In the world of cybersecurity, ethical hacking proactively identifies security vulnerabilities before malicious actors (i.e., unethical hackers) can exploit them. By simulating real-world attacks, organisations can strengthen defences, protect sensitive data, and maintain public trust. In the physical security world, ethical hacking can transform cybersecurity of security systems from a reactive struggle into a strategic safeguard. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the role of ethical hacking as it relates to physical security?

Next-generation (Next-Gen) technologies are products, services, or infrastructures that represent a significant leap forward rather than a small, incremental update. In the physical security industry, NextGen products are those that enable disruptive change, breakthrough performance, and a fundamental change that renders previous products obsolete. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the next generation of physical security solutions, and how will they change the industry?

Emphasising proactive rather than reactive security shifts the focus from dealing with crises and damage control to prevention. Advantages of a proactive approach include cost efficiency, better business continuity, and fewer crises that draw attention away from strategic improvements. Staying ahead of threats is a core mission of the security department, and technology has evolved to enable security professionals to deliver on that mission better than ever. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How are security systems transitioning from reactive to proactive, and what is the benefit?

Multiple technology trends are transforming the physical access control market. There is a fundamental shift away from physical cards and keys toward digital identities — mobile credentials, digital wallets, biometrics, and cloud-native access platforms. These next generation access solutions are radically reshaping how buildings operate, protect staff, and perform functionally. At the same time, AI and analytics solutions are being layered onto these physical access control systems to support predictive threat detection and behavioural insights. Access data itself is becoming an asset for sustainability, space optimisation, and smart building initiatives. Risk, impact operations and experience The annual HID Global Security and Identity Trends Report highlights these and other issues The annual HID Global Security and Identity Trends Report highlights these and other issues. The survey cites improving user convenience as a priority for nearly half of organisations, while 41% are focused on simplifying administration, and 28% struggle with system integration. These are not theoretical challenges, they are day‑to‑day friction points that add cost, increase risk, impact operations and experience, and, of course, must be addressed. HID Global’s commercial focus HID Global’s commercial focus is to help organisations digitise their access control — with mobile identities, biometrics, and cloud platforms — and then to use the data to deliver more value. “We are turning access control from an operational cost into a software-driven asset that improves efficiency, supports Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals and even creates new revenue opportunities,” says Steven Commander, HID Global’s Head of Consultant Relations. The impact of digital transformation Digital transformation is the method of moving access control from hardware and physical credentials Digital transformation is in the process of moving access control from hardware and physical credentials to a software-driven, integrated experience. The transformation strengthens security while also improving user convenience — transforming the “pavement to the desk” journey. HID enables this shift through mobile credentials, biometrics, cloud-native platforms, and solutions that allow third-party applications to run on door hardware. “This helps customers turn access data into operational and commercial outcomes, while also improving the overall user experience,” says Commander.  Digital transformation in access control is not focused on chasing the latest trends. Rather, transformation is about turning software, data and integration into outcomes that matter to customers, says HID. “Security becomes stronger and more adaptive,” says Commander. “Operations become simpler and more cost‑effective. Experiences become seamless and consistent. Sustainability moves from ambition to action. And the financial case becomes clearer as efficiencies are banked and new value streams emerge.” The challenge of futureproofing with long lifecycles Given that physical security technologies will be in place for 15 to 20 years, it is important to plan for how systems can evolve over time. Considering how rapidly security threats, compliance standards, and user expectations change, 15 to 20 years is a long time. The decisions made at the beginning of a system’s lifecycle can either limit flexibility later (which will be costly) or enable long-term adaptability. Support for open standards such as Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP) is therefore important Choosing products and platforms that are open, interoperable, and designed for updates can enable future-proof projects. Support for open standards such as Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP) is therefore important.  In addition, systems built on open controller platforms — such as Mercury — enable organisations to switch software providers or expand functionality without replacing core door hardware. Architectural openness is key to system lifecycles and maximising the return on investment (ROI) from a chosen solution. Digital credentials and mobile access Flexibility and upgradeability should also be top of mind when it comes to endpoints like access control readers. While RFID cards are still commonplace, there is a clear trend toward digital credentials and mobile access. Readers that support both allow organisations to transition at their own pace, without committing to a full system overhaul. A long system lifecycle does not mean technology should remain static. Security, particularly cybersecurity, demands more frequent updates. Technologies that support firmware upgrades in the field extend the value of a deployment while helping organisations keep pace with emerging threats. In that sense, lifecycle thinking is not just about longevity — it’s about maintaining resilience and readiness over time. Applying biometrics and mobile identities Biometrics is becoming mainstream as a credential alternative, strengthening security without adding friction Biometrics is becoming mainstream as a credential alternative, strengthening security without adding friction. Many organisations are now deploying biometrics to support fast, seamless access journeys, with adoption already around 39% in access control according to HID’s recent research.  In addition, 80% of organisations surveyed expect to deploy mobile identities within the next five years. Full technology integration enables tap‑to‑access without opening an app; the user journey becomes faster, safer, and more convenient. “It is where the industry is headed and we are at the vanguard of this,” says Commander.    Ongoing challenge of cybersecurity At HID Global, cybersecurity is embedded into everything, from corporate processes and development practices to the solutions they bring to market. “Our approach ensures that customers can strengthen their overall security posture, not only by deploying secure products but by benefitting from HID’s commitment to the highest industry standards,” says Commander. HID holds multiple globally recognised certifications, including ISO 27001, ISO 14298, SOC Type 2 and CSA STAR, which demonstrate their robust information security and cloud security practices. In addition, HID’s SEOS® secure chipset is independently SEAL-certified, providing one of the most advanced levels of protection available on the market today. “Ultimately, this means organisations are not just purchasing isolated secure products; they are implementing solutions developed and delivered within a comprehensive, cybersecure framework,” says Commander. “When deployed according to best practices, HID solutions enable customers to achieve the highest levels of resilience against evolving physical and cyber threats.” Developing green and sustainable solutions A huge amount of waste is generated from the manufacture of plastic RFID access cards Digital credentials align with the sustainable solutions that everyone wants. A huge amount of waste is generated from the manufacture of plastic RFID access cards. Over 550 million access cards are sold annually. This creates 2,700 tons of plastic waste and 11,400 tons of carbon, based on a PVC card weighing 5 grams.  Therefore, digital credentials self-evidently reduce the reliance on plastic cards (helping reduce carbon emissions by up to 75% according to HID’s research), while leveraging access control system data supports energy optimisation by shutting down or reducing systems in unused spaces. Energy use and CO₂ emissions can be cut dramatically, showing how access systems can contribute to sustainability goals and green building certification. What is the latest in smart buildings? Smart buildings increasingly rely on mobile access control as the backbone for digital services. Real-time access data enables new services such as automated room bookings, HVAC control, lift/elevator calling, e-bike hiring, and so on. Smart buildings increasingly rely on mobile access control as the backbone for digital services The financial upside is clear; smart, digitally transformed buildings can deliver around 8% higher yields per square foot versus traditional office space. Operational savings accrue from reduced administration, the removal of card production and shipping, and lighter IT support. This creates a value cycle — better experiences drive adoption, adoption fuels monetisation, and monetisation funds further improvements. Achieving technology impact in the real world One standout project is One Bangkok – a $3.9 billion mixed used development in Thailand – which demonstrates the scale of what can be achieved when access control data is used for optimisation, particularly when it comes to monitoring facilities usage and occupier behaviours. By switching lights off or lowering the temperature in unused rooms, for example, the One Bangkok building demonstrates this potential with a 22% reduction in energy consumption, saving 17,000 MWh and 9,000 tons of CO₂ annually.  Sustainability is a key factor in contributing to how properties are valued. And sustainability extends far beyond digital credentials having a lower environmental impact than plastic cards.  Buildings with recognised sustainability certifications often command rental premiums of around 6%, and three‑quarters of security decision‑makers now consider environmental impact in their procurement assessments.

iDenfy, a foremost global company that provides ID verification and fraud prevention services used by over 1,000+ businesses across the globe, has officially added BSN masking for identity verification in the Netherlands. This functionality allows Dutch users to provide an identity document with the Burgerservicenummer (BSN) deliberately masked out while proceeding through the entire verification process. BSN is considered to be sensitive personal data according to both the GDPR and the Dutch national privacy law, and is forbidden for most private companies to collect and store this information. Solving the security limitation Dutch individuals had to consistently cover their BSN with a marker before handing their copies of ID documents for verification, whether by using the official KopieID app, manual photo editing, or covering it up with some physical object.  However, most third-party Know Your Customer (KYC) service providers, which were not native to the Dutch market, don’t have the custom-tailored option for users to upload their IDs in a compliant manner in the Netherlands, which resulted in their verification being unaccepted and denied. For businesses operating on a global level, this results in lost conversions in the very first step of the user journey, the account opening. iDenfy solved this security limitation and now offers a compliant, user-friendly option for Dutch clients to complete their KYC.  New verfication path End-users can now verify the way Dutch privacy law intends, and the businesses serving the Netherlands traffic can onboard those users without taking on unnecessary risks compliance-wise. The new verification path activates when iDenfy detects that the Netherlands has been selected or auto-identified, and accepts Dutch identity documents, including the national passport, Dutch identity card, and Dutch driving licence, in PDF, JPG, and PNG formats. “The people in the Netherlands have always had the right to keep their BSN covered, and we shouldn’t demand it when asking to perform the identity verification,” said Domantas Ciulde, the CEO of iDenfy. Process details The system also accepts any already-for-masking used method without requiring a specific redaction or original identification card. When a masked BSN is detected, and the document meets the requirements, the user is automatically accepted. On the other hand, if the document is flagged with high-risk indications, the user’s KYC data is sent to the review queue for a double-check, which is done by iDenfy’s in-house expert Review team. That means no case is silently auto-passed, and the BSN is automatically excluded from the verification record to ensure that partners do not inadvertently collect or retain data they have no legal basis to hold. The feature is implemented as an opt-in setting, activated on a case-by-case basis with each existing partner to ensure that current AML controls and review workflows remain deliberate and explicit. No integration changes are required on iDenfy’s partners’ side. Once enabled, all companies receive sandbox access to validate the end-to-end flow before going live. Combining AI powered documents analysis It’s important to mention that the BSN masking capability is built on top of iDenfy’s all-in-one identity verification infrastructure, which combines AI-powered document analysis, biometric matching, and an in-house human review team that operates 24/7 without any delays. Automated identity verifications are completed instantly, while human-supervised checks are typically completed within three minutes. iDenfy’s advanced biometric and facial recognition algorithms confirm if the face presented during verification is live and genuine in order to actively prevent the use of photographs, 3D masks, and other spoofing attempts. In addition, the KYC system is designed to filter deepfakes and flag AI-generated biometric faces with the best in the industry AI solutions and review team supervision to guarantee a maximum success rate. iDenfy is committed to building a verification infrastructure that respects jurisdiction-specific privacy frameworks, rather than treating local data rights as an obstacle to onboarding.

Global technology solutions provider Arrow Electronics has announced a global network of experience centres, fortified to help channel partners define high-growth technology use and augment the skills and resources needed to bridge the gap between opportunity and implementation. The centres, located in Alpharetta, Georgia, United States, and in Stockholm, Sweden, serve as strategic hubs for vendors, channel partners and end customers across Europe and North America and are part of Arrow’s commitment to remain at the forefront of AI, cloud and security advancements. Networking “Our goal is to help organisations better understand how to harness the power of AI and cloud so our customers can securely and confidently use it and put it to work to address real-world challenges,” said Ben Klay, president of Arrow’s enterprise computing solutions business in North America. “By networking our centres globally, we are able to create the same experiences and environments, regardless of location, so our channel partners can immerse themselves and their customers in a solution before investing.” Core areas of support Arrow’s experience centres are designed to enable both vendors and channel partners to better understand the role of high-growth technologies such as AI within IT environments, including machine learning, modeling, data science, and more. Support at the experience centres is focused in three core areas: Hybrid infrastructure — creating and demonstrating multi-vendor hardware and software solutions, infused with vendor-focused capabilities, to meet the demands of organisations seeking secure, on-premise cloud and AI deployments. Cybersecurity, risk and resilience — aiding in the creation of solutions that protect critical systems, data and operations from an increasingly complex threat landscape, reduce risk and drive organisational resilience. Services and consultancy — providing training enablement, guidance and knowledge exchange to help identify potential gaps and opportunities with solution implementation. Adaptable AI use Within the centers, Arrow channel partners can access over 100 pre-built and tested solutions or create custom solutions with support from Arrow engineers and technicians. This helps ensure proven and adaptable AI use cases are suited to each channel partner’s or customer’s business. Arrow channel partners who have used experience centers to demonstrate their solutions have averaged a 90 percent close rate on their proposals. Unlocking the potential of AI “With many organisations still in the early stages of defining their AI strategies, Arrow has made the investment in the environment, technical support and tools needed to help us unlock the potential of AI with a vendor-agnostic approach to maximise innovation and ease of solutions deployment,” said Luiz Cordeiro, chief executive officer for SYSTECH, a global solutions provider and Arrow channel partner. “Our comprehensive solution encompassed compute, storage, networking, data protection and security, and Arrow did an unbelievable job with helping us create a demonstrable solution to meet our customers’ needs.” Arrow’s experience centers support high-growth technology areas including AI, cloud, security and multivendor solutions.

ZeroEyes, creators of the multi-analytics weapons detection and threat intelligence platform, announced today a new partnership with Academic Innovators, a solutions provider solving the programs, governance, and facilities challenges facing American higher education. The alliance enables the two companies to combine complementary strengths to help higher education institutions navigate both long-term transformation and immediate safety challenges through a referral program. Academic Innovators’ multidisciplinary approach brings together a network of partners and professionals across the higher education ecosystem, including edtech providers, legal experts, financial advisors, investment bankers, and public policy specialists, to develop forward-looking solutions for evolving institutional needs. Increasingly complex environment The industry insiders and strategic collaborators help colleges and universities anticipate change, navigate complexity, and proactively shape their future with confidence. By uniting a future-focused advisory approach with ZeroEyes’ advanced threat detection and real-time response capabilities, the collaboration empowers institutions to better anticipate threats, enhance preparedness, and respond with confidence in an increasingly complex environment. Accelerating threat identification “We are pleased to partner with ZeroEyes to provide integrated solutions that not only help higher education leaders navigate evolving operational and financial pressures, but also enhance campus safety and resilience in an increasingly complex threat landscape,” said Dr. Brian C. Mitchell, managing principal and president of Academic Innovators and past president of Washington & Jefferson College and Bucknell University. ZeroEyes delivers an integrated suite of AI-powered analytics and security tools, including capabilities such as weapons detection, real-time threat geolocation, and more, designed to enhance preparedness, accelerate threat identification, and enable effective response. Illegal brandishing of weapons It provides real-time, actionable intelligence on the illegal brandishing of weapons, such as guns and knives, in or near occupied spaces, alerting local staff and law enforcement with images and precise location data, often in a matter of seconds from the moment a gun is detected. “By combining our proactive safety technology with Academic Innovators’ forward-looking, multidisciplinary expertise, we’re helping institutions respond to threats faster and plan more effectively for a safer, more resilient future,” said Mike Lahiff, CEO and co-founder of ZeroEyes. “We are proud to partner with them.”

The Vision AI Label Reader automatically captures and interprets label information regardless of layout, language or code type, improving process reliability, data quality and traceability in goods-in and logistics operations. Goods-in operations in the electronics industry are under increasing pressure. Countless components from a wide range of manufacturers arrive with constantly changing label layouts, multilingual markings and ever shorter throughput times. What could once be managed manually has now become a bottleneck. Damaged barcodes or reflective packaging further increase effort and make processes more error-prone. Image processing system The Vision AI Label Reader from collective mind GmbH (COMI) demonstrates how this complexity can be managed. The AI-based image processing system automates the capture and interpretation of item information in goods-in and logistics – regardless of layout, language or code type. Designed for industrial use, the solution improves process reliability, enhances data quality and streamlines workflows. A uEye CP industrial camera from IDS Imaging Development Systems GmbH provides the image data required for analysis. The Vision AI Label Reader is designed for applications where a wide variety of items, labels and packaging are processed on a daily basis. This makes it particularly suitable for electronics manufacturing service providers as well as companies with complex logistics processes and extensive inventories. One concrete example is Rutronik Elektronische Bauelemente GmbH, a globally broad-line distributor of electronic components, where the system is already in successful operation. The goal is to automatically capture all relevant item information and make it available in a structured format. Relevant product information The Vision AI Label Reader automatically captures all relevant product information and presents it in a structured format. To achieve this, the system recognises all labels on an object, reads printed text as well as 1D and 2D codes, and then interprets the content using artificial intelligence. Handwritten entries can also be processed if required. Crucially, recognition does not rely on predefined label standards. New layouts, languages or code formats can be handled without retraining – a key factor for scalability and long-term viability. Coordinated lighting concept A central component of the solution is the industrial camera from the uEye CP family by IDS. It captures labels and packaging surfaces at high resolution and supplies the image data for AI analysis, reliably detecting fine details even under challenging conditions. In practice, reflective packaging such as dry packs, damaged codes or fluctuating lighting conditions place high demands on image acquisition. In combination with a coordinated lighting concept, however, the system achieves consistently stable recognition performance. The use of a standard vision interface (USB3 Vision) also simplifies connection to industrial PCs and ensures easy integration into existing systems. Compact magnesium housing The compact magnesium housing of the uEye CP (29 × 29 × 29 mm) is both lightweight and robust, weighing around 50 g. COMI uses a model equipped with the light-sensitive IMX183 rolling shutter CMOS sensor from Sony’s STARVIS series. Thanks to back-side illumination (BSI) technology, it delivers reliable image quality even in low-light conditions. “With a resolution of 20.44 megapixels and a frame rate of almost 20 frames per second, the camera provides exactly the level of detail we need to reliably capture even very small label information,” explains Tobias Husemann, Senior Consultant at COMI. Stricter regulatory requirements Following image acquisition, the AI analyses the data in several stages: Labels are localised, contents extracted and then semantically interpreted, for example to clearly assign part numbers, batches or manufacturer information. The results are transferred directly to connected ERP systems such as SAP or proALPHA, including real-time comparison and validation. For users, this means a significant reduction in manual inspection steps and sources of error. At the same time, data quality improves and complete documentation of all item movements is created. The resulting 100 per cent traceability is increasingly becoming a decisive differentiator, particularly in view of stricter regulatory requirements in downstream industries such as medical technology. Multi-label readers Compared with conventional multi-label readers, practical use shows an efficiency gain of around 30 per cent in item capture. Processes can be accelerated, personnel resources deployed more effectively and bottlenecks in goods-in reduced. Automated plausibility checks of label content also increase process reliability and help identify errors at an early stage. The market is clearly moving towards highly automated item capture. In future, the Vision AI Label Reader is set to move beyond use as a tabletop scanner and become fully integrated into automated warehouse and material flow solutions. This is already being planned in collaboration with system integrators. Material flow solutions According to Husemann, this also increases the demands placed on camera technology: “It has to cope with changing and sometimes unfavourable lighting conditions and work reliably on reflective surfaces. At the same time, a large depth of field is required, as labels and packaging are presented at different heights and distances and still need to be captured reliably.” In addition, the functional scope of the ‘Label Reader’ is to be expanded gradually. Alongside pure item capture, topics such as anomaly and defect detection are coming into focus – for example identifying damaged labels, adhesive residues or defective items. This transforms AI-based image processing from a capture system into a central quality and inspection tool in goods-in. After all, tidiness is half the battle.

ZeroEyes, creators of the multi-analytics weapons detection and threat intelligence platform, announces that its proactive AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness software has been deployed by Perry-Lecompton USD 343 in Kansas to help protect students, staff, and visitors from gun-related threats. Located in Northeastern Kansas, Perry-Lecompton USD 343 serves approximately 730 students and employs 160 staff members district-wide. The district will deploy ZeroEyes at Perry-Lecompton Middle School and Perry-Lecompton High School as part of its continued commitment to maintaining a safe, welcoming learning environment. Broader community initiatives The district secured funding through the Kansas Safe and Secure Firearm Detection Grant Program, administered by the Office of the Kansas Attorney General, to purchase and implement ZeroEyes. The grant followed coordination with local law enforcement and community leaders to identify AI gun detection as a key safety priority aligned with broader community initiatives. “The safety of our students and staff is our highest priority,” said Justin Dunnaway, Assistant Superintendent of Perry-Lecompton USD 343. “We are proud to have secured funding through the Kansas firearm detection grant program to bring ZeroEyes to our middle and high school campuses. This technology adds another proactive layer of protection and aligns with the collaborative safety efforts we’ve been building alongside local law enforcement and community leaders.” Situational awareness software layers ZeroEyes’ AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness software layers onto existing digital security cameras. If a gun is identified, images are instantly shared with the ZeroEyes Operations Center (ZOC), the industry’s only U.S.-based, fully in-house operations center staffed 24/7/365 by specially trained U.S. military and law enforcement veterans. If the threat is determined to be valid, alerts and actionable intelligence — including visual description, gun type, and last known location — are dispatched to law enforcement and school officials, often in a matter of seconds from the moment a gun is detected. “Perry-Lecompton USD 343 has taken a thoughtful and proactive approach to campus safety,” said Mike Lahiff, CEO and co-founder of ZeroEyes. “By leveraging state grant funding and building upon existing security investments, the district is demonstrating its strong commitment to protecting students and staff while preserving the close-knit culture that defines its community.”

ZeroEyes, creators of the multi-analytics weapons detection and threat intelligence platform, announces that its proactive AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness software has been renewed by Sumter County Schools following two successful years of deployment. Serving nine schools across rural Sumter County, the district supports approximately 6,000 students and 700 faculty and staff. ZeroEyes has been integrated across these schools as part of the district’s commitment to maintaining a safe, secure, and welcoming learning environment. Welcoming learning environment “I personally have been very impressed with ZeroEyes since day one,” said Philip Martin, Safety and Security Specialist for Sumter County Schools. “The level of detail that ZeroEyes provides, as well as the responsiveness of their customer service, is outstanding. Communication is always quick, which is critical from a customer standpoint. It’s reassuring to know that this technology is helping keep our students and staff safe.” Sumter County Schools maintains a strong, collaborative relationship with local law enforcement. The district works closely with the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, ensuring that security protocols are consistent, proactive, and responsive. This renewal reinforces the district’s dedication to combining modern technology with community-centred safety measures. Intelligent situational awareness ZeroEyes’ AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness software layers onto existing digital security cameras. If a gun is identified, images are instantly shared with the ZeroEyes Operations Center (ZOC), the industry’s only U.S.-based, fully in-house operations center staffed 24/7/365 by specially trained U.S. military and law enforcement veterans. If the threat is determined to be valid, alerts and actionable intelligence — including visual description, gun type, and last known location — are dispatched to law enforcement and school officials, often in a matter of seconds from the moment a gun is detected. “Sumter County Schools has demonstrated a thoughtful and proactive approach to campus safety,” said Mike Lahiff, CEO and co-founder of ZeroEyes. “By leveraging real-time intelligence, the district continues to protect its students and faculty while preserving the close-knit community culture that makes Sumter County special.”

Genetec Inc., the pioneer in enterprise physical security software, announces 40 Leadenhall has deployed Genetec™ Security Center and Genetec Mission Control™ to create a seamless modern experience for visitors and tenants. Located in the capital’s insurance district, 40 Leadenhall is one of the biggest City of London developments ever to receive planning permission. It spans over 900,000 square feet of commercial office, amenities, and retail space, serving up to 10,000 occupants. Original performance specification A unified security platform formed part of the original performance specification, with Genetec Security Center ultimately selected to give 40 Leadenhall the flexibility to integrate best of breed hardware and software, support informed decision making, and tailor the interface to a wide range of user needs and access privileges. “Genetec is proud to be safeguarding a growing portfolio of flagship buildings across the City of London - including some of its newest and largest developments,” said Viet Tang, Account Executive at Genetec Inc. “40 Leadenhall is a standout example of how forward thinking property owners are embracing unified, intelligent security to deliver safer, more efficient and more intuitive environments.” Standardising incident response The smart building solution incorporates over 200 cameras, more than 250 doors, and 2,600 data points, all managed through Genetec Security Center and hosted on Genetec Streamvault™ servers and archives. Genetec Mission Control™ further enhances operations by standardising incident response with advanced automation. By integrating with other building systems, it can automatically trigger workflows for events such as power loss, water leaks, or high winds thus enabling teams to respond proactively with timely notifications and targeted actions that help ensure occupant safety. Access control and visitor experience technologies from partners including HID Global, Mercury Communications, and STid help enable seamless navigation throughout the facility. Occupiers can use mobile wallet credentials for frictionless entry, while visitors receive QR code passes that remove the need for temporary plastic cards. Integrated cameras from Axis Communications enhance situational awareness across the site. Truly smart building Genetec workstations located throughout the building provide role based access for operators. Reception staff can enrol visitors, while control-room security teams can run reports, investigate events, and monitor live video on either dedicated workstations or tablets. “The Genetec security system is easy to use and enables us to deliver a world class service to our occupiers and guests, ensuring occupant wellbeing and building security,” says Stewart Maynard, Smart Systems Manager at 40 Leadenhall. “Collaboration between delivery, systems and service partner teams has helped make 40 Leadenhall a truly smart building.” Quickly identify devices By uploading interactive floor plans into Security Center, operators can quickly identify devices, investigate activity, or access live video with a single click, significantly reducing training times. The building’s digital experience is further enhanced through integration with the 40 Leadenhall app, powered by VTS Activate. Occupiers can issue virtual visitor passes, receive arrival notifications, and seamlessly access amenities including wellness spaces, cycle facilities and the Peloton studio. “We believe Genetec provides the ideal platform to support 40 Leadenhall’s future growth and technology goals,” concludes Maynard. “The investment in leading technology, supported by strong partnerships, positions 40 Leadenhall at the forefront of innovation.”

ZeroEyes, creators of the multi-analytics weapons detection and threat intelligence platform, announces that its AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness platform has been deployed by New Jersey’s Sayreville Borough School District to protect students and faculty against gun-related violence. Located in Middlesex County, the district serves approximately 6,500 students and employs approximately 750 staff across 10 buildings, including a high school, middle school, upper elementary school, four K–3 elementary schools, two preschools, and a specialised 18–21 program that operates a publicly accessible store and café for job training. With strong community involvement, the district prioritises proactive safety measures and operates on the principle of staying ahead of evolving security needs. Incident management software ZeroEyes enhances the district’s comprehensive, multilayered security strategy and will be integrated with Singlewire’s InformaCast incident management software. This enables real-time gun detection alerts from ZeroEyes to automatically trigger Singlewire’s InformaCast system, which can instantly distribute customised alerts across a wide range of devices, supporting faster, more coordinated emergency responses and ensuring critical information reaches those who need it most. “Our responsibility is to create an environment where students and staff can focus on learning while knowing that safety is taken seriously,” said Dr. Richard Labbe, superintendent of Sayreville Borough School District. “By integrating advanced technology, such as ZeroEyes, into our broader security framework, we are strengthening our ability to identify potential threats early and act quickly, helping us move from awareness to action in a matter of moments.” Secure learning environment ZeroEyes' AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness software layers onto existing digital security cameras. If a gun is identified, images are instantly shared with the ZeroEyes Operations Center (ZOC), the industry's only U.S.-based, fully in-house operation center, which is staffed 24/7/365 by specially trained U.S. military and law enforcement veterans. If these experts determine the threat is valid, they dispatch alerts and actionable intelligence — including visual description, gun type, and last known location — to law enforcement and school security teams as quickly as 3 to 5 seconds from detection. “Sayreville Borough School District’s leadership has demonstrated a strong commitment to creating a safe and secure learning environment,” said Mike Lahiff, co-founder and CEO of ZeroEyes. “We’re proud to support their efforts by turning existing security infrastructure into a source of timely, reliable insight that supports faster, more confident action.”