Mobile Access Trends

What’s new with biometrics?
What’s new with biometrics?

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?

Which standards have had the greatest positive impact on physical security?
Which standards have had the greatest positive impact on physical security?

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?

How mobile technology is redefining duty of care in organisations by Mark Niblett
How mobile technology is redefining duty of care in organisations by Mark Niblett

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.

Is “frictionless access control” a reality or an empty promise?
Is “frictionless access control” a reality or an empty promise?

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

IDnow bridges the AI-human divide with new expert-led video verification solution
IDnow bridges the AI-human divide with new expert-led video verification solution

IDnow, an identity verification provider in Europe, has unveiled VideoIdent Flex, a new version of its expert-led video verification service that blends advanced AI technology with human interaction. The human-based video call solution, supported by AI, has been designed and built to boost customer conversion rates, reduce rising fraud attempts, increase inclusivity, and tackle an array of complex online verification scenarios while offering a high-end service experience to end customers. VideoIdent The company's original expert-led product, VideoIdent, has been a cornerstone in identity verification for over a decade, serving the strictest requirements in highly regulated industries across Europe. VideoIdent Flex, re-engineered specifically for the UK market, represents a significant evolution, addressing the growing challenges of identity fraud, compliance related to Know-Your-Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) processes, and ensuring fair access and inclusivity in today's digital world outside of fully automated processes. Flexible human-based identity verification The human-machine collaboration not only boosts onboarding rates and prevents fraud but also strengthens trust As remote identity verification becomes more crucial yet more challenging, VideoIdent Flex combines high-quality live video identity verification with hundreds of trained verification experts, thus ensuring that genuine customers gain equal access to digital services while effectively deterring fraudsters and money mules. Unlike fully automated solutions based on document liveness and biometric liveness features, this human-machine collaboration not only boosts onboarding rates and prevents fraud but also strengthens trust and confidence in both end users and organisations. VideoIdent Flex can also serve as a fallback service in case a fully automated solution fails. AI-based technology with human intuition Bertrand Bouteloup, Chief Commercial Officer at IDnow, commented, "VideoIdent Flex marks a groundbreaking advancement in identity verification, merging AI-based technology with human intuition." "In a landscape of evolving fraud tactics and steady UK bank branch closures, our solution draws on our decade's worth of video verification experience and fraud insights, empowering UK businesses to maintain a competitive edge by offering a white glove service for VIP onboarding." KYC-compliant identity verification VideoIdent Flex opens up the option of customising checks as required by the respective regulatory bodies "With its unique combination of KYC-compliant identity verification, real-time fraud prevention solutions, and expert support, VideoIdent Flex is a powerful tool for the UK market." Whereas previous firms may have found video identification solutions to be excessive for their compliance requirement or out of reach due to costs, VideoIdent Flex opens up this option by customising checks as required by the respective regulatory bodies in financial services, mobility, telecommunications, or gaming, to offer a streamlined solution fit for every industry and geography. Customisable real-time fraud prevention VideoIdent Flex has several key features and benefits: Customisable: Pre-defined configurations to meet specific industry requirements and regional regulations. Expert-led: High-quality live video verification conducted by trained identity verification experts, ensuring accuracy, reliability, and compliance for high levels of assurance. Extensive document coverage: Support for a wide range of documents, facilitating global expansion and inclusivity. Real-time fraud prevention: Advanced fraud detection capabilities, including AI-driven analysis and manual checks, combat evolving fraud tactics and help protect against social engineering fraud, document tampering, projection, and deepfakes, especially for high-risk use cases and goods. Verification of high-risk individuals: Reviewing applications from high-risk persons, such as Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs), and high-risk countries; or assessing where fraud might be expected with real-time decisions, without alerting suspicion. Hybrid approach Bouteloup concluded, "Identity verification is incredibly nuanced; it's as intricate as we are as human beings. This compounds the importance of adopting a hybrid approach to identity capitalising on the dual benefits of advanced technology when combined with human knowledge and awareness of social cues." "With bank branches in the UK closing down, especially in the countryside, and interactions becoming more and more digital, our solution offers a means to maintain a human relationship between businesses and their end customers, no matter their age, disability, or neurodiversity."  Powerful layer of security "VideoIdent Flex is designed from the ground up for organisations that cannot depend on a one-size-fits-all approach to ensuring their customers are who they say they are." "In a world where fraud is consistently increasing, our video capability paired with our experts adds a powerful layer of security, especially for those businesses and customers that require a face-to-face interaction."

Siemens and Microsoft to converge Digital Twin Definition Language with W3C Thing Description Standard
Siemens and Microsoft to converge Digital Twin Definition Language with W3C Thing Description Standard

In a collaborative move with the W3C Consortium, Siemens and Microsoft have announced their commitment to converge the Digital Twin Definition Language (DTDL) with the Thing Description standard from the international standards organisation, W3C. Customers are offered consistent modeling experiences by unifying both languages, mitigating fragmentation in an evolving IoT landscape. With customers typically deploying a mix of vendors in their infrastructure leading to lock-in and high integration efforts, this convergence will allow for simpler system integration and interoperability. Digital twins As virtual replicas of physical objects, processes, or systems that mirror their real-world counterparts in a digital environment, digital twins enable organisations to monitor, predict, and improve the performance of their assets, enhancing efficiency and reducing costs. Standardising Digital Twin languages is crucial for interoperability, ensuring seamless communication and integration between digital twin systems and platforms.  W3C Thing Description standard Extending this interoperability strategy to Microsoft Azure will bring substantial customer benefits With Siemens already facilitating the emerging W3C Thing Description standard for future products in building management, power distribution, and smart grids, extending this interoperability strategy to Microsoft Azure will bring substantial customer benefits. "We see the convergence of two very similar Digital Twin languages like the DTDL and the W3C Thing Description as an essential move that will enable customers to describe the physical world in a way that is agnostic to specific IoT platforms,” said Thomas Kiessling, Chief Technology Officer at Siemens Smart Infrastructure. He adds, “This strategic alliance underscores our commitment to fostering collaboration and embracing openness." DTDL with W3C Thing Description Microsoft's Digital Twin Definition Language enables modeling of the physical world with Azure services, while the W3C Thing Description standard provides an interoperable representation of device interfaces and their incorporation of standard industry ontologies. Both languages have revealed many conceptual similarities during the initial stages of convergence. Democratise digital twins “Ever since we invented the Digital Twin Definition Language and open-sourced its specification and reference implementations, we planned to standardise it through a consortium like the W3C,” said Erich Barnstedt, Chief Architect Standards, Consortia and Industrial IoT, Azure Edge and Platform team, Microsoft Corporation. He adds, "Therefore, merging DTDL with W3C Thing Description, in close partnership with Siemens, is the natural next step in our journey to democratise digital twins in the industry."

Arrow Electronics accelerating copilot for Microsoft 365 through ArrowSphere Cloud
Arrow Electronics accelerating copilot for Microsoft 365 through ArrowSphere Cloud

Arrow Electronics is providing Copilot for Microsoft 365 via ArrowSphere Cloud, making it readily available to channel partners in EMEA. It is also delivering a dedicated program of enablement designed to help resellers accelerate the opportunity with Copilot.  Launched in the Microsoft Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) program in January, Copilot for Microsoft 365 uses the power of generative AI and natural language processing to boost user productivity and creativity. Importance of data security Arrow has over 300 Copilot-certified specialists working locally to support channel partners As a Microsoft distributor in more than 20 European countries, Arrow has over 300 Copilot-certified specialists working locally to support channel partners with their Copilot implementations. Each one is fully licenced for Copilot for Microsoft 365 to ensure they have first-hand experience of the impact it can make and to help resellers position Copilot to customers so they can grow their business.  Understanding the importance of data security and compliance, these specialists are working with customers to identify the prerequisites for a smooth and secure Copilot introduction, giving them the opportunity to benefit from its capabilities without compromising data integrity. Global and local training initiatives Arrow hosted a global livestream on launch day across several social media platforms Brendan Murphy, global director of public cloud at Arrow, said, "As Copilot for Microsoft 365 users ourselves, we know the impact it can make. We use our hands-on experience to help our resellers build their skills and unlock the potential of the platform. We invested significant time pre-launch, working with Microsoft to make sure we were ready to go on day one. Our resellers didn't waste any time, transacting within the first hour."  To support the channel, Arrow hosted a global livestream on launch day across several social media platforms. The enablement is continuing with a wide range of global and local training initiatives, including webinars such as 'Unlocking the partner opportunity of Copilot for Microsoft 365'.  Various stages of tech maturity "Since the launch of Copilot for Microsoft 365, Arrow has implemented more than 9,000 licences, coaching and guiding resellers on how to drive adoption and enhance productivity, creativity and collaboration for end customers," said David Smith, vice president of worldwide channel sales at Microsoft. "With Copilot for Microsoft 365, we can transform the channel landscape, supporting customers at various stages of tech maturity and unleashing their potential with AI across apps, data and AI models. Most importantly, with Arrow's innovative and Copilot-dedicated value-added services we can help maximise the channel opportunity to sell AI value to customers." New security dashboard Copilot for Microsoft 365 can be sourced and activated through ArrowSphere Cloud, Arrow's cloud delivery and management platform. Channel partners can also use the new security dashboard to access an aggregated view of their customers' security posture, quickly identifying any threats. In 2023 Arrow was awarded Microsoft Partner of the Year in the Indirect Provider category for both Western Europe and France.

Allied Universal appoints Deanna Steele chief information officer for North America
Allied Universal appoints Deanna Steele chief information officer for North America

Allied Universal®, the world’s pioneering security and facility services provider, announced that Deanna Steele has joined the company as chief information officer for North America. Steele will provide visionary leadership and hands-on management of IT initiatives, creating substantial business value. In the role, she will focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences, supporting growth, integrating acquisitions and optimising artificial intelligence across the company’s operations in North America. Decades of leadership experience “We are very excited to have Deanna join our team. Her background and experience in pioneering technology teams to drive transformation across large enterprises make her a perfect fit for our organisation,” said Mark Mullison, Allied Universal chief technology officer. “Deanna is a great addition to our dynamic, hard-charging team and demanding culture and will add tremendous value to the organisation now and into the future.” Steele is a seasoned executive with more than two decades of leadership experience in global Steele is a seasoned executive with more than two decades of leadership experience in global and domestic consumer and digital business, retail, B2B, product and professional services. She served as chief information officer for Advantage Solutions, J. Jill and Ingram Content Group, pioneering technology teams through growth, transformation and product innovation. Most recently, she served corporate clients at consulting firm AlixPartners, focusing on technology operating models, process efficiency and cost optimisation. Technology enablement Steele also has led technology initiatives in organisations with highly distributed workforces emphasising automation and scalability via technology enablement. She received a bachelor of science degree in business management from Pepperdine University in Malibu, Calif. “I’m thrilled to be joining Allied Universal and am honoured to be a part of the company’s journey forward,” Steele said. “I am committed to building teams and culture, and positively pioneering and developing people. I consistently drive to understand and improve the client/customer experience focusing on scalability, ease of use and efficiency through leveraging data, predictive and prescriptive analytics, and insights-based services.”

Access control applications

RecFaces implements face recognition in an international airport in Peru
RecFaces implements face recognition in an international airport in Peru

RecFaces, a facial recognition software company, has announced the successful deployment of its flagship product, Id-Guard at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, Peru. This implementation marks a significant milestone in bolstering security measures at one of South America's busiest airports, underscoring the importance of maintaining a high level of safety at public transportation hubs. Jorge Chávez International Airport Jorge Chávez International Airport serves as a vital gateway for travellers and cargo, welcoming more than 20 million international and national passengers every year. With such a high flow of people, ensuring the safety and security of passengers and airport personnel becomes crucial. Recognising this need, RecFaces collaborated with airport authorities to implement their state-of-the-art Id-Guard solution and help ensure the safety of the facility.  Enhanced security measures The solution's features enable airport authorities to prevent suspicious individuals from accessing the site The implementation of Id-Guard has significantly enhanced security measures, allowing for proactive monitoring and rapid response to potential security threats. The solution's features enable airport authorities to prevent suspicious individuals from accessing the site, thereby safeguarding the safety of passengers and staff. Highest level of security “Airport representatives felt the need for facial recognition to strengthen the security structure within the airport as a whole,” notes Maria Kazhuro, Business Development Director for the LATAM region, RecFaces. Maria Kazhuro adds, “Our goal was not only to provide the highest level of security but also to simplify work processes for security guards. We can confidently say that the installation of an ID guard has significantly improved security in the facility. Now both airport visitors and employees can be sure that they are under even greater protection than before.”  Id-Guard facial recognition The deployment of Id-Guard at the Peruvian airport demonstrates RecFaces' dedication to excellence and innovation in the field of facial recognition technology. As airports worldwide continue to prioritise security and passenger experience, RecFaces remains at the forefront of delivering advanced biometric solutions tailored to the evolving needs of the aviation industry. 

How Ajax ensured protection of Riga sports arena
How Ajax ensured protection of Riga sports arena

Riga Sports Arena is a municipal facility maintained by the city of Riga, Latvia. Covering a total area of 21,821 square metres, the arena accommodates 2,500 spectator seats. It houses several training halls, including a large athletics arena, a training and warm-up hall, a weightlifting hall, and a sports field. Challenge Enhance security by replacing inefficient guards with technical equipment Riga sports arena faced a significant security challenge, relying on two guards who worked only night shifts. Depending on just one person was insufficient to ensure the safety of the complex, given its substantial size. The guards struggled to effectively cover all areas, leaving the arena vulnerable to security risks. Moreover, the financial burden of employing guards strained the city’s budget. There was a need to enhance security while eliminating the human factor and optimising associated costs.  Moreover, the financial burden of employing guards strained the city’s budget The client required a professional security system that could be implemented without extensive construction work or the need to lay a substantial number of cables throughout the building. They sought an effective and easily installable system that would enhance security without compromising the integrity of the facility. Solution Cost-effective wireless solution reinforcing security for a large municipal facility Considering the building’s size and recent reconstruction work, the installation of a traditional wired security solution was deemed impractical. This option would have required several months to complete and additional renovation work after installation. Moreover, the presence of many oversized windows, each requiring protection with detectors, made cable-based solutions even more impractical. GRIFS AG proposed an Ajax wireless solution that can be quickly installed without damaging the walls, allowing for complete control and management of the system through a mobile app. To streamline control without the need for multiple hubs, Hub 2 Plus Jeweller was selected In total, 115 devices were installed throughout the building to ensure comprehensive security coverage. To streamline control without the need for multiple hubs, Hub 2 Plus Jeweller was selected. This hub can control up to 200 devices, managing 25 security groups with a total of 200 users. This feature aligns with the client’s requirements, given the installation of many devices and the need to manage security modes for separate premises, all in the Ajax app. For example, it allows keeping employees’ offices in armed mode while conducting training sessions in the main hall. GRIFS AG installed DoorProtect Jeweller Given that the sports complex spans three floors and considering the need for the hub signal to pass through two reinforced concrete floors, the decision was made to enhance its communication range. To ensure stable communication between all 115 detectors and the hub, the ReX 2 Jeweller radio signal range extender was installed. This guarantees a reliable connection between all system components, ensuring seamless communication even in areas with challenging signal transmission conditions. For comprehensive security, GRIFS AG installed DoorProtect Jeweller opening detectors to oversee For comprehensive security coverage, GRIFS AG installed DoorProtect Jeweller opening detectors to oversee all doors. Additionally, MotionProtect Curtain Jeweller, with a narrow viewing angle and a maximum detection range of up to 15 metres, protects the large windows in corridors and sports halls. The challenge with large windows was that glass break detectors may be positioned far away from the hit spot, making it difficult to detect glass breakage. However, MotionProtect Curtain Jeweller, equipped with PIR sensors, instantly reacts to movement within its detection zone along the whole length of a window. Notably, the detector catches movement only if a person enters its field of view, allowing for protection even when a cleaner is working nearby, or a staff member is walking around. In addition, MotionProtect Jeweller detectors were installed throughout all entrance groups, major corridors, and stairwells to promptly notify the owner and the security company in case of any detected motion. Multiple HomeSiren Jeweller devices To facilitate arming and disarming of the security system for numerous employees in the sports complex, a wireless touch KeyPad Jeweller was installed. By entering a code, the device can activate the full security mode and automatically blocks itself if an incorrect code is entered multiple times. KeyPad Jeweller supports up to 99 codes, each corresponding to a separate user, making it suitable for enterprises with many employees. HomeSiren Jeweller devices were installed indoors throughout the skill to provide loud signs For rapid security response, the wireless alarm Button Jeweller was installed, enabling quick notification of the security company in case of intrusion. Furthermore, multiple HomeSiren Jeweller devices were installed indoors throughout the building to provide audible warnings in case of danger or deter potential intruders. These sirens emit loud sounds up to 105 dB to prominently signal a breach, effectively preventing unauthorised individuals and enhancing overall security. The arena management plans to automate evacuation doors using the Relay Jeweller system soon, enhancing safety and security by allowing remote door opening during emergencies. Why Ajax Cost-saving security solution. Customers can experience significant savings by opting for Ajax. The costs of the Ajax system installation were approximately equal to the expenses for security guards’ salaries per year. However, starting from the second year, the Municipality of Riga can achieve significant savings by paying only a low monthly fee for monitoring. Easily scalable future-proof system. With Ajax, the security system is easily scalable, allowing for future expansion and the implementation of additional functionality as needed. For instance, Hub 2 Plus Jeweller, already installed, supports the addition of up to 200 detectors, including MotionCam Jeweller detectors for photo verification of alarms, without requiring any system reorganisation. This enables seamless integration for enhanced security measures, ensuring the system can adapt and grow with changing security requirements and evolving customer needs. Effortless wireless installation. Ajax offers a wireless solution, eliminating the need to lay cables in walls or undergo extensive repairs. This allows for quick and efficient installation without the limitations of wired infrastructure. After implementing the Ajax security system at the sports arena, the center’s management noted its convenience and decided to install Ajax in their homes.

Dahua tech: Smart tech revolutionises conservation of critically endangered cranes
Dahua tech: Smart tech revolutionises conservation of critically endangered cranes

Wetlands, the "kidneys of the Earth", are considered one of the three major ecosystems on Earth, along with forests and oceans. Hosting a diverse range of terrestrial and aquatic plant and animal species, wetlands serve as crucial habitats for numerous bird species. Red-crowned cranes Beautiful Wetlands vs Critically Endangered Cranes The Red-crowned Crane is considered as the "God of Wetlands" and is highly sensitive to environmental changes. It is one of 14 bird species in China classified as critically endangered, with only around 2,000 wild Red-crowned Cranes remaining worldwide. Monitoring these rare bird species not only aids in their effective protection but also reflects changes in the wetland ecosystem to some extent. Red-crowned Cranes migrate between the regions of East China and Northeast China In China, during spring and autumn seasons, Red-crowned Cranes migrate between the regions of East China and Northeast China, requiring wetland management personnel to make all necessary preparations in advance every year. Recording and tracking data (e.g. time of arrival/departure, and total number) play a significant role in monitoring both the Red-crowned Cranes and the wetland ecosystem. Hence, monitoring rare bird species is essential not only for their conservation but also for understanding the changes in wetland ecological environments. Red-crowned crane captured by Dahua camera Vigilant cranes, eager for improved, smarter observation However, Red-crowned Cranes have extremely strong vigilance. Even while foraging or resting, there are often adult birds designated to be on alert, making warning calls and taking flight if any danger is detected. Therefore, it becomes challenging for monitoring personnel to observe them up close, as they need to maintain a distance of several hundred metres using binoculars to avoid disturbing the cranes. Such limitations in observation pose difficulties in monitoring the population distribution and activities of Red-crowned Cranes. To achieve efficient and intelligent monitoring while minimising human interference, many wetlands have enlisted the assistance of an intelligent "avian expert". Dahua: the guardian of cranes with smart technologies In recent years, avian intelligent recognition systems have been increasingly applied in wetland monitoring. Dahua Technology actively explores the integration of technology and wetland conservation to support the monitoring and protection of bird species across multiple wetlands. Rare bird species like the Red-crowned Crane can be automatically identified and counted By employing high-point video footage combined with avian intelligent recognition algorithms, rare bird species like the Red-crowned Crane can be automatically identified and counted. This allows monitoring personnel to discover and observe various bird species clearly and promptly without disturbing them. Additionally, techniques such as background removal and contour deformation processing help reduce the interference caused by lighting conditions and backgrounds, ensuring that the footage presents the identifying characteristics, location, and time for each bird. With this approach, comprehensive and accurate data recording and result analysis can be achieved without disturbing the Red-crowned Cranes up close. A brighter future for biodiversity using intelligent analysis In addition to population counting, vocalisations play a crucial role in bird research. By utilising voiceprint recognition, it becomes possible to track and study the population distribution of rare bird species. Many regions have established and improved databases of avian vocalisations, creating a foundation for biodiversity monitoring and analysis. These databases, combined with visual identification, are being cataloged in order to facilitate more comprehensive research and analysis, optimise timely conservation measures, and enhance dynamic and diverse science communication and education. Dahua Technology continues to empower biodiversity conservation through technology. The Dahua AI platform enables continuous algorithm training that helps reduce the development cycle of recognition algorithms for specific species. At present, Dahua has developed over 800 bird recognition algorithms, with more than 500 focused on waterfowl and migratory birds primarily inhabiting wetland environments. This extensive collection of algorithms greatly supports and contributes to biodiversity conservation efforts around the globe.

Fingerprints taps Freevolt S-Key to bolster the security of its Gothenburg HQ
Fingerprints taps Freevolt S-Key to bolster the security of its Gothenburg HQ

Biometrics company, Fingerprint Cards AB (Fingerprints™), has upgraded the physical access security of its Gothenburg HQ. S-Key biometric access cards from Freevolt Technologies Limited, which embed Fingerprints’ own T2 sensors, have been implemented across the entire Gothenburg site. The updated authentication system further strengthens Fingerprints’ workplace security and enables role-based access control, whilst ensuring a convenient and easy-to-use experience. Role-based access control Fingerprints’ Gothenburg HQ has security gates to enter and exit the building, and restricted areas for hardware and software R&D. By replacing access keyfobs with biometrics access cards, site-wide security has been enhanced and role-based access control has been enabled to better control access to sensitive areas of the site. By replacing traditional security methods based on something they know/have with something they are, multi-factor authentication has been enabled while maintaining convenience for employees. Fingerprints’ latest ‘T2’ sensors Solution eliminates the security risk of lost or stolen cards, without adding infrastructure costs Caroline Krüger, CHRO of Fingerprints comments: “The workplace has evolved significantly in recent years. At Fingerprints, we offer hybrid working whilst still ensuring our workforce has 24/7 access to HQ. Amidst this dynamic working environment, it is essential our team feels the workplace is accessible and safe. This requires a flexible, secure and convenient access control solution.” Fingerprints has implemented Freevolt’s flagship biometric access card solution, S-Key. The solution eliminates the security risk of lost or stolen cards, without adding infrastructure costs. The card incorporates Fingerprints’ latest ‘T2’ sensors which deliver optimised image quality, processing speed and power efficiency. Traditional security methods Adam Philpott, CEO of Fingerprints comments: “To meet today’s security challenges we must move away from traditional security methods. And, as a biometrics company, it is important that we lead the way in ensuring robust, frictionless security in our own operations." "There is an opportunity here too; what can we learn, what innovations will we identify by using these systems day to day? I look forward to continuing our strong and innovative collaboration with Freevolt technologies.” Energy harvesting technology Gonzalo de Gisbert, Head of Product & Business Development at Freevolt Technologies, adds: “Fingerprints are pioneers in biometrics, with sensors in billions of products, so they know what makes a good biometric solution. We’re therefore thrilled that Fingerprints has chosen S-Key to strengthen security at their global headquarters, in Gothenburg." "Our pioneering radio frequency energy harvesting technology combined with Fingerprints’ ‘T2’ sensors, known as FPC 1323, enables S-Key to be completely battery-less, lasting for many years. Roll-out was seamless, with everyone set up in less than 1 hour. That’s simple, safe, and secure biometrics, powered by Freevolt.”