Vehicle security

Videonetics, an AI & DL powered Unified Video Computing Platform (UVCP™) development company, proudly launches its third generation of Intelligent VMS that delivers unified, next-generation user interface, military-grade security, rugged with unprecedented levels of high availability and a future-ready solution, for any size of deployment across various industry verticals such as smart & safe cities, critical infrastructure, industrial, mass transit, education, healthcare, and retail to name a few. Building on more than a decade of R&D in the domain of video computing, computer vision, artificial intelligence, and machine learning-based technologies, Videonetics released its Intelligent VMS 3.0 encompasses multiple video computing services in a unified, homogenous software architecture platform and goes beyond mere capture-record-display generation of Video Management. Key differentiators Videonetics has been ranked #1 Video Management Software provider in India, and among the top 5 in Asia (IHS/Informa Tech Research). Some of the key differentiators of Videonetics Intelligent VMS 3.0 are as follows: Next-Generation User Interface The Intelligent VMS 3.0 offers a modernized user experience with an intuitive, responsive, adaptive, and friendly interface. The interface supports user-specific camera layouts, hierarchical camera groups to enable the user to multi-task and improve operational efficiency. Intelligent VMS supports all standard web browsers and provides mobile apps for both iOS and Android platforms. Highly Secured The Intelligent VMS 3.0 is cyber security-hardened to meet today’s evolving threat landscape, by ensuring data safety and accessibility only to the authorized personnel with security protection. It offers various security measures such as multi-factor authentication, SHA 256, RSA & AES encryptions, video watermarking, distributed storage management for critical data, and secured channel communication to name a few. Business Continuity DC-DR framework of Intelligent VMS 3.0 handles the challenges through a practical, flexible, and service-oriented architectureThe DC-DR (Data Center – Disaster Recovery) architecture of Intelligent VMS 3.0 is built considering the complexities of vast amounts of video data generated from a large number of cameras in the field, protecting the same from loss or corruption and transferring data to another location. The DC-DR framework addresses the challenges through practical, flexible, and service-oriented architecture. It ensures business continuity with minimum or no service disruption. Collaborative Vigilance The Intelligent VMS 3.0 features a collaborative surveillance platform for the operators to exchange messages and share observations. It offers features such as sharing camera views, importing operator screens, and a chat room for discussions. Geo-Fence Based Situational Awareness The Intelligent VMS 3.0 goes beyond conventional map-based viewing to geo-fence based situational awareness possibilities. Users can easily draw a virtual fence with geo coordinates or simply using the mouse to see relevant cameras within the fence with all the events of interest. The Intelligent VMS 3.0 also comes with a unique feature of neighborhood view in which a camera can be defined as a master camera which in turn can be associated with the nearby camera to provide a complete neighborhood view in case of any event of interest. It has ready integrations with map services such as Google Map, OpenStreetMap, etc. to provide drag-and-drop of the cameras for alerts, archived, and live video feeds. The in-built pencil tool helps in associating the cameras on the map for a quick geo-situational awareness. Scalable The scalability of Intelligent VMS 3.0 is unlimited by the design of the architecture. The computing nodes can be provisioned as and when required, and they auto-register themselves to the system with minimum configuration which makes it extremely easy to deploy. Cloud-Ready Intelligent VMS 3.0 comes with built-in readiness for deploying it on any cloud of customer’s choice Many of the large enterprises and in fact, even government organizations are now adopting the Cloud First policy and most of their business processes are already utilizing the benefits of Cloud these days. Intelligent VMS 3.0 comes with built-in readiness for deploying it over the cloud be it a public, private, or a hybrid cloud. It has been built on a cloud-agnostic stack to ensure that it can be deployed on any cloud of customer’s choice to ensure full flexibility, openness, and therefore the lowest cost of ownership. It comes with its own server resource orchestration technology, streaming service engine, and intelligent storage technology to help the customer take full advantage of the cloud setup. Intelligent VMS 3.0 also comes with ready integrations with popular cloud service providers. AI-Powered In the series of another first Intelligent VMS 3.0 comes with pre-integrated artificial intelligence and deep learning framework called DeeperLook™ – an indigenously designed highly efficient AI framework which ensures quick and easy deployment of AI-based video analytics use cases for various verticals. The framework offers over 100+ such as AI-based Video Analytics use cases for different industry segments. Authority statement On the launch, Dr. Tinku Acharya, Fellow IEEE, Founder & MD of Videonetics Technology Pvt Ltd expressed, “We are honored to introduce the third generation of Intelligent VMS, the future of Video Management, commits to addressing everyday challenges of users by handling cyberattack threats with multi-pronged security, 24x7 business continuity, unprecedented friendly experience, collaborative vigilance and much more.” “Video management software has always been the backbone of the effective security system of any installation, and the Intelligent VMS 3.0 brings a whole new level of user experience and support security professionals to manage safety, improve efficiency while reducing TCO." "Intelligent VMS 3.0 is a solution that you can invest in today and be confident it will be your solution for the future.”

FLIR Systems, Inc. has announced the release of Raymarine YachtSense, an advanced digital control system affording total command and complete awareness of a vessel’s electrical systems. The modular nature of the YachtSense system redefines the future of vessel automation for boat builders and technical installers. Raymarine YachtSense Engineered for reliability, flexibility, and ease-of-use, FLIR Systems’ Raymarine YachtSense offers a scalable, customizable and failsafe marine automation solution through intuitive control of onboard systems via any Raymarine Axiom multifunction display. YachtSense employs a unique, modular architecture that allows boat builders the freedom to design and standardize digital control solutions that are scalable across their entire model range. Each YachtSense system begins with the YachtSense Master Module and Power Supply Module and is completed with a combination of additional multi-channel signal modules. These individual modules interface with specific types of onboard devices and systems, from lighting, pumps, windlass, swim platforms and entertainment systems to climate control, generators, and other on-vessel mechanical systems. Customized Axiom user interface YachtSense is the new standard in premium digital control solution for today’s most sophisticated vessel" YachtSense’s customized Axiom user interface options empower marine manufacturers and installers to create modern and elegant vessel automation solutions. These give captains total control of every onboard system with simple, touchscreen operation from any Axiom multi-function display. “YachtSense is the new standard in premium digital control solution for today’s most sophisticated vessels,” said Gregoire Outters, General Manager for the Raymarine brand at FLIR Systems. Smart, modular and expandable system Gregoire adds, “Our smart, modular and expandable system gives total freedom to boat builders to design ultra-reliable and highly tailored solutions that best meet the individual needs of their specific vessels and customers.” Engineered to offer total peace of mind even during unexpected events, Raymarine YachtSense provides three levels of electrical redundancy. Master Modules feature an integrated keypad for manual override, as well as an LCD for system diagnostics. All YachtSense modules are housed in rugged IPX6 waterproof enclosures and are backed by a three-year warranty.

Axis Communications has launched AXIS Q6135-LE, a high-speed PTZ camera with OptimizedIR up to 250 m / 820 ft range. It features the new generation chip with improved imaging, enhanced security features, extended capabilities for analytics, and significantly more efficient video compression. The camera offers long-range OptimizedIR with IR-LEDs that adjust to the camera’s zoom to deliver superior videos in unlit or low-light conditions up to 250m /820 ft or more depending on the scene. Active object tracking This makes AXIS Q6135-LE perfect for dark open areas such as parks or when detail is required in alleys. It comes with autotracking 2 with click and track functionality, as well as orientation aid with dynamic overlays for active object tracking and quick orientation. And, with AXIS Object Analytics it’s possible to detect and classify humans and vehicles. Additionally, Lightfinder 2.0 ensures low-light images with more saturated colors in demanding light conditions and sharper images of moving objects. It includes enhanced security features such as signed firmware and secure boot to guarantee that the firmware hasn’t been altered and ensure only authorized firmware is installed. The camera also features a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) that’s FIPS 140-2 level 2 certified to ensure secure storage of all cryptographic keys and certificates so that they remain safe even in the event of a security breach. Axis Zipstream technology Key features include: HDTV 1080p with 31x optical zoom OptimizedIR (250 m/ 820 ft range) Axis Lightfinder 2.0 Autotracking 2 and orientation aid Axis Object Analytics This product offers Axis Zipstream technology with support for both H.264 and H.265 which significantly reduces bandwidth and storage requirements.

Beyond the warm and fuzzy factors, dogs have a long history of helping humans with their talented sense of smell that has been helpful for detecting hidden objects and people. To this end, dogs are still commonly used by security teams, police, and even militaries for guarding sensitive sites and uncovering contraband ranging from food and drugs to weapons and explosives. The case for using dogs has historically been an easy one to make. However, as one moves into the digital age, many organizations are starting to look outside at new technological options for thinking about how to secure the flow of traffic at sites such as border crossings, air and seaports, embassies, and other facilities that face an increased risk of smuggling or attack. Deployment of resources Dogs can be used for scenarios moving from checking traffic to crowds and other kinds of situations In hopes of gaining a better understanding of where dogs have the advantage over UVIS technology, and where the tech has them beat, UVeye decided to take a look at some of the pros and cons that come with using dogs as detection devices on four legs. Dogs can be used for different scenarios, moving from checking traffic to crowds and other kinds of use case situations. While there may be some period of adjustment to new surroundings, a dog can be easily transported from one crossing point or facility to another, providing their team with flexibility when it comes to deployment of resources. Looking at the company’s checkpoint case where vehicles are moving through, the dogs have the advantage in that they can be used to not only sniff at the edges beneath the car, but also around the interior where more items might be hidden in doors or under seats. Canine olfactory capabilities Probably the biggest advantage that the dogs have in their column is that they are frankly the most well-known option in the market. They have so far managed to stay ahead of many of the “sniffer” systems that attempt to simulate the canine olfactory capabilities not so much by their own stellar performance, but by the poor showing of the competition. Most of these devices have simply not advanced to the point where they are reliable enough for widespread adoption in either industry or government use. What the company sees in the field is that even as the dogs are considered to be the most commonly utilized option in the market, they have issues of their own that could impact their future in detection work. Accuracy percentages Strong smells like food, garbage, or even weather conditions can cover up the smell of the illicit items The issues that can arise when working with dogs for detection purposes can basically be broken down into two categories - accuracy failures and logistical. Despite having the bloodhound reputation for their super sniffers, dogs have been shown to have a less than stellar record when it comes to their detection accuracy rates. Statistics out of Australia found that “in 74 percent of cases where a sniffer dog indicated the presence of drugs on someone, no drugs were subsequently found.” Beyond the individual talents of each dog, which are trained to seek out specific materials (drugs, explosives, etc), external factors can also play a significant role in impacting their accuracy percentages. Strong smells like food, garbage, or even weather conditions can cover up the smell of the illicit items. Long term investment Logistical challenges such as the need to be in close proximity to a stationary vehicle slow down the number that can be inspected, often meaning that not every car or truck are inspected and that some are chosen at random. This opens the door to some percentage of illicit materials passing through. Weather and run of the mill exhaustion can also limit the amount of time that a dog can be active for inspections. There are also pipeline supply issues that affect the number of dogs available in the field. It takes roughly two years to train a dog, during which many who start in the course are likely to drop out due to incompatibility. At a cost of $25,000 per dog plus additional lifetime upkeep, and multiple dogs needed per unit/site, plus extra training and pay for handlers, these critters can be a heavy long term investment for any organization. Vehicle inspection innovations As a one-time purchase, they lower the lifetime expenditures needed for vehicle inspections Given these drawbacks, many organizations are on the lookout for new methods of inspecting vehicles. One of the technologies that has emerged in recent years is the under vehicle scanner (UVIS). Equipped with multiple cameras to capture high-quality images, which are then analyzed by artificial intelligence algorithms to detect anomalies that could be indicative of illicit materials, these systems come with a number of advantages over the furry friends. As a one-time purchase, they lower the lifetime expenditures needed for vehicle inspections. Since they rely on automated systems to scan, detect, and alert when necessary, under vehicle scanners are capable of inspecting hundreds of vehicles an hour without compromising on the accuracy and quality of each inspection. Under vehicle scanner systems also offer an easy to understand user interface (UI) that simplifies the process for teams. Imaging and detection With the superior imaging and detection, users are able to clearly see what is has been identified on the scan, knowing where exactly to look. This means less guessing what the dog is trying to convey, and a faster validation of the potential threat that negates the need to get under the vehicle and perform a human-conducted search based solely on Rex’s hunch. However, it is the dogs’ capacity for searching the interior of the vehicle that leads the experts to conclude that they will still have a role to play in the coming years while the rest of the detection technologies work to catch up. Under vehicle scanners Taking a step back though, the industry can assume that more organizations will begin to adopt under vehicle scanners, not as a full replacement for their existing measures, but as an important force multiplier, which adds to a comprehensive inspection operation that improves capabilities and helps professionals to achieve their security mission.

The greatest challenge that the energy sector faces in modern times is how to meet the continuously changing risk factors and addressing all of the necessary security aspects. Considering their unique infrastructure, expensive and sensitive materials onboard, and sometimes even classified national assets, energy facilities and critical infrastructures will always be subject to varied security threats. With hundreds of oil refineries, nuclear power plants, research reactors and fuel cycle facilities in operation worldwide, preventing certain materials from falling into the hands of adversaries or threat elements who seeks to steal or even harm the station operators is the top priority of the corporations’ security teams. Use of explosive devices in energy sector attacks The overwhelming majority of attacks (74%) on energy targets, between 2010 and 2014, were carried out by the use of explosive devices, while facility and infrastructure attacks, including arson and sabotage tactics, were the second most common (CEI Security Stakeholder Group Manifest). In April 2013, terrorists used high-powered rifles to destroy several transformers at a transmission substation in California in an incident that incurred more than US$ 15 million in damages and required nearly a month to restore. Robust layer-upon-layer security network Energy plants are among North America’s most protected private sector facilities Still, energy plants are among North America’s most protected private sector facilities. They are extremely robust structures that, by design and construction, are very challenging to penetrate. These structures, a well-trained security force and strict access controls for operators and visitors provide a robust layer-upon-layer comprehensive security network. The security level increases as one gets closer to the ‘owner-controlled area’, which is fenced and secured by advanced systems and well-armed security officers. This security ring typically shields the reactor, the control room, the used fuel pool and the central security alarm stations. The systems provide: High-quality scanned images, Smart compare capabilities for the inspection of recurring vehicles, Fraud prevention tools backed by a unique vehicle ID, Full integration to barriers, bollards and access control systems, Automatic detection of illicit materials or unauthorized access on the first pass, COVID-19 compatible: Driver and passenger fever detection capabilities. Helios UVIS by UVeye Access to the owner-controlled area should be limited and protected by an automated access control system that integrates with the alarmed security doors and response system connected to federal or local law enforcement agencies, which can assist in the event of an attack. Helios UVIS by UVeye helps ensure that all measures are taken to control vehicles’ access to sensitive energy facilities and protect them from such risks. Helios UVIS is designed to detect illicit materials being smuggled in, prevent theft, and thwart unauthorized access or other malicious acts in and around the secured facility. UV Inspect, advanced vehicle pass solution UV Inspect can be used for vehicles that have not been previously scanned by a system Offering single- or multi-lane units, as well as stationary or mobile units, UVeye’s advanced deep learning algorithms were developed through training with millions of vehicles and allow UVeye to offer its first pass solution, UV Inspect. Built on a truly intimate understanding of what a wide range of vehicles are supposed to look like in various environmental conditions, UV Inspect can be used for vehicles that have not been previously scanned by a system. UVeye is the only under-vehicle inspection system (UVIS or UVSS) vendor to offer a verified first-pass solution that significantly increases security teams’ effectiveness. UV Compare, license plate or fingerprint ID recognition Another key feature from Helios is called UV Compare, which enables it to recognize previously scanned vehicles by their license plate or unique undercarriage fingerprint ID, and compare it to previous scans. Individuals who are granted access to the facility or protected area, whether they are employees, contractors or visitors, become part of this database. This feature can also help detect tiny objects such as paper bags, phones, miniature hard disks and other contraband. Securing confidential materials Due to their complex environment and sensitive information, energy sites are a target for technology and data theft scenarios. The physical protection of energy plants and associated facilities must include vehicle access point inspection to ensure these security systems’ effectiveness against defined risk factors by UVeye’s tailored security level, answering a wide range of security requirements. Given the industry’s unique work conditions and the varied types of vehicles accessing these facilities, Helios can withstand up to 40,000 pounds (20 tons) per axle, meaning that it will survive being driven over by even massive vehicles like trucks or SUVs. Durable with built-in thermal sensor Helios is also designed to respond to weather variation, such as daily changes in temperature Helios is also designed to respond to weather variation, such as daily changes in temperature, storms and weather hazards. It is fully operational at temperatures between 68°F and 104°F (20° and 40° Celsius) and is IP 68/54 compliant, meaning it offers full protection against sand, dust and rain. UVeye’s built-in thermal sensor can detect the body temperatures of the passengers in vehicles entering the site’s access roads, assuring the safety and security of everyone in and around the facility. Multi-layer access control security UVeye fully supports third-party integration and provides multiple layers of security for any facility. Integrations available and made in the past include: ALPR System Face Detection/Recognition Arm Barriers/Bollards VMS (Video Management System)​ Centralized data management system Centralized management system allows the client to access multiple systems and manage historical data Integrating to the centralized server provides the capability of connecting multiple systems or lanes across different sites, while also enabling central management and control via one screen. The centralized management system allows the client to access multiple systems and manage the other users and historical data. The undercarriage is one of the most critical parts of the vehicle to inspect and one of the most challenging areas to examine. Helios is the perfect solution to prevent any weapons or other illegal and dangerous items from entering energy facilities. Enhanced data security Integrating it with additional security and access control systems can provide a multi-layered approach to tighten the entry and exit points to any sensitive site while keeping personnel and data safe.

Airports present a complex challenge to security managers, representing in sharp relief the tension between the need for efficiency and that of maintaining the highest levels of security standards. As the primary passenger travel hubs of the modern era, airports see the most significant amount of traveler traffic as billions pass through their gates annually on their way to their destinations, both domestic and international. This trend of higher rates of air travel shows no signs of letting up any time soon as global demand for air travel continues to be on the rise, hitting an additional 5% of growth by June of 2019. Challenging security managers The challenge for security managers becomes one of how to ensure that all of these travelers are able to move as freely as possible to reach their gate while ensuring that they and the employees who facilitate the operations are all screened for any potential threats to security. Airport security managers are seeking out technologies that can help their teams to do more within their constraints In response, airport security managers are seeking out technologies that can help their teams to do more within their constraints. This article highlights four different technologies that are making their way into airport security managers’ planning as they build out their strategies for the year ahead. Airplanes and airports represent ideal targets for violent actors seeking to carry out well publicized, substantial attacks. Air travel industry Assaults on the airport grounds or attacks on airborne craft with an explosive or other means have the potential to grab headlines, cause massive casualties, harm the air travel industry, and draw significant reactions from authorities. For these reasons and more, the consequences stemming from a successful attack in this space can be severe and leave little room for error. Striking a balance between the two seemingly conflicting requirements is a difficult act, but is achievable when they define the threat models and implement the necessary solutions and strategies to reach the goals. Building a strategy starts with thinking about how to implement inspections before the travelers reach the terminal. In an ideal security situation, all plots to carry out attacks against an airport would have been picked up by intelligence operations long before the perpetrators even reach the grounds of the airfield. Air travel security Intelligence failures happen and one needs to have measures in place to prevent attackers However, intelligence failures happen and one needs to have measures in place to prevent attackers from reaching the terminals where they can carry out their attacks, potentially causing significant losses of life. The June 2016 attack on Istanbul’s Ataturk Airport that killed 41 people and left more than 230 injured was a stark reminder that attackers do not even have to pass through terminal security in order to pose a threat to air travel security. Controlling access to the terminals with a defined checkpoint at the entrance to the grounds can be a good start for defending your airport. It is advisable to offer a multi-lane checkpoint which compels the incoming traffic to slow for an inspection that allows security officers to perform a quick visual inspection of the vehicle and its passengers, asking them a question or two to ascertain whether they require additional checks depending on whether they show suspicious behavior. Vehicle inspection technologies As the vehicles cross through the checkpoint, interacting with personnel who look into the vehicle’s interior, there is an opportunity to also scan the undercarriage of the vehicle for additional threats such as explosives or other weapons which might be hidden below. Under vehicle inspection technologies (UVIS) that utilize high-resolution cameras to capture images for deep learning analysis allow security teams to scan and detect potential threats in a matter of seconds. Advanced systems in this market use anomaly detection to identify suspicious items based on their deep understanding of the various elements that make up the vehicle (i.e. the exhaust pipe, brake lines, etc.), and can alert security teams to the need for additional checks if it finds something that is out of place. Compromising security requirements The UVIS technology gives airports the ability to move vehicles through the checkpoint quickly These high-end solutions do not require previous scans of the vehicle or a manufacturer’s model, giving it a ‘first pass’ capability that is essential for airports that deal with new traffic on a regular basis. They also offer comparison technology which can play an important role for dealing with insider threats, which will be covered in our next post. The UVIS technology gives airports the ability to move vehicles through the checkpoint quickly, only flagging those that raise red flags for more intensive scans, thus minimizing the time spent stuck waiting for inspections without compromising on security requirements. Once the travelers reach the terminal and check in, they are ready for the next stage of the security inspections before reaching the gate hall. Often categorized by long lines and fraught nerves, this security check is ripe for a shake-up. Traditional security line An upgrade to the traditional security line, Automated Screening Lanes (ASL) systems offer a number of advantages. First, instead of a single line trudging along waiting to advance, travelers need only to find an open station where they can place their items into the waiting bins which are reported to be bigger than the previous models. Hopefully, this means that the entire line will not be held up due to one slower to unload traveler. The bins themselves are equipped with RFID tags to identify as they pass through the scanners. If a bin is identified as needing an additional inspection, it can be diverted from the rest of the flow so as not to slow down the rest of the travelers as they make their way through the x-ray machine. Scanning travel documents Using these systems can be faster than having human agents checking IDs against the traveler While the use of these systems is still at its early stages in just a relative handful of major American airports, they are already showing promise. Serving a dual purpose for both identification and tracking, facial recognition has the potential to add an important layer for verification at the security checkpoint. When the traveler scans their travel documents (passport or another document), their picture can be taken to verify that they really are who they claim to be. Using these systems can be faster than having human agents checking IDs against the traveler and their database, both in terms of speed of operation and the ability to have multiple stations running non-stop without needing additional personnel on shift. Facial recognition checkpoints Along with this use, facial recognition can be used to track both travelers and others such as airport employees as they move throughout the facility. This capability can be useful for access control needs as well as a fast response for locating a person of interest While just a few years ago one might have heard more noise against the idea of using facial recognition at these checkpoints, they have become a fait accompli at this point as biometrics and surveillance have become a standard at the airports. Once the travelers have been identified and their belongings are on their way through the x-ray, it is time for them to have their persons scanned for any dangerous items. This stage is a constant point of frustration as travelers work to remove belts and any other items that have no right to set off a beep but inevitably do. Identifying suspicious items The body scanners that have become a constant of the past decade or so raise issues of their own The body scanners that have become a constant of the past decade or so raise issues of their own, ranging from privacy and health to discomfort of raising hands above head like a prisoner of war or worse. While it is still possible to request a good old fashioned pat down for those who prefer a more personal touch, there are new options out there that could offer a third way. Standoff screening allows multiple people to walk through at a time, identifying any suspicious items that they may have on their person, and alerting for secondary searches. High-end estimates place the capacity of these systems to move nearly 2,000 people through their scans in an hour, depending in part on other conditions in the mix, while the low end puts the number somewhere closer to 500. Faster security process One should recognize that they are still early stage and are probably not where they need to be yet to operate on their own without additional measures. However, despite the calculated rollout, the development of these devices is a positive that can help lead to a faster security process by reducing friction at these high-stress points. The post-9/11 era has brought about a sea change in how travelers are inspected New challenges of how to detect and defend against threats place security managers in a perpetual search for new solutions. The post-9/11 era has brought about a sea change in how travelers are inspected before being allowed to reach the gates, and eventually their flights. Whereas the hijackings of the 1970s introduced the need for metal detectors, the shoe and underwear bombers have brought about the era of the body scanners in the first two decades of the millennium. Security device innovations Developments in the field will drive the next generation of security device innovations, which themselves are still playing catch-up to the last attack. Moving forward, airport security managers are on the lookout for systems that are more automated to help their teams make securely scanning the traveling public at an increasingly larger scale a more achievable task. It is up to the innovators in the sector to provide them with capabilities that go beyond that of the human eye to find dangerous threats wherever they may be, keeping the stream of air travel flowing with minimal interruptions.

Securing Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) in the transportation industry is multi-faceted for a multitude of reasons. Pressures build for transit industry players to modernise their security systems, while also mitigating the vulnerabilities, risks, and growth-restrictions associated with proprietary as well as integrated solutions. There are the usual physical security obstacles when it comes to increasingly integrated solutions and retrofitting updated technologies into legacy systems. Starting with edge devices like cameras and intelligent sensors acquiring video, analytics and beyond, these edge devices are now found in almost all public transportation like buses, trains, subways, airplanes, cruise lines, and so much more. You can even find them in the world’s last manually operated cable car systems in San Francisco. The next layer to consider is the infrastructure and networks that support these edge devices and connect them to centralized monitoring stations or a VMS. Without this layer, all efforts at the edge or stations are in vain as you lose the connection between the two. And the final layer to consider when building a comprehensive transit solution is the software, recording devices, or viewing stations themselves that capture and report the video. The challenge of mobility However, the transportation industry in particular has a very unique challenge that many others do not – mobility. As other industries become more connected and integrated, they don’t usually have to consider going in and out or bouncing between networks as edge devices physically move. Obviously in the nature of transportation, this is key. Have you ever had a bad experience with your cellular, broadband or Wi-Fi at your home or office? You are not alone. The transportation industry in particular has a very unique challenge that many others do not – mobility Can you trust these same environments to record your surveillance video to the Cloud without losing any frames, non-stop 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year? To add to the complexity – how do you not only provide a reliable and secure solution when it’s mobile, traveling at varying speeds, and can be in/out of coverage using various wireless technologies? Waiting to upload video from a transport vehicle when it comes into port, the station, or any centralized location is a reactive approach that simply will not do any longer. Transit operations require a more proactive approach today and the ability to constantly know what is going on at any given time on their mobile vehicles, and escalate that information to headquarters, authorities, or law enforcement if needed; which can only occur with real-time monitoring. This is the ultimate question when it comes to collecting, analyzing, and sharing data from mobile vehicles – how to get the video from public transportation vehicles alike to headquarters in real time! Managing video data In order to answer this question, let’s get back to basics. The management and nature of video data differs greatly from conventional (IT) data. Not only is video conducted of large frames, but there are specific and important relationships among the frames and the timing between them. This relationship can easily get lost in translation if not handled properly. This is why it’s critical to consider the proper way to transmit large frames while under unstable or variable networks. The Internet and its protocols were designed more than two decades ago and purposed for conventional data. Although the Internet itself has not changed, today’s network environments run a lot faster, expand to further ranges, and support a variety of different types of data. Because the internet is more reliable and affordable than in the past some might think it can handle anything. However, it is good for data, but not for video. This combination makes it the perfect time to convert video recording to the Cloud! Video transmission protocol One of the main issues with today’s technology is the degradation of video quality when transmitting video over the Internet. ITS are in dire need for reliable transmission of real-time video recording. To address this need a radical, yet proven, video transmission protocol has recently been introduced to the market. It uses AI technology and to adapt to different environments in order to always deliver high quality, complete video frames. This protocol, when equipped with encryption and authentication, enables video to be transmitted reliably and securely over the Internet in a cloud environment. One of the main issues with today’s technology is the degradation of video quality when transmitting video over the Internet Finally, transportation industry has a video recording Cloud solution that is designed for (massive) video that can handle networks that might be experiencing high error rate. Such a protocol will not only answer the current challenges of the transportation industry, but also make the previously risky Cloud environment safe for even the most reserved environments and entities. With revolutionary transmission protocols, the time is now to consider adopting private Cloud for your transportation operations.

COVID-19 has sparked a flurry of criminal activity across the country, with a particular increase in petty crimes perpetrated against UK healthcare facilities. Bike theft, slashed ambulance tyres and stolen oxygen canisters are just some of the misdemeanours which have significantly grown in frequency since the coronavirus lockdown began in March 2020.  Given the constant, essential work carried out by health services, it’s clear the utmost must be done to protect its physical assets, and staff, from physical attack. Fundamentally, it’s the responsibility of the facilities managers and specifiers to incorporate and carefully balance physical security strategies around healthcare sites to protect patients, visitors, property and assets. The challenge is that many of these sites are continually increasing in size and complexity to meet the higher demand from the population. Fencing, gates, storage enclosures and access control are part of a solution in securing this service sector to enable it to operate effectively 365 days a year. Effective access control Hospitals are fast-paced environments where life and death outcomes often hang in the balance of only a couple of minutes. Efficient, seamless access is therefore key. All gates and access points around the perimeter must be assessed and considered and these access points should be installed and controlled centrally, or regularly monitored. Fencing, gates, storage enclosures and access control are part of a solution in securing this service sector Consider the types of vehicles that require access; the appropriate solution should ensure that, where necessary, emergency vehicles can get in and out of the site unhindered. Effective design for maximum security If automated gates are specified, underground operators are highly recommended to remove any visible signs of surveillance on display. When designing pedestrian and vehicular access: gates should be DDA (Disability Discrimination Act) compliant. Crucially, the design of fencing and gates must accommodate rapid evacuation and access for emergency services. With regards to the car park, it may require rising arm barriers or bollards to secure it. These solutions control access and separate pedestrians from vehicle traffic whilst protecting different buildings, such as specialist units and emergency wards. Promoting wellness through aesthetics Creating a welcoming environment is a core priority when specifying security options for hospitals. Razor or barbed wire may be effective deterrents to potential trespassers, but they create an intimidating and unwelcoming aesthetic, far removed from the sense of wellbeing these developments should promote. A solution that offers both visual appeal and high levels of security is vertical bar security fencing or welded mesh panels. Both provide strong boundary protection and excellent visibility for surveillance, while offering greater protection than other alternatives. Recreational areas  For areas requiring a 'softer' appearance, such as gardens and outdoor recreational areas, timber fencing is an ideal option. Timber has a natural, welcoming appearance and promotes a sense of wellbeing and privacy. As well as offering a pleasing aesthetic, it can also provide a high level of noise protection. This makes it well suited for acoustic fencing, which can improve recreational and recovery areas by protecting them from high levels of noise, transforming them into little oases of calm ideal for recuperation. Outdoor storage areas Hospitals and other medical facilities produce a large amount of medical waste which requires secure outdoor areas and bin stores to hold hazardous materials on-site before they're taken away. Hospitals have a responsibility to ensure these areas are secured using risk-appropriate fencing to avoid potentially dangerous materials getting into the wrong hands. Risk assessments Creating a welcoming environment is a core priority when specifying security options for hospitals Risk assessments are key to ensuring a risk-appropriate solution is installed. For facilities at risk of criminal activity, products accredited by standards including Secured by Design or the Loss Prevention Standards Board’s LPS 1175 are proven to reduce the likelihood of crime. It’s also best practice to locate storage areas in areas away from climbing aids such as lamp posts or trees. The fence should also be high enough to deter attempts at climbing. There are many effective and easy-to-install options on offer when it comes to specifying security for healthcare infrastructures. It is important that each site is judged individually. Every institution is different and will require a unique plan of security structures to ensure it is safe for all personnel.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is improving everyday solutions, driving efficiency in ways we never imagined possible. From self-driving cars to intelligent analytics, the far-reaching impacts of Deep Learning-based technology empower human operators to achieve results more effectively while investing fewer resources and less time. By introducing AI, solutions are not merely powered by data, but they also generate valuable intelligence. Systems which were once leveraged for a narrow, dedicated purpose, can suddenly be engaged broadly across an organization, because the previously under-utilized data can be harnessed for enhancing productivity and performance. Video Analytics Software When it comes to physical security, for instance, video surveillance is a standard solution. Yet, by introducing AI-driven video analytics software, video data can be leveraged as intelligence in previously inaccessible ways. Here are some examples of how diverse organizations are using AI-based video intelligence solutions to enhance security and performance with searchable, actionable and quantifiable insights. The video intelligence software processes and analyses video to detect all the people and objects that appear Law enforcement relies on video surveillance infrastructure for extracting investigation evidence and monitoring people and spaces. Instead of manual video review and live surveillance – which is prone to human error and distraction – police can harness video content analysis to accelerate video investigations, enhance situational awareness, streamline real-time response, identify suspicious individuals and recognize patterns and anomalies in video. The video intelligence software processes and analyses video to detect all the people and objects that appear; identify, extract and classify them; and then index them as metadata that can be searched and referenced. Maintaining Public Safety For law enforcement, the ability to dynamically search video based on granular criteria is critical for filtering out irrelevant details and pinpointing objects of interest, such as suspicious persons or vehicles. Beyond accelerating video evidence review and extraction, police can leverage video analysis to configure sophisticated real-time alerts when people, vehicles or behaviors of interest are detected in video. Instead of actively monitoring video feeds, law enforcement can assess triggered alerts and decide how to respond. In this way, officers can also react faster to emergencies, threats and suspicious activity as it develops. Video analysis empowers cities to harness their video surveillance data as operational intelligence Empowering law enforcement to maintain public safety is important beyond the benefit of increasing security: A city with a reputation for effective, reliable law enforcement and enhanced safety is more likely to attract residents, visitors and new businesses, exponentially driving its economic development. Furthermore, in cities where law enforcement can work productively and quickly, time and human resources can be reallocated to fostering growth and building community. Video Surveillance Data Video analysis empowers cities to harness their video surveillance data as operational intelligence for optimizing city management and infrastructure. When video data is aggregated over time, it can be visualized into dashboards, heatmaps and reports, so operators can identify patterns and more seamlessly detect anomalous. A city could, for instance, analyze the most accident-prone local intersection and assess the traffic patterns to reveal details such as where cars are dwelling and pedestrians are walking; the directional flows of traffic; and the demographic segmentations of the objects detected: Are cars lingering in no-parking zones? Are pedestrians using designated crosswalks – is there a more logical location for the crosswalk or traffic light? Do vehicles tend to make illegal turns – should police proactively deter this behavior, or should the city plan new infrastructure that enables vehicles to safely perform these turns? Finally, does the rise in bike traffic warrant implementing dedicated biking lanes? With video intelligence, urban planners can answer these and other questions to facilitate local improvements and high quality of life. Video analysis empowers cities to harness their video surveillance data as operational intelligence   Enhancing Situational Awareness Insight into traffic trends is also critical for transport companies, from public transit services to transportation hubs and airports. By leveraging the video insights about citywide traffic, public transit organizations can make data-driven decisions about scheduling and services. Analyzing video surveillance around bus stops, for instance, can help these companies understand the specific hours per day people tend to dwell around bus stops. Correlating this information with transactional data for each bus line, bus schedules can be optimized based on demand for individual bus lines, shortening waiting times for the most popular routes. Similarly, the traffic visualisations and activity heatmaps derived from the video of major transit hubs, such as international airports and central stations, can be beneficial for increasing security, enhancing situational awareness, identifying causes of congestion, improving throughput and efficiency and, ultimately, solving these inefficiencies to provide a streamlined customer experience for travellers. Large Education Campuses Much like a city, large education campuses have internal transportation services, residential facilities, businesses and law enforcement, and video content analysis can support the campus in intelligently managing each of those business units, while also providing video intelligence to these individual groups. Campus law enforcement can leverage video data to increase situational awareness and public safety Campus law enforcement can leverage video data to increase situational awareness and public safety, driving real-time responses with the ability to make informed assessments and accelerating post-event investigations with access to easily extractable video data.   When campuses are expanding or developing additional infrastructure, they can plan new crosswalks, traffic lights, roads, buildings and entrances and exits based on comprehensive video intelligence. By understanding where pedestrians and vehicles dwell, walk, cross or even violate traffic laws, the campus can inform construction projects and traffic optimization. Countless Business Operations Finally, the campus can leverage video business intelligence to justify leasing pricing for different retailers across campus, demonstrating property values based on traffic trends that can be correlated with retailer point of sale data. Whether its empowering security, productivity or decision-making, the insights generated by AI-based technology can drive significant optimization – especially when data is fused and cross-referenced across smart sensors and systems for even deeper intelligence. The campus can leverage video business intelligence to justify leasing pricing for different retailers across campus In the case of AI-backed video analytics, diverse organizations can harness video surveillance impactfully and dynamically. Whereas once video technology investments could be justified for their security value – with the introduction of AI capabilities – procurement teams can evaluate these solutions for countless business operations, because they offer broadly valuable intelligence. And video surveillance and analytics is merely one example of AI-driven solutions’ potential to disrupt business as we know it.

Security’s intersection with consumer electronics is on view at CES 2020, the world’s largest technology event, Jan. 7-10 in Las Vegas. The giant show features more than 170,000 attendees, 4,500 exhibitors and 1,100 industry thought-leaders featured on the CES stage. A range of technologies will be on display, from artificial intelligence (AI) to 5G, vehicle technology to AR/VR (augmented and virtual reality), robotics to home automation. Security plays a prominent role, too.The impact of this event for the smart home could be about delivering home analytics and enhancing privacy" Smart home market on the forefront The smart home market is a major focus. “For the smart home market at CES this year, we expect to see numerous announcements regarding home awareness,” says Blake Kozak, Senior Principal Analyst at IHS Markit. “This will include brands offering up additional analytics for consumer security cameras with a focus on edge-based solutions.” “The impact of this [event] for the smart home could be about delivering home analytics and enhancing privacy through cloudless architectures and new electronic door lock approaches,” he adds. An example of cloud analytics is the Resideo Home app, introduced in December, which will make whole-home monitoring possible for four critical networks of the home – water, air, energy and security. Resideo promises a “simplified and integrated smart home experience.” Video is also prominent at the show. “For cameras, we can expect to see more cameras focused on the outdoor space and possibly new form factors for video doorbells,” says Kozak. Familiar security industry brands exhibiting at CES 2020 include ADT, Ring, August Home and Yale (both part of ASSA ABLOY), Bosch and Alarm.com. Focus on Cybersecurity In 2020, companies will continue to focus on solutions for protecting consumer data" Cybersecurity is an aspect of many of the devices on display at CES. “Device security and data privacy play a key role in the adoption of connected devices,” says Elizabeth Parks, President, Parks Associates. “Consumer security concerns for smart home products will continue to be a barrier to adoption in the U.S. and Europe, and these concerns can actually intensify with device adoption-71% of U.S. smart home households are concerned about cybersecurity. In 2020, companies will continue to focus on solutions for protecting consumer data. One big area of interest is protection on the network router, providing whole home solutions, which are very appealing to consumers.” “At CES we will see the traditional players introducing new DIY (do-it-yourself) products, as well as new players announcing new product features, services, and partnerships,” Parks adds. Smart access control Smart locks will be among the security products at CES 2020. For example, PassiveBolt, a lock company, will show the Shepherd Lock, a touch-enabled smart lock with enhanced security through sensors and AI. The add-on lock converts existing locksets into touch-activated devices. Another lock manufacturer is Kwikset, whose door locks and door hardware include Wi-Fi-enabled smart locks, Bluetooth-enabled smart locks, keyless and keyway-less locks and connected home technology. Video doorbells, including industry-innovator Ring, have been a hit in the consumer market. At CES, Ring will expand the mission to make neighborhoods safer by creating a “Ring of Security” around homes and communities with a suite of home security products and services. The “Neighbors by Ring” app enables affordable, complete, proactive home and neighborhood security. Homeguard offers a range of affordable CCTV solutions for home and small business DIY CCTV demonstrations DIY security systems are another market. Homeguard is a leading DIY consumer brand offering a range of affordable CCTV solutions for home and small business, including wired and wireless CCTV kits, smart cameras, home alarm systems and wire-free HD CCTV kits. Swann Communications is also at the forefront of surveillance and monitoring with new products developments including wire-free HD cameras and doorbells, professional CCTV video surveillance systems, and 1080p full HD systems with “True Detect” heat and motion sensing. AVTECH, and subsidiary YesGo Tech, will demonstrate a compact Wi-Fi home security set, a series of special cameras with face recognition, thermal detection and license plate recognition, customized central management software and a university ID tag that is compatible with access control, OEM and ODM opportunities. Security and automation solutions D-Link’s home networking, security and automation solutions will help consumers connect, view, share, entertain, work and play. SECO-LARM, manufacturer of a Room Occupancy Monitor that shows whether a room is in use, has a line of keypads and proximity readers with built-in Bluetooth for convenient access. Another smart home security solutions provider, Climax Technology, integrates wireless security, home automation, energy management, home emergency monitoring and live visual monitoring. Personal safety mobile application Manufacturers are positioning outdoor cameras as deterrents to theft before a burglary happens" WaryMe designs and develops a personal safety mobile application to improve a user’s security in public places, schools, transports and companies by addressing major risks such as terrorism attacks, intrusion, fire and even industrial accidents. An all-in-one mobile application integrates alerting, crisis management and mass notification features. “Market players are looking to expand beyond established smart home devices like smart thermostats and networked cameras to products like smart water leak detectors, smart pet feeders, and smart air purifiers,” says Elizabeth Parks. “Manufacturers are positioning outdoor cameras as deterrents to theft before a burglary happens. This trend is part of a broader security marketing effort to extend the perimeter of home security beyond traditional home access points.” “Familiarity with smart home devices lags behind familiarity with smart entertainment products; it even lags that of smart speakers, which are quite new in the market,” adds Parks. “In 2020, we will see players working to advance the visibility and marketing around device integration, and specifically focus on use case scenarios around safety, security, and convenience, which have always been the primary drivers of adoption of these types of products.”

Video, access control and visitor management are among the technologies that are enabling greater safety and security at hospitals and other healthcare facilities. Video surveillance systems enable hospital management and security professionals to know what goes on in and around a medical facility. Recording images in high resolutions (megapixels and gigapixels) is becoming more and more important in healthcare, says Jason Ouellette, Product Line Director – Access Control, Tyco Security Products. Video event management software Video analytics are now being leveraged for patient tracking, asset tracking, and operational purposes If an incident occurs in a medical facility, the security staff has to be able to identify faces easily and accurately. Storage and costs have to be considered, of course. With technology improving and prices decreasing, video solutions can even be used for purposes beyond traditional security. For example, video analytics are now being leveraged for patient tracking, asset tracking, and operational purposes, and captured video can be used to defend against liability claims. What’s next? Video analytics will continue to be a valuable addition to any surveillance infrastructure due to its ability to address patient needs, operational efficiencies and early risk detection, says Brandon Reich, Senior Director of Surveillance Solutions, Pivot3. Through video event management software (VEMS), hospitals can customize the statistics that are relevant to their individual buildings or campuses without having to spend extra time or money on rigorous employee training. Data capture form to appear here! Real-Time access control security updates Furthermore, once healthcare facilities are able to digitize all of their patient records, secure any of their ingress and egress points with real-time access control security updates, and fully transition from analog to IP video surveillance cameras, VEMS systems that house analytical software will be able to multiply the benefits offered to hospitals, not just in real time, but in planning ahead for future risk, expansion and safety protocols. It is vital to implement integrated and innovative access control solutions With large, complex facilities, directors of security at hospitals struggle with controlling access to various levels of the facility, according to Eric Widlitz of Vanderbilt Industries. To manage the risks that hospitals face and ensure a comprehensively protected atmosphere for patients and staff, it is vital to implement integrated and innovative access control solutions. For example, ease of access with controlled entrances is vital to medical crash teams, as is the need for a zonal access control lockdown in the event of a contagious disease outbreak. Strict access limitations Different hallways, rooms, floors and waiting areas within a hospital require different amounts of restriction, and sensitive materials, such as medical files, controlled substances and sterile environments (such as operating and procedure rooms) all necessitate an additional layer of protection. Access control in particular has advanced significantly to offer healthcare facilities the ability to control access remotely, through mobile applications, confirm identity quickly and easily and program varying levels of access for visitors, patients, doctors and staff. One area that is recently experiencing rapid growth – and drastic change  –is the securing of narcotics within healthcare facilities, says Robert Laughlin, CEO and Chairman, Galaxy Control Systems. In the past, all medicine was controlled in a central pharmacy located somewhere in the hospital or health facility. These pharmacies were highly secured areas, with strict access limitations; only authorized staff could get near the medicine stocks. Fiber optic communication lines For vehicle access control, medical centers and hospitals prefer beam barricades and shallow foundation barriers To improve the speed of delivery, and to have the necessary medicines ready at hand for in-patients without retaining a large delivery staff, the current trend is to have distributed pharmaceutical closets or carts that hold medicines much closer to the intended patients. For vehicle access control, medical centers and hospitals prefer beam barricades and shallow foundation barriers, according to Gregg Hamm of Delta Scientific. Manual beam barricades are installed at the Fort Bragg Veterans Administration Hospital in North Carolina to shut down certain areas of the facility when a higher alert is sounded. They will stop a 15,000-pound vehicle traveling 50 mph. The Navy Hospital in San Diego uses high speed, high security and very shallow foundation barricades to control all vehicles going in and out of the facility. With their extremely shallow foundation, they obviate the concerns of interference with buried pipes, power lines and fiber optic communication lines. They will stop a 15,000-pound vehicle traveling 50 mph. At the National Institute of Health in Bethesda, Maryland, even stronger shallow foundation barriers are used for traffic control and protection. These barriers will destroy a 65,000-pound (5.4 million foot-pounds) dump truck traveling 50 mph and continue to stand. Physical access control systems Controlling visitors to hospitals and healthcare facilities can directly impact security Controlling visitors to hospitals and healthcare facilities can directly impact security. Traditional methods of visitor management, such as paper visitor logs and handwritten badges are insufficient given today’s variety of security challenges. A hospital using paper-based systems cannot easily cross-check information, confirm patient information, check visitor names against up-to-date watch lists, or visually confirm identity. An increasingly popular and important application is secure and simplified visitor management, integrated with the physical access control systems (PACS). Today’s visitor management systems enable the screening, badging and tracking all visitors or, at a minimum, those visiting critical areas or during ‘after hours’ periods, Quickly identify inappropriate visitors One other growing technology is the ability to link to internal or governmental watch lists, to quickly identify inappropriate visitors before they gain access to the facilities. For example, Visitor Management systems can be configured to perform a Sex Offender search in both Children’s Hospitals and Pediatric areas, further decreasing the likelihood that someone of the list could gain access. Wayfinding is indoor navigation to guide a person step-by-step on the way to a desired destination HID Global and Phunware Inc. are addressing the need of healthcare institutions to deploy standardized technology to provide a better wayfinding and visitor engagement experience inside the hospital, across campus and even in parking lots. The companies are collaborating to improve the experience for hospital patients and visitors to find their way within medical facilities, using wayfinding on their mobile phones. Wayfinding is indoor navigation to guide a person step-by-step on the way to a desired destination. Enterprise-Level mobile wayfinding “It’s easy for visitors and patients to get lost in hospitals, and every time they do it puts appointment times and patient satisfaction at risk,” says Rom Eizenberg, Vice President of Sales, Bluvision, part of HID Global “With our location-aware app on a mobile device, we equip the visitor to get instant, turn-by-turn navigation that creates a better experience than that which is currently available on the market.” HID’s healthcare IoT solution-enablement platform simplifies the delivery of real-time location of clinicians, patients and devices. The platform is enabled by Bluvision (part of HID Global). Phunware’s Multiscreen-as-a-Service (MaaS) platform also provides enterprise-level mobile wayfinding, engagement, data and more for other vertical markets, including retail, residential, hospitality, media and entertainment and more .Missed the rest our healthcare mini series? Read part one here and part two here.

Some of the electronic features we all love in our new cars depend on a connection to the Internet. But what are the cybersecurity risks involved in that connection? Could a widespread cyberattack turn our cars into deathtraps and create a traffic catastrophe on the scale of 9/11? That’s the scenario described in a report from the nonprofit group Consumer Watchdog, which warns that a fleet-wide cyberattack at rush hour could result in a 9/11-style catastrophe with approximately 3,000 deaths. The organization recommends that automobile manufacturers install a ‘kill switch’ that would disconnect a vehicle from the Internet in an emergency to mitigate the threat. Protecting transportation system Automakers are keeping the public in the dark as they market new features based on Internet connections"Consumer Watchdog contends that the vulnerability of automotive computer systems, and the possibility of a cyberattack, has been communicated privately to investors but not widely to consumers. “Automakers are keeping the public in the dark as they market new features based on Internet connections,” says Consumer Watchdog. “Connecting safety-critical systems to the Internet is an inherently dangerous design,” says Jamie Court, President of Consumer Watchdog. “American car makers need to end the practice or Congress must step in to protect our transportation system and national security.” Future designs should completely isolate safety-critical systems from infotainment systems connected to the Internet or other networks, according to Consumer Watchdog. By 2022, at least two-thirds of new cars on American roads will have online connections to the cars’ safety-critical systems, putting them at risk of deadly hacks. Updating vehicle software over-The-Air One economic motive of connecting vehicles to the Internet is the ability of car manufacturers to update vehicle software over-the-air rather than having to recall a vehicle. Systems also enable collection of valuable data on how fast a car owner drives or where he/she shops. Security-critical components inside cars are driven by ‘black boxes’ that may contain software of questionable origin Security-critical components inside cars are driven by ‘black boxes’ that may contain software of questionable origin. Software may be written by third parties and/or include contributions from hundreds or thousands of different authors around the world, with little accountability for flaws. The ability to update software ‘over the air’ without touching the vehicles lets automakers cover up safety problems and sloppy testing practices, contends Consumer Watchdog. “Allowing consumers to physically disconnect their cars from the Internet and other wide-area networks should be a national security priority,” says Court. “If a 9/11-like cyber-attack on American cars were to occur, recovery would be difficult because there is currently no way to disconnect our cars quickly and safely. The nation’s transportation infrastructure could be gridlocked for weeks or months. Mandatory ‘kill switches’ would solve the problem.” Understanding the risks of connected cars In addition to more attention to cybersecurity, there also needs to be more transparency to enable consumers to understand what is at risk and the choices they make. For example, a group of more than 20 car industry engineers and insiders helped to prepare the Consumer Watchdog report, but many of them remained anonymous for fear of losing their jobs. Consumers have a right to understand the risks they are taking and how they can minimize them. In the Internet of things, cybersecurity dangers extend to almost every device in the connected world, from cars to smartphones to medical devices. Increasingly, we will be asked to weigh the convenience of cranking our car with a smartphone, for example, against the possible risk in the form of vulnerability to cyberattack.

Synectics, a globally renowned company in the design, integration and support of advanced security and surveillance systems, announced that the company has won a new contract with Irish Rail (Iarnród Éireann) to upgrade all InterCity Mark 4 rolling stock on the Dublin to Cork route to an IP-based video surveillance solution, following a competitive bid process.   The IP video security system contract will see Synectics develops and installs an innovative safety-critical IP video surveillance system that enables full connectivity from trains to the control room, there by replacing the existing CCTV approach. Safety-critical IP video surveillance system installation Each eight-coach train set, using Synectics’ T2000 platform, will help utilize a suite of IP 360-degree ‘fish-eye’ cameras Each eight-coach train set, using Synectics’ T2000 platform, will help utilize a suite of IP 360-degree ‘fish-eye’ cameras, in the vestibules and saloon areas, to provide high-quality surveillance information. Installation is expected to commence in September 2021, to be followed by an additional support contract to provide a five-year in-territory maintenance program. IP video security technology Iain Stringer, Managing Director of Synectics, commented “We are delighted that Irish Rail has chosen our IP video security technology, alongside our design, program management and installation capabilities, to upgrade surveillance on one of their premier InterCity routes.” Iain adds, “This win with Irish Rail represents a further step into on-vehicle heavy rail solutions for our Synectics Security business, building on our deep experience across light-rail markets.” Smart technology developments He further stated, “Irish Rail is our second public transport win in Ireland over the last few months and reflects our growing reputation for smart technology developments that meet next generation operator requirements. Our approach is opening up new opportunities for all rail operators to transition their video management capability to the cloud and improve operational effectiveness.”

Calipsa, a provider of deep-learning powered video analytics for false alarm reduction, announces that its false alarm filtering platform is being used by Richmond, British Columbia-based Radius Security. Radius Security is the security systems and monitoring branch of Vancouver Fire and Security and the first Canadian monitoring center to adopt the cloud-based Calipsa technology. Calipsa’s false alarm reduction technology uses artificial intelligence with deep learning technology to filter out false alarms with a 99.5% accuracy rate. Recognizing genuine alarms Calipsa’s technology recognizes genuine alarms caused by human or vehicle movement, while filtering out notifications resulting from nuisance factors such as animals, lighting, weather or foliage. With our Redhanded Human Detection solution, our focus is on catching criminals in the act" Aleksei Bulavko, research, development and production manager at Radius Security, said the Calipsa technology would further enhance his company’s reputation as a top-tier monitoring station. “With our Redhanded Human Detection solution, our focus is on catching criminals in the act,” he said. “Calipsa enables us to do this at a greater capacity, meaning an even faster police response time for our customers.” False alarm filtering platform Brian Baker, vice president, Americas, Calipsa, said the false alarm filtering platform will enhance Radius Security operators' efficiency by enabling them to concentrate on genuine alarms. “Also, Calipsa’s cloud-based technology requires Radius Security to install no hardware devices,” he said. “Initial installation and future upgrades are quickly and remotely integrated with station operating software and customer cameras without incurring on-site installation costs.” Calipsa’s false alarm reduction software is easily scalable, making it ideal for any growing monitoring station and customer business. A platform dashboard enables station managers to monitor the software’s performance, including detecting idle cameras that may need replacement or repositioning.

Security is the biggest concern for military facilities. Modern military facilities face a wide variety of risks, from cyber attacks to data theft to terrorist attacks. The Corpus Christi Naval Air Station in Corpus Christi, Texas for example, dealt with three separate attempted intrusions in a year and a half. In one incident, man driving a stolen SUV entered the base and attempted to exit through a separate entrance, but crashed his car and was then shot by security personnel. In another incident, just eight months later, the base went on lockdown again before an armed man was taken into custody. Then, in the third incident, seven months later, there was a third attempt to break into the base, this time by a man with known ties to terrorist groups. Protect sensitive facilities The man fired at the security guard at an entrance gate and struck her bulletproof vest before she raised the barrier to prevent the attacker from getting inside the base. The base’s security did a good job of preventing any serious damage during these attacks, but with the frequency of these incidents, more modern security may be needed to ensure that the next attack doesn’t end in catastrophe. Modern times call for modern security solutions, and Helios is the perfect option to protect sensitive facilities Modern times call for modern security solutions, and Helios by UVeye is the perfect option to protect sensitive facilities. Helios is safer, improves security, makes security officers’ jobs easier, works in extreme conditions, and can even identify vehicle passengers with high body temperatures to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Helios UVIS uses machine learning and artificial intelligence to inspect the undercarriage of any vehicle that drives over its multiple high-resolution cameras. Improved safety for facilities It alerts the user on any irregularities or foreign objects hidden in the undercarriage. Inspecting the undercarriages of vehicles is very difficult for security personnel. Before Helios, there was never an effective solution for under-vehicle inspection, and even if security officers inspect the undercarriage, they may not know what to look for. They may not recognize a threat and allow a vehicle with a weapon, bomb, or other illicit or dangerous item to enter the facility. Security officers put themselves at great risk by manually inspecting vehicles, as evidenced by the attempted terrorist attack in Corpus Christi in May. With Helios, the security guard can inspect the vehicle from a safe distance by simply looking at the high-resolution images and checking for anything suspicious or unusual in the undercarriage. Detecting potential threats Scanning all vehicle types for undercarriage threats Automatic detection of illicit materials below the vehicle on the first pass Full integration to barriers, bollards and access control systems Driver and passenger fever detection capabilities No matter how well trained a security officer is, all humans make mistakes. However, with Helios, the chances of human error are greatly reduced. The system produces high-quality images of the undercarriages and alerts the security officer of any irregularities. It will even detect issues in the undercarriage of a vehicle passing through the system for the first time. Detecting potential threats is easy with UVIS. Works in extreme conditions The high-resolution images allow a security officer to see the entire undercarriage very clearly to determine whether there is anything suspicious. Instead of manually inspecting the vehicle and putting themselves at risk, security officers can inspect the vehicle from a more relaxed and safer environment and zoom in on the smallest details. Helios can withstand up to 20 tons per axle, meaning that it will survive being run over by massive vehicles Plus, Helios provides a side-by-side view of previous scans from the same vehicle if it has gone through the system before to make it easier for the officer to notice any differences. Helios can withstand up to 20 tons per axle, meaning that it will survive being run over by even massive vehicles. It is fully operational at temperatures between -20 and 40 degrees Celsius and is IP 68/54 compliant, meaning it offers full protection against sand, dust, or rain. Combat COVID-19 UVeye’s thermal sensor can also detect the body temperatures of vehicle passengers, which can identify visitors with potential fevers, improving the safety of everyone on the base. UVeye fully supports 3rd party integration and provides a multiple layer of security for any facility Integrations made in the past: ALPR Face Detection / Recognition Arm Barriers / Bollards VMS (Video Management System)​ Integrating to the centralized server provides the capability of connecting multiple systems or lanes across different sites while enabling central management and control via one screen. The centralized management system enables the client to access the different systems deployed and manage the different users and historical data. Access control systems The undercarriage of a vehicle is one of the most important parts of the vehicle to inspect, but also one of the most difficult areas to inspect. Helios is the perfect solution to prevent any weapons, bombs, drugs, or other illegal and dangerous items from entering military facilities. It can make everyone in the facility safer, including security officers, who will no longer need to manually inspect vehicles and put themselves in harm’s way. Integrating with other security and access control systems can provide a multi layer approach to tighten the entry and exit points to any sensitive site while keeping personnel and data safe.

A frequent target for terrorism, airports faces considerable challenges in securing the flow of traffic. Concerns over security can ground flights, grinding operations to a halt. Whether one needs to inspect all vehicles entering the airport grounds or just those entering higher-security areas like the apron and the container space, there is no room for long waits during inspections. Passengers are counting on their flights leaving on time, and security delays could lead to flight delays. However, one can’t afford to compromise the security standards either. Propane gas cylinders While security is usually heavy in the terminal buildings themselves, in some international and local airports, there are not enough measures in place in the external road and parking areas leading to the departure and arrival zones. The attack resulted in ‘only’ five people injured and heavy damage to the terminal building For example, on June 30, 2007, a Jeep Cherokee laden with propane gas cylinders and gasoline cans was driven at a high speed into the doors of the Glasgow Airport departure area on one of the busiest days of the year. The attack resulted in ‘only’ five people injured and heavy damage to the terminal building. Incidents like this one really emphasized the need for an automatic and efficient method for inspecting vehicles entering the different areas in and around the airport. Heavy traffic control The airport apron, flight line or ramp is the area of an airport where aircraft are parked, unloaded or loaded, refilled, or boarded. In most airports, the security regulations in this area are heavy, and only authorized, trained personnel are allowed to drive in and out while withholding heavy traffic control rules. One can only imagine the danger of terrorists or other hostile people entering in an authorized vehicle. There needs to be a method to make sure these types of people cannot use fake license plates if the recurring vehicle list does get into the wrong hands. While clearly the number of civilian passengers who use airports has risen dramatically as time has gone by, the risks associated with airports and airline travel have also increased. Identifying vehicle passengers The device is available in both a mobile and a stationary, fixed version and works in extreme conditions The threat of bombs or cargo-related explosives is significant, but security measures have not necessarily risen at the same rate as threats and number of flights and passengers. The financial and physical risks of illicit and dangerous materials entering sensitive areas in and around an airport are clear, and a new generation of screening is required to tackle these challenges. UVeye scans, analyses, and records all passing vehicles, ensuring security while also keeping flights on schedule. Helios by UVeye is the perfect option to protect both the access roads and parking facilities around the airport and important areas like the apron. Helios improves security while keeping security personnel safe. The device is available in both a mobile and a stationary, fixed version and works in extreme conditions. Their technology can even identify vehicle passengers with high body temperatures to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. High-Resolution cameras Helios UVIS uses machine learning and artificial intelligence to inspect the undercarriage of any vehicle that drives over its multiple high-resolution cameras. It alerts security personnel about any irregularities or foreign objects hidden in the undercarriage, whether its weapons intended to be used in a terrorist attack, improvised explosive devices, or illegal cargo to be loaded onto a plane in the apron of the airport. Inspecting the undercarriages of vehicles is very difficult for security personnel and is sometimes neglected due to the number of vehicles entering an airport. Before Helios, there was never an effective solution for under-vehicle inspection, and even if security officers inspected the undercarriage, they probably didn’t know what to look for. Reducing inspection times UVeye is here to solve this problem by providing drive-through solutions in selected access points UVeye has built its products as drive-through solutions that reduce inspection times to as little as a few seconds, supporting a quick flow of vehicles entering or leaving the premises. With Helios, the security guard can inspect the vehicle from a safe distance by simply looking at the high-resolution images on a tablet or computer screen, checking for anything suspicious or unusual in the undercarriage, automatically marked by the system. Many airports do not have enough staff or the capacity to inspect every vehicle entering or leaving secure areas. UVeye is here to solve this problem by providing drive-through solutions in selected access points, alerting security personnel of any irregularities or potential threats attached to a vehicle. Helios is the only product on the market able to detect issues in the undercarriage of a vehicle passing through the system for the first time. Fingerprint ID feature The apron of the airport is the most sensitive area of the facility, and with UVeye’s technology and unique fingerprint ID feature, every vehicle entering or exiting the apron will be marked using artificial intelligence and receive a unique ID that will be saved in the database. This way, security personnel will not need to rely on license plates alone when inspecting vehicles on the authorized vehicle list. If someone attempts to enter using a fraudulent license plate, the system will recognize that it is not the same vehicle, and the attempted trespassers will be stopped in their tracks. Helios can withstand up to 20 tons per axle, meaning that it will survive being run over by even massive vehicles like trucks and buses. It is fully operational at temperatures between -20 and 40 degrees Celsius and is IP 68/54 compliant, meaning it offers full protection against sand, dust, or rain. Airport access roads UVeye’s thermal sensor can also detect the body temperatures of vehicle passengers entering the external airport access roads, which can help identify visitors with potential fevers, improving the safety of everyone in and around the airport. Airports around the world can enhance their security efforts with automatic vehicle inspection systems Integrating to the centralized server provides the capability of connecting multiple systems or lanes across different sites while enabling central management and control via one screen. The centralized management system enables the client to access the different systems deployed and manage the different users and historical data. Airports around the world can enhance their security efforts with automatic vehicle inspection systems, providing an extended layer of safety in and around the airport. Access control systems Uveye took into consideration heavy traffic entering the access and parking areas of an airport when it built its drive-through scanner, Helios, which can quickly find any threat attached to or hidden in the undercarriage without slowing down vehicle traffic. Helios is the perfect solution to prevent any weapons, bombs, drugs, or other illegal or dangerous items from entering the apron of the airport and potentially accessing the airplanes about to take flight. Integrating Helios with other security and access control systems can provide a multi-layer approach that will tighten the entry and exit points to any sensitive site while keeping personnel and data safe. UVeye is ideal for airports and also can be implemented at border crossings, seaports, military bases, embassies, data centers, and other secure perimeters.

In 2017 alone, 71 prison staff were found to be smuggling contraband into detention facilities in the UK alone. This is a known issue for security officers in prisons around the world, and that is why a major prison in Australia approached UVeye in 2019 about installing intelligent vehicle scanning devices. During 2019 In England and Wales drugs were found 13,119 times in prisons, more than 35 incidents per day, on average. The number of incidents has tripled since 2014, after years of relative stability, with some smugglers taking advantage of new technology, such as drones, to deliver contraband. Self-Made devices The value of the UK prison drug market is an estimated £100 million, according to the Prison Officers Association. Drugs aren’t the only issue; weapons are also being smuggled into prisons at increasing rates. Instruments like wrenches and other self-made devices, usually attached to the undercarriage of vehicles coming in and out of the prison, can violate the rules and cause disruptions. Drugs aren’t the only issue; weapons are also being smuggled into prisons at increasing rates This Australian prison has over 100 regular employees coming in and out. Some of their vehicles have been used to deliver messages to the outside world from gang members who are in detention. Whether the prison staff or bus drivers themselves were paid to smuggle materials and objects in or out of the prison, or a criminal from the outside attached phones or drugs to their undercarriage while their vehicle was parked, this was clearly a matter of concern. Access control systems In other prisons which don’t have an automatic system, there are usually manual inspections conducted by a guard holding a mirror to check the undercarriages of vehicles coming in or out. It is clear in the industry that an efficient technological solution is needed. UVeye facilitates the following things: Securing vehicle access control points Full integration to barriers, bollards and access control systems Tightly securing sensitive areas like the apron of the prison Automatic detection of illicit materials under the vehicle on the first pass Driver and passenger fever detection capabilities SUV delivery vehicles Since most vehicles entering and leaving the prison come in and out regularly, there needs to be a quick and easy experience to compare the vehicles and look for attachments or modifications. The system also needs to be versatile enough to detect anomalies in the undercarriages of a wide variety of vehicle types, from private vehicles to SUV delivery vehicles and armored trucks and buses. Understanding that the quality of inspection and streamlining the entry and exit process is a top priority, the security chiefs of the prison contacted UVeye. They asked for an automatic solution that can compare every vehicle entering or leaving the prison, and that is able to detect any modifications, smuggled devices or illegal weapons entering the facility. High-Resolution cameras Helios UVSS by UVeye is setting the global standard for under-vehicle inspection Helios UVSS by UVeye is setting the global standard for under-vehicle inspection. Equipped with five high-resolution cameras, the system can be installed at the access lane of the prison and automatically detect any illicit materials entering or leaving the prison walls. Offering both single- and multi-lane stationary as well as mobile units, Helios has a feature called UVcompare that enables it to recognize vehicles by their license plate or unique undercarriage fingerprint ID and compare the vehicle to a previous scan. This feature can assist in detecting tiny objects such as letters, paper bags, phones and other contraband. Advanced deep learning algorithms that were developed through training with millions of vehicles allow UVeye to offer its first pass solution, UV Inspect. Providing maximum security Built on a truly intimate understanding of what a wide range of vehicles are supposed to look like in a variety of environmental conditions, UV Inspect can be used for vehicles that have not been previously scanned by a system. UVeye is the only under-vehicle inspection system (UVIS or UVSS) vendor to offer a first verified, first pass solution that greatly increases the effectiveness of security teams. The UVeye team sent its representatives from Singapore for several site visits and worked closely with the construction integrator to provide maximum security and screening for all vehicles coming in and out of the prison. Classifications for items such as tiny paper notes, which in other cases might be considered false positives, were calibrated to be exposed by the system within several seconds, and the security guards will be alerted. Improving staff satisfaction The local staff was trained within several weeks of the installation, and objects like wrenches and boxes were picked up immediately during the early implementation of the system. The queuing time for vehicles entering or leaving the facility is reduced by over 70% As a pass-through system that scans vehicles as they drive over the device at up to 30km/h, the prison’s security team is now able to keep traffic flowing without compromising the quality of its inspections. The speed of inspection with a UVeye undercarriage system is reduced dramatically compared to manual inspection by a guard and keeps the prison staff safe. The queuing time for vehicles entering or leaving the facility is reduced by over 70% these cases improving staff satisfaction. Automated UVSS technology UVeye has simplified the documentation of inspections for the leadership, providing centralized, detailed reports of every vehicle, with the ability to compare past scans, which is often used for different purposes. If there is a case of corruption within staff, the accountability is immediate. Adopting UVeye’s automated UVSS technology has given the prison’s security team a quick and efficient method to monitor all vehicles entering or leaving the facility. In a world where a detention facility’s security is constantly tested, it is important to automate and rely on objective systems that can help prevent smuggled items from reaching the wrong people.

Alberta Fire and Security in collaboration with CNS Digital Media is honored and proud to announce a new commissioned CCTV System at Corinthia Royal, Budapest. The client, Corinthia Royal,Budapest, requested the design, installation and configuration of a holistic CCTV system by AVIGILON Trusted Security Solution. To come up with a proper compliant solution and a complete coverage, Alberta proposed the installation of a full Avigilon surveillance solution including over one-hundred Avigilon cameras with self-learning video analytics, 48TB Avigilon network video recorder, and Avigilon Control Center video management software with Avigilon Appearance Search technology. Surveillance camera system Appearance Search video analytics technology uses deep learning artificial intelligence search engine Subsequently, Corinthia Royal Budapest sought to replace their analog cameras by an end-to-end high definition surveillance camera system to maximize protection; to enable proactive event response and facilitate the recording; and to capture and sharing of clear footage. To address the above the Alberta proposed the installation and configuration of Avigilon Appearance Search technology system. Having this high tech surveillance system in place, enables the possibility to search for a person by incorporating unique characteristics of a face and appearance to find similar recorded footage of the same person or vehicle across multiple cameras installed on site, quickly and efficiently. In addition, Avigilon Appearance Search video analytics technology uses a sophisticated deep learning artificial intelligence search engine to sort through hours of footage with ease. Analyses video data Hence, saving the Hotel time and effort during critical investigations. This is possible because Avigilon Appearance Search technology intelligently analyses video data, helping to track a person’s or vehicle’s route and identify previous and last known locations. Alberta Fire and Security takes this opportunity to thank all the people involved and that made this project a success with special thanks to Mr Mate Feher, IT Manager, Corinthia Royal.

Artificial intelligence is more than just the latest buzzword in the security marketplace. In some cases, smarter computer technologies like AI and machine learning (ML) are helping to transform how security operates. AI is also expanding the industry’s use cases, sometimes even beyond the historic province of the security realm. It turns out that AI is also a timely tool in the middle of a global pandemic. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How is artificial intelligence (AI) changing the security market?

The new year is several weeks old, so it is safe to say that many of our New Year resolutions have fallen by the wayside. Despite the limited success of our personal resolutions, the new year is a great time to take stock, look ahead, and plan to make 2020 the best year yet. Thinking about our industry as a whole, we asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What should be the security industry’s “New Year’s resolution?” 

The ability to treat patients in a secure environment is a base requirement of hospitals and other healthcare facilities. Whether facilities are large or small, security challenges abound, including perimeter security, access control of sensitive areas, video surveillance, and even a long list of cyber-risks. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the security challenges of hospitals and the healthcare industry?