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.

Veritone, Inc., a pioneer in enterprise AI and data solutions, and ZeroEyes, the creators of a multi-analytics weapons detection and threat intelligence platform, have officially partnered to deliver a powerful, differentiated public safety offering. This collaboration aligns two industry leaders to provide organisations with a coordinated security solution encompassing near real-time threat monitoring and comprehensive post-event analysis for live events and chaotic environments. “Our partnership with ZeroEyes represents a critical step forward in how organisations can leverage artificial intelligence to protect their communities and assets,” said CEO Ryan Steelberg of Veritone. “By pairing ZeroEyes’ real-time, proactive alerts with Veritone’s advanced post-event analysis, we’re equipping security and law enforcement professionals with the actionable intelligence to help manage every stage of an incident.” Traditional security measures While traditional security measures often rely on reactive protocols, the integration of ZeroEyes and Veritone’s offerings provides a more complete lifecycle of threat management. ZeroEyes threat detection and intelligent situational awareness software layers onto existing digital security cameras. If a gun or knife is identified, images are quickly shared with the ZeroEye Operations Center (ZOC), a U.S.-based, fully in-house operations 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, weapon type, and last known location – to law enforcement and school administrators, often in a matter of seconds from the moment a weapon is detected. Following an event, Veritone’s advanced AI platform accelerates post-event analysis, helping agencies and security teams swiftly process data for investigations and evidentiary needs. Reducing false positives Central to this partnership is both companies' commitment to human-in-the-loop analytic deployment. In situations where rapid decision-making is critical, human verification plays an essential role in reducing false positives and helping alerts stay actionable. By combining ZeroEyes’ human-verified threat detection and situational awareness with Veritone’s post-event AI capabilities, the partnership gives security teams valuable intelligence at critical points before, during, and after an incident. “When responding to an active assailant, time and situational awareness are critical, and both are often in short supply,” said Mike Lahiff, CEO and cofounder of ZeroEyes. “Our goal is to give school administrators and their law enforcement partners more of both, providing actionable intelligence that supports a faster, more informed response. By partnering with Veritone, we can extend that value beyond the immediate threat and give customers additional tools to support post-event analysis and investigation.” Video analytics technology ZeroEyes’ patented solution has been recognised by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security as an effective anti-terrorism technology and holds the distinct honour of being the first video analytics technology to receive full SAFETY Act Designation. The platform's expanded capabilities now also include knife detection, further broadening its ability to proactively identify and mitigate acts of violence. Through this bi-directional referral agreement, both Veritone and ZeroEyes will leverage their respective networks to introduce clients to a more holistic, robust approach to physical security and incident management.

Modern buildings are placing ever-increasing demands on door communication systems. Property owners, operators, and residents require intelligent solutions that accommodate different user groups, support flexible access methods, and meet high standards for security, connectivity, and integration. With the new D22x series, DoorBird introduces a new generation of IP video door intercoms. Developed based on specific customer requirements, the series combines cutting-edge technology, exceptional flexibility, premium design, and Made in Germany quality. As part of the ASSA ABLOY Group, the global pioneer in access solutions, DoorBird combines innovative IP-based door communication with extensive expertise in modern building security. Challenging lighting conditions The D22x series comprises more than 30 models and is the direct successor to the globally successful D21x Series. New additions to the portfolio include versions with digital nameplates, which can be managed centrally and remotely, offering significant advantages for property managers, housing associations, and operators of larger buildings. All models feature a 5 MP HDR camera with a Sony image sensor and a 180° ultra-wide-angle lens, providing excellent visibility of the entrance area even under challenging lighting conditions. Video transmission is available in HD quality via the local network or through DoorBird Cloud Pro. Outstanding audio performance ensures clear and intelligible communication between visitors and residents, even in demanding environments. Depending on the model, a variety of authentication methods are available, including the app, dual-frequency RFID, Bluetooth, PIN code, QR code, and fingerprint recognition. The security concept is further enhanced by a radar-based 4D motion sensor and an integrated tamper sensor. Comprehensively documented LAN With the D22x series, DoorBird also simplifies installation. Thanks to the integrated power output for electric door openers, many installations no longer require a separate power supply for the door release mechanism. This reduces cabling complexity, saves installation time, and lowers overall system costs. Open interfaces such as SIP, OSDP, RS485, and Wiegand, along with a comprehensively documented LAN and Cloud API, enable integration with more than 100 smart homes, access control, video surveillance, and building management systems. Building management systems The door station supports installations with up to 3,000 residential or office units. In addition to traditional call buttons, digital nameplates and displays with resident directories are available. Accessibility features can be added to every model, including an integrated hearing loop, pictograms, and acoustic door-opening confirmation signals. As an ISO/IEC 27001-certified company, DoorBird incorporates privacy and information security throughout the development process in accordance with the Security by Design principle. The D22x series offers a particularly cost-effective way to modernise existing DoorBird D21x installations. When upgrading, only the main electronic unit needs to be replaced. Existing housings, front panels, and other components can continue to be used, while all existing settings can be retained. This significantly reduces installation effort and contributes to environmental sustainability. Prestigious commercial properties In addition to technology, design plays a central role. More than 50 finishes and color options allow seamless integration into a wide variety of architectural concepts, from private residences to prestigious commercial properties. Using the DoorBird 3D Configurator, customers can customise the D22x series to their individual requirements. Front panel size and shape, engravings, mailboxes, and the integration of reader units from leading manufacturers can all be configured with maximum flexibility. “Modern buildings require solutions that can adapt flexibly while remaining easy to integrate,” says Sascha Keller, Founder and CEO of DoorBird. “With the D22x series, we provide a future-proof platform that combines powerful door communication, flexible access solutions, and sophisticated design Made in Germany.”

Securitas Technology, one of the world’s largest electronic security companies, is choosing to give back in remembrance of the 25th anniversary of the horrific 9/11 terrorist attacks by proudly supporting two organisations dedicated to preserving the legacy of that day and remembering those affected by it: Friends of Flight 93 National Memorial and Tunnel to Towers Foundation. "As we mark the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, we remember the lives lost, honor the heroes who responded, and recognise the resilience that emerged from tragedy," said Tony Byerly, Global President & CEO of Securitas Technology. Supporting educational programs "The lessons of that day continue to reinforce our purpose and the importance of creating a safer and more secure world. Through our support of Friends of Flight 93 and the Tunnel to Towers, we are helping preserve these stories, support those who serve others, and ensure future generations never forget. Helping make your world a safer place is more than our mission. It is our responsibility." Through its sponsorship of the 2026 National Day of Learning, Securitas Technology is helping support educational programs that ensure future generations understand the events of September 11, 2001 and the extraordinary courage demonstrated by the passengers and crew of Flight 93. The company has also selected Tunnel to Towers Foundation as its official charity partner for GSX 2026, supporting its mission to serve military members, first responders, and their families. Electronic security industry "For 25 years, the story of Flight 93 has stood as a powerful example of courage, sacrifice and unity," said Donna Gibson, Executive Director of Friends of Flight 93 National Memorial. "Support from organisations like Securitas Technology helps us continue sharing these lessons with future generations." Twenty-five years later, the impact of 9/11 continues to shape the security profession. The attacks transformed the world of security, including the way organisations approach safety, preparedness, and risk management while accelerating innovation across the electronic security industry. "As we honour the 25th anniversary of September 11, we remain committed to supporting the families of military service members and first responders while ensuring America never forgets," said Frank Siller, Chairman, CEO, President of Tunnel to Towers Foundation. "We are grateful for Securitas Technology's partnership and support," said Chris Cugini, Global Communications Manager.

Mayflex, the distributor of converged IP solutions, is proud to announce that it has been awarded its first EcoVadis Gold Medal, marking a major milestone in the company's sustainability journey and placing Mayflex among the highest-performing organisations assessed globally by EcoVadis. EcoVadis Gold recognition is awarded to companies ranked within the top 5% of all organisations evaluated during the previous 12 months. Mayflex has achieved an overall EcoVadis score of 86, a significant increase from its previous score of 69, representing a 25% improvement and elevating the business from Silver to Gold status. This achievement reflects the company's continued commitment to environmental responsibility, ethical business practices, human rights, and sustainable supply chain management. Sustainability rating providers EcoVadis is one of the world's most trusted business sustainability rating providers, assessing organisations against internationally recognised sustainability standards including the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), the UN Global Compact and ISO 26000. The assessment measures performance across four key areas: Environment, Labour & Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement. Donna Swaby, ESG Manager commented "Achieving EcoVadis Gold is a fantastic accomplishment for Mayflex and reflects the dedication, collaboration and commitment shown by colleagues right across the business. Every sustainability initiative, every process improvement, and every contribution from our teams has helped us reach this milestone.” Comprehensive sustainability report “We have built upon the strong foundations established over several years and continued to strengthen our governance, policies, reporting and sustainability programmes. The publication of our first comprehensive Sustainability Report, together with the support and resources available through the Sonepar Group, have played an important role in demonstrating our progress and ambitions.” “This achievement provides our customers, suppliers and stakeholders with independent verification of our commitment to operating as a responsible and sustainable business. While we are delighted to have achieved Gold status, we see this as another step in our ongoing journey and remain committed to continuous improvement." Decision-making processes The Gold Medal strengthens Mayflex's position as a trusted partner for customers increasingly looking to work with organisations that can demonstrate robust environmental, social and governance (ESG) credentials. As sustainability requirements continue to grow throughout supply chains, independent assessments such as EcoVadis provide valuable assurance that businesses are embedding responsible practices into their operations and decision-making processes. This latest achievement builds upon a range of sustainability initiatives already implemented by Mayflex, including its ISO 14001-certified Environmental Management System, sustainability reporting, emissions monitoring, renewable energy initiatives, circular economy programmes, sustainable packaging improvements and responsible procurement practices.

When Brazil’s Taquari River threatens to overflow, the Municipality of Muçum no longer waits and watches—it knows. Using Hikvision’s water-level detection solution, the town gets faster, more accurate insights about the changing water levels in the river. This strengthens emergency responses and helps protect communities across the Taquari Valley. Located in Rio Grande do Sul, the southernmost state of Brazil, the Municipality of Muçum is part of a wider region that has grown up along the Taquari River which runs through this mountainous region. Following relentless rainfall in both 2023 and 2024, the region experienced flooding of historic proportions. The 2024 disaster became the largest natural calamity in the state's recorded history. More than 600,000 people were displaced and infrastructure was damaged across nearly every municipality in the region, according to a report by Médecins Sans Frontières. Extreme weather conditions For the people of Muçum and its neighbouring cities, the focus quickly shifted from reacting to floods to preparing for them more effectively. Previous approaches had relied on manual observation and physical gauges. But such solutions, as they knew only too well, are unable to provide the kind of continuous, integrated, and real-time visibility that is so vital during extreme weather conditions. Instead, they needed to find a more reliable way to monitor river conditions, improve coordination during heavy rainfall, and communicate risks to residents earlier. Specifically, the municipal council of Muçum sought a technology solution that would: Deliver accurate, real-time water-level measurements Maintain operation during severe floods Support automatic alerts and emergency communication Centralise monitoring and historical data analysis Water-level monitoring solution To support these goals, the council worked with system integrator Infosat and distributor Tecline to deploy Hikvision’s intelligent water-level monitoring solution. Hikvision’s 4 MP Water-Level Detection Network Speed Dome (DS-2DF3C400SCG-D/4G/WL40(F1)(LA)) has been installed on a bridge above the river. Combining video imaging and millimetre-wave radar technology in a single device, the solution allows operators to visually monitor river conditions while simultaneously receiving highly accurate water-level measurements in real time. Preparing nearby communities Unlike traditional gauges positioned close to the water, the radar-based system can measure water levels from distances of up to 40 meters. This elevated installation approach helps ensure continuous operation even during major floods, when conventional equipment may become submerged or damaged. The solution’s millimetre-level precision allows emergency teams to detect even small changes in water levels and receive alerts when predefined thresholds are reached. With earlier visibility into changing conditions, emergency teams gain valuable time to evaluate risks, coordinate response actions, and prepare nearby communities. Challenging lighting environments The device delivers 4 MP high-quality imaging, allowing operators to visually confirm river conditions in real time. Its 120 dB WDR (Wide Dynamic Range) technology helps maintain clear images in challenging lighting environments, while the IP67-rated housing supports reliable outdoor performance during harsh weather. The integrated 4G connectivity and low-power design also simplify deployment in critical monitoring locations. To strengthen public communication, the municipality also deployed five Hikvision Network Horn Speakers (DS-QAZ1325G1T) in higher-risk neighbourhoods. Installed in areas where floodwaters can rise quickly, the speakers broadcast evacuation warnings and emergency notifications when necessary, enabling them to reach residents rapidly and directly. Real-time monitoring The entire solution is centrally managed on HikCentral Professional. Through the platform, operators can: Monitor water-level changes in real time Manage alarms and emergency alerts Review live video feeds remotely Access historical statistics for flood analysis and planning Since the deployment, the Municipality of Muçum has reported an 80% increase in the accuracy of water-level information compared with previous manual readings. Real-time monitoring and automated alerts now help emergency teams respond more proactively while improving communication with residents during critical situations. Mateus Giovanoni Trojan, the former Mayor of Muçum, said: “The Hikvision solution brings us more reliable information and enables us to respond faster. Automatic alerts help our emergency teams act earlier and improve safety for the population.” Creating a smarter foundation The benefits also extend beyond Muçum itself. Data collected from the monitoring system helps support neighbouring municipalities across the Taquari Valley, contributing to regional preparedness efforts that affect around 100,000 residents. “For nearby communities like ours, earlier information can make a huge difference,” said Luis Maya, Emergency Coordinator for the Municipality of Lajeado. “It helps emergency teams react faster and keep people safe.” Today, Muçum’s story is no longer only about overcoming floods; it is about building resilience through technology, coordination, and preparedness. By deploying Hikvision’s AIoT (AI-powered Internet of Things) technologies, the municipality has created a smarter foundation for flood response across the Taquari Valley. As climate challenges continue to evolve, Muçum is showing how AIoT technologies can help communities respond earlier, act faster, and face the future with greater confidence.

Gozoki, a French family-owned company and pioneer in the freshly prepared meals market (Maison Briau, Maison Tino and other brands), has taken the step of investing to secure its industrial sites. At its facilities in Agen, the company now benefits from a state-of-the-art video surveillance system deployed by specialist integrator SDP, using Hanwha Vision hardware and software solutions. Production sites in the food manufacturing sector face stringent requirements for security, access control and traceability. Protecting staff, preventing intrusions, monitoring logistics flows and securing sensitive areas all present significant challenges. Present significant challenges As part of its ongoing commitment to improving its infrastructure, Gozoki began modernising its surveillance system in 2025 to enhance reliability, accuracy and responsiveness. “We needed a system capable of operating 24/7 in a demanding environment while delivering outstanding image quality. The Hanwha Vision solution meets these requirements perfectly,” says Nicolas Jeannesson, buildings and energy manager at Gozoki. To deliver the project, Gozoki selected SDP, a company renowned for its expertise in integrating electronic security solutions. SDP carried out the site survey, designed the network architecture, installed the equipment and completed its advanced configuration. The objective was to deliver a robust, scalable solution perfectly suited to the demands of a challenging industrial environment. “Our role is to provide a turnkey solution that is reliable and built to last. Hanwha Vision cameras enable us to deliver high levels of performance while simplifying maintenance,” says Pierre Albanese, managing director of SDP. Video analytics capabilities The cameras SDP and Gozoki chose to install were Hanwha Vision’s, and were selected for their exceptional image quality, even in challenging conditions, thanks to high-resolution sensors and WDR technologies. Advanced video analytics capabilities that enable intrusion detection, intelligent management of sensitive areas, and behavioural analysis, were also key features that Gozoki required. The reliability and durability of Hanwha Vision’s cameras are essential in industrial environments that are subject to fluctuations in temperature, humidity or lighting, such as Gozoki’s sites. Enhanced cybersecurity - a critical factor in preventing the risk of cyber attacks on connected systems - was also a vital element of the project’s requirements. The installed cameras cover all strategic areas, including vehicle entrances, loading bays, storage areas, internal traffic routes and external perimeters. “The integrated video analytics allow us to go far beyond simple monitoring. We now have a decision-support tool capable of anticipating risk situations,” adds Nicolas Jeannesson of Gozoki. Future regulatory requirements With the planned deployment of nearly 200 cameras across multiple sites around Agen, Gozoki now benefits from a modern video surveillance system that supports the company’s growth while meeting current and future regulatory requirements. “This project perfectly illustrates our commitment to supporting our customers over the long term with reliable, scalable technologies,” concludes Pierre Albanese. Together, SDP and Hanwha Vision delivered Gozoki a cohesive, high-performance and scalable solution, providing a clear, centralised view of security across its facilities.

Evolv Technologies Holdings, Inc., a security technology company pioneering AI-based solutions designed to create safer experiences, announces that Evolv Express®, the company’s people-screening system, has been selected as a security partner in Northwestern University’s new Ryan Field following a rigorous evaluation process. As Ryan Sports Development prepares to open the first NFL-type stadium in college sports, they evaluated available screening solutions before selecting Evolv Express to help deliver an elevated fan security experience. Evolv Express uses advanced sensor technology and AI to detect concealed threats and identify the location of the potential threat while allowing people to move through checkpoints at their natural walking pace. Advanced sensor technology The New Ryan Field, in the final stages of construction, will have a capacity of 35,000 fans when it opens on October 2nd with a nationally televised game. In addition to Northwestern football games, New Ryan Field will also host other athletic and community events throughout the year. The project is designed to set a new standard for the college football experience and boasts several features and innovations fitting its ambitious vision, including the Evolv Express security systems. The multi-year agreement between Evolv and Ryan Sports Development includes a variety of marketing elements and designates Evolv as Northwestern University’s “Official Fan Screening Provider.” Exceptional arrival experience “Our goal for the New Ryan Field is simple: build the best place to watch football in America,” said Pat Ryan Jr., CEO of Ryan Sports Development. “That ambition covers not only the event itself, but also the entire time that a fan is on site. We built a stadium designed to represent the future of college athletics, and so much more, and we rigorously evaluated available screening technologies and selected Evolv Express because it aligned with our goals of delivering a secure, convenient, and exceptional arrival experience.” “When an institution invests in creating what it believes will be the premier college football venue in the country, every decision matters, including the first impression fans receive when they arrive,” said John Kedzierski, President and CEO of Evolv Technology. Ambitious stadium projects “Northwestern had the opportunity to evaluate the industry’s leading screening solutions as part of this landmark project, and we are honoured that Evolv Express was selected to help deliver the elevated fan experience Ryan Field is designed to provide. It’s a testament to the strength of our technology that one of the most ambitious stadium projects in college sports chose Evolv to help welcome fans through its gates.” The New Ryan Field at Northwestern is another signature deployment on Evolv’s growing roster of higher education customers, as well as numerous stadiums, arenas, theme parks, schools, hospitals and other public spaces around the world.

iDenfy, the global RegTech solution provider that delivers identity verification and fraud prevention tools, has implemented Czech Bank iD into its electronic identity verification software. The addition of the new digital ID or non-document verification method for the Czech market gives businesses a native alternative for verifying Czech citizens through their existing bank login credentials, without asking for a physical document during the onboarding process. Czech Bank iD is a nationwide, bank-issued digital identification system introduced in the Czech Republic in 2021. It allows citizens to use their internet banking credentials to authenticate themselves for both e-government and private sector services. Separate identity document The system is currently used by over 5,000,000 internet banking users, which corresponds to an adoption rate of 57% across the Czech Republic with 9 million people. Czech Bank iD runs on the OIDC protocol and operates through a bank delegation model, meaning the verification is confirmed directly by the user’s bank rather than through a separate identity document. iDenfy’s non-document verification platform was built to operate alongside the platform’s standard document-based KYC flow. Businesses can configure the platform to automatically route users to the Czech Bank iD path when traditional document capture is unavailable or produces insufficient image quality, a scenario that iDenfy’s internal data consistently shows as a recurring source of session drop-off. The combined flow is available to all iDenfy clients at no additional cost and can be activated in the dashboard settings without any additional integration work. Additional integration work To perform a successful verification, Czech Bank iD checks the person’s given name, family name, middle name, full name, date of birth, nationality, sex, phone number, and full address details. Where available, it can also return document data, such as document type, number, issue date, expiration date, issuing country and authority. This gives businesses a verification result that is both broad in scope and consistent in structure, since the data is returned directly by the bank network rather than extracted from a scanned image. As defined by Regulation (EU) 2024/1183, each of the EU 27 will have to implement the EU Digital Identity Wallet for citizens and residents by the end of 2026. Every bank, payment, and electronic money institution will have to support wallet-based credentials as Strong Customer Authentication measures. Bypassing security controls The Czech Republic has the third-highest risk of cyber fraud globally, according to security firm Gen Digital, which conducted research from Avast, AVG, and Norton companies. Social engineering attacks, a form of psychological manipulation in which criminals trick people into giving up private data, downloading malware, or bypassing security controls, made up 86% of the threats that happened in the country. iDenfy states that for businesses that serve Czech market users, the ability to verify identity through a credential that more than five million adults already use for banking and government access can remove a document capture step that often contributes to onboarding drop-off. It still maintains a secure enough compliance procedure to keep the process trustworthy for both the user and the business so it can validate a real person behind it. Digital identity networks “Czech Bank iD has become one of the most widely trusted digital identity credentials in the Czech Republic. Our clients that serve that market can now meet Czech users on those terms and present a verification path that feels familiar and requires no additional physical document capture at the point of onboarding,” said Domantas Ciulde, the CEO of iDenfy. It is worth mentioning that iDenfy’s KYC software currently covers over 16,000+ government-issued documents across over 200+ countries and territories. If a case is not resolved automatically, it is reported to iDenfy’s internal compliance review team, which works 24/7 to review identities and fix any onboarding issues. “Czech Bank iD is deeply embedded in how Czech citizens already access banking, government, and private sector services. For our clients, adding Czech Bank iD is not just an onboarding improvement. It is a direct connection to one of Central Europe’s most established digital identity networks,” added Domantas Ciulde. Czech Bank iD support is available now across iDenfy’s identity verification platform.