The designing of security layouts has transformed into a dynamic process that addresses both physical and virtual obstacles. Traditional security systems, which are more linear, require specific and basic technologies such as access control, video surveillance and alarm management. However in 2022, the landscape has evolved to include solutions that mitigate risk beyond the normal physical realm and into cybersecurity. Here are several trends and new features we believe will advance security systems.
Security Access Cards
Carrying a security card is old school. With the understanding of cyber threats and how easy it is to clone access cards today, it is obvious that this traditional form of security credential is becoming obsolete. Nowadays, corporate security directors understand the importance of having a system that can support multiple credential technologies. This is especially important for larger and more complex organizations that need multi-levels of security.
A key trend we are seeing is the implementation of smartphones as an access credential. Be it by using Bluetooth, NFC or QR codes, smartphones allow seamless access for personnel while ensuring there is no theft of identity or any tailgating. Transitioning to using smartphones as an access credential not only creates conveniences during implementation and onboarding, it also optimizes the user experience for employees, contractors, and visitors.
A growing yet less popular trend is facial recognition. Though facial recognition is not new, the technology has become faster and more reliable. This trend is bigger in China where it is commonly used. For most of the world, there are still considerable concerns about privacy and compliance issues. The use of less invasive facial biometrics will gradually become more mainstream.
(Photo Credit: OpenPath)
Integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning
The reliance on video systems is undeniable in helping facilities monitor activity around the clock. Traditional systems still require human intervention to monitor surveillance videos to identify security risks. Now, this tedious job can be done by the use of increasingly less expensive artificial intelligence and machine learning. This technology is finally moving from the realm of theory to practical applications.
The security industry is just beginning to implement AI and machine learning to harden facilities and reduce risk. One of the biggest challenges operating centers face is managing false alarms that deviate attention from real-life events. AI and machine learning technology are able to mitigate risk by identifying false alarms and critical events so security teams have optimized and more accurate visibility of the situations in facilities.
These self-learning technologies add value by optimizing surveillance and calculating relevant data. This technology is now conducted in the cloud, where software can take advantage of the heavy lifting capacity of MS Azure, AWS, and Google.
Some uses include headcount, mask recognition, motion detection and facial recognition. We will continue to see AI and machine learning technology evolve to analyze consumer behavior, correlate data with POS systems, warehouse items tracking and even predict security risks that will prevent hazards.
Adapting to Cloud Security
In a previous article, we talked about how global security is transitioning to the cloud. This is more evident now and true today. We are seeing more companies with complex security systems on the cloud and managed by very lean teams.
Cloud solutions provide better audit trails and more transparency by design, which is a crucial component when managing a distributed workforce in today’s climate. The technology can be integrated into existing security systems and can use common resources that do not require a heavy onboarding process.
Working in tandem with trending technology like AI and machine learning, cloud security allows streamlined access to critical tools, therefore replacing traditional operating centers for optimized security solutions.
As technology continues to advance exponentially, cloud security will become a critical asset to manage facilities remotely.
Challenge your security system providers
Advancements in technology will continue to evolve and influence the ways in which security systems are designed. It is important to keep an eye out on new security features and products by different vendors and evaluate what will truly strengthen the security at your facility.
We invite you to challenge your security service providers to ensure the right technology and systems are adopted to solve real problems in your operations and add tangible value.
This op-ed piece was written by Avichai Sery, Head Of Technology at BluOcean Security.
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