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.

ISC West 2025 in Las Vegas showcased the latest advancements in security technology, offering security professionals a glimpse into the future of the industry. This year's expo highlighted the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and enhanced integration. The pioneering comprehensive and converged security event attracted nearly 29,000 industry professionals to the Venetian Convention Centre.  Integration into unified platforms Several companies emphasised the importance of cloud-based solutions and the integration of diverse security components into unified platforms. For example, Brivo's Security Suite provides “everything in one platform” – not just access control. Customers only pay for what they use because the system is flexible and scalable from a single door to enterprise level applications. Brivo’s suite includes video, but the system can also tie in with third-party “partners.” Genetec's Security Centre allows for more frequent updates through the cloud. Milestone is undergoing a two-year transition to bring its Xprotect system into the future by incorporating Arcules and Briefcam into a video-as-a service product. Suprema introduced BioStar X, which integrates access control and video analytics into a single platform. AI and mobile credentials  Axis Communications’ Cloud Connect product announced three new partnerships at ISC West 2025 Axis Communications’ Cloud Connect product announced three new partnerships at ISC West – Eagle Eye Networks, SecuriThings, and Wesco. They join the three partners announced during the first year of Axis Cloud Connect – Genetec, Kone (elevators) and Milestone. AI and mobile credentials were still hot topics at ISC West 2025, but the conversation has evolved beyond amazement at the technologies’ capabilities and now centres on more practical aspects. From the theoretical to the practical “AI and mobility are still the ‘flavors de jour,’ but messages are evolving to manifest AI for better outcomes,” says Heather Torrey, General Manager, Commercial Security, Americas, for Honeywell Building Automation. The company has reframed its security portfolio to be very building- and business-focused, continuing to grow and evolve after the recent acquisition of LenelS2. “From the theoretical to the practical, we want customers to be part of the conversation so we can deliver AI that is meaningful to them, focusing on what’s most important,” says Torrey. Under Honeywell’s new ownership structure, “each part of the business can be more focused on customers’ needs,” she says. Honeywell continues its journey around mobile access and credentialing and migrating to cloud solutions. Innovations in Access Control Gallagher’s new Quickswitch access control board simplifies the migration from legacy systems Access control remains a critical component of security systems, and ISC West 2025 showcased several innovations in this area. Acre is releasing “Gallery,” its version of the App Store for access control. DormaKaba is launching the Keyscan KC Series door controller with TCP/IP connectivity and enhanced features. Gallagher’s new Quickswitch access control board simplifies the migration from legacy systems. Johnson Controls highlighted its C-Cure command centre and C-Cure IQ web client, offering a unified approach to access control and video. Hardware integrations for security panels For service provider Alarm.com, hardware products prepare a path to greater customer experiences, says Abe Kinney, Alarm.com’s Director, Product Management, who oversees hardware integrations for security panels, sensors, video, etc., and drives new product development. “We are looking to bridge the physical world to digital world,” he says. “We want to bring an advantage to our dealers that they can bring to customers.” Because Alarm.com’s customers pay a monthly fee, the products must be durable and economical, says Kinney. “It should work with no need for truck rolls.” The importance of longevity and flexibility Products are evaluated based on features, price, and ease of installation Products are evaluated based on features, price, and ease of installation. In particular, longevity is important for the Alarm.com’s pro channel. There is also a growing emphasis on deterrence industrywide. Says Kinney: “We recognise that detection is part of it, but we need to prevent problems from happening in the first place. And the industry is re-evaluating.” When it comes to cloud intelligence, Eagle Eye Networks puts the emphasis on flexibility. They offer AI that can perform anywhere on the system infrastructure, on the camera, on their on-site bridge device, or in the cloud. They support their own AI and also any AI product from a third party. “We focus on what customers want from the data AI detects,” says Hans Kahler, Eagle Eye Networks’ Chief Operating Officer. Integration with other systems A timely alert from gun detection could save a life, but AI can also generate information that might be used and analysed later, such as point-of-sale information, dwell time, foot traffic, etc. “What people want is the ability to work with the data for business intelligence,” says Kahler. Integration with other systems provides new opportunities for customers: For example, a licence plate reader at a restaurant drive-thru could trigger customisation of the menu board digital signage based on the customer’s previous buying pattern. Relentless Innovation Assa Abloy handles more than 40 million SKUs for all its various brands, faked in 28 factories in the US Assa Abloy handles more than 40 million stock keeping units (SKUs) for all its various brands manufactured in 28 factories in the United States. Merely complying with regulations such as the “Buy American Act” is a monumental effort considering the massive product line, attendees heard at Assa Abloy’s Annual ISC West Breakfast focusing on compliance challenges in the security market. Meanwhile, back at the trade show booth, Assa Abloy focused on “relentless innovation” in every corner of its product line. Assa Abloy’s message: Innovation in security does not have to be about AI or automation. In fact, inventive approaches to products come in all shapes and sizes and at every level of the product portfolio, and innovation is happening faster than ever. For example, the Safebolt product from Securitech, a brand recently acquired by Assa Abloy, can quickly lock down existing doors with the press of a red button on a cylindrical or mortise lock. Temporary Systems to Secure Events Securing events is the focus of Allied Universal's Unified Command Solutions, which specialises in setting up temporary security systems for conventions, trade shows, festivals, construction sites, parades, and other events. They can add technology to situations where previously mostly security officers were used, providing safety/security and enabling more efficient event operation.  “We can put cameras anywhere, whether they need power or not, use cell service or WiFi, a localised network or the internet, or whatever,” says Andrew LaMadrid, VP, Sales for Allied Universal's Unified Command Solutions. Event operation and management IDIS came to ISC West looking to leverage new products that they did not promote in the past The focus is on easy implementation, flexibility, and fast setup and removal. “We look for a solution to solve each customer’s pain points,” says LaMadrid. They specialise in setting up and deploying surveillance cameras for safety/security and for event operation and management. Mobile surveillance is a relatively new “piece of our puzzle” when it comes to protecting high-profile events. “People are excited about what we can offer that’s new,” says LaMadrid. Unified Command Solutions has been around for about 12 years and was acquired by Allied Universal last summer. IDIS came to ISC West looking to leverage new products that they did not promote in the past, and visitors were very interested in those solutions, says Scott Switzer, IDIS CEO. “The progression of our product line has been tremendous,” he says. Last year, the IDIS booth offered only basic analytics, but this year they had 30 different advanced analytics including gun and aggression detection using the advanced solution “IDIS Vaidio AI.”  What Makes You Different? The most common question IDIS hears at their trade show booth is: “What makes you different?” The answer: They offer an end-to-end solution, including cameras; they manage, control, design from end-to-end; and there is no need for multiple integrations. The time needed to install an IDIS system is significantly less because of the simplicity. “We have customers we have supported and grown together for over 20 years,” says Switzer. The company previously deployed IDIS cameras under the Costar brand before the Korean IDIS brand was introduced into the U.S. (IDIS purchased Costar and changed the name to IDIS America.) “This has been a tremendous show for us; we are looking to build our momentum and let more people know about IDIS,” says Switzer. Managing real AI at the edge The depth of their metadata enables new applications, whether for security or business operations Based in Prague, Czech Republic, and with U.S. offices in Pennsylvania, FF Group provides licence plate recognition for harsh environments. Using Axis cameras, they offer “managed real AI at the edge,” selling through a nationwide distributed network, says Alex Osypov, CEO and Founder of FF Group. Markets include parking lots, cities/municipalities, police, government, water systems, etc. The depth of their metadata enables new applications, whether for security or business operations. They are looking to combine and correlate data including LIDAR, RADAR, etc. to exploit the advantages of “data fusion.” Osypov says: “The market is growing because we are involving other adjacent markets.” Unified platforms and advanced tools Several companies are focusing on enhancing security operations centres (SOCs) by providing unified platforms and advanced tools. Axon’s Fusus system “layers” onto existing infrastructure, tying together various sensors into a single interface for real-time monitoring and information sharing. Increasingly, enterprises have invested in a lot of technologies – ac, video, asset trackers – but none of it talks together. Fusus ties all the systems together so that operators no longer have to look at 10 different screens. Rather, there is a “single pane of glass” that shows everything and facilitates sharing of information with law enforcement.  Motorola also showcased its Security Operations Centre, which integrates hardware, software, smart sensors, communication radios, and broadband devices to streamline incident management.

Physical security technologies are a prominent tool used by correctional facilities to provide a safe, secure, and controlled environment for staff, inmates, and the wider community. Among several functions, security technologies are used to prevent unauthorised access, to detect contraband, to monitor inmate movements and activities, and to protect staff. For security technology manufacturers, integrators and consultants, the corrections market presents distinctive challenges. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the unique aspects of the corrections market, and how should the physical security industry adapt?

Verkada, a pioneer in AI-powered physical security technology, announces its expansion into the Middle East with the establishment of a Dubai-based office and the appointment of Fred Crehan as Head of Middle East. This expansion reflects Verkada's continued global growth, driven by the region's rapid urban development, large-scale infrastructure projects, and rising demand for modern, cloud-based security solutions. "The Middle East is experiencing rapid urban development, large-scale infrastructure projects, and a strong focus on security and innovation," said Eric Salava, Chief Revenue Officer at Verkada. "Verkada's cloud-based platform aligns well with the region's ambitions, and Fred's deep understanding of the local landscape and proven track record of scaling high-growth businesses make him the ideal leader to bring our integrated platform to market." Traditional resource constraints Crehan brings over 25 years of enterprise technology experience. Most recently, he served at Confluent, where he successfully launched the Dubai office and built a robust partner ecosystem. "Safety is a top priority in the Middle East, driven by a commitment to world-class tourism and the rapid development of new urban centres," said Fred Crehan, Head of Middle East at Verkada. "As cloud adoption continues to accelerate, many organizations are looking for modern solutions that can help them overcome traditional resource constraints. Verkada's platform is uniquely positioned to support government, hospitality, retail, and logistics providers, as well as the large-scale construction and real estate sectors." Independent growth fund While Verkada already supports global customers operating in the Middle East, the Dubai office represents the company's first dedicated regional office. Verkada plans to grow its Middle East team, with initial hires focused on sales engineering and leadership roles. Verkada's international expansion builds on the company's recent investment from CapitalG, Alphabet's independent growth fund, which valued Verkada at $5.8 billion. The investment will help accelerate Verkada's AI innovation and support its more than 30,000 customers worldwide.

Genetec Inc., the pioneer in enterprise physical security software, announces that it has been named one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People for the third consecutive year. The designation is part of an annual initiative organised by MediaCorp Canada that recognises employers offering strong workplace environments, learning opportunities, and career development programs for students and young professionals entering the workforce. Strong workplace environments Genetec continually invests in programs that help early-career professionals gain practical experience, build technical and professional skills, and transition into long-term roles within the organisation. From the first day, interns and new hires contribute as full members of their teams and are supported through structured onboarding, hands-on work, and access to experienced colleagues across teams. A cornerstone of this approach is the internship program at Genetec, which welcomes approximately 300 paid interns each year across engineering, product, business, and corporate functions. Interns work full time alongside permanent employees on meaningful projects, participate in team meetings and internal events, and gain exposure to how teams collaborate and how products are developed and marketed. Internal learning management platform New hires participate in thorough in-person onboarding and have ongoing access to technical and professional training through an internal learning management platform. Departmental onboarding, inter-team workshops, and cross-functional training support skill development across roles, while employee-driven initiatives such as TechTalks provide forums for sharing project insights and technical knowledge. Supporting young professionals At Genetec, mentorship plays an important role in supporting young professionals. For example, the Women in Engineering mentoring program, delivered in cooperation with Concordia University, pairs eligible interns with experienced female employees. These sessions focus on career goals, workplace challenges, and professional development, helping participants build confidence and gain practical insight into navigating the early stages of professional life within a global technology organisation. Targeted training programs As employees progress, leadership development opportunities support continued growth. Through collaboration with HEC Montréal, targeted training programs strengthen management and leadership skills at different stages of professional development, reinforcing clear pathways for long-term career progression. “Young professionals bring a lot of energy and curiosity, and they often look at problems differently,” said Richard Pailliere, Vice President, Human Resources at Genetec Inc. “When those fresh perspectives are paired with experience, they lead to stronger ideas and better innovation across teams.” Interns accounted for more than 30 percent of new hires last year, reflecting the role early-career talent plays in workforce development. With more than 124 permanent positions available globally, including 75 in Canada, along with internship opportunities across North America and other regions, Genetec continues to recruit students and young professionals interested in long-term growth.

Connected Technologies announces a powerful update to the Connect ONE® platform that elevates the intelligence of video surveillance and strengthens integration with onsite security systems through expanded NVR integration. Video analytics is a game-changer for surveillance, turning cameras into proactive detection of critical events without constant human monitoring or reviewing generic motion triggers. Connect ONE’s Camera Motion & Analytical Event Capture leverages video analytics to automatically detect and capture camera alerts, simplifying the monitoring of single and multiple customer locations. Access control activity Real-time analytics are streamed into Connect ONE where they are logged, generate notifications, and can be viewed in context alongside related intrusion and access control activity. Video-detected events interact with other connected systems, turning on outputs, locking doors, and triggering mass notification for audio alerts and digital signage announcements. Live camera streams remain open while users review activity, control access doors or automation tasks, change user codes, or perform other functions. Quicker location identification Connect ONE’s Camera Motion & Analytical Event Capture features these capabilities: Video verification links alarms, access control, or other detected events to associated cameras, sending alarm/access events to the NVR for bookmarking, camera preset control, etc. Video-triggered events are viewed onscreen and alerts sent to users via email or SMS text. Connect ONE Event Rules can be activated in response to the NVR triggers, such as report logging, notifications to users, system control (arming, disarming, output control, lockdown, etc.). Event rules can also be configured to capture snapshots from cameras for archives and recordkeeping. Users can create Virtual Zones to represent cameras for logging Motion & Analytical Activity, such as vehicle or person detection. Detection zones may also be mapped on GeoView satellite imagery for quicker location identification. Embedded NVR health monitoring and status updates strengthen system monitoring and ensure uptime. Cloud management platform “Connect ONE recognises the importance of analytics and video verification for a safer, holistic security solution,” said Dan Simon, Technical Director, Connected Technologies. “Our goal is to continue to develop and release enhancements that help our partners and users make the most of the latest technology and simplify the management and control of all installed solutions.” Connect ONE is the unified, cloud management platform that puts system information and intelligence in one place for easy access, management, and control.

Pyronix announces the launch of its new Wireless LCD, a stylish, user-friendly solution that brings effortless control and enhanced flexibility to security systems. Designed with both installers and end users in mind, the wireless LCD keypad offers seamless integration, fast installation and powerful functionality — all without the hassle of wires. Easier fit for installers “We’ve designed the Wireless LCD to make life easier for installers. It’s quick to fit, seamless to pair and packed with all the control you need,” said Laurence Kenny, Product Director at Pyronix. Compatibility With quick pairing, no wiring and full compatibility with the Enforcer V11 (V11.40f) and EURO 76 (V11.00h - with wireless ZEM V5.05), the Wireless LCD streamlines setups. It provides complete access to system menus, enabling installers to program the system, add users or update settings all from a sleek, intuitive interface. Complete control “The Wireless LCD is also built with the end user in mind,” Laurence added. “From real-time status updates and easy menu navigation to a backlit 34-character LCD screen for clear visibility in low light, it gives users complete control and peace of mind wherever it’s installed. Its wireless design means no compromise on placement or aesthetics.” Features and functions Powered by the same trusted CR123A batteries used across the Pyronix wireless range, the device helps simplify maintenance and streamline stock management. Purpose-built for seamless integration within the Pyronix ecosystem, it provides full supervision, jamming detection and a consistent, reliable user experience. It also benefits from Pyronix’ updated wireless product warranty policy, which offers an additional one-year warranty extension when Pyronix batteries are used consistently throughout the product’s lifetime. The Wireless LCD is available now through Pyronix distributors.

Chubbsafe, part of Gunnebo Safe Storage, in partnership with VOUROS O.E., has completed the tailor-made specification of safe storage solutions for a private compound of 13 luxury villas in the Cycladic Islands, Greece. The villas required reliable storage for jewellery, watches, and important documents across both private suites and administrative areas. Traditional high-grade safes, while secure, were considered heavy, difficult to position, and visually intrusive. Certified burglary resistance For this project, compact safes with certified burglary resistance were specified. With flexible anchoring options, their lighter construction allowed installation inside wardrobes and other discreet spaces without altering the properties’ structure or interior design. Says Georgios Vouros, Managing Director of VOUROS O.E: “The collaboration highlights a shift in the Greek luxury property market, where homeowners expect certified protection that blends seamlessly into refined interiors. Chubbsafes’ compact and discreet solutions meet this need by delivering proven burglary resistance without altering the design or structural features of the villas.” DIY friendly installation DIY friendly installation enabled minimal disruption to residents, drawing on the long-standing partnership, which began in 1956 when VOUROS first introduced Chubbsafes products to Greece, before coming a sole distributor in 1997. The project demonstrates how technology originally developed for banks and jewellers can be adapted to residential requirements, providing certified protection to EN 1143-1 and EN 1300 certified mechanical or electronic lock, all in a format suited to private homes. “Luxury homeowners want the same level of certified protection that professional institutions have relied on for years, but in a format suited to connected lifestyles,” Jolanta Derbich, Channel Development Manager Southern and Eastern Europe of Gunnebo Safe Storage concluded. “Our partnership with VOUROS combines global engineering expertise with local knowledge to deliver solutions that protect valuable possessions while fitting into residential environments.”

ZeroEyes, the creators of the first AI-based gun detection video analytics platform to earn the full US Department of Homeland Security SAFETY Act Designation, announces that its AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness platform has been deployed by New Jersey’s Ramapo Indian Hills Regional High School District to protect students and faculty against gun-related violence. The district serves approximately 1,800 students and 350 staff members across two four-year public high schools: Indian Hills High School and Ramapo High School. Located in Bergen County, New Jersey, the district educates students from the suburban communities of Franklin Lakes, Oakland, and Wyckoff.   Multilayered security approach ZeroEyes complements the district’s multilayered security approach, which also includes a school resource officer (SRO), modernised public address system, enhanced camera infrastructure, strobelight alerts, and more. "Our leadership team, in collaboration with our Board of Education, is constantly exploring new approaches and ideas to stay ahead of potential security issues and enable the best possible response to a school-based threat,” said Charlie Wolff, District Security Coordinator and School Safety Specialist, Ramapo Indian Hills Board of Education. “Partnering with ZeroEyes allows us to take our video surveillance system to a whole new level. At Ramapo Indian Hills, our primary goal is to create a safe learning environment for every student, and we achieve this through an ongoing cycle of security evaluation, implementation, and refinement.” 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 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 local security teams as quickly as 3 to 5 seconds from detection. “We’re proud to support the Ramapo Indian Hills Regional High School District in its mission to provide a safe, secure learning environment,” said Mike Lahiff, CEO and cofounder of ZeroEyes. “The district’s decision to implement ZeroEyes demonstrates their dedication to prioritising security and enabling their students to focus on their education.”

Gunnebo Safe Storage has worked in partnership with Capital Vaults to install its high security SafeStore Auto Maxi at Sibaya Entertainment Kingdom and Casino, designed to provide clients with secure, automated access to their valuables. The SafeStore Auto Maxi Solution was seamlessly designed within a certified EN 1143-1 Grade VII vault at a high-security site for a pioneer Casino complex in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. As a protected, discreet facility where customers can store and retrieve possessions at any time without relying on staff, the solution enables the maintenance of the highest level of physical protection. Multi-layered authentication “This project demonstrates how SafeStore Auto can provide secure and convenient access to valuables without the limitations of traditional safe deposit services,” stated Theo Moodley, of Capital Vaults. “Gunnebo’s automated system is housed in a certified EN 1143-1 Grade VII vault and combines robotics with rigorous identity verification to give users confidence their belongings are protected at all times.” SafeStore Auto Maxi is an automated safe deposit system which operates entirely within a certified strong room and always remains closed and secure, eliminating the need for staff interaction during access. Multi-layered authentication ensures only the authorised user can call up their safety deposit locker and the installation has been further strengthened by a proprietary six-eye protocol. The vault is completely isolated from external networks and does not require an internet connection, reducing the risk of hacking or data breaches. Significant sentimental value Located within the broader security perimeter of a major entertainment complex, the site benefits from constant surveillance, controlled entry and exit points, and on-site security teams, while offering customers complete privacy once inside the private suite where the locker is delivered. Access is always available, allowing clients to deposit or retrieve items whenever they choose. Items commonly stored include jewellery, documents, luxury watches, precious metals, digital wallets, and family heirlooms; these are possessions that are often irreplaceable or hold significant sentimental value. Advanced vault technology Gail Carew, Sales Director of Gunnebo Safe Storage South Africa added: “Capital Vaults turned to Gunnebo for a secure, automated alternative to conventional safe deposit boxes. Through a close partnership, we combined our SafeStore Auto technology with a certified high-security vault to deliver 24/7 access in a secure environment.” The success of the installation highlights how advanced vault technology can be adapted to local requirements while adhering to international certifications for burglary resistance. As demand for private secure storage continues to grow, Gunnebo Safe Storage expects similar solutions to play an increasing role in providing individuals with peace of mind and uninterrupted access to their most valuable possessions.

Visitor management systems can be an important component of a comprehensive security program and may help organisations manage facility access and visitor tracking as part of their overall security strategy. They also play an important role in delivering a seamless visitor experience and optimising front desk operations by streamlining check-ins and reducing administrative burdens. Many organisations have visitor management procedures in place that require a receptionist or other employee to keep written logs or manually check in visitors, which takes time and resources away from the day-to-day business. Implementing visitor management systems can be a major task for organisations – and finding a solution that can integrate with existing systems is vital. Keeping track of appointments Visitor management systems allow a business to centralise and automate their visitor-related processes including pre-registering guests, providing QR code or mobile credentials for building access and check-in, and notifying hosts automatically when guests arrive. Everon was approached by a long-standing customer in the professional lawn care industry, with over 10,000 employees in locations across North America, to upgrade their visitor management system. The customer relocated to new headquarters and sought to upgrade from written logs to a more efficient means of keeping track of appointments. Workplace experience platform Everon worked closely with Sharry, a cloud-based smart access and workplace experience platform that provides workplace managers and security teams with reliable, easy-to-deploy access control solutions. Sharry offers a highly customisable visitor management solution that can be tailored to each client’s specific requirements. In this case, the client was looking for a way to ensure an automated yet secure operation of their new reception area without the need for on-site front desk staff. Temporary access credential The customer was clear in their request that they did not want visitors to download an extra app to check in to the facility, so Sharry provided software that the customer could use on their existing compatible hardware such as iPad tablets – eliminating the need for large purchases of additional hardware. The Sharry system is designed to provide visitors with an efficient check-in process. Once an appointment is confirmed, the host can send a standard calendar invitation via Outlook, while the Sharry system automatically issues a guest pass email to the visitor. This email includes meeting details, directions to the facility, and a QR code that serves as a temporary access credential. Upon arrival in the lobby, the visitor can use the QR code to unlock the doors, as the system is fully integrated with the customer’s existing Brivo access control infrastructure. The host is then notified in real time that their guest has arrived. Additional features for consideration For walk-in guests without prior registration, a self-service kiosk app on a tablet at the reception is available for a smooth check-in. The system automatically verifies each guest against a do-not-admit list and simultaneously notifies the host that a visitor has arrived to see them. The host is then responsible for escorting the guest from the lobby. While not utilised in this particular deployment, Sharry’s robust visitor management system offers a wide array of additional features for consideration, such as automated parking reservations for guests, visitor ID scanning, or the management of visitor agreements. Reinforcing brand consistency Since Sharry visitor management is delivered as a white-labeled solution, it fully incorporates the customer’s brand identity across various outputs and touchpoints. Guest pass emails are not sent under the Sharry name but are instead issued on behalf of the client, reinforcing brand consistency. Similarly, the kiosk app reflects the client’s branding, contributing to a cohesive and professional visitor experience from the moment a guest is invited to a meeting. The delivered solution also includes the Insights analytics tool, offering a clear view of visitor flow by identifying peak days and times and forecasting visits for the coming times. It can automatically generate and send data reports to support management decisions. Separate access control system This project was unique – the customer had already worked with Everon in implementing a separate access control system, Brivo, before the inclusion and integration of the Sharry system. Support from both the Brivo and Sharry teams were excellent, working closely with Everon technicians to ensure that the integration process went smoothly. “The Sharry team were ready to jump in and help at any time to provide a seamless experience,” said Richard Kensky, Project Manager at Everon, “Considering that the customer had not worked with the technology of this kind before, it was important that both teams were hands on every step of the way.” Integrated visitor management system “Although this was not a typical use case for our integrated visitor management system, the project confirmed the flexibility and robustness of our system to adapt to the evolving needs of enterprise clients and office buildings,” said Michal Čeřovský, COO and co-founder at Sharry. “Thanks to smooth cooperation with Everon and their hands-on approach as a trusted partner for the client, the implementation of the integrated solution—from kickoff to full deployment—was completed in just three weeks.” The implemented visitor management solution demonstrated strong capabilities in deployment speed, cost management, and access control features, while supporting the client's security, efficiency, and compliance objectives. 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