Category: Feature
Securing IP Surveillance Cameras in the IoT Ecosystem
The security for devices connected to the Internet of Things (IoT) has been a hot topic, and Internet Protocol (IP) surveillance cameras, in particular, have been the subject of growing scrutiny. IP cameras have become a top target for hackers because of their relatively high computing power and good internet traffic throughput. A case in point was the incident toward the end of 2016 where a Linux-based botnet called Mirai was used to facilitate the largest distributed-denial-of-service (DDoS) attack in history. As a result, packet flow experienced outbursts of up to 50 times higher than its normal volume, with internet traffic estimated at a record high of 1.2 Tbps. The traffic was triggered by remote commands, and the hijacked devices were primarily IP surveillance cameras. Multiple variants of Mirai-like malware have since surfaced to further take advantage of vulnerable IP surveillance cameras. Rightfully, cybersecurity is now becoming a major consideration for IP surveillance devices, with some governments, for instance, already at work on regulations to elevate cybersecurity implementation. It is becoming a new decisive factor in the market of IP surveillance cameras. Motivations for targeting IP surveillance cameras One of the major motivations for hacking IoT devices is financial gain; and when it comes to monetization, IP surveillance cameras are distinct targets for the following reasons: Constant connectivity Like many other devices, IP cameras need to be internet-connected to function properly. However, exposure to the internet also makes it easy for hackers to find the cameras and potentially exploit the devices. Once hacked, the devices will be able to serve the hackers’ needs. Low hacking investment Unlike with hacking a PC, once hackers see a way to break the security of an IoT device such as an IP camera, the same approach can usually be applied to other devices of similar models, resulting in a very low per-device hacking cost. Lack of supervision Unlike PCs, especially those used in offices, IP cameras have low user interaction and are not well-managed in terms of security. Installation of an after market anti-malware application is not available either. High performance The idle computing power of an IP surveillance camera is usually good enough to perform hacking-related tasks such as cryptocurrency mining, and without being noticed by end users at that. High internet-facing bandwidth The always-connected, fast and huge bandwidth designed for video communications makes for a suitable target for hackers to initiate DDoS attacks. Typical attack chain The typical attack chain around IP surveillance cameras consists of the following steps. 1. Initial infection After locating a device with open ports such as Telnet, Secure Shell, and Universal Plug and Play (UPnP), the attacker uses the device’s default credentials (as with Mirai), or exploits un-patched system vulnerabilities (as with Persirai and Reaper) to gain access control. 2. Command and control After gaining control of the device, the attacker downloads and executes malicious scripts or samples that report to the command-and-control (C&C) server. That server issues commands instructing the affected IP camera to perform malicious activities such as cryptocurrency mining or DDoS attacks on other devices via user datagram protocol floods. 3. Propagation Depending on its kind, the malware used can scan the network and employ the same infection methods to propagate itself to other vulnerable devices. The attacker can trigger this action automatically (as in the case of wormlike botnets), or manually by receiving instructions from the C&C server. Risks to public and closed networks Most home IP cameras offered in the traditional, doit-yourself (DIY) consumer market are connected directly to the internet. This means that home IP cameras are exposed to the internet at a very similar level as personal computers in homes, but lacking the user capability to install security software. Although home IP cameras amount to only a small portion of all installed devices, they make up a fast-growing market because of their increasing affordability and accessibility to the general public. On the other hand, many people claim that IP cameras are not exposed to that level of risk because most products are usually designed for enterprises, which basically deploy IP cameras in local area networks and make them unsearchable on the internet. This claim may hold true, but it may overlook several real-world factors: The system integrators may not install the IP cameras as expected. In many cases, people just choose whichever approach is more convenient for them to install everything and get the devices working. Ease of maintenance is another incentive for them to do so. This explains why the IP addresses of many IP cameras that are supposed to stay in a local area network can still be found. The business model around IP cameras is changing. Service providers are using IP cameras to run customized services (such as elderly care), and making the cameras available on the internet is the easiest way for both users and remote operators to access the cameras as needed at the same time. Modern value-adding functions such as video analysis features are often deployed in the cloud to reduce the overall hardware and software costs, with the flexibility to switch specific features on or off, or to add a new feature regardless of the hardware performance of the cameras. Hooking up IP cameras to the internet at large is a clear trend. Given the considerable number of IP cameras deployed globally, a small portion of IP cameras that expose themselves on the public domain can serve as a great incentive for hackers. Another thing to consider is how network isolation is one of the frequently mentioned approaches for cybersecurity. Being in a local area network though, does not guarantee the protection of IP cameras against hacking. For one thing, well-designed malware can easily spread across the local area network, and any portable device brought into the same local area network can easily turn into an infection vector. Take the infamous Mirai botnet as an example – a Windows-based trojan plays an important role to distribute it, even though the targets are…
ACTIONABLE VIDEO INTELLIGENCE
Traditional CCTV systems use a set of cameras and a local network to connect these cameras to a video management software. The video management system typically runs on a network video recorder (NVR) or a digital video recorder (DVR). The fundamental difference between the two – NVR records IP cameras while DVR records analog cameras connected via coaxial cables, hence a DVR system would not require a network but connect cameras to the DVR as point to point connections. In traditional CCTV system, monitoring is done by using a central monitoring system where human beings would watch multiple screens to make security-based decisions and take appropriate actions. With the technology advancement to IP, most of the earlier DVR systems have been replaced by NVR systems. This is because the IP cameras can be controlled remotely, and more importantly, they produce a digital video stream. The video stream could be in a raw or compressed form to save bandwidth as well asstorage space. Both network bandwidth and storage space are of premium significance and hence they need to be optimized for cost considerations. Analog video streams cannot be processed by software unless they are converted into a digital stream, and in the conversion process from analog to digital video, detail, color and resolution are lost from the original analog video stream. Many deployments use this technique to process video because it is cheaper than replacing the existing system with an IP system. This is a trade-off between cost and losing key video data that could have been otherwise processed accurately to build a superior video surveillance system. Any green field project should implement an IP system as the flexibility, long term costs and future scalability of the system are at stake. For the corporate business and high security installations such as nuclear power stations, hydro-electric power generators, airports, highway monitoring systems etc., an NVR based system is no longer an option because of its limited ability to scale. If the software processing engine is a server-based system then the scaling of the surveillance system is easily solved. A server gives one the option of building a custom solution based on the project requirements by including other surveillance and security software and hardware components besides cameras. These can be integrated into the VMS easily to build a comprehensive surveillance and security system. The other security components are access control systems, radar, signage, facial recognition, fire alarms etc. By now one must realize that an NVR based surveillance system is incapable of providing all the features to build a comprehensive surveillance and security system. Software components that make a comprehensive Actionable Video Intelligence System The following diagram illustrates the various security and surveillance components that are built around a central VMS software that runs on the main server. The key points to note are as follows: A central VMS component. A VMS that runs on a separate client-server. A VMS client software that runs on a separate client workstation. The above three components are well integrated with each other. An optional video analytics module that is tightly coupled with the main VMS, which analyzes each video frame from a camera and executes programmed video analytics. This constitutes the basis of actionable video intelligence (AVI). The ability to integrate other security software components into the main VMS software core. This is accomplished using application programming interfaces (API) and a software development kit (SDK). Popular video analytics algorithms Following is a capture of some popular video analytics algorithms: Motion detection Seamless integration of motion detection results available from cameras. Motion detection processing from application. Independent motion detection settings for every camera. ‘Motion detected’ and ‘No motion’ alarms to indicate start of motion and end of motion. Advanced motion detection algorithm with high accuracy and low resource utilization. ● Record on motion. Motion detection meta-data overlay on videos with configuration for overlay level – no overlay, only motion indicator, motion grids, full overlay. Option to exclude motion detection alarms from alarms database entries. Video analytics Video analytics on IR cameras and thermal cameras. Support for video analytics on PTZ cameras, while the camera is in ‘home’ position. Video analytics is automatically disabled when camera moves from the home position and video analytics is automatically started when camera is moved back to home position. Seamless integration of video analytics module as video analytics is not a separate software application. No manual synchronization and maintenance is needed. Dedicated video analytics screen to display analyzed videos from multiple cameras, with analytics meta-data overlay.Quick access to video analytics settings for each camera. Independent video analytics settings for every camera. Easy to manage, tightly integrated simple user interface. Enhanced algorithms which need only few parameters to be configured to get good results from video analytics in most of the deployment situations. Advanced parameters are available to handle special situations. Local or remote processing of video analytics. Availability of wide range of standard analytics features. Intrusion detection Wrong direction movement detection. Line crossing/ trip-wire. Camera tamper/ scene change detection. Crowd detection Un-attended object detection. Queue length detection. Asset protection. Loitering detection. Tailgating detection. Object stopped detection. People counting, Vehicles counting. Object trace/ travel path. Object speed calculation. Digital auto-tracking. Vibration removal. Flexible architecture to quickly support customized video analytics features. Option of project specific combined analytics on data generated by multiple external devices and video streams. Option to use 3rd party video analytics libraries using their SDKs. VMS integration techniques There are several challenges when it comes to integrating several diverse security components with one another such as integrating several diverse software stacks e.g., ALPR, FR, PIDS (including radar/ thermal cameras), ACS, IVAS, VMS, and others. VMS integration needs following points to take into consideration such as: Assess integration cost Integration is an expensive and time-consuming process. Establish performance and functionality metrics for all vendors. Establish due diligence process to assess impact to first deployment. Ensure seamless integration of all security components The integrated system should work seamlessly. No change to…
Securing ATMs 24/7 with Intelligent Security Technology
ATMs have become a cornerstone for the day-to-day life of millions, but they are vulnerable to attacks. The global ATM Industry Association has reported a 12% increase in ATM crimes during 2017. Attacks often involve ATM users, potentially injuring them, and thereby causing them trauma. Since ATMs are mostly situated outside buildings and are made for use at all times of day and night, securing them is a challenge – and therefore banks are turning to more intelligent solutions. An outdoor vulnerability According to ATM Industry Association (ATMIA), there is an estimation of about 3.5 million ATMs in the world serving those in need of cash 24/7, 365 days a year. This, coupled with the fact that they hold hard cash, makes them an attractive target. Criminals target these machines, or more precisely, the people using them in numerous ways. They distract customers at ATMs in an attempt to take their cards or cash, or to steal their PINs for later use. At cases, they also install false card readers that sneak customer’s card details for reuse. On the other side of the story, banks need to deal with customers’ disputes. In the situation of a very small percentage of ATM transactions, customers question whether the transaction has been carried out as requested – or even dispute at all in real time for any error while making the withdrawal. Thus, security precautions for ATMs are an important part of an overall security solution for financial institutions. When deep learning technology steps in Inside an ATM machine, two covert cameras are installed – one trained on the user and the other on the ATM panel. Deep learning technology embedded in the ATM security system can detect any ‘abnormalities’ in the facial scenes in front of it, referring to the existing data patterns. So, if there is another face in the picture (for example someone looking over a user’s shoulder, or if the person wearing a mask), an alarm can be triggered in the security center. By using the same technology, the security system can also flag if the number pad is covered with a strip to steal PIN codes, or if a false card reader (or ‘skimmer’) is present to steal card details. All of these ‘smart’ alarms streamline the security monitoring processes, meaning that security personnel can react to real-time scenarios and would not waste time on false alarms. The footage can also provide evidence for any investigation. Hikvision solution Hikvision DeepinMind NVR – a robust deep learning ‘engine’ – takes information from the camera and analyses it using deep learning algorithms. This also ‘manages’ footage in conjunction with other NVRs and a video management system, providing a powerful tool set for security and business intelligence. Securing assets and mitigating risks through security solution is a lot easier with deep learning technology. Even ATMs outside a building can be safer, avoiding fraud and protecting customers every day.
Minimizing Downtime in Critical Environments
At worst, unplanned downtime in a critical environment can cause a catastrophic event that negatively impacts public safety and/ or the environment on a mass scale. At best, it could mean production losses costing thousands, or even millions, of dollars. A predictive maintenance strategy that incorporates Axis technology can help companies minimize costly downtime and improve their bottom lines. At worst, unplanned downtime in a critical environment can cause a catastrophic event that negatively impacts public safety and/ or the environment on a mass scale. At best, it could mean production losses costing thousands, or even millions, of dollars. A predictive maintenance strategy that incorporates Axis technology can help companies minimize costly downtime and improve their bottom lines. Considering the stakes, it’s no wonder that companies are transitioning from a reactive to a preventive and even predictive maintenance strategy. But many of these companies are still relying on an ‘old-school’ route-based approach – sending technicians out at scheduled intervals to physically assess and record critical asset findings. For a typical commercial petroleum company with over 20,000 well sites, this represents a significant cost. And inevitably, critical assets will either be over-maintained or under-maintained as they rarely break-down on schedule. When the cost of oil is low every barrel counts. But operational efficiency is key to a healthy bottom line. That’s why progressive companies are adopting a predictive maintenance strategy that includes distributed online monitoring. With advancements in automation, wireless technology, SCADA systems and solar powered hardened devices, remote data collection from permanent sensors provides much better insight on the status of critical assets and helps keep operations flowing smoothly. Let’s look at how Axis technology is ‘fueling’ this trend Thermal imaging for better flare stack monitoring The controlled combustion of excess gases in the chemical and petrochemical industry is essential to eliminate pressure on critical assets. Should the flame go out, it poses a serious health and safety risk for workers – and carries a hefty fine from environmental authorities. Axis thermal cameras provide better flare stack monitoring, ensuring a stable thermal profile and proactively sending an alarm to operators if the flame decreases. Explosion protected cameras improve health & safety In hazardous environments, preventing injuries and fatalities is paramount – both for the safety and well-being of workers, as well as the associated downtime cost. Certified for explosion-prone applications according to all applicable international standards, Axis explosion-protected cameras allow HSE site engineers to monitor areas where accidents typically occur – such as the working of tubulars on drilling rigs. Additionally, their temperature alarm camera monitors for temperature deviations and leaks in critical assets – to prevent an incident before it occurs. A new and attractively priced alternative to traditional steel housings, the AXIS F101-A XF P1367 is specifically designed for hazardous environments. Its lightweight aluminum housing is Class I/II/III, Division 1, Zone 1, ATEX and IECEx certified, it’s easy to configure remotely, and it delivers clear images in challenging light conditions. The red color also helps workers locate it to signal operators in emergency situations. Real-time condition-based monitoring With the advancement of video imaging and processing power, network cameras are a valuable redundancy in condition-based monitoring systems – providing visual confirmation of sensor alerts and full situational awareness in an emergency. Edge-based video analytics enable the cameras themselves to serve as a primary sensor for HSE engineers to detect e.g., occupancy levels on a drilling rig, PPE compliance, or obstructed evacuation routes. Better communication with network speakers With Axis network speakers, it’s easy to communicate both live and alert-based pre-recorded messages to workers in remote locations – to warn of a safety risk or instruct them to take action on a sensor alarm. With the introduction of Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) speakers, oil and gas companies also save on the maintenance and implementation cost of PA systems. What’s more, the system can scale without having to upgrade proprietary, bulky amplifier racks, and the integration of Axis speakers and cameras is a simple one-click configuration process. Connected technology Axis network I/O relay modules extend the functionality of any Axis device and integrate with other facility systems such as fire alarm, HVAC and BMS. This technology is particularly useful in extending the I/O signals from any field-based temperature sensor to the central SCADA system to trigger, for example, strobe lighting, loudspeaker messaging and camera recordings in an emergency. Reliable intrusion protection Any unauthorized physical intrusion can have a major impact on critical assets and cause downtime. With an Axis intrusion protection solution, one can safeguard the whole site – from perimeter to critical core. A combination of thermal, radar and PTZ technology detects, identifies and tracks intruders. Access control limits free movement in critical or hazardous areas, and audio capabilities with alarm-based pre-recorded messages deter any unauthorized entry. Getting more from your technology It all comes back to operational efficiency contributing to a healthy bottom line. A complete system of Axis video, intelligent analytics, access control and audio address all key aspects of critical infrastructure protection – intrusion, operational efficiency and health and safety – all of which present risks to unplanned downtime. By incorporating Axis solutions in the condition-based monitoring strategy, the user can more easily detect incidents before they happen and keep production up and running.
The Top Five Factors Driving Access Control Market Growth
It’s safe to say that both the perception and reality of growth in the access control market have certainly changed over the last few years. What was once known for its slow and conservative trajectory has now transformed into an industry that is seeing fast-paced development, with the latest forecasts predicting the global market will grow at a CAGR of 13.2% from 2018 to 2025, reaching a value of $16.66 billion by the end of that timeframe. As is common in any segment of the security industry, this growth can be attributed to a number of factors, with each one playing an important role in the overall evolution of the market. Here we take a look at the top five: Increasing threats Soft targets around the world such as educational facilities, venues, shopping centers, transportation hubs and more, are continuing to face the challenge of staying prepared for the increasing significance and frequency of threats. One of the first methods of protection that often comes to mind for these facilities is securing the perimeter of the building or campus, leading to an increase in the use of access control solutions that enhance safety and allow for swift lockdowns with the push of a button. Advanced technology The emergence of the cloud and Internet of Things (IoT) have positively impacted the entire security industry as a whole, and this undoubtedly includes the access control market. These intelligent technologies have opened up new possibilities for the traditional access control systems of the past such as remote monitoring, less cumbersome installments and central reporting/ management. Additionally, technology such as mobile credentials and biometrics offer exciting and innovative options for access control solutions, propelling market growth through interest in the convenience of these features. ACaaS One of the key benefits the cloud creates for the access control market is the access control-as-a-service (ACaaS) model, which we’re seeing a high adoption of – particularly in small to medium sized businesses (SMBs) – and is therefore facilitating market expansion. SMBs are taking advantage of the ability to turn over system management to an integrator, benefiting from cost savings, continued support and scalability. Integrations Open-platform technology has given rise to the seamless integration of access control systems with other solutions, encouraging market growth by allowing organizations to obtain added functionality from their technology investments. Enterprises can seamlessly converge their access control with surveillance cameras, video management systems (VMS), intrusion platforms and more, enabling them to invest in a solution that can address multiple needs. Added functionality Though access control is primarily used for security purposes, as these systems become more intelligent and capable of engaging with other operations outside of safety, their value increases and therefore leads to market growth. For example, an access control system can integrate with a building management system to lock/ unlock doors for an event, turn on/ off lights or control temperature. Over the next few years, as technology advances further and becomes smarter, we can expect to see these trends continue to push the access control market forward. It’s encouraging to see how far its come and we look forward to embracing new possibilities in an effort to help organizations keep people, assets and property safe.
Eagle Eye Networks Enhanced Eagle Eye Cloud VMS
Eagle Eye Networks unveiled enhancements to the Eagle Eye Cloud VMS supporting 15 additional third party mobile and body worn cameras. The Eagle Eye VMS provides simultaneous operations, search, and cloud storage for fixed and mobile cameras. Managing and retrieving body worn camera video have historically been a separate process from the primary video surveillance system. With Eagle Eye, this can now be an integrated and cohesive process that requires less training, and is more secure and reliable. The Eagle Eye mobile and body worn camera system includes: Viewing mobile and fixed camera footage in one cohesive interface eliminating the need for multiple applications. Archiving, storage and retrieval of time-stamped mobile footage with GPS coordinates and tracking. ● Secure sharing of video via mp4 files or via direct links to interested parties. Open platform that provides compatibility with a broad array of cameras. Today, Eagle Eye Networks provides support for over 3,500 mobile and fixed cameras. Access to a true cloud system meaning virtually unlimited scalability, triple redundant data center architecture, full encrypted video, and comprehensive cyber security. Eagle Eye Video API Platform delivers unlimited video analytics from partners. With video stored in the cloud and open API’s, new AI analysis is being continually developed and improved. “It’s been proven repeatedly that open systems architectures win over proprietary systems. Eagle Eye Networks believes in open architecture standards and our platform, Eagle Eye Cloud VMS, demonstrates this. Extending our platform to encompass mobile cameras is a logical extension of our open camera platform. Our open platform ability to integrate third party AI and analytics is delivering on a broad set of applications for our customers,” said Dean Drako, CEO of Eagle Eye Networks. Eagle Eye Networks customers have desired integration of mobile and fixed camera surveillance to reduce risk in commercial industries – in-home services, retail, guarding, commercial delivery services, real estate sales, and other service-oriented verticals. The mobile camera video and GPS data will be securely transferred to the Eagle Eye cloud data center where video footage can be reviewed, analyzed and stored.
How can SMBs Protect Their Data in the Cloud?
More and more small to medium sized businesses (SMBs) are using cloud storage. This is due to the huge benefits the cloud brings in terms of productivity and flexibility. However, most SMBs seem to still be suspicious about it. Actually, recent research shows that 61% are convinced that their data is unsafe in the cloud. Why, and what can be done about it? SMBs are worried about their data in the cloud SMBs are afraid to lose visibility and control over their data once they hand it over to a third-party cloud platform. Their first worry is that it’s harder to detect unauthorized access when data can be accessed from anywhere in the world and on any device. On the contrary, when data is stored on-premise, you need to be physically present in the office to access these files. So it creates a natural barrier against unauthorized access from outside the organization. Furthermore, access can be restricted to specific devices only. SMBs also worry about the fact that it’s harder to stop or prevent data theft from the leaving employees. For the same reasons, it is easier to spot an employee stealing data when it’s stored on the physical desktop computer. With cloud storage, it becomes pretty easy for leaving employees to steal information before they go. Finally, hybrid storage environment can be complex. Using a mixture of on-premise and cloud storage increases productivity. Though, managing the security of the data stored across multiple environments becomes very challenging. The attitude regarding cloud storage is not helping According to the same research, a lot of organizations believe their own data is more valuable than that of their clients. This is pretty disturbing to know that third-party and insider breaches are on the rise. Those who operate with large and complex supply chains will be concerned by this mentality given the lack of visibility and control over data security once it lives on third-party systems. Furthermore, as we said previously, organizations using a mixture of on-premises and cloud storage systems are having troubles managing the security of data – either their clients’ or their own. Besides, almost half of SMBs are convinced that moving to the cloud has harmed their security and 59% assume that the native security of their cloud storage provider is not strong enough to protect their data. Knowing that, it is pretty worrying to see that 80% are only relying on the native security of the cloud storage provider they’re using and only 1 out of 10 organizations is using a third-party cloud file monitoring tool to prevent unauthorised access to sensitive data. SMBs clearly need a more efficient way to ensure their data in the cloud remains safe. Moving your data to the cloud does not reduce an organisation’s need to secure access to and usage of file data. SMBs’ solution to protect their data in the cloud The attitude regarding cloud storage needs to change. Nowadays, a majority of organisations share a big amount of valuable data with their clients over email or in the cloud. Knowing that supply chains attacks are on the rise, it only takes one mistake from one supplier to have your data compromised. Furthermore, most organisations today look into the cybersecurity of their partners before choosing to work with them. It is therefore of great importance that organisations can show that they can keep their clients’ data safe. To be able to protect your data both on-premise and in the cloud, you need to proactively track and audit on all access to files and folders. You need a solution in place that can provide a single consistent view of the security of your files and folders across all your storage servers – whether on-premises or on a third-party cloud system. It needs to be able to report and alert you in real-time to suspicious file activity the moment it occurs. That way, you are sure that if someone other than an authorized employee tries to access your data, you’ll be the first to know about it and therefore you can react quickly before any damage is done. By- François Amigorena – Founder and CEO
Securing ATMs 24/7 with Intelligent Security Technology
ATMs have become a cornerstone for the day-to-day life of millions, but they are vulnerable to attacks. The global ATM Industry Association has reported a 12% increase in ATM crimes during 2017. Attacks often involve ATM users, potentially injuring them, and thereby causing them trauma. Since ATMs are mostly situated outside buildings and are made to use at all the times of a day and night, securing them is a challenge – and therefore banks are turning to more intelligent solutions. An outdoor vulnerability According to ATM Industry Association (ATMIA), there is an estimation of about 3.5 million ATMs in the world serving those in need of cash 24/7, 365 days a year. This, coupled with the fact that they hold hard cash, makes them an attractive target. Criminals target these machines, or more precisely, the people using them in numerous ways. They distract customers at ATMs in an attempt to take their cards or cash, or to steal their PINs for later use. At cases, they also install false card readers that sneak customer’s card details for reuse. On the other side of the story, banks need to deal with customers’ disputes. In the situation of a very small percentage of ATM transactions, customers question whether the transaction has been carried out as requested – or even dispute at all in real time for any error while making the withdrawal. Thus, security precautions for ATMs are an important part of an overall security solution for financial institutions. When deep learning technology steps in Inside an ATM machine, two covert cameras are installed – one trained on the user and the other on the ATM panel. Deep learning technology embedded in the ATM security system can detect any ‘abnormalities’ in the facial scene in front of it, referring to the existing data patterns. So, if there is another face in the picture (for example someone looking over a user’s shoulder, or if the person wearing a mask), an alarm can be triggered in the security center. By using the same technology, the security system can also flag if the number pad is covered with a strip to steal PIN codes, or if a false card reader (or ‘skimmer’) is present to steal card details. All of these ‘smart’ alarms streamline the security monitoring processes, meaning that security personnel can react to real-time scenarios and would not waste time on false alarms. The footage can also provide evidence for any investigation. Hikvision solution Hikvision DeepinMind NVR – a robust deep learning ‘engine’ – takes information from the camera and analyses it using deep learning algorithms. This also ‘manages’ footage in conjunction with other NVRs and a video management system, providing a powerful toolset for security and business intelligence. Securing assets and mitigating risks through security solution is a lot easier with deep learning technology. Even ATMs outside a building can be safer, avoiding fraud and protecting customers every day.
Johnson Controls Announces VideoEdge Integration with EntraPass go Mobile App
Johnson Controls is introducing the integration of the Tyco Kantech EntraPass go Mobile App with the Tyco American Dynamics VideoEdge software, enabling remote management of access control, video and intrusion tasks for seamless, on-the-go security system operation from a mobile device. The American Dynamics VideoEdge integration with the EntraPass go Mobile App provides a single easy use interface for managing, responding and controlling aspects of the video management system infrastructure through the use of the EntraPass go Mobile App. Video management capabilities include the ability to view live video with PTZ control, video playback with manual search, and the ability to view video linked to access and/ or intrusion events. With the EntraPass go Mobile App, users can manage and create cards, lock and unlock doors, view live video, arm and disarm intrusion partitions and request reports. This free app enables users to interact with EntraPass security management system software from anywhere, without being tied to the EntraPass workstation. The VideoEdge platform improves the efficiency of security personnel and daily business operations by creating powerful video management solutions allowing users to leverage high-performance video streaming, analytics and video intelligence. EntraPass go Mobile App is available on Android and Apple devices.
Why are Shopping Malls Easy & Lucrative Targets for Terrorists ?
In the 21st century, shopping malls have become the symbol of prosperity. They are omnipresent across the globe – especially in metropolitan cities. India, which is one of the fastest growing economies of the world today, is also not lagging and has made a remarkable part of this global phenomenon that is fast spreading its footprints in Tier-II and Tier-III cities of the country. Shopping malls are also transforming the landscape of rural India. The nondescript and sleepy towns have become vibrant and are buzzing with commercial activities with population drawn to the ambience of flowing music, entertainment, glitter of lights, and opulence of the variety in the stores. Today malls which have become synonymous to shopping culture across all sections of urban India present a potent symbol of rising middle class, and have become the ultimate destination for the shoppers with wish lists in their hands. Other side of the coin – Easy target for terrorist attacks While visiting shopping malls is normally a must in today’s time, they have also become an easy target for terrorist attacks. The brazen and gruesome attacks by terrorists on shopping malls in the past decades have left a very tragic, devastating and emotionally wrenching scars down the memory lane of the entire human race. An analysis by Rand Corporation in 2006 reported 60 such attacks on shopping malls in 21 countries since 1998. A mere glance at the historical data of such heinous acts of terrorists as available on Google and tabulated below is very scary, and needs serious attention of the security professionals. Peculiarities of shopping malls The shopping malls are very different from the likes of airports which provide specific and specialized customer services and travel experience. Same is the case when we compare shopping malls with shopping complexes which fall grossly short of quality shopping experiences. The shopping malls are prominently crowd centric as footfalls are the core of their business model. They are usually fat in area – spread in lakhs of square feet of retail space, and multi-storeyed – to house a remarkably large number of stores to ensure all famous international brands are available. Food courts and cineplexes, casinos and pubs, kids play zones, promotional activity zone etc. are the major attractions of malls. Other facilities include large multilevel parking spaces for vehicles, gen sets for power back-ups, escalators and passenger lifts for easy movements of the shoppers, 24×7 presence of the security and facility management personnel, flashy glitter of colorful LED lights in stores and surroundings, and so on. Security challenges in shopping malls To be commercially viable and attractive, the shopping malls have got inherently to be in open areas – with wide ranging access for retailers and shoppers and therefore with copious car parking capacity and other above given facilities. This increases the potential vulnerability and challenges before the security system. Some of the other major challenges faced by the security in a shopping mall are: a) Multiple stakeholders – The ownership of the shopping malls is usually in the hands of many stakeholders. b) Large crowd – The sheer numbers are sitting ducks that invite terrorist attacks. c) Access to public – Malls thrive on footfalls and thus allow unimpeded access to all. d) Centre of attraction – Attract wide cross section of the population. e) Business models – The marginal cost of additional security measures is termed extremely high. f) Personal privacy vs security – Frisking, search and X-ray scanning of baggage are generally not longed for by the shoppers and hence rarely allowed. g) Unwillingness for enhanced security – Most countries are not willing to turn shopping malls into fortresses for various obvious reasons. Risks and threats The spectrum of risks and threats to the security of a shopping mall can thus be summarized in terms of – shop lifting by shoppers, theft and pilferage by the employees of stores, accidents and thefts in car parking, public violence in casinos and pubs, fire incidents for varied apparent reasons, bomb threats and active shooter incidents, inappropriate behavior in passenger lifts and parking amounting to sexual harassment, and many more. Active shooter Amongst the risks and threats listed above, active shooters are the biggest security threat. They are highly trained, hard core, motivated and mission oriented crusader with a singular aim to damage public and their assets. The characteristics of a shopping mall offer them the freedom to gauge the security envelope through repeated reconnaissance and surveillance of the target points and areas, and then strike at right place and time of his choosing within the vulnerabilities identified. Post 9/11 scenario The aftermath of 9/11 attack on Twin Trade World Towers, New York in the USA, which shook the mindset of a large section of countries, has enabled a dramatic change in the entire security outlook of these infrastructures. The profile of the shopping malls has started deeply embedding security and safety in their processes to leave very marginal and reduced scope of security lapses. The HHMD (hand held metal detectors), DFMD (door frame metal detectors), X-ray scanners and CCTV surveillance play the key role in reinforcing todays’ security umbrella. The AI (Artificial Intelligence) enabled systems for tracking a suspect through facial recognition technology is the latest addition to the recent fleet of security gadgets. The scope of integrating security and surveillance devices has further augmented the viability of security system. The presence of security personnel in civil clothes to ensure that they remain unobtrusive and un-conspicuous while attempting to identify suspicious elements within the Mall serves a big deterrent. However, one needs to home on the ideology of terrorists to figure out the probability of an imminent terrorist attack. Why a shopping mall cannot be made an impregnable fortress A one line answer suffices to address this issue that a stringent security arrangement goes totally against the ethos, culture and experience level expected by both shoppers and retailers – as with such deployments the very purpose of creating malls…