Mobile Access Trends
Technological leaps in the last several decades have revolutionised biometrics. The technologies are constantly evolving, spanning facial recognition to iris scanning to fingerprints, to provide new levels of security and convenience. Biometrics are everywhere, from smartphones to border control, constantly evolving to meet the needs of our increasingly digital world. They are also more accurate and easier to use than ever. We asked this week's Expert Panel Roundtable: What’s new with biometrics?
In the complex world of physical security systems, standards can enable disparate systems to be combined to function together as a cohesive whole. Standards help to ensure that all the “pieces” fit together to create a clear, unified picture. More broadly speaking, standards also play a role in ensuring best practices are deployed in a range of security-related situations. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: Which standards have had the greatest positive impact on physical security?
When a bomb detonated in the Port of Beirut, I had hundreds of employees under my care inside the blast zone. Within just two hours, I was able to determine who was impacted, understand their safety conditions, and share resources for on-the-ground support—all thanks to mobile technology. For Chief Security Officers, receiving calls like these launches a variety of protocols and necessary decision-making with the safety and security of people and assets as a top priority. And these calls are only becoming more common. Dependence on threat intelligence Mobile phones have dominated the post-COVID environment where people work from anywhere Threats ranging from natural disasters to geopolitical conflicts are becoming more frequent and complicate the responsibility organisations have in keeping their people safe. To meet these needs CSO’s are staying ahead of negative outcomes through creating a greater dependence on threat intelligence. In these times, effective, real-time risk management depends on hyper-local data from technology that is accessible, portable, and dynamic–such as cell phones. Mobile phones have revolutionised the way people live and work. They allow us all to walk around with a computer in our pocket, bringing the world to our fingertips and eliminating digital borders for over 90% of the world's population. Mobile phones have dominated the post-COVID environment where people work from anywhere and have geographically distributed teams but are also more vulnerable to threatening events. Mobile-friendly risk management platforms Mobile technology assigns workers with easy entry to data that can help keep them and their teams safe As we approach 2024, many organisations are adopting comprehensive risk management tools that empower personnel across the organisation with the intelligence and knowledge they need to stay safe wherever they are. Mobile-friendly risk management platforms, such as Crisis24 Horizon, provide always-on awareness, on-hand threat intelligence, and immediate communications and distress signalling through location monitoring. Users receive location risk assessments and push notifications directly to their devices about nearby issues and threats no matter if they are on or off the job. While only select risk managers have complete control of the platform and all sensitive employee data is protected through encryption, the app distributes critical intel to foster a culture of shared awareness and responsibility. Thus, mobile technology empowers employees with easy access to information that can help keep them and their teams safe. Creating a culture of mobile technology adoption In the last few years, the world has proven the importance of being well-informed of risks and mitigation plans to minimise harm. However, psychological barriers tend to trump physical barriers when it comes to accessing the vast array of tools our mobile devices offer. World has proven the matter of being well-informed of risks and relief plans to minimise harm Adopting this technology and establishing a culture that enforces risk management across an organisation is a daunting challenge that demands substantial commitment from leadership to be successful. Some companies have tackled this challenge by positioning security technology as part of the organisation’s employee benefits package, such as commuter benefits and health insurance, to encourage people to take advantage of these resources and learn how to use them. Cohesive risk management culture Technology is only as effective as the people whose actions it informs, which is why adoption and integration are so important. When a cohesive risk management culture meets a powerful technology platform, individuals are enabled to receive threat alerts and counter their impacts, letting others know when and how to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their team. For more information on mobile technology and other security trends, check out the Global Risk Forecast, an annual report by Crisis24 that provides a comprehensive analysis of key events around the world most likely to affect operations in the coming year.
Frictionless systems provide access to a building without interfering at all with a user’s entry experience. Frictionless access means you can automatically pass through a gate without showing a credential or otherwise engaging, and with the system recognising who you are and allowing you to pass. In true frictionless access, everything works seamlessly, with unauthorised people obviously barred. But how close are we to realising frictionless access control? We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: Is frictionless access control a reality or an empty promise?
Latest Access control news
OSI Systems announces that its Security division, a premier global provider of security and inspection systems, has secured an international contract award valued at approximately $100 million to provide cargo and vehicle inspection systems, as well as ongoing maintenance services and training. Deepak Chopra, OSI Systems’ Chairman and CEO, commented, "This award is a testament to the trust and confidence that our partners have in our technology expertise and customer service. We are excited to further contribute to the safety and security of nations with our advanced inspection systems. We are committed to delivering excellence and innovation in all our projects."
IDEMIA Secure Transactions (IST), a division of IDEMIA Group, is a major provider of payment and connectivity solutions for financial institutions, mobile network operators and automotive manufacturers. It has established itself as a leader in secure payment solutions for Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs). This work with Qualcomm Technologies confirms IST’s ambition to offer increasingly innovative payment solutions to customers around the world. IDEMIA Secure Transactions completes its offering IDEMIA Secure Transactions has already demonstrated offline CBDC on a variety of payment devices IDEMIA Secure Transactions thus completes its offering, enabling them to make payments securely and seamlessly, with the device of their choice, from traditional bank cards, biometric cards, wearables to feature phones, smartphones, or connected watches. In previous projects with central banks, IDEMIA Secure Transactions has already demonstrated offline CBDC on a variety of payment devices. With this new project, it demonstrates offline payment protocol, and the associated credentials handling, done by an integrated secure element already available in users’ phones, meaning safer and easier offline transactions for them. An innovative strategy to facilitate the deployment of offline CBDC payments By joining forces with Qualcomm Technologies, IST will enable OEMs to allow millions of users to make offline payments with CBDCs via their smartphones, thanks to the Qualcomm® Secure Processor Unit (SPU), a highly secure computing environment integrated into the Snapdragon 8-series. Qualcomm Technologies’ products and solutions are behind and inside the innovations that deliver significant value across multiple industries and to billions of devices. This innovation is a real game-changer for the payment industry, as over 90% of central banks are developing digital currencies. This collaboration has the potential to revolutionise payment habits and make life easier for a huge number of consumers. Unrivalled security for offline payments IDEMIA Secure Transactions is recognised globally as an expert in payment security IDEMIA Secure Transactions is recognised globally as an expert in payment security, and when it comes to offline payments, security is particularly important, as validation by a server is not possible. Therefore, a secure element must be issued specifically for that need to prevent double-spending and unauthorised money creation. The Snapdragon 8 Mobile Platform together with IST’s solution makes it possible to deploy offline CBDC on a smartphone equipped with that chip, dynamically in the field, easily and seamlessly. This happens without compromise on security, thanks to the use of the Qualcomm SPU, a highly secure zone of the phone’s application processor, designed to better resist to state-of-the-art security attacks. IDEMIA and Qualcomm partnership Jerome Ajdenbaum, Vice President (VP) - Digital Currencies at IDEMIA Secure Transactions, said “True to our commitment to make secure offline CBDC work anywhere, anytime and for everyone, we are very proud to collaborate with Qualcomm Technologies, one of the world’s most innovative companies.” He adds, “This new payment solution underlines IDEMIA Secure Transactions’ ability to marry frictionless deployment with ever more secure technologies, with the primary aim of making users’ life easier. We are looking forward to working with central banks and the mobile OEMs to deploy these solutions all around the world.” Easy integration for OEMs Asaf Shen, Senior Director, Product Management, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. said “Leveraging the Qualcomm SPU on the Snapdragon 8-series Mobile Platforms helps to make offline CBDC payments more secure and allows for easy integration for OEMs.” He adds, “In fact, the smartcard certification achieved for SPU means it is resistant to attacks performed by an attacker possessing High attack potential, which is the highest level. We look forward to OEMs deploying offline CBDC and simplifying the life of users.”
Traka has committed to ensuring “great service delivers” throughout 2024, with a dedicated customer-centric pledge, presenting unparalleled experiences for its customers, partners, and stakeholders. The theme captures the spirit of exceptional customer service, with Traka employees each demonstrating common behaviours through five ‘pillars’ echoed throughout its global business. The team at all times brings Truthful, Responsive, Approachable, Kind and Accurate. Focus of Traka's business Customer-centric policy reflects the core focus of Traka's business; putting every client first This customer-centric approach reflects the core focus of Traka's business; putting every customer first. From the moment they place an order through to the installation and aftercare, the customer must receive a consistent level of care. Says Tom Smith, Head of Business – Traka UK: “The outlook is optimistic for the security industry in the remaining quarters of 2024. The key to success, we believe, is not only building on partnerships and closer collaborations but also ensuring we commit to providing customers with quality solutions that meet their exact business needs." Latest innovative technology Traka uses its vast sector expertise to understand clients’ bespoke security needs Smith added: “Traka delivers great service at every step of the customer project, from concept to completion to aftercare. Through active listening, our employees develop a full understanding of our customers’ requirements and we can respond quickly. Great service underpins Traka’s complete business and captures our dedication to delivering exceptional experiences and maintaining strong, positive relationships.” Traka uses its extensive sector expertise to understand customers’ bespoke security requirements and integrates the latest innovative technology to streamline operations through asset management across a full range of business sectors. Long-term relationships Matt Gregg, UK Sales Manager, concludes: “At Traka, our goal is to create long-term relationships with every customer. This is based on our ability to ensure Great Service Delivers, which goes way beyond products." "Our pledge for 2024 encompasses our customer-centric strategy, enabling us to deliver to exceed expectations every single day and provide full-scale solutions alongside dedicated support at every step of the process."
ProdataKey (PDK), manufacturer of the major cloud access control platform built for mobile gives PDK.io system users access to immediate, turnkey integrations with cameras from five manufacturers from within its settings interface: Digital Watchdog, Hanwha Wisenet Wave, NX Witness, Turing, and Spot AI. PDK.io Currently, when users log into their cloud platform, they may pull up installed cameras from any of the five partnering manufacturers and use a simple dropdown menu to associate them with PDK-controlled doors. PDK.io will automatically begin associating bookmarked video clips with each logged access control event, with no programming necessary. Integration Tab PDK plans to add many additional partners within the Integrations Tab over time The interface also includes toggle switches to create soft triggers that unlock and lock associated doors. This new feature eliminates downloading and setting up drivers for camera integrations, creating a fully turnkey solution. PDK plans to add many additional partners within the Integrations Tab over time. Ultimately, PDK’s Integration Tab will become the default method for users to implement all integrations. User-friendly, partner-centric access control solution Brach Bengtzen, VP of Marketing at ProdataKey, explains, “This enhancement of our settings interface represents another way in which PDK strives to be the most user-friendly, partner-centric access control solution on the market." Brach Bengtzen adds, "Today’s customers want to manage their many security solutions through a unified platform, and PDK now makes that possible from Day One with almost no time required for set-up. You just map your cameras to your doors within using the Integrations Tab, and you’re ready to go.”
Access control applications
ZeroEyes, the creators of the only AI-based gun detection video analytics platform that holds the US Department of Homeland Security SAFETY Act Designation announced that Park City School District (PCSD) of Summit County, Utah has deployed its proactive gun detection and intelligent situational awareness solution to mitigate gun-related violence. Park City School District (PCSD) Nestled within the mountains of the year-round resort town, PCSD encompasses four elementary schools, a middle school, a junior high, a high school, and a learning centre. The district educates nearly 5,000 students annually and boasts a graduation rate in the top 1 percent of the nation. Intelligent situational awareness software AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness software is layered on existing digital security cameras PCSD is highly focused on student safety, collaborating with the Summit County Sheriff's Department and the Park City Police Department to deploy advanced electronic, physical, and procedural security measures. ZeroEyes' AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness software is layered on existing digital security cameras at all eight student-occupied PCSD buildings. ZeroEyes Operations Centre If a gun is identified, images will instantly be shared with the ZeroEyes Operations Centre (ZOC), staffed 24/7/365 by specially trained U.S. military and law enforcement veterans. If these experts determine that the threat is valid, they will dispatch alerts and actionable intelligence, including visual description, gun type, and last known location, to local staff and first responders in as fast as 3 to 5 seconds from detection. AI algorithms The platform does not store personal or biometric data or conduct any kind of facial recognition The company's AI algorithms only search for guns, not faces or bodies. Until a gun is identified, the monitoring screens in the ZOC stay blank; the ZeroEyes Operations team does not see a live feed from any cameras. Further, the platform does not store personal or biometric data or conduct any kind of facial recognition. Gun-related violence “We hold a deep commitment to safeguarding our students and staff, and ZeroEyes is a compassionate ally in our mission,” said Michael Tanner, COO of Park City School District. He adds, “By addressing the concerns of gun-related violence while also respecting the need for privacy, this solution allows us to provide a secure yet welcoming campus environment.” Proactive safety measures “Between its collaboration with local law enforcement and the deployment of proactive safety measures throughout its schools, Park City School District has shown that it is on the cutting edge of security,” said Mike Lahiff, CEO, and Co-Founder of ZeroEyes, adding “We are proud to work alongside this dedicated leadership team to protect students and staff against gun-related threats.” Park City School District was introduced to ZeroEyes through the company’s exclusive Utah reselling partner Aegix, a provider of industry-pioneering resources, technology, equipment, and training for first responders.
The university stands out as a highly esteemed institution, particularly renowned among enthusiasts of science and technology. With its effective educational approaches, the institution experienced a surge in enrolment, necessitating an upgrade from outdated communication technology within its premises. Furthermore, with plans for expansion in the upcoming academic year, there's a growing need for modern communication technology to streamline communication across various buildings and offices. To delve into their challenges: Limited Capacity System: The existing system proved to be obsolete and lacked sufficient capacity to handle the communication demands across offices within the same institution and across multiple locations. Communication Among Multi-Located Offices: As the University embarked on an expansion project, including the establishment of a new building at a distant location, there arose a need for seamless connectivity between this new site and the main building in the form of a multi-location communication solution. Need for Upgradation: The absence of modern features such as multi-party Conferencing and Unified Services for Mobility highlighted the necessity to upgrade their outdated communication system. Scalability and Redundancy: They sought a solution capable of effortlessly adapting to future requirements, ensuring smooth scalability for forthcoming applications. Furthermore, incorporating redundancy measures was deemed essential to guarantee uninterrupted operations. Solution Devised a tailored Multi-Location contact solution aimed at enhancing and raising Matrix Comsec, in collaboration with Rutvi System, meticulously examined the challenges faced by the university administration. Through collaborative efforts, they devised a tailored multi-location communication solution aimed at enhancing and expanding the existing infrastructure by leveraging Matrix Telecom Solutions. This involved the implementation of a Hybrid IP PBX and integration of a Media Gateway to streamline communication processes and ensure readiness for future demands. The Matrix solution comprises: At location 1 within the university complex, the Hybrid PBX, ETERNITY LENX, was installed. Alongside digital key phones, multiple analog phones were also connected at this site. An IP connection was established between location 1 and location 2. Utilising the ETERNITY LENX with SARVAM Gateway ENT, a PRI Gateway arrangement from location 1 facilitated an IP connection to the ETERNITY MENX at location 2. Digital key phones and multiple analog phones were integrated into location 2. The Matrix Multi-Location communication solution seamlessly interconnected both locations while incorporating a range of modern communication features. This fosters enhanced adaptability and versatility within the organisation, offering optimal advantages for contemporary communication needs. Results The implemented solution not only provided them with access to modern communication features but also facilitated smooth communication across their expanded infrastructure. The Hybrid PBX Systems, including ETERNITY MENX16SAC and ETERNITY LENX27SDC, offered scalability for up to 2000 IP Users, ensuring future readiness. Moreover, the Hot Swappable Card feature ensured uninterrupted operation and simplified maintenance, while the redundancy feature ensured high availability and continuous communication. With the SARVAM Gateway ENT Licence, they were able to utilise SARVAM as both a Unified Communication Server and Gateway simultaneously, eliminating the need for additional investments. The EON510 - Premium Digital Key phone offered advanced call amenities such as Global Directory Integration and Advanced Call Routeing, enhancing employee productivity and efficiency. The multi-location communication solution provided by Matrix seamlessly connected multiple buildings for the University, while the incorporation of modern communication features made them more efficient and prepared for the future.
Motorola Solutions announced its deployment of 4,000 VB400 body cameras to police forces in Austria. The nationwide rollout will help front-line teams to de-escalate potentially dangerous situations, capture evidence during operations and improve safety and transparency in all interactions. The latest Global Peace Report stated that Austria is one of the safest countries in the world, but according to the Ministry of the Interior, extremism, smuggling and cybercrime continue to be threats to Austria's security. To meet these challenges, the Austrian government decided to invest in a number of initiatives to increase safety and security in the country, including the deployment of body cameras for the national police. VB400 body cameras They offer a pre-and post-recording ability to help ensure incidents are seized from the start “Body cameras have proven to play a crucial role in helping to improve safety at the front line, while also serving as a valuable source of evidence in criminal cases,” said Michael Kaae, corporate vice president at Motorola Solutions. “We see an increasing demand for video technology, including body cameras, in-car video and fixed video solutions to help first responders keep their communities safe.” The VB400 body cameras will be provided with VideoManager evidence management software, enabling the secure handling and storage of evidential footage. Officers can easily upload and manage video footage, organised by time, date and location as part of their existing daily workflows. They offer a pre-and post-recording capability to help ensure incidents are captured from the start. TETRA digital radio technology Motorola Solutions has been a trusted partner of public safety organisations in Austria for over 20 years. All public safety organisations including police, fire brigades and emergency services rely on the reliable and secure Tetron network, which uses TETRA digital radio technology from Motorola Solutions.
A prominent participant in the Central African mining industry, this company focuses on the exploration and extraction of copper and cobalt. Boasting a substantial cobalt reserve and expansive copper assets, it is presently undergoing a significant restructuring to establish itself as a prominent global player in mining. Through strategic collaborations with major entities in the sector, both domestically and internationally, the corporation aims to enhance its competitive standing. An impactful project currently under evaluation aims to achieve an annual copper output of 200,000 tons, underscoring its dedication to expansion and prominence in the worldwide mining landscape. Overview Faced with the necessity for an enhanced attendance management system across widely spread mines and a sizable workforce, the client approached Matrix for a solution. The particular challenge involved consolidating attendance management and facilitating rapid attendance marking for approximately 10,000 users across various mines and the central headquarters. Matrix was enlisted to tackle the challenge, with the client specifically desiring a high-speed face-based attendance system Matrix was enlisted to tackle this challenge, with the client specifically desiring a high-speed face-based attendance system as the primary credential for marking attendance. The collaboration was geared towards achieving a seamless and centralised attendance management process across different mine locations. Client challenges Matrix demonstrated a nimble response to the client's urgent requirements, strengthening their attendance management infrastructure. The challenges encompassed the consolidation of attendance management and are outlined below: Requirement for Centralised Employee Attendance Management: Operating across diverse mining locations, the client encountered difficulties in efficiently handling employee attendance. To address the challenges faced by the mining conglomerate, there was a clear need to implement a centralised solution to streamline and enhance attendance management effectively. Need for an Employee Portal: Another challenge faced by the client was the absence of an easy-to-use platform for attendance and leave management, visible to their employees. Swift Identification of Mine Workers and Employees: There was a critical demand for the rapid identification of employees and mine workers, emphasizing the urgent need to expedite attendance processes. Matrix's solution Matrix efficiently addressed these requirements by offering solutions that enhanced its client's attendance management systems. The company implemented its Instant Face-based Time Attendance Management Solution, delivering the following benefits: Centralised Attendance Management for Streamlined Employees: Matrix provided a comprehensive time attendance solution with centralised management capabilities. This allowed the client to have unified control over employee attendance from various mine locations, simplifying the overall management process. Employee Self-Service Portal for Quick Access to Leave and Attendance Management: In addition to the time-attendance solution, Matrix introduced its employee self-service portal, offering employees convenient ways to update leave information and facilitating smoother leave approval processes. Instant Face Recognition for Seamless Employee Identification: Matrix deployed COSEC ARGO FACE for rapid face recognition. With a recognition speed of less than 0.5 seconds, this device enabled the client to achieve high-speed face-based attendance. This accelerated the attendance marking process across all mine locations. The integration of Matrix's face-based Attendance Solution, along with an instant face recognition door controller, significantly enhanced the client's attendance operations, leading to heightened operational efficiency throughout the organisation. Application scenario Results Instant Face-based Time Attendance Management Solution Employee Self-Service Portal facilitated seamless leave and attendance management for employees Matrix adeptly tackled the intricate challenges faced by this Central African mining entity, elevating attendance management and employee engagement. By implementing the Instant Face-based Time Attendance Management Solution, Matrix not only centralised attendance management across diverse mine locations but also introduced an Employee Self-Service Portal. This portal facilitated seamless leave and attendance management for employees, promoting transparency and efficiency. Operational efficiency The integration of COSEC ARGO FACE ensured rapid face recognition, reducing identification time to less than 0.5 seconds. The holistic solution significantly enhanced operational efficiency, providing the mining company with streamlined attendance processes, improved employee interaction, and heightened overall organisational effectiveness.