark scenes, ensuring color images down to 0.0061 lux due to its custom optics, Bosch advanced image processing algorithms, and noise suppression. The camera’s new 1/1.8 inch sensor further improves image quality across all light levels. Capitalizing on the significantly improved image quality of the X series, the camera’s built-in Artificial Intelligence (AI), which features Intelligent Video Analytics and Machine Learning (Camera Trainer), offers more relevant data-supporting predictive solutions in mission-critical applications. FLEXIDOME IP starlight 8000i X series The new X series extends the outdoor fixed camera portfolio of the FLEXIDOME IP starlight 8000i family The new X series extends the outdoor fixed camera portfolio of the FLEXIDOME IP starlight 8000i family, by delivering an ideal mix of resolution, light sensitivity, dynamic range, and frame rate all at once for mission-critical applications that demand the highest image quality combined with actionable insights, 24/7. In extreme low-light scenes, starlight X technology provides clear and relevant images with color filtering down to 0.0061 lux. Motion-optimized HDR X technology has a dynamic range of up to 144 dB, ensuring perfect exposure, while eliminating motion-related artefacts and blur in scenes with challenging lighting conditions and fast-moving objects or vehicles in tunnels and on roadways. Exceptional image quality and robust design The camera’s exceptional image quality is backed by a comprehensive, robust design that is water and dust resistant, with an IP66 and IP6K9k rating, and is vandal resistant with IK10+ housing. It withstands temperatures ranging from -50 to +60°C (-8 to +140°F). The high-quality, dual-layer coating of the camera also protects against corrosion (IEC 60068-2-52 1344h), making the X series ideal for challenging outdoor applications. Built-in AI supports predictive solutions All FLEXIDOME IP starlight 8000i cameras come with built-in AI featuring Intelligent Video Analytics and Camera Trainer to support predictive solutions. This built-in AI enables these cameras to understand what they see and attach a layer of metadata to video feeds to convert video data into actionable insights, helping users anticipate unforeseen events and prevent them from happening. Intelligent Video Analytics is highly resistant to false triggers caused by demanding weather conditions, such as snow, wind, rain, hail, and water reflections, and environments subject to vibration, such as on bridges. It provides automatic object detection over large distances, making it ideal for mission-critical applications such as perimeter protection of airports, parking lots, critical infrastructures, government buildings, border patrol, ship tracking, and traffic monitoring. Combined with Starlight X technology, this built-in AI provides more rich data, even in extreme low-light situations. Camera Trainer, based on machine learning, enables system integrators to tailor Intelligent Video Analytics to detect objects or situations that matter most to their customers. Remote device management Bosch remote device management is a combination of tools like Project Assistant and Configuration Manager Bosch remote device management is a combination of tools like Project Assistant and Configuration Manager, and services for secure, transparent, and cost-effective device management throughout a product’s life. The innovative remote wireless configuration and commissioning functionality of the FLEXIDOME IP starlight 8000i range enables installers to work smarter while onsite. When commissioning, installers typically must climb up and down ladders or hire lift equipment to reach cameras at high levels. With any FLEXIDOME IP starlight 8000i camera, commissioning can be done entirely wireless, no need for ladders or lifts. Bosch Project Assistant app Installers can use the Bosch Project Assistant app installed on a wireless tablet or smartphone to adjust the pan, tilt, roll, and zoom (PTRZ) and set the required field of view without touching the camera or lens. The new X series cameras, as with all Bosch cameras, connects securely to the Bosch Remote Portal, a cloud-based service offering device management with daily or advanced configuration and set up and continuous health monitoring from any offsite location. Bosch’s Green Way approach Any PTRZ adjustments required post installation for new store layouts or altered high-risk zones, for example, can be conducted remotely to save time, costs, and effort. System integrators can work remotely with customers to perform services, such as changing configuration settings or installing firmware updates, ensuring systems meet the highest reliability standards. The remote device management and wireless commissioning process minimizes the number of commutes, resulting in sustainable business practices that are economically viable, socially responsible, and environmentally friendly. This approach is called Bosch’s Green Way promise.

In the past, security managers were primarily concerned with global terrorism. That has changed with the COVID-19 pandemic threatening the health of passengers at airports. Even if the number of passengers remains at a low level in many airports, surveillance won’t become any less complex. In fact, the opposite is true. Hygiene regulations raise new requirements for passenger processing and control. Reason enough for security managers to rethink airport security methods and evaluate how smart surveillance technologies can help meet new (and old) challenges better and more efficiently. Smart Airport Surveillance Smart Airport Surveillance combining IoT security cameras and AI video analytics help airport security managers to systematically monitor and understand passenger behavior, gain valuable insights from video data and improve security and operations, automatically and in real time. CCTV camera systems are already in use at all airports worldwide. Why not use existing infrastructure to get more out of video data? For example, smart cameras can ensure social distance according to hygiene regulations or improve the visitor experience, by reducing waiting times at security checkpoints. IoT cameras with AI video analytics IoT cameras equipped with AI video analytics can do much more than just video IoT cameras equipped with AI video analytics can do much more than just video. Ajay Kattige, Solutions Consultant at Security & Safety Things, said “We at Security & Safety Things aim to bring the latest AI technology to IoT cameras, enabling them to perform more and sophisticated tasks in airport security measures.” He adds, “We make adding powerful features to surveillance cameras as easy as installing apps on smartphone.” Airport security management Despite the threat of COVID-19, the fight against terrorism remains a key objective in airport security management. Where thousands of people gather, signals indicating terrorist activity are easily overlooked. When it comes to reliably detecting unattended luggage or people with weapons in crowds, video surveillance involving human operators reaches its limits. Smart video cameras can support humans in recognizing threats early and even perform tasks autonomously. AI-Lost camera app AI-Lost is an AI camera app designed to detect lost objects abandoned in specific areas, such as airports, stations and public spaces. AI video analytics integrated in the app enables airport security cameras to detect objects, such as suitcases and bags, not moved for a period of time (therefore, suspected of containing explosives) and notify security personnel. The video below shows how human behavior that deviates from ‘normal’ patterns can be detected by security cameras in real time, ranging from minor disputes between people to vandalism. Similarly, aggressive or violent behavior in airports can be detected early. AI-Loitering app to detect suspicious behavior AI video analytics help detect even inconspicuous individuals based on specific behavior patterns Terrorist attacks often have a prelude, people stay in one place for a period of time to scout the situation without being noticed by security staff. AI video analytics help detect even inconspicuous individuals based on specific behavior patterns. AI-Loitering is a camera app that detects odd behavior of people lingering around certain areas for a long period of time. Gun Detection Real App for weapons detection Gun Detection Real App for security cameras recognize in real time, if someone holds a gun and automatically triggers alarm. AI video analytics integrated in the camera app is able to distinguish weapons from harmless objects, such as smartphones, keys, pens or umbrellas. In very complex buildings, such as airports, it’s an ongoing challenge to keep restricted areas free from unauthorized people. Each security gate that is opened unintentionally triggers alarms leading to security routines shutting down airport operations for a period of time. Smart video surveillance combined with passenger information systems can help prevent these types of incidents. AM Line Crossing For instance, AM Line Crossing solution allows airport security managers to set up security zones in public areas where, for example, passengers are automatically notified, when approaching restricted areas. Connected to digital information systems, smart cameras not only recognize people entering defined areas, but also automatically guide them to their destination. In tall airport buildings, conventional smoke and fire sensors mounted under the ceiling are limited because they detect and report threats too late. Optical sensors, such as security cameras equipped with AI video analysis, can detect smoke and fire from long distances and automatically take timely action. AI-Fire and AI Smoke apps for flame and heat detection AI-Fire detects flames at significant distances in areas unsuitable for traditional fire alarms For example, AI-Fire detects flames at significant distances in areas unsuitable for traditional fire alarms, such as huge indoor areas in airports or stations. Combined with AI Smoke, another AI app for security cameras, airport security managers get a powerful early warning system that reliably detects and analyses all stages of fire progression. Waiting in long queues at boarding and security checkpoints challenges passengers' patience and can seriously damage travel experience. Airport staff has to take the rap, when negative passenger emotions are released. AI video technology to avoid long queues AI video technology can help avoid waiting lines and hassle. If queues get too long, smart surveillance systems automatically give instructions to staff or inform visitors via digital displays in the waiting area. At Budapest Airport, for example, visitor management works with an existing camera system equipped with smart software applications. Video data is analyzed in real time, so that waiting times can be predicted with 96 percent accuracy. These numbers are communicated via displays, for example, to direct visitors to other checkpoints. Protect passengers & airport staff against COVID-19 Social distancing is the key to preventing or at least slowing down the transmission of COVID-19 from person to person. Where many people come together, surveillance is needed to ensure appropriate behavior. The same applies to make sure that people wear masks wherever mandatory. IoT cameras, equipped with the latest technology and AI, can help detect behavior and characteristics that do not comply with regulations. Security & Safety Things and partners offer easy-to-install AI solutions to help flatten the curve of COVID-19 virus transmission.

BCDVideo, the pioneer in video data infrastructure, announces that it has partnered with Wasabi, the hot cloud storage company for video surveillance storage in the cloud. In an industry moving rapidly toward a hybrid-cloud model, this partnership expands the ability for both manufacturers to offer their customers a complete package: BCDVideo’s purpose-built, on-premises storage options and Wasabi’s competitive hot cloud storage solutions. Together, these two companies deliver a hybrid cloud solution that takes advantage of existing infrastructure, as well as next-generation cloud storage technology, to secure high volumes of video efficiently and affordably. Surveillance security market “We are thrilled about the opportunities this partnership will open up,” said Jeff Burgess, CEO at BCD International. “Wasabi’s cloud technology is already optimized for the video surveillance cloud storage space, which makes it a perfect extension for our purpose-built on-premises devices — working together is a no-brainer.” Building on more than two decades of experience manufacturing video appliances in the surveillance security market, BCD is committed to offering customers the best user experience and value. Marrying Wasabi hot cloud storage with BCDVideo’s Harmonise Bridge enables BCD and Video Storage Solutions (VSS) appliances to interact with Wasabi cloud storage and allows BCD to deliver on that commitment. With a cloud storage option that is one-fifth the price and faster than the competition, with no additional egress fees or API request charges, Wasabi is a game-changing, cloud technology provider. Together, these companies are moving the industry forward. Video surveillance storage Wasabi has a goal to make cloud storage a simple commodity and utility" “We see video surveillance storage requirements growing quickly and outpacing the capacities of on-premises storage alone. By adding affordable, high-performance cloud storage to the equation with BCD’s on-premises storage, you get the best of both worlds,” said David Friend, CEO of Wasabi. “Wasabi has a goal to make cloud storage a simple commodity and utility, just like electricity, so together with BCD, we make video surveillance storage simple and affordable in high volumes.” Because Wasabi’s cloud offering integrates with video surveillance vendors, customers can operate surveillance systems using anywhere from one to 1,000 cameras with varying storage needs, all with plenty of room to scale. Wasabi offers existing BCD customers flexibility as well, allowing users to use as much or as little cloud storage as works best for their system. Surveillance storage systems Using cloud storage as part of surveillance solutions allows customers to take advantage of bottomless storage while reducing the close and build-time required for hardware overhauls. Not to mention, with 11x9s of data durability (99.999999999% reliability), Wasabi hot cloud storage is a powerful addition to the BCD suite of appliances. As video is mission-critical, it is crucial to build surveillance storage systems that can archive older data at a lower cost, free up on-premises storage, and reduce the need for new CapEx spending in the meantime. Bringing BCDVideo and Wasabi together achieves that goal and paves an important path forward.

Sensor solution provider, HENSOLDT is now a member of the United Nations Global Compact. The company is committed to the ten universal sustainability principles in the areas of human rights, labor, the environment and anti-corruption. By signing the Global Compact, HENSOLDT is making visible how important sustainable business practices are for the company. It is the world's largest initiative for sustainable and responsible corporate governance. Group-wide sustainability initiative As part of a group-wide sustainability initiative, the company has set itself numerous goals. Among other things, emissions are to be further reduced and the proportion of women within the workforce increased. “By joining, we want to show social and ecological responsibility,” said Thomas Müller, CEO of HENSOLDT AG, adding “For many customers and business partners, membership in the Global Compact has now become a kind of seal of quality. By joining, the company is setting an example of corporate governance with integrity.” United Nations Global Compact HENSOLDT is proud to be a member of this high-level initiative of the United Nations The United Nations Global Compact was launched in 2000 on the initiative of the then UN Secretary General, Kofi Annan. Currently, around 15,000 companies and organizations from civil society, politics and science, in more than 160 countries, are part of it. HENSOLDT is proud to be a member of this high-level initiative of the United Nations. HENSOLDT takes its responsibility as a global citizen and local company very seriously, and has committed itself to performing sustainable pioneering work in the area of technology and human potential that supports the conservation of all species worldwide. Promoting sustainable investments At the same time, its activities serve the higher purpose of ensuring the freedom and future of the planet, natural world and all lives. For this reason, also, HENSOLDT supports numerous initiatives that target sustainable investment in local communities, education, employees and the environment.

Eagle Eye Networks, the globally renowned company in cloud video surveillance solutions, has released a best practices guide ‘Analog Video to Cloud’ for business owners who are interested in economical ways to upgrade legacy analog video surveillance cameras to a modern, digital cloud system, and how existing cameras can be reused in the process. This report details the advantages of managing analog camera video in the Cloud, including lower costs and greater flexibility, outlines video-to-cloud upgrade options and provides readers with actionable information to successfully transition analog camera video to the Cloud, without having to ‘rip and replace’ the entire system. Analog cameras to the Cloud A recent Eagle Eye Networks study showed that analog cameras to the Cloud grew in 2020, A recent Eagle Eye Networks study showed that analog cameras to the Cloud grew in 2020, after four consecutive years of decline, likely driven by improvements in encoder technology and the need to remotely access and view video surveillance systems, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Often the lowest-cost, highest-results approach to upgrading analog video camera systems is to start by switching from outdated on-premises video recording software and hardware to a cyber-secure, cloud-based video management system (VMS) with AI-enabled video analytics,” said Ken Francis, the President of Eagle Eye Networks. Enhancing physical security and built-in cyber security Ken Francis adds, “Business owners want to understand how an upgrade works and how to save costs so they can start taking advantage of improved physical security, built-in cyber security, and all the benefits of the Cloud, including important data derived from video that can help improve business operations and customer service.” Topics covered in the guide include, cloud architecture, payment models, cameras and coaxial cable alternatives, and HD analog cameras.

The global pandemic has triggered considerable innovation and change in the video surveillance sector. Last year, organizations around the globe embraced video surveillance technologies to manage social distancing, monitor occupancy levels in internal and external settings, and enhance their return-to-work processes. Forced to reimagine nearly every facet of their operations for a new post-COVID reality, companies were quick to seize on the possibilities offered by today’s next-generation video surveillance systems. Whether that was utilizing motion sensing technologies to automatically close doors or switch on lighting in near-deserted office facilities. Or checking if people were wearing masks and adhering to distancing rules. Or keeping a watchful eye on streets and public spaces during mandated curfew hours. Beyond surveillance and monitoring use cases, organizations also took advantage of a raft of new Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications to undertake a range of tasks. Everything from automating their building management and optimizing warehouse operations, to increasing manufacturing output and undertaking predictive maintenance. Behind the scenes, three key trends all contributed to the growing ubiquity of video surveillance observed in a variety of government, healthcare, corporate, retail, and industry settings. Video surveillance takes to the Cloud Last year the shift to digital working led organizations to rapidly embrace cloud-enabled services, including cloud-hosted Video Surveillance As A Service (VSaaS) solutions that provide tremendous economies of scale and flexibility. Alongside significant cost savings, these solutions make it easier for organizations to enhance their disaster recovery and manage their video surveillance estate in new and highly effective ways. Surveillance cameras with audio recording were used more than 200% by customers between 2016 and 2020 For example, in addition to enabling remote access and maintenance, today’s cloud-powered systems eliminate any need to invest in local storage technologies that all too often fail to keep pace with an organization’s growing data storage requirements. Indeed, data from our worldwide customer base survey reveals how in 2020 an impressive 63% of organizations had abandoned using any on-premises storage option and were instead only storing all their video surveillance recordings and data in the Cloud. A deeper review of the global stats shows that the average cloud recording retention period for this stored data was 28.2 days, with organizations in Asia topping the global average at 38 days – 33% higher than was observed in any other region. Improvements in bandwidth and scalability engendered by the Cloud have also helped boost the growing utilization of audio recordings in addition to visual image capture. Indeed, our research found the number of surveillance cameras with an audio recording facility used by customers jumped more than 200% between 2016 and 2020. Making sense of Big Data The enhanced ease of connectivity and scalable bandwidth made possible by the Cloud is stimulating more companies to connect a lot more video surveillance cameras to their networks. The top motivation for doing so is to generate live metrics and data that can be utilized to deliver enhanced business insights and operational intelligence. In recent years, a rich choice of video analytics solutions have been developed for a variety of industry verticals. The range of functionalities on offer is impressive and covers a variety of applications. Everything from making it easy to classify and track objects and behavior patterns in real-time, to undertaking anomaly detection, or generating predictions based on past and present events/activities. Data collected via today’s cloud connected cameras can now also be used to feed deep learning training and AI analytics, utilizing the unparalleled virtualized processing capacity of the Cloud to convert Big Data into usable information quickly. By integrating this information with data from other enterprise data capture systems, organizations are now able to gain a 360-degree view of their operations – in almost real-time. IT is now in the driving seat No longer the sole preserve of on-site security staff, the wider application and business use of video surveillance means that IT is increasingly taking the lead role where the management and control of these systems are concerned. IT is asked to integrate video surveillance into key enterprise platforms to generate the data that business leaders need Aside from the fact that IT has a vested interest in addressing the cybersecurity implications that come with attaching a growing range of IoT devices to the enterprise network, they’re also increasingly being asked to integrate video surveillance into key enterprise platforms to generate the data that business leaders need. As organizations expand their integration of video with other business applications, such as point of sale, access control, process control, and manufacturing systems, this trend is only set to accelerate. Looking to the future Right now, the video surveillance industry is at a key tipping point, as video systems become increasingly strategic for enabling the enterprise to boost productivity, stay compliant, and fulfill its obligations to protect employees and customers. As the technology’s contribution to enhanced data-driven decision-making and problem solving continues to increase, expect the adoption of IP connected video cameras to burgeon as organizations look to capture more data from their day-to-day business operations.

Since the start of the pandemic, almost a quarter of UK businesses have been forced to temporarily close, pause trading, or work remotely, with very little notice. Now nearing the 12th month of the crisis, the country is currently enduring its third national lockdown, with an unspecified timeframe. Most workers are being urged to remain at home and only venture out for essential travel. This means a huge number of premises across the board, from recreational venues such as theaters, pubs and leisure centers, to office buildings, and storage facilities, will remain empty. It’s likely that security has been scaled back, so many buildings could be vulnerable to attack for the foreseeable future. Just recently we’ve seen empty pubs in London targeted by opportunistic illegal rave organizers. Physical security strategy Even rural areas aren’t exempt from the problem, as burglars have reportedly targeted beauty salons, etc Even rural areas aren’t exempt from the problem, as burglars have reportedly targeted beauty salons, food stores and vehicle hire premises this winter. Vandalism and burglary remain very real threats, therefore it is vital that facilities managers and property owners ensure the physical security of these empty buildings is maintained to the highest standard to protect property and the assets within. Below we outline key considerations when evaluating a physical security strategy for an empty building. Assess the risk We would urge facilities managers and building owners to carry out regular, thorough checks of the building and the perimeter to assess any obvious factors which would elevate the risk of attack. This includes assessing the location. Is the crime rate high? How visible is the property? Are the contents of the property on show? How secure is the access or perimeter boundary? View the premises from a potential intruder’s perspective, and when you can’t be at the site in person, use photographs, notes and drawings to identify potential weaknesses. For example, there may be high security fencing at the front of the premises, but make sure it is not at risk of being compromised at the back. Conducting regular maintenance Retain and maintain quality Inspecting the fence line may seem obvious and straightforward, but it needs to be a deliberate, scheduled event Conducting regular maintenance is even more essential while premises are left empty, as it is much easier for any issues to appear and escalate undetected. We highly recommend regularly inspecting your fencing for disrepair or damage as this can affect the perimeter’s integrity. Alternatively, choosing high quality galvanized and preferably powder coated steel fencing with a 25-year guarantee will offer longer-lasting protection against rust and corrosion. Inspecting the fence line may seem obvious and straightforward, but it needs to be a deliberate, scheduled event. Take time to check the perimeter on both sides. As you inspect the fencing, keep an eye out for any attempted breaches and note if foliage, weather conditions, or topography changes have affected security integrity. Check all fixtures and fittings are in good working order, look for damage and corrosion, and clear all litter and debris away. Huge security risk Quality investments In a time when businesses are already stretched, it can be tempting to opt for quick, inexpensive fixes. However, poorly executed design or cheap, low quality products can lead to costly, long-term remediation or worse, significant loss to the business. Make wise, informed decisions and specify solutions based on your organization’s security needs first and foremost. While generic steel palisade is a popular option, owing to its intimidating aesthetic, it is easily compromised. Steel palisade fencing has inherent weaknesses that undermine performance. Its wide pales can obstruct surveillance, while the bolted construction is a huge security risk. Simply removing or breaking the lower fixing on one or two pales would allow them to swing aside to give repeated access to the site without leaving an easily visible sign that the perimeter has been breached. It’s a false economy, as the initial lower price is offset by the costs and inconvenience incurred by regular repairs. Performance classification system The standard works via a performance classification system, and even considers the tools that an intruder may use Specifying a higher quality product that’s fit for purpose makes more sense both in the short and long term, and it adds little to the original cost. Fortunately, there are a number of security accreditations that facilities managers and building owners can refer to when specifying security measures at their site, helping them choose effective solutions to combat the risks the property faces. Proven performance Certifications and approvals, such as The Loss Prevention Certification Board’s (LPCB) LPS 1175 and the British Standards Institution’s (BSI) PAS, prove a product has been thoroughly tested to a specific standard. They prove the strength and durability of the item in multiple different situations. It is worth noting also that investing in effective perimeter protection can actually deliver a positive return by reducing the incidence of burglary and vandalism, and their associated costs. The technical evaluation work carried out by LPCB is extremely thorough. The product is subjected to rigorous quality audit processes, to certify the security products tested by BRE deliver verified levels of protection. All LPS 1175 rated products are vigorously tested before receiving an accreditation. The standard works via a performance classification system, and even considers the tools that an intruder may use. Intrusion detection system Our law enforcement teams are stretched to capacity and coping with reduced workforces due to illness By predicting a likely toolset, specifiers can construct multiple defensive layers to maximize how much time a facility has to respond to an attack. Different levels of security are crucial for the ‘5D defense’ concept, whereby a quintet of security assets work together to prevent access to your site, resulting in a strategy that will: Deter, Detect, Deny, Delay and Defend unwanted access from intruders. 360° security There is no single solution when it comes to securing a building. Every situation must be considered on an individual basis, starting with a full risk assessment. We recommend an integrated approach where appropriate. Along with a secure perimeter, this might also include effective lighting in shaded areas and at doors, gates, and vulnerable windows, Perimeter Intrusion Detection Systems (PIDS) and well-placed CCTV. These measures can hinder entry and escape, or increase the chance of discovery and detection. Domestic burglaries While domestic burglaries have become less attractive as many of our homes are now occupied around the clock, commercial properties have become increasingly more vulnerable. Our law enforcement teams are stretched to capacity and coping with reduced workforces due to isolating and illness. Therefore it has never been so important for building owners and facilities managers to assess the properties they’re responsible for to ensure they’re protected effectively in the event of an attack.

Urban populations are expanding rapidly around the globe, with an expected growth of 1.56 billion by 2040. As the number of people living and working in cities continues to grow, the ability to keep everyone safe is an increasing challenge. However, technology companies are developing products and solutions with these futuristic cities in mind, as the reality is closer than you may think. Solutions that can help to watch over public places and share data insights with city workers and officials are increasingly enabling smart cities to improve the experience and safety of the people who reside there. Rising scope of 5G, AI, IoT and the Cloud The main foundations that underpin smart cities are 5G, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT) and the Cloud. Each is equally important, and together, these technologies enable city officials to gather and analyze more detailed insights than ever before. For public safety in particular, having IoT and cloud systems in place will be one of the biggest factors to improving the quality of life for citizens. Smart cities have come a long way in the last few decades, but to truly make a smart city safe, real-time situational awareness and cross-agency collaboration are key areas which must be developed as a priority. Innovative surveillance cameras with integrated IoT Public places need to be safe, whether that is an open park, shopping center, or the main roads through towns Public places need to be safe, whether that is an open park, shopping center, or the main roads through towns. From dangerous drivers to terrorist attacks, petty crime on the streets to high profile bank robberies, innovative surveillance cameras with integrated IoT and cloud technologies can go some way to helping respond quickly to, and in some cases even prevent, the most serious incidents. Many existing safety systems in cities rely on aging and in some places legacy technology, such as video surveillance cameras. Many of these also use on-premises systems rather than utilising the benefits of the cloud. Smart programming to deliver greater insights These issues, though not creating a major problem today, do make it more challenging for governments and councils to update their security. Changing every camera in a city is a huge undertaking, but in turn, doing so would enable all cameras to be connected to the cloud, and provide more detailed information which can be analyzed by smart programming to deliver greater insights. The physical technologies that are currently present in most urban areas lack the intelligent connectivity, interoperability and integration interfaces that smart cities need. Adopting digital technologies isn’t a luxury, but a necessity. Smart surveillance systems It enables teams to gather data from multiple sources throughout the city in real-time, and be alerted to incidents as soon as they occur. Increased connectivity and collaboration ensures that all teams that need to be aware of a situation are informed instantly. For example, a smart surveillance system can identify when a road accident has occurred. It can not only alert the nearest ambulance to attend the scene, but also the local police force to dispatch officers. An advanced system that can implement road diversions could also close roads around the incident immediately and divert traffic to other routes, keeping everyone moving and avoiding a build-up of vehicles. This is just one example: without digital systems, analyzing patterns of vehicle movements to address congestion issues could be compromised, as would the ability to build real-time crime maps and deploy data analytics which make predictive policing and more effective crowd management possible. Cloud-based technologies Cloud-based technologies provide the interoperability, scalability and automation Cloud-based technologies provide the interoperability, scalability and automation that is needed to overcome the limitations of traditional security systems. Using these, smart cities can develop a fully open systems architecture that delivers interoperation with both local and other remote open systems. The intelligence of cloud systems can not only continue to allow for greater insights as technology develops over time, but it can do so with minimal additional infrastructure investment. Smart surveillance in the real world Mexico City has a population of almost 9 million people, but if you include the whole metropolitan area, this number rises sharply to over 21 million in total, making it one of the largest cities on the planet. Seven years ago, the city first introduced its Safe City initiative, and ever since has been developing newer and smarter ways to keep its citizens safe. In particular, its cloud-based security initiative is making a huge impact. Over the past three years, Mexico City has installed 58,000 new video surveillance cameras throughout the city, in public spaces and on transport, all of which are connected to the City’s C5 (Command, Control, Computers, Communications and Citizen Contact) facility. Smart Cities operations The solution enables officers as well as the general public to upload videos via a mobile app to share information quickly, fixed, body-worn and vehicle cameras can also be integrated to provide exceptional insight into the city’s operations. The cloud-based platform can easily be upgraded to include the latest technology innovations such as license plate reading, behavioral analysis software, video analytics and facial recognition software, which will all continue to bring down crime rates and boost response times to incidents. The right cloud approach Making the shift to cloud-based systems enables smart cities to eliminate dependence on fiber-optic connectivity and take advantage of a variety of Internet and wireless connectivity options that can significantly reduce application and communication infrastructure costs. Smart cities need to be effective in years to come, not just in the present day, or else officials have missed one of the key aspects of a truly smart city. System designers must build technology foundations now that can be easily adapted in the future to support new infrastructure as it becomes available. Open system architecture An open system architecture will also be vital for smart cities to enhance their operations For example, this could include opting for a true cloud application that can support cloud-managed local devices and automate their management. An open system architecture will also be vital for smart cities to enhance their operations and deliver additional value-add services to citizens as greater capabilities become possible in the years to come. The advances today in cloud and IoT technologies are rapid, and city officials and authorities have more options now to develop their smart cities than ever before and crucially, to use these innovations to improve public safety. New safety features Though implementing these cloud-based systems now requires investment, as new safety features are designed, there will be lower costs and challenges associated with introducing these because the basic infrastructure will already exist. Whether that’s gunshot detection or enabling the sharing of video infrastructure and data across multiple agencies in real time, smart video surveillance on cloud-based systems can bring a wealth of the new opportunities.

When 150,000 video surveillance cameras get hacked, it’s big news. Even if the main reason for the hack was to make a point. Even if the major consequence is bad publicity for a video company (and, by extension, the entire video surveillance industry). The target of the hack was Silicon Valley startup Verkada, which has collected a massive trove of security-camera data from its 150,000 surveillance cameras inside hospitals, companies, police departments, prisons and schools. Previously, Verkada has been known for an aggressive sales approach and its intent to disrupt the traditional video market. The data breach was accomplished by an international hacker collective and was first reported by Bloomberg. The reported reasons for the hack were “lots of curiosity, fighting for freedom of information and against intellectual property, a huge dose of anti-capitalism, a hint of anarchism – and it’s also just too much fun not to do it,” according to Bloomberg. Tesla amongst those impacted The “fun” included access to a video showing the inside of a Florida hospital, where eight hospital staffers tackled a man and pinned him to the bed. Inside a Massachusetts police station, officers are seen questioning a man in handcuffsA view inside a Tesla warehouse in Shanghai, China, showed workers on an assembly line. Inside a Massachusetts police station, officers are seen questioning a man in handcuffs. There are even views from Verkada security cameras inside Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut, where a gunman killed more than 20 people in 2012. In a “security update” statement, Verkada reports: “Our internal security experts are actively investigating the matter. Out of an abundance of caution, we have implemented additional security measures to restrict account access and further protect our customers.” Hacking was possible due to built-in feature The hacker group was able to obtain “root” access on the cameras, meaning they could use the cameras to execute their own code, reports Bloomberg. Obtaining this degree of access to the camera did not require any additional hackingUsing that access, they could pivot and obtain access to the broader corporate network of Verkada’s customers or hijack the cameras and use them as a platform to launch future hacks, the hackers told Bloomberg. Obtaining this degree of access to the camera did not require any additional hacking, as it was a built-in feature. Elisa Costante, VP of research for cybersecurity firm Forescout, calls the Verkada security camera hack "shocking." "Connected cameras are supposed to provide an additional layer of security to organizations that install them,” she says. “Yet, as the Verkada security camera breach has shown, the exact opposite is often true. [It is worrisome that] the attack wasn't even very sophisticated and didn't involve exploiting a known or unknown vulnerability. The bad actors simply used valid credentials to access the data stored on a cloud server.” Super Admin account had access to all cameras Hackers gained access to Verkada through a “Super Admin” account, allowing them to peer into the cameras of all of its customers. They found a username and password for an administrator account publicly exposed on the internet, according to Bloomberg. The hackers lost access to the video feeds and archives after Bloomberg contacted Verkada.Hackers lost access to the video feeds and archives after Bloomberg contacted Verkada The results could have been worse, says Costante. "In this case, the bad actors have seemingly only resorted to viewing the footage these cameras have captured. But they are likely able to cause a lot more damage if they choose to do so, as our own research team has discovered. We were able to intercept, record and replace real-time footage from smart cameras by exploiting unencrypted video streaming protocols and performing a man-in-the-middle attack. This effectively gives criminals a virtual invisibility cloak to physically access premises and wreak havoc in the real world.” Impact on broader video surveillance industry The impact of a well-publicised cyber-attack on the broader video surveillance industry is also a concern. “As an industry, and as manufacturers in physical security, we cannot take these hacks lightly,” says Christian Morin, CSO & Vice-President of Integrations & Cloud Services, Genetec. “The potential broad-reaching impact of these hacks on physical security systems, including providing a beachhead to facilitate lateral movement onto networks, resulting in data and privacy breaches or access to critical assets and infrastructure, cannot be overstated. It is our responsibility and duty to users of our technology to prioritise data privacy and cybersecurity in the development, distribution, and deployment of video surveillance systems.” Widespread government and healthcare use The Verkada cameras are in widespread use within government and healthcare, which are by far the company’s most dominant verticals. Lesser verticals for them are manufacturing, financial and retail.The Verkada website pledges to take privacy seriously Verkada’s line of hybrid cloud security cameras combines edge-based processing with the capabilities of cloud computing. Cameras analyse events in real-time, while simultaneously leveraging computer vision technology for insights that bring speed and efficiency to incidents and investigations. Command, Verakda’s centralised web-based platform, provides users with access to footage they need. Motion detection, people analytics, and vehicle analytics enable searches across an organization to find relevant footage. The Verkada website pledges to take privacy seriously: “We are passionate about developing products that enhance the security and privacy of organizations and individuals. We believe that well-built, user-friendly systems make it easier to manage and secure physical environments in ways that respect the privacy of individuals while simultaneously keeping them safe.”

The cloud is here to stay. Its resilience and ability to connect the world during the COVID-19 pandemic has proved its worth, even to the uninitiated who have now witnessed first-hand the value of connected systems. Video and access control as a service provides a flexible and fluid security and business solution to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving industry, where the changing threat landscape means investing in the cloud is an investment towards success. This article will look back at our articles in 2020 about the growing popularity of cloud solutions for physical security, with links to the original content. Product offering While most people agree on the definition of “cloud,” there are several points about the terminology that may require clarification. Private cloud or public cloud? VSaaS or unlimited storage for video? Beyond the basics, the terms become foggy, reflecting a variety of notions about how cloud services fit into the broader physical security marketplace. As cloud usage becomes more popular, it’s important that marketers be precise in their terminology, and that integrators and end users be diligent in understanding the specifics of available product offerings. Different meanings “The cloud has many different possible connotations, depending on the context,” says Yu Hao Lin of Rasilient Systems, one of our Expert Roundtable panelists. For example, corporate CIOs will more likely understand the cloud to be a private cloud platform. As such, the public cloud is a ubiquitous term while the private cloud is more specified. Cloud system security Security of cloud systems is an ongoing discussion in the industry, especially how cloud system cybersecurity compares to that of on-premise systems. Our Expert Panel Roundtable weighed in on this question. “While both kinds of security systems serve their purpose, it can be argued that the streamlined updates that are commonplace with cloud-based solutions may put them at more of an advantage when it comes to data security,” says panelist Eric Widlitz of Vanderbilt Industries. “Also, most reputable cloud-based solutions are running in secured data centers by companies such as Google, Microsoft, or Amazon, so you also get to take advantage of all the security layers they have protecting your data.” Hybrid cloud video security solution A growing list of cloud players reinforces the importance of the cloud in the future of physical security There are several relatively new companies pushing cloud in a big way. Verkada is fast-growing company currently currently focusing to deliver an all-in-one hybrid cloud video security solution powered by edge processing inside the camera. The growing list of cloud players reinforces the importance of the cloud in the future of physical security. Combining AI and cloud video One company investing in the cloud is Eagle Eye Networks, which has raised $40 million of Series E funding from venture capital firm Accel to finance the realization of their vision to combine AI and cloud video. The money will allow Eagle Eye to continue its steep growth curve and leverage AI on its true cloud platform to reshape video surveillance. “The investment will make video surveillance smarter and safer for end-users,” says Ken Francis, President. Eagle Eye offers an application programming interface (API) to enable the integration of best-in-breed third-party AI and analytics systems to leverage the video. Eagle Eye is also investing in its own AI development and hiring additional development and customer service personnel. Hirsch Velocity Cirrus and MobilisID Identiv introduced the Hirsch Velocity Cirrus cloud-based Access Control as a Service (ACaaS) solution and MobilisID smart mobile physical access control solution. Hirsch Velocity Cirrus is an optimal solution for both end-users and integrators, with lower upfront costs, reduced maintenance, enhanced portability, and the future-proof assurance of automatic security updates and feature sets.  MobilisID is a smart mobile physical access control solution that uses Bluetooth and capacitive technologies to allow frictionless access to a controlled environment without the need to present a credential. Advantages and disadvantages Advantages of cloud-based physical security technologies are many, when supporting staffThe advantages of cloud-based physical security technologies are many, and have wide-ranging applications for all areas of the transport sector; across stations, transport hubs, and vehicles. When used to support staff and complement existing processes, such systems can prove invaluable for transport professionals in helping to create a safer working environment, promoting confidence among personnel and passengers, and assuring passengers who are fearful about the current pandemic that all possible precautions are being taken during their journey. 5G supporting cloud-based applications 5G is the first communication environment that is cloud-native. As such, 5G networks will support cloud-based applications in a way that 4G, 3G and 2G can’t support. For instance, sensors (e.g. in a manufacturing plant) often have small internal storage and rely on synced devices (e.g. gateways) to interact with the cloud. Soon, these sensors will be able to work more efficiently, interacting with the cloud via the ultra-low latency and the edge computing capabilities supported by 5G networks. Increasing use of IoT Unlike current IoT services that make performance trade-offs to get the best from these existing wireless technologies, 5G networks will be designed to bring the high levels of performance needed for the increasing use of IoT. It will enable a perceived fully ubiquitous connected world, with the boosted capacity offered by 5G networks transferring exponentially more data at a much quicker rate.

Most customers interface with their financial institutions using automated teller machines (ATMs), which have security issues. However, there are solutions available to combat all current security threats, and the cost of protection is coming down. The ATM industry is therefore in a position to minimize losses, while ensuring consumers continue to get the vital cash they need to lead their daily lives. It is important for the ATM industry to constantly innovate to meet new security challenges. So what innovations are we going to see in the next five years?   Contactless Technology Contactless technology will be a great help against ATM skimming, in which criminals steal personal information at ATM machines. Contactless is already being used in some European countries, and the number is increasing. Not having to insert a card into the ATM removes the opportunity to trap cards and also gets around the problem of “foreign” devices installed to read cards. So contactless technology, which some saw as the end of cash, can help make ATMs and cash more secure. Biometrics are certain to be used increasingly to bolster ATM security. Finger, palm, vein, iris and facial recognition all have potential in this respect. Any of these may in the future be used with or without cards, PINs and one-time codes. Speed of operation in relation to biometrics could ultimately govern their use at ATMs. There may also be privacy issues that need to be addressed. The ATM vestibule environment must add security with proper security and surveillance equipment. ATM vestibules, or lobbies, are installed for many good reasons. For one, more convenient, 24/7 locations equals better customer retention for a bank, offering comfort and convenience. 24/7 access to ATMs, night drops, coin counters, online banking kiosks, and other self-service solutions are very much in demand. Second, ATM vestibules protect customers from inclement weather and provide a more comfortable banking environment (however, vagrancy can be an issue; therefore ATM vestibules should require card access). Security and surveillance solutions can’t just be for show. ATMs And Crime A new crime wave is hitting automated teller machines (ATMs); the common banking appliances are being rigged to spit out their entire cash supplies into a criminal’s waiting hands. The crime is called “ATM jackpotting” and has targeted banking machines located in grocery shops, pharmacies and other locations in Taiwan, Europe, Latin America and the United States. Rough estimates place the total amount of global losses at up to $60 million. The Protection Of ATMs ATMs in supermarkets and pharmacies tend to be targeted because they may not be as well-protected, and store personnel likely would not know who is authorized to work on the ATM. In contrast, anyone approaching an ATM at a bank location would be more likely to be challenged. ATM jackpotting originated back in 2010 when Barnaby Jack, a New Zealand hacker and computer expert, demonstrated how he could exploit two ATMs and make them dispense cash on the stage at the Black Hat computer security conference in Las Vegas. Since then, malware has been created and made available on the “Dark Web” that can instruct an ATM to dispense all its cash on demand. ATM Jackpotting ATM jackpotting is a combination of a physical crime and a cyberattack. Typically, a criminal with a fake ID enters a grocery shop or pharmacy posing as an ATM technician, then uses a crowbar to open the top of the ATM – the “top hat” – to gain access to the personal computer that operates the machine. Once he or she has access to the PC, they remove the hard drive, disable any anti-virus software, install a malware program, replace the hard drive and then reboot the computer. The whole operation takes about 30 seconds. The malware then enables the thief to remotely control the ATM and direct it to dispense all its cash on command. If a legitimate customer approaches the machine in the meantime, it can operate as usual until activated otherwise by the malware.

Two renowned systems integrators have improved their ability to more effectively specify and design advanced physical security systems, using the dedicated tool, AXIS Site Designer. AXIS Site Designer AXIS Site Designer is a unique and free web application from Axis Communications, a market renowned company in network video solutions, which makes the specification and design of complex security systems quicker and easier. Having recently deployed the solution, two of Axis partners, Southern Fire & Security Ltd. and Acctive Systems, have been able to evidence a more sophisticated process and have won clients as a result. Security devices and sensors As physical security technology continues to advance, in order to keep up with the ever-evolving threat landscape, coupled with more security devices and sensors being added to IT networks, the task of specifying such systems has become more complex. The principal challenges for those working in the industry are to be able to properly illustrate to buyers the capabilities of such devices and also to demonstrate how they can work together to secure a site. This web application holds the solution. Powerful and versatile design tool AXIS Site Designer revolutionizes the specification and design process AXIS Site Designer revolutionizes the specification and design process, by allowing an entire solution to be mapped out to the finest detail. The powerful and highly versatile tool removes any guesswork or element of trial and error, making it easy to create the right system to fit the exact operational requirements and needs of a prospect or client. The application even allows floor plans of the target site to be added, and virtual placement of cameras and devices enables viewing of the coverage they will provide, once installed. Partner with Southern Fire & Security and Acctive Systems Sean Mcnaboe, Axis Communications’ Key Account Manager, explains “The benefits of AXIS Site Designer are numerous. It helps streamline design workflow, simplify demos of security products and accessories, and even generate quotations and change items in a bill of materials within minutes.” Sean Mcnaboe adds, “Axis has been working closely with two partners, Southern Fire & Security and Acctive Systems, to help them drive their businesses forward while meeting, and often exceeding, the evolving requirements of customers.” Security and surveillance systems specification Southern Fire & Security has recently taken on the specification of security and surveillance systems for several high value properties around the London area, so being able to accurately specify dedicated solutions is critical to secure ongoing business. Acctive Systems, a renowned integrator of electronic security systems, needed a method of specifying security systems that would allow it to demonstrate an entire setup and its component parts via digital means. Efficient designing of surveillance systems AXIS Site Designer is an empowering leap forward in the design of surveillance systems Steve Wilson, Director at Southern Fire & Security, explains “Being able to make only basic recommendations around the use of appropriate technologies has been a key challenge for us. It’s very difficult to plan some of the more involved projects in detail, so we desperately needed a way to be able to visualize an entire estate and how a solution would operate.” AXIS Site Designer is an empowering leap forward in the design of surveillance systems, allowing for greater speed and efficiency, and enabling more effective management of any project. Enhancing customer satisfaction High quality designs and other outputs create a level of professionalism that is a major plus point when vying for business, ultimately improving customer satisfaction and pointing towards greater revenue prospects. Gerry Numa, the Chief Technical Officer (CTO) of Acctive Systems, said “AXIS Site Designer delivers everything we anticipated, and more, setting us ahead of our competitors when it comes to slick, professional looking project design. I would encourage other businesses to reach out to Axis to find out how the application can benefit them too.”

Marriott International Inc. is a hospitality company and the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center is a Marriott property in the world. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, Gaylord Opryland offers visitors the chance to experience Music City under a single roof. The resort has a hotel with over 3000 suites and rooms and a smaller adjacent hotel with more than 300. Risk assessment Ryman Hospitality, the organization that owns Gaylord Brand Hotels, decided to embark on a risk assessment of their properties in 2017. The third-party assessors discovered that CCTV systems were lacking in all of the hotels, including at the Gaylord Opryland Resort. According to Greg Pezzo, Gaylord Opryland Resort and Attractions’ Safety and Security Director, “The system consisted of old operating systems and cameras that didn’t all work. The security team could not get consistent playback from all of their cameras, and they were not able to store data for more than a few weeks at a time.” As a result of the risk assessment, ownership decided to invest in a complete upgrade of all its hotels and chose the Gaylord Opryland as its test case. Their strategy was to use Opryland as the model and then upgrade their other five Gaylord hotels following its success. Installation of multidirectional cameras Working with integrator Herring Technology, Ryman Hospitality designed a solution that features a new video management system (VMS) from Milestone Systems and 400 state-of-the-art cameras from Hanwha Techwin. The Resort purchased a variety of Hanwha cameras, including 145 XND-6010 full HD cameras with video analytics, 182 Q series indoor and outdoor dome cameras with IR, and more than 20 PNM 7000 and 9000 multi-directional cameras. Deciding where to place their cameras was a relatively simple process. Pezzo explains, “We added cameras where we had high volume, where we had experienced problems in the past, and where we didn’t previously have cameras at all.” They also looked at their own data relating to theft and other incidents to help determine camera location. High-quality imaging camera The surveillance system and the cameras are helping to protect the resort against liability from potential lawsuits According to Pezzo, one of the main functions of their upgraded system is protecting the resort against false claims. He states, “From a claims perspective, this surveillance system and, specifically, these cameras are helping to protect us against liability from potential lawsuits.” He explains, “Our older security camera images are grainy or black and white, which means we could not get the level of detail we needed. But, with Hanwha cameras, we are able to capture high-quality images in real-time that show us, for example, how a guest fell: whether there was an obstruction, water on the floor, an indentation, or whether the guest simply tripped.” The ability to protect the organization against potential lawsuits equates to significant ROI for the Resort. Easy to keep track of movement As a result of the upgrade, security is easily able to track persons of interest clearly as they move throughout the resort. Says Pezzo, “With 3000 rooms and a million square feet of property, the ability to see an individual this clearly as they move through our spaces is incredible. In the past, we would lose people in uncovered sections. They would just disappear. But that doesn’t happen anymore.” For the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center, the upgrade had an immediate impact. According to Pezzo, “On the first day after installing the new cameras, someone attempted a false claim, but we were easily able to prove that it was not our fault.” For 2021, the Resort plans to invest in more new cameras every few months as the budget becomes available.

Videosoft's adaptive low bandwidth video streaming technology has been selected and installed on the Mayflower Autonomous Ship (MAS), in order to help relay high-quality footage of the ship’s various missions, back to humans on land. On its maiden voyage this spring, the Mayflower Autonomous Ship will trace the route of the famous 1620 Mayflower ship, sailing from Plymouth, in the United Kingdom to Plymouth, in Massachusetts, USA. Only this time, there will be no human captain or crew on board, as the 15 meters, lightweight, hybrid-electric powered trimaran (multi-hull vessel) crosses the Atlantic Ocean. Real-time feedback and visuals Videosoft’s technology will help capture footage from the Mayflower's six onboard cameras at sea. Using satellite connectivity and compression technologies, footage will be transmitted back to AI developers and research scientists, providing them real-time feedback and visuals, during the mission. It will also be used to provide the media and public with updates about interesting events that occur during the ship’s ocean adventures. “The ability to receive live video feed from the ship using minimal communication bandwidth is a game changer for us,” said Don Scott, the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of the Mayflower Autonomous Ship for Marine AI. Reliable monitoring of the live situation Videosoft provides real-time telepresence, allowing us to reliably monitor the live situation" Don Scott adds, “Videosoft provides real-time telepresence, allowing us to reliably monitor the live situation and give us confidence in the vehicle’s operation at sea. It has already been an invaluable tool during sea trials and we look forward to having the live feed during the voyage itself.” The international grassroots project is led by marine research organization, ProMare, alongside IBM, which is acting as both lead technology partner and lead scientific partner, with other key design and construction partners, including MSubs, Aluship (Aluship Technology) and Marine AI. AI Captain with computer vision technology With an AI Captain at the helm, MAS is able to operate for long distances and durations at sea collecting critical data about the ocean. Powered by IBM’s computer vision, automation, and machine learning technologies, the AI Captain maintains constant situational awareness and makes decisions about what to do next in line with collision regulations.       Small, lightweight edge devices from NVIDIA provide local computer power for operational independence, relying on IBM Cloud connectivity when available. Cutting-edge video streaming solution Videosoft was selected for its cutting-edge video streaming solution and its ability to reliably stream video from onboard cameras and computer vision systems, which scan the horizon for hazards, as the Mayflower Autonomous Ship sails. Videosoft's software runs on IBM's platform, which skippers the vessel and is linked via satellite. Videosoft's Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Stewart McCone said, “This project is designed to transform humanity’s relationship with the ocean. To say we're totally thrilled to be involved in the Mayflower Autonomous Ship project would be an understatement.” Stewart McCone adds, “By working alongside innovative and specialist companies, who are experts in their field and have an intimate knowledge of what they are doing, Videosoft is enabling the ambitions of this multi-million-pound project. Streaming live video from ocean-going vessels is not straightforward and you really need to know what you're doing to pull it off successfully.” Intelligent transmission protocol An intelligent transmission protocol is required to maintain connectivity" He further stated, “An intelligent transmission protocol is required to maintain connectivity. In addition to switching between satellite and cellular networks, variable signal strength, the topography of network masts, atmospheric conditions, satellite capabilities, speed, and variables all impact the available bandwidth.” Stewart McCone said, “Videosoft, which has developed software specifically for the satellite and cellular industry, to negate the typical issues that arise when using such networks, has made it possible to have eyes on the ocean 24/7. The unique protocols that the Videosoft team has built into our software mean that any video delay from the Mayflower will be dramatically reduced, with any streamed video automatically adapting to the amount of available bandwidth, while retaining good quality.” Real-time situational awareness Stewart continues, “Even in our knowledge-rich industry, not many people realize that this can be done, but it can and is relatively simple to put in place, thanks to our easy-to-use software platform. As with CCTV, IoT and surveillance applications, Videosoft's ability to provide reliable video streams creates a real-time situational awareness that is critical to the operational success of projects, such as the Mayflower Autonomous Ship.” He further adds, “The Videosoft vision has always been to get involved in pioneering projects, such as the Mayflower and serves to underpin Videosoft's mission statement of deploying technology to solve real-world problems at the highest global level, using video and remote services, to make the world be a better, safer place. We're showing that this specialist tech does exist and that we can enable all Internet of Things (IoT) applications for the common good. If that interests you, come and talk to us.”

82% of schools and colleges in both the US and Northern Europe see a potential role for CCTV/video monitoring systems in supporting a safe return to face-to-face teaching in school buildings and across further education college campuses, following the pandemic. Many schools and colleges have already adapted their video monitoring systems. For example, half (50%) of all those in charge of these systems had already adapted their existing video systems to help manage social distancing. A further 34% planned to use their systems for this purpose within the next 12 months.  Video monitoring systems The AVA Security Education Sector Security Survey provides a wealth of data and insight linked to how Operations, Security, and IT directors and managers within educational establishments in the US, Norway, Sweden, and the UK, are adapting their video monitoring or CCTV systems in the wake of the pandemic. Nearly four of every 10 (38%) educational institutions were already using their video monitoring systems to trace all student, staff, and visitor movements in, out, and around their premises and grounds to protect everyone from infection. A further 46% planned to configure these systems for this same purpose within the next 12 months. Safe-specific video analytics Nearly a third (29%) was already using their existing video systems to help provide temperature level health checks at some building entrances. A further 43% planned to enable temperature checking via their CCTV systems within the next year. Interestingly, 41% had already deployed their video systems for reporting on class or lecture hall occupancy levels and people density levels in retail areas, dining facilities, and other leisure areas where students congregate. A further 41% said they were planning to add this capability via their video systems over the next 12 months. Contactless access control The education sector is a  deployer of facial recognition analytics in existing cameras  Mask detection analytics is also being widely deployed in US and Northern Europe’s schools and colleges: 35% had already deployed video analytics software now available for alerting security staff when teachers or students are inside a building but not wearing a mask. A further 31% planned to deploy mask detection analytics within the next 12 months. However, the education sector is a more cautious deployer of facial recognition analytics in existing cameras to enable visual identification and contactless access control in the interests of reducing COVID infection via card touch-in gates. Only 22 percent of schools and colleges have deployed facial recognition to date, although this is set to more than double as 29% over the next 12 months. Reduced VMS costs The biggest challenge of supporting all these changes appears to be paying for them: 31% of those in charge of video monitoring systems had already seen a significant reduction in budgets available for upgrading and improving video monitoring capabilities in the last year. A further 29% had seen a small reduction in budgets over the same timeframe. A further 8% thought fresh budget cuts were likely in 2021. Cybersecurity has become a key IT priority As IT, Operations, and Security staff have had to run systems as well as teaching remotely during the pandemic, there has been an increased focus on cybersecurity to protect access to vital data and online learning resources.  Just in the last few weeks, the University of Hertfordshire experienced a major cyberattack which led to the shutting down of key online learning apps including Zoom for students enrolled there. Over a third (35%) of educational institutions’ decision-makers questioned thought it ‘very likely’ that they would need to place a ‘larger focus on cybersecurity for all devices and applications that are networked’ as one impact of the pandemic. A further 48% thought an increased cybersecurity focus was ‘likely’. Linked to this, 27% of directors and managers running video security systems in schools and colleges saw an improvement to the video ‘system’s resilience and back-up systems/procedures’ as a ‘High Priority’ improvement that they needed to implement to protect video data this year, while a further 44% saw it as ‘Somewhat a Priority’. Smarter, easier to use video systems There was some disquiet about the quality of existing video systems’ core capabilities, the Ava Security research found. For example, 29% thought it was a ‘High Priority’ to improve the speed of finding and retrieving video evidence after a security or safety incident. A further 40% saw it as ‘Somewhat a Priority’ to improve the systems’ retrieval capabilities to find ‘required footage of incidents easier and quicker. It currently takes too long.’ Further, 22% saw the need for ‘better integration between video monitoring camera systems and other security-related systems, such as access control or alarm systems’ as a ‘High Priority’, while over half (57%) saw wider security systems integration as ‘Somewhat a Priority’ now. Nearly two-thirds (66%) of video monitoring system decision-makers in the education sector were keen to make their video monitoring systems ‘more intelligent, using video analytics to support better post-event decision-making’ – placing this improvement as either a ‘High Priority’ or ‘Somewhat a Priority’. Cloud on the horizon 73% of the education sector is experiencing accelerated cloud migration Others were more focused on Cloud Migration of more IT Systems. Over half (51%) confirmed that their cloud migration plans had been accelerated in 2020/21 and a further 32% confirmed that a new budget had already been allocated for moving more services into the cloud in the financial year 2020/21. That means that altogether (net) 73% of the education sector is experiencing accelerated cloud migration. Linked to this, the same study uncovered that 58% found ‘adoption of Video Surveillance as a Service (VSaaS) i.e., moving their video monitoring system into the cloud’, as a ‘net priority’ for improving and optimizing their video monitoring systems looking forward. VSaaS selection criteria For the 82% of all education respondents actively considering VSaaS options right now, there were many criteria determining provider selection. Nearly nine out of 10 net (87%) considering VSaaS right now, agreed with the statement ‘It must have very strong cybersecurity, including end-to-end encryption from the camera to the cloud.’ The VSaaS selected must also offer a reduction in the ‘Total Cost of Ownership of our video monitoring system’, according to 48% of educational institutions considering migration to VSaaS. Further, 45% of decision-makers questioned insisted on greater ease of use, supporting the statement ‘It must be configurable and operable by non-IT people’. Third-party cameras While 24% of education sector decision-makers considering VSaaS, said it was critical that the provider was not headquartered in mainland China. A net 80% of video monitoring system decision-makers in the education sector also considered it important that the VSaaS selected ‘must allow us to continue using our existing third party cameras which we have already installed, we don’t want to rip & replace any equipment.' A net 80% considering VSaaS also confirmed ‘It must allow us to view their directly attached cloud cameras alongside our third-party cameras on the same interface’. Further, the same number of respondents (net 80%) considered it net important (either ‘very’ or ‘quite important’) that the VSaaS ‘must allow us to use our existing Video Management Software (VMS) or provide the same functionality as we get from our VMS’. Latest analytic capabilities An even higher number, net 84%, regarded it as important that the VSaaS selected ‘must enable us to run the latest video analytics capabilities such as occupancy levels for social distance management (in a room), noise analytics (e.g., breaking glass, screaming, yelling, etc), people and vehicle search, object searching and color searching’. Balance of power The Ava study also explored whether the events of the last year had prompted changes in terms of who looks after the management of video monitoring systems. There was some evidence in the education sector that as CCTV has increasingly been migrated onto the network, IT departmental control is increasing. According to the study, nearly a third (31%) of schools and colleges’ video systems passed more control of their video monitoring systems to their IT department – taking the total percentage of video systems run by IT in the education sector to 39%. However, security and/or facilities management still holds the balance of power in the running of these systems with 50%, with 24% gaining responsibility for video monitoring during the pandemic. Only 4% of systems confirmed they had fully outsourced video system management and 7% confirmed that more of the management, upgrading, and running of their systems had been outsourced over the last year. Workspace management technologies Ava Security also found evidence that the education sector is an early adopter of other workspace technologies designed to make it easier for students to manage the use of school and college facilities while minimizing the risk of COVID infection. For example, 52% of educational institutions captured in the Ava study expressed interest in offering staff and students the capability of remote pre-booking of working areas in libraries, classrooms, and lecture halls and pre-registering students via mobile-ready apps. Nearly four out of every 10 people responsible for managing video monitoring in their school or college (38%) felt remote booking of extra cleaning of surfaces before or after classes would be a useful innovation. Cybersecurity is critical to VSaaS selection There is a strong determination to adapt existing school surveillance systems to new COVID-safe requirements" Vegard Aas, Head of Online Business at Ava Security, commented, “The fact that four out of five education sector video monitoring system decision-makers are already actively considering VSaaS and weighing up criteria for selection is very encouraging." “There is also clearly a strong determination to adapt existing school video surveillance systems to new COVID-safe requirements. And the fact that a third (32%) confirmed that a new budget had already been allocated for moving more services into the cloud this year provides significant scope for optimism as we enhance our VSaaS offering with Ava Cloud Connector for example, which enables those running systems to plug existing third party cameras into Ava’s open Aware Cloud platform.” Cloud Connector Ava Security recently launched its Cloud Connector offering to enable video security system owners easy and cost-effective transition of video security solutions to the cloud. This brings Ava’s advanced real-time video analytics and proactive security to existing surveillance cameras by integrating them with Ava’s open Aware Cloud platform. Ava’s Cloud Connector eliminates the need to rip and replace existing video security devices to directly reap the cost and operational efficiencies of a true cloud service.

The developer of innovative behavioral recognition systems for real-time video intelligence, has recently deployed a new installation in the city of Eilat, Israel to detect, predict and analyze events of interests in real-time and alert authorities of crowding, violent/suspicious activity, traffic or crowd congestion, and more. Deployment of the unique behavioral analytics solution was fast-tracked in preparation for the large number of tourists who typically flood the city during the Passover and upcoming holiday season. viisights behavioral analytics are integrated into the city’s extensive surveillance system, which includes over 300 cameras that are monitored at a centrally located command and control center. viisights can monitor hundreds of cameras in real-time, and upon recognition or prediction of unusual behavior a command center operator receives an immediate alert and can notify the authorities. Latest advancements in imaging technology viisights behavioural analytics employ AI to autonomously detect, analyse, and understand actions and events Eilat is the first city in Israel to advance Israel’s smart city “City without Violence” initiative. Avinoam Nahari, Director of the city’s information methods and systems division in charge of the project, stated that the viisights behavioral analytics solution enables the city to quickly and efficiently address abnormal events for the benefit of its residents and visitors’ safety and security. Maya Scheyer, VP of Global Business Development and Sales at viisights, stated that the company’s innovative behavioral analytics leverage the latest advancements in imaging technology to deliver new benchmarks in video intelligence that transcend traditional real-time surveillance monitoring and forensics by providing actionable intelligence to minimize liabilities and prevent incidents from escalating. Unlike conventional video analytics that use old pixel technology to recognize static objects and classify objects, viisights behavioral analytics employ Artificial Intelligence (AI) to autonomously detect, analyze, and understand actions and events. This unprecedented level of video understanding is based on a unique implementation of deep neural networks capable of analyzing and defining specific activities using video streams from conventional security cameras. Maintain the public’s safety and security Eilat deployed the viisights solution to autonomously increase situational awareness and generate alerts on events of interest such as crowding events in areas and locations where COVID-19 guidelines are not being followed, predicting gatherings by monitoring traffic and people’s movement towards a certain location, and more. We’re proud of this innovative system which will enable us to maintain the public’s safety and security" Eli Lankri, Deputy and Acting Mayor of Eilat leading the Israel’s Smart City program said, “As a city that ranks high in Israel’s smart cities index, we’re proud of this innovative system which will enable us to maintain the public’s safety and security, and its health under the current COVID-19 pandemic”. Prevent the spread of COVID-19 Asaf Birenzvieg, viisights CEO added, “We’re proud to take part in this national effort and provide a critical component of the “City without Violence” project to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and get life back on track while maintaining the COVID-19 guidelines. Given Eilat’s status as one of Israel’s most popular tourism cities, we are extremely proud to be part of this national effort.” In addition to adding to Eilat’s image as pioneering the country’s smart city initiative, the municipality is a “living lab” for new technologies in various fields. Examples include a renewable electricity system that handles 70% of daytime power needs, smart transportation, travel technologies, smart lighting and gardening systems, environmental monitoring technology with sensors located throughout the city to detect radiation, air and noise pollution, and more.

One of the largest universities in the capital, London South Bank University, commissioned Optyma Security Systems to upgrade its access control database with SALTO SPACE management software. London South Bank University (LSBU) is one of London’s largest and oldest universities. Since 1892 it has been improving the lives of students, businesses, and the local community. As a cosmopolitan university with over 18,000 students, it draws people from over 130 countries. Incumbent security specialists The university has two Campuses and four Halls of Residences, these being: Southwark Campus based at Elephant and Castle and consisting of numerous separate buildings and Havering Campus in Essex. They also have a third campus opening in September 2021 in Croydon. Optyma have been the incumbent security specialists providing maintenance Following a site review, it was recommended that the current SALTO system should be upgraded to the latest versions. Optyma have been the incumbent security specialists providing maintenance and reactive repairs for the CCTV, access control, and integrated intruder alarms across the whole campus since 2017. They also provide support with the integration of the access control and student enrollment/service databases. Potential blacklisting problems For this exercise, the principal aims were to: eliminate any potential blacklisting problems; bring the existing technology up to date; future proof the system, and install a web-based solution to allow for easier access. To achieve this, work was carried out at LSBU during the lockdown period to ensure downtime was kept to a minimum, with SALTO extracting all information required to be replicated in the new database and then incorporating and rebuilding a new database for the customer. SPACE was installed on the new SALTO server and connected to the rebuilt database. Optyma engineers then carried out the initialization of all hardware and re-enrollment of user cards across the campus. Access control technology SALTO’s SPACE smart access control technology platform is a fully integrated electronic locking and software solution that brings seamless access to every door in any building in an efficient, safe, secure, and accessible way. It provides an intuitive user-centric software interface that makes it simple and secure to incorporate access control It provides an intuitive user-centric software interface that makes it simple and secure to incorporate access control for any type of building size or user need. It’s powerful and flexible software allows each system operator to set up their own preferences: capabilities and security level, language settings, and others. It also offers several ways to integrate with third-party systems. This includes interfaces and APIs for connecting SALTO smart lock technology to video surveillance, vehicle access, biometrics, time & attendance, escape door control systems, intrusion alarm, and more. Ensuring seamless integration The new database now enables the university to easily manage and secure its access plan across all its facilities from a single point if needed. Their new SALTO SPACE software is designed to be easy and intuitive to use, allowing system administrators to manage doors and user keys in just a few easy steps, and in real-time. Optyma’s Managing Director, Ian Broadbridge, says: “Optyma are proud to continue to help keep our major educational establishments such as LSBU, safe and secure. Our team of skilled engineers and highly trained technical support staff worked closely with them, as our valued partners in the education sector, to ensure seamless integration and a fully functioning system without disruption to the universities essential work.”

As an industry, we often speak in buzzwords. In addition to being catchy and easy to remember, these new and trendy industry terms can also reflect the state of the security market’s technology. In short, the latest buzzwords provide a kind of shorthand description of where the industry is - and where it’s going. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What new buzzword(s) rose to prominence in the security industry in 2020? (And how do they reflect industry trends?)

A standard is a document that establishes uniform engineering or technical criteria, methods, processes, and/or practices. Standards surround every aspect of our business. For example, the physical security marketplace is impacted by industry standards, national and international standards, quality standards, building codes and even environmental standards, to name just a few. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How have standards changed the security market as we know it?

We live in an era of Big Data. Surrounded by a flood of information, more companies are looking for ways to analyze that information (data) and systematically extract intelligence that can help them operate more efficiently and profitably. The data obsession has extended to the physical security industry, too, where large amounts of data have historically been a little-used byproduct of our access control and even video systems. But the picture is changing. We asked this week's Expert Panel Roundtable: What impact are data analytics having on the security market?