Category: International

ASIS International has opened the call for presentations for its 64th Annual Seminar and Exhibits (ASIS 2018), taking place during 23-27 September 2018 in Las Vegas that is expected to attract 22,000+ registrants from more than 95 countries. Produced in partnership with the Information Systems Security Association (ISSA) and InfraGard, ASIS 2018 will deliver the most comprehensive education program for operational and cybersecurity professionals from the public and private sector. The conference program will feature 180+ education sessions addressing the full spectrum of risk from contemporary security threats including IoT security, crisis management and response, and AI and robotics, to day to day security challenges including guard force management, data protection, and enterprise security risk management (ESRM). The program selection committee is looking for: Security-related content that will challenge and inspire. Proposals at the intermediate to advanced levels. Case studies and benchmarks with actionable takeaways. Immersive learning formats that engage attendees. Proposals developed by security end-users are preferred.

INTERPOL Cracks Massive Human Trafficking Ring Operation rescues 500 victims, lead to 40 arrests Nearly 500 victims of human trafficking, including 236 minors, have been rescued following an INTERPOL operation carried out simultaneously across Chad, Mali, Mauritania, Niger and Senegal. In total, 40 suspected traffickers were arrested and will now face prosecution for offences including human trafficking, forced labour and child exploitation. They are accused of forcing victims to engage in activities ranging from begging to prostitution, with little to no regard for working conditions or human life. In one case, a 16-year old Nigerian girl was promised work in Mali which would allow her to care for her family. She was taken on by a ‘sponsor’ who then forced her into prostitution to reimburse her travel costs. In another case, a 15-year old was in the process of being sold into forced labour by suspected traffickers and was intercepted just before the transaction could be completed. The victim was found holding a blue plastic bag containing their entire possessions. To ensure that victims received the necessary care following their rescue, the International Office for Migration (IOM) and several NGOs were involved in post-operation interviews and treatment. Operation Epervier was held under the aegis of the Sahel Project, an initiative funded by the German Foreign Office which targets the organized crime groups behind human trafficking across the region. Officers from INTERPOL’s Regional Bureaus in Abidjan and Yaounde assisted in coordinating the operation, which also included specialist officers from INTERPOL’s Trafficking in Human Beings unit at its General Secretariat headquarters in Lyon, France. “In addition to arrests, this operation has opened a number of ongoing investigations to further disrupt the crime networks involved in trafficking in human beings, emphasizing the effectiveness of such operations via INTERPOL’s international network,” said Yoro Traore, a Police Inspector with the INTERPOL National Central Bureau in Bamako. “The results of this operation underline the challenge faced by law enforcement and all stakeholders in addressing human trafficking in the Sahel region,” said InnocentiaApovo, Criminal Intelligence officer with INTERPOL’s Trafficking in Human Beings Unit and coordinator of the operation. She also thanked the German Foreign Office for their continued support of such initiatives. The operation was followed by a regional working group meeting in Cotonou, gathering 100 participants from 15 countries across West Africa and the Sahel. Discussions focused on the outcomes of Operation Epervier as well as the way forward for future activities in the region. “This type of regional exchange is important to ensure that good and not so good practices are shared, to ensure that we collectively improve on prevention, protection and prosecution,” said Anke Strauss, IOM’s Chief of missions in Mauritania. INTERPOL Fights Against Child Sexual Abuse The Kenya Police, with support from the UK National Crime Agency has launched a dedicated national Child Protection Unit uniting law enforcement and children’s services agencies to safeguard young people from sexual exploitation. This initiative, which could serve as a model for other countries worldwide to help tackle the growing concern of child sexual abuse, was among the issues discussed recently by international child protection experts, who gathered to discuss the latest tools and techniques for preventing the spread of child sexual abuse material and identifying the young victims to protect them from further harm. The four-day (14-17 November) INTERPOL Specialists Group on Crimes Against Children meeting provided an overview of global efforts and technical solutions for combating online child sexual abuse, identifying victims and their attackers, and disrupting criminal networks involved in producing and circulating abuse material. More than 200 participants from some 60 countries, regional and international organizations, the private sector and academia also heard case studies of successful investigations – including on travelling sex offenders – in addition to addressing topics such as prevention strategies, abuse material analysis and the use of the Darknet. The participants were also updated on the WePROTECT Global Alliance, an international multi-stakeholder initiative dedicated to national and global action to end the sexual exploitation of children online which brings together more than 70 countries, as well as international organizations, industry partners and civil society organizations. Ernie Allen, Chairman of the WePROTECT Global Alliance, underscored the challenges faced by law enforcement globally in tackling child sexual abuse, including technological developments such as live streaming and social media, use of the Darknet to provide anonymity, travelling offenders, and under reporting of abuse cases. The WePROTECT Global Alliance to End Child Sexual Exploitation is an international movement dedicated to national and global action to end the sexual exploitation of children online. “This is not a problem that any single country or institution can handle alone. It is a global crime which requires global cooperation, said Mr. Allen, “We need vision, innovation and leadership, which INTERPOL is providing. INTERPOL, and everyone around the world who has devoted their lives to combating crimes against children, should be proud of the extraordinary progress made so far, though there is much still to be done.” Stressing the global aspect of crimes against children, INTERPOL’s Executive Director of Police Services, Tim Morris highlighted the Organization’s efforts to provide dedicated support to member countries by deploying expert staff to INTERPOL offices in Asia and South America, and training existing staff at the four INTERPOL Regional Bureaus in Africa to increase their knowledge on child sexual abuse issues. “A child can be physically abused in one country, with the images easily distributed around the world, often in real time. We therefore need to bridge regions and cultures, raise awareness and build capacity to tackle these heinous crimes everywhere they might occur,” said Mr Morris. During the conference, dedicated regional workshops allowed participants to focus on the unique challenges present in each part of the world. INTERPOL’s Crimes Against Children team also presented an award to ECPAT, a network of civil society organizations in 93 countries, recognizing its work in preventing child sexual exploitation through programmes to confront trafficking for sexual purposes; the exploitation of children through prostitution and…

(Frost & Sullivan) With 90 per cent of global trade being carried out by the shipping industry, port security is of paramount importance. As vessel traffic continues to increase, the infrastructure will need to be developed. While a number of ports are in the process of digitising their operations to drive efficiencies and expand capacity, new ports, port upgrades, and new terminal developments will be the major drivers of security spending. Frost & Sullivan’s research, Global Port Security Market, Forecast to 2023, analyses market trends, drivers, restraints and key technologies globally. Regional trends, including key projects and investments, are also discussed. The study focuses on the land-side security of ports including surveillance, perimeter security, command and control, cybersecurity, screening and detection. “Persisting threats concerning the illegal movement of individuals, weapons, drugs, and other illicit materials are driving ongoing efforts to enhance port security technology deployments,” said Frost & Sullivan Security Analyst Rakesh Vishwanath, “New technologies and solutions, including unmanned aerial vehicles, are gaining traction with ongoing pilots and use cases.” Strategic imperatives for success in the evolving port security market include: The development of innovative cyber-resilient technologies that proactively counter constantly evolving cyber threats; Developing strategic partnerships with niche cyber-security suppliers; Positioning cybersecurity at the core of an offering to address growing challenges in an increased threat landscape; and Developing solutions that are easy to understand with actionable intelligence and seamless integration with existing architecture. “The ‘digital port’ will be a critical issue by 2023. Demand for cyber solutions that better protect networks will grow,” noted Vishwanath, “Software requirements for screening equipment and integration of this into the overall port security environment will increase across regions as well.”  

HRH The Duke of Kent visits Apollo Headquarters His Royal Highness, the Duke of Kent recently visited the headquarters of Apollo Fire Detectors in Havant, Hampshire to commemorate 40 years of excellence in UK manufacturing by the company. During his visit, the Duke took a tour of the manufacturing facilities and met some of the engineers and assembly workers who are behind the award-winning and life-saving fire detection technology made by Apollo. The royal visit and Apollo’s longstanding achievement in manufacturing excellence are documented by an official plaque, unveiled by the Duke during his visit. “We are very proud to be able to share this important milestone in our history with HRH the Duke of Kent,” said Charles Lombard, Managing Director EMEA at Apollo, “In addition to celebrating Apollo’s long history of manufacturing excellence, this event reaffirmed our commitment to Apollo’s status of Royal Warrant Holder.” Apollo Fire Detectors Ltd. specialises in the design and manufacture of high quality fire detection products. Over the last 40 years, the company has broadened its capability from a straightforward focus on conventional fire detectors to include the manufacture of sophisticated analogue addressable detectors and interfaces for monitoring and controlling equipment in fire protection systems. Apollo has some of the most advanced manufacturing technologies to ensure consistently high quality products and fast response to customer requirements. With more than 3000 international approvals along with exporting to over 100 countries, Apollo has cemented its position as a world-class fire solutions provider. Apollo is part of the HALMA group of companies.

Security has never been a more critical discussion. 2017 has been a year where organisations and governments became increasingly aware that the manner of threat which they were working to prevent has changed irrevocably. Europe fell victim to a string of unpredictable attacks; Yahoo saw their share value fall by $350 billion over 48 hours after the largest security breach in history was revealed; the NHS found their physical assets left vulnerable after a ransomware attack disrupted their ambulance service; the FBI and Apple went to war on encryption and Airbnb properties were left in chaos when a smartlock update went wrong. These represented a pivotal theme, the need for all those influencing security to adapt to reflect the more complex world, and the ever-closer interweaving of physical and cyber security. The time is now for the security profession to unite their knowledge and their technologies to protect people, property and profits. As of 2018, it is IFSEC’s commitment to become the place for the profession to create a safer world. More than just a prominent trade show, IFSEC must foster the global security conversation, be the vessel that sets and carries the agenda and be the antenna for broadcasting the safety and security dialogue. 2018 will be the inauguration year of a transformation of IFSEC’s 40 year heritage as a physical security show into a high level security summit and integrated security event. When IFSEC was first conceived, the threats were merely physical. Society has adapted and this is the year we must too. The security profession must evolve to meet modern needs. IFSEC is gladly becoming the arena for the big discussions, however difficult they may be. The security profession must discover solutions that are a driving force in protecting businesses, people and data. IFSEC will give the security industry the platform to display and discover products and services to help national, corporate and home security adapt to the changing tides of tomorrow’s challenges. The security profession must drive the agenda. IFSEC will exist for the world’s leading security experts to find a platform for provocative debate on global security and propel intercommunication forward between the installer, integrator, end user and vendor. To pilot this in 2018, IFSEC will drive an emphasis on major keynote addresses from strategic global security leaders in a dedicated Summit, host a multitude of high level panel debates from government and industry influencers in the striking Amphitheatre and provide the opportunity to hear from those leading the way in identifying, installing and maintaining transformational security practices between physical and IT. Establishing the impartial voice of security equipment will also be key to the IFSEC 2018 proposition, rigorously holding technology up to the test in real-life Testing, across attack scenarios and surveillance situations. This will allow security innovation to be delivered to the world, revealing thousands of differentiated products that will filtrate from government, to the boardroom, and to every individual in the security profession. Tall Building Fire Safety Conference 2018 The tragedy at Grenfell Tower, along with several other similar fires in tall buildings around the world has highlighted the need for a review of fire safety practice, engineering and risk management. The rate and complexity of tall building construction is increasing, and cities will house many more people in tall buildings. The 5th International Tall Building Fire Safety Conference will take place on 19-21 June 2018 at Excel, London alongside the FIREX International Exhibition, supported by organisers UBM. Day 1 will consider design and fire engineering in tall buildings; day 2, management and insurance of fire risk in tall buildings; while the last day will consider firefighting in tall buildings. With Early Bird rates available, anybody interested in attending is advised to book now as space will be limited. Conference Director Russ Timpson commented, “This is a timely opportunity to get the Global fire safety community together and discuss a ‘way forward’ for tall building fire safety. FIREX provides a great platform to encourage people to travel to London and take part. With a great line up of world class speakers, this should be a seminal event for those concerned with learning lessons from Grenfell and other recent tall building fires”. All delegate will also get VIP access to FIREX and associated exhibitions.

Event attracted 22,000 global registrants and significant buzz for its innovations and enhancements in Dallas. With a blockbuster keynote lineup, revamped education program, revitalized networking events, and a reimagined exhibit floor, ASIS International has recently delivered the year’s one of the most talked about security event with its 63rd Annual Seminar and Exhibits (ASIS 2017) in Dallas, Texas. Attracting 22,000 global registrants from 96 countries, the event was produced in partnership with InfraGard and ISSA, and drew rave reviews from attendees, exhibitors, and industry partners alike. “There was an unmistakable buzz in Dallas. Despite several natural disasters around the globe in the weeks leading up to our show, security professionals came out in droves to exchange ideas, best practices, and experience first-hand the most innovative products and services on the market,” said Thomas J. Langer, CPP, 2017 President of ASIS International, “From the standing-room only education sessions to the jam-packed exhibit hall, ASIS fulfilled its promise to deliver the security industry’s premier event.” Keynote speakers set the tone for each day, with George W. Bush, Mark Cuban, and Scott Klososky sharing their perspectives on the current threat landscape and the risks/ potentials of innovative technologies reshaping society and the way we do business. The Global Responses to Global Threats panel of international security experts focused on private-public sector collaboration, and Carey Lohrenz closed out the week with a call for fearless leadership. Eddie Sorrells, CPP, PSP, PCI and Chief Operating Officer/ General Counsel of DSI Security Services commented, “I don’t remember a conference that had a more dynamic and impressive slate of speakers.” The education program featured more than 180 sessions spanning the security spectrum from ASIS, InfraGard, and ISSA subject matter experts. New education formats including deep dives, case studies, and mock trials provided a more immersive and interactive learning environment for attendees at all experience levels. New this year, Global Access LIVE – provided live streaming of select education sessions and keynotes. First time attendee Rick Derks, CSO, FCS Financial noted, “ASIS 2017 offered an opportunity to interact with thought leaders from both the operational and the cyber communities in meaningful discussions. The event was executed flawlessly, and I was impressed by the professionalism of everyone involved. Due to my positive experience, ASIS International now has a new member.” Veteran attendee Mike Howard, Chief Security Officer, Microsoft noted, “The changes implemented for this year’s event made a huge impact across the board. From the energy on the show floor to the one-on-one executive-level conversations that occurred, I found great value in the opportunities ASIS 2017 provided.” The reimagined exhibit hall featured more than 575 exhibitors showcasing new and emerging products and technologies such as machine learning, robotics, forensic analysis, and artificial intelligence. The floor also hosted two ‘impact learning’ theaters, a career center, international trade center, virtual reality zone, and the ASIS Hub – a one-stop shop for all things including fireside chats, council booths, and livestream interviews from Security Guy Radio. “ASIS 2017 delivered a prime audience to promote our software solutions that leverage emerging technologies such as mixed reality, artificial intelligence and machine learning,” said Drew Weston, Director of Sales and Marketing, CodeLynx, “The addition of the high-quality content on the show floor not only offered us an opportunity to learn ourselves, but drove attendees and ‘buzz’ to the exhibition. We had consistent booth traffic and positive interactions with buyers, and have already reserved our spot for Vegas.” Exhibitor satisfaction was at an all-time high in Dallas, reflected not only in the feedback, but in space selection for ASIS 2018 in Las Vegas. Coming out of the 2017 event, 80% of the net square footage from the show floor has already been committed for 2018, with 35 companies increasing their space allocation. In addition, notable brands like Mobotix Corporation, Ford Motor Company, UrgentLink and others not exhibiting in Dallas have already committed for next year. In conjunction with the event, ASIS gave back to the Dallas community through its Security Cares program, featuring free security preparedness and prevention education for small/ medium-sized businesses and community institutions. ASIS also awarded CityLab High School with a $22,000 grant and additional in-kind donations from Axis Communications to support campus-wide security upgrades. “The benefits of this show reach well beyond those who attended a session or toured the exposition floor,” said Peter J. O’Neil, CEO, ASIS International, “Attendees leave empowered with the information, professional network, and exposure to products and services they need to protect the people, property, and assets entrusted to their care. And throughout the year, they know they can turn to their ASIS community for support and peer advice. Our year-round commitment to excellence and reinvestment in the security profession is what differentiates the Society and our event.”

Security is the biggest challenge the world is facing, and the need to safeguard people and property has never been greater. To know the products and solutions for making critical decisions are fit for the purpose, IFSEC 2018 will once again partner the experts at BRE Global/ LPCB to host the attack testing zone. Following the hugely successful introduction of this new demonstration zone in 2017, the Attack Testing Zone will be expanded and moved to a prominent position in the borders and infrastructure area of IFSEC 2018, providing dramatic and energetic demonstrations of the capabilities of world class security solutions. Expert technicians from BRE Global/ LPCB will actively demonstrate the effectiveness of a range of physical security solutions. All of the products on display are LPCB Red Book approved and will have met a range of UK and European standards, enabling top of the class products being taken to task in real time scenarios. Richard Flint, Physical Security Technical and Business Development Manager at BRE Global says, “BRE Global is delighted to once again partner with IFSEC 2018 to continue with the Attack Testing Zone. We were hugely impressed at the volumes and quality of the visiting audience in 2017 and we made sure the IFSEC team expanded and relocated the Zone for 2018 such was the level of interest. It’s a unique opportunity for security professionals to see leading products being tested in real time and showcases the levels of security and protection these solutions can provide.’’

When cities grow, so do the challenges facing their citizens, representatives and services. Urbanization poses challenges to safety and security, and puts demand on vital infrastructure. As part of its smart city initiative, Axis Communications helps cities fulfil their promise of creating a safer, more mobile everyday environment. To demonstrate what is possible, Axis together with its partners will demonstrate cutting edge smart city solutions at this year’s Smart City Expo World Congress, 14-16 November, in Barcelona. Smart cities use cameras, sensors and other connected technology to increase livability and improve the management of the city’s assets. A key part of the smart city concept is that of a safe city, where authorities strive to reduce crime rates and provide citizens with a lasting sense of security. As the market leader in network video, Axis helps cities achieve this vision, and together with partners also provides smart video solutions that improve the urban traffic flow. Safety in the smart city Safety is often the main driver for a smart city initiative. Axis video solutions provide clear return on safety investments, turning reactive forensics into proactive real-time security. Using Axis cameras and partnered expertise, including facial recognition and even drone detection, city authorities can automatically spot potential incidents and manage events as they happen. Through triggered lighting and audio or direct two-way communication, they can often deter an incident in progress. If not, they have all the information needed for a rapid response and successful investigation. Axis video solutions can be found in smart city projects worldwide. One example is Detroit’s safety initiative Project Green Light that is centered on Genetec’s unified security platform, allowing for efficient incident management and collaborative response. Keeping smart cities on the move Closely related to safety is the area of mobility, where Axis also has a dedicated offering. Together with the offering from Citilog, an Axis company, Axis video solutions can swiftly detect traffic accidents or violations, as well as provide comprehensive data for improving traffic flow. The result is not only faster emergency response and better utilization of existing infrastructure, but also happier commuters. Cameras that deliver more than video Whether deterring crime or reducing road congestion, Axis cameras are versatile tools that support the entire incident management chain. By providing detailed, high-quality video in even the most difficult conditions, they offer the best possible platform for optimizing situational awareness and operational efficiency. In this way, Axis solutions support municipal leadership in meeting the demands and wishes of citizens. By reducing crime, making public areas secure and helping traffic flow smoothly, they contribute to creating an appealing, prosperous city, where life and business runs smoothly.