Mobile Access Trends

How are security systems transitioning from reactive to proactive?
How are security systems transitioning from reactive to proactive?

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?

HID highlights digital transformation, futureproofing among access trends
HID highlights digital transformation, futureproofing among access trends

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.

Beyond technology exuberance, ISC West 2025 also embraces the practical
Beyond technology exuberance, ISC West 2025 also embraces the practical

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.

How should security adapt to the unique aspects of the corrections market?
How should security adapt to the unique aspects of the corrections market?

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?

Latest Access control news

ASSA ABLOY acquires NSP security in UK
ASSA ABLOY acquires NSP security in UK

ASSA ABLOY has acquired NSP Security in the UK, a company providing design, manufacturing and installation of access control solutions primarily within the student accommodation segment. Authority comments "I am very pleased to welcome NSP into ASSA ABLOY, an exciting technological addition that will reinforce our current offering within the hospitality business, and provide complementary growth opportunities,” says Nico Delvaux, President and CEO of ASSA ABLOY. “NSP is a provider of electronic access control solutions to a broad range of customers across the student accommodation segment. NSP is an excellent addition to Global Solutions and with its strong expertise in access control, expands our offerings across the Hospitality business area. We welcome the team at NSP to the ASSA ABLOY family,” says Stephanie Ordan, Executive Vice President and Head of Global Technologies business unit Global Solutions.  About NSP and financial details NSP was founded in 1993 and has some 20 employees. The main office is based in Borehamwood, UK. NSP will be part of Global Solutions business area Hospitality.  Sales for 2024 amounted to about MGBP 8 (approx. MSEK 100) with a strong EBIT margin. The acquisition will be accretive to EPS from the start.

Atos joins movement to work for AI-driven growth
Atos joins movement to work for AI-driven growth

Atos, a pioneer in secure, AI-driven digital transformation, has joined Movement to Work, a UK-wide employer-led movement dedicated to breaking the ‘no experience – no job’ cycle facing young people not in education, employment or training (NEET). While Atos’ existing early careers and outreach programmes have traditionally focused on schools, colleges, and universities, joining Movement to Work enables the company to extend its reach to the young people who are furthest from the labour market. Creating meaningful pathways Led by its Social Value team, the partnership will see Atos deliver work experience placements, insight days, careers guidance and apprenticeship opportunities, creating meaningful pathways into employment for the young people who need them most. This commitment will continue to develop as Atos expands its investments in the UK&I, such as its Sovereign and Agentic AI capabilities, embedding social value into its long-term UK&I operating model. AI-driven digital transformation Michael Herron, Head of Atos UK&I, said, “In the age of AI, I am utterly determined to ensure future talent can get on the first rung of the career ladder. Without young people joining the workforce, future growth will stagnate. This is why we’re proud to be investing in early careers in the UK&I with Movement to Work. By offering diverse early careers pipelines, we hope to deliver measurable social impact, while reinforcing our position as a responsible business committed to inclusive and sustainable growth.” Movement to Work brings together public and private sector organisations. By joining this network, Atos will collaborate with clients and partners who share a commitment to supporting young people into sustainable employment.

VORTEX cloud integrates AI for enhanced risk detection
VORTEX cloud integrates AI for enhanced risk detection

VIVOTEK, the global security solution provider, announces major enhancements to its VORTEX cloud platform, introducing the generative AI-Powered “Think Alert” feature alongside advanced personal safety detection capabilities. These upgrades are designed to enable enterprises and public-sector organisations to strengthen operational resilience, improve risk response, and elevate overall security efficiency. Cloud security ecosystem To further expand its cloud security ecosystem, VORTEX has also integrated with multiple access control service providers, enabling seamless convergence of video surveillance and access control within a single operations interface. Defined by a platform-centric, scenario-driven, people-first approach, VORTEX delivers contextual intelligence, transforming the cloud into a centralised security command centre. To address the growing demand for proactive risk detection and real-time notifications, VORTEX launches “Think Alert”, a generative AI capability powered by a visual language model (VLM). With natural-language input, users can quickly define alert rules without complex configurations. When predefined conditions or keywords are detected, the system automatically triggers alerts, significantly reducing response time and enabling earlier intervention. Human-entered intelligence For example, users can set rules such as “someone smoking in this area,” “a person walking a dog in the garden,” or “a passenger vehicle entering a loading zone.” Once a target matches the rule, alerts are issued instantly. By making event setup, search, and analysis as simple as typing, VORTEX identifies critical footage in real time, transforming security from reactive review to proactive, human-centred intelligence. Operationally demanding environments For high-risk and operationally demanding environments, VORTEX continues to deepen AI adoption across vertical markets, focusing on personal safety, as VORTEX cameras now support a range of proactive AI protection features, including: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Detection - Automatically identifies whether individuals are wearing safety helmets or reflective vests, while aggregating violation records to support workplace safety audits and regulatory compliance. Fall Detection - Instantly detects falls or loss of consciousness, helping organisations gain critical time for emergency response. With 24/7 automated security and real-time alerts, the solution helps reduce workplace risks, shorten incident response times, and create traceable safety records across factories, senior living and social housing, retail, and public transportation. Unifying video surveillance VORTEX continues to expand its cloud security ecosystem through partnerships with access control as a service (ACaaS) providers, including Brivo, Kisi, and PDK. By unifying video surveillance and access control on a single platform, administrators can instantly correlate access events with video, improving response, remote control, and investigation. This integrated approach addresses siloed systems and complex cross-platform management, accelerating the shift to Physical Security as a Service (PSaaS). The solution is ideal for enterprises, property management, retail chains, and education institutions across diverse deployment scenarios. Advancing generative AI capabilities “Security is rapidly moving to the cloud, and organisations are increasingly focused on integrating cloud and edge AI while leveraging ecosystems for cross-domain collaboration and real-time decision-making. With VORTEX as our core cloud service, we are delivering on our vision of ‘One Platform, Hybrid Power. Total Control.’ By continuously innovating AI security technologies and strengthening partner collaboration, we are expanding the real-world value of cloud security across diverse vertical markets,” said Diro Fanchiang, Director of the Product Planning Division at VIVOTEK. Through a single cloud platform, VORTEX delivers flexible deployment, integrated AI applications, and ecosystem connectivity. By continuously advancing generative AI capabilities and partner integrations, VORTEX empowers organisations to adopt scalable, proactive, and efficient security operations, ushering in a new era of intelligent, secure, and sustainable cloud-based security management.

Ken Gould Consulting welcomes security guru Lew Walters
Ken Gould Consulting welcomes security guru Lew Walters

Ken Gould Consulting is proud to announce the appointment of Lew Walters as Senior Consultant. Known throughout the professional security community as the “Security Guru,” Walters brings over 55 years of experience to the firm, further strengthening its position as a leader in strategic security advisory. Walters’ career is distinguished by deep involvement in both the manufacturing and monitoring sectors of the alarm industry. He has held pivotal roles including National Sales Manager, Regional Sales Manager, and Product Manager for several prominent organisations. His technical expertise is backed by a comprehensive understanding of UL requirements and NFPA regulations. Several prominent organisations “I have known Lew for many years and have always admired his unwavering commitment to this industry,” said Ken Gould, Principal of Ken Gould Consulting. “His addition to our team allows us to offer even more robust strategic consulting, leadership coaching, and subcontracting services to our clients.” In addition to his corporate achievements, Walters has been a cornerstone of industry associations. He served as Vice President and Director for the New Jersey Alarm Association and played a foundational role in the Pennsylvania Alarm Association starting in 1977. He also collaborated with industry professionals to develop a uniform training program for Central Station Dispatchers, a curriculum that remains a standard in the field today. Central station management At Ken Gould Consulting, Walters will oversee: Strategic Consulting: Advising on company consolidations and central station management. Leadership & Coaching: Leveraging his five decades of experience to mentor industry professionals. Expanded Services: Offering the full breadth of Ken Gould Consulting’s specialised service suite. Walters holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from the City College of New York and maintains active professional licenses across multiple states, including California, Virginia, and Georgia. He is the recipient of numerous accolades, including the NJESA Honorary Member Award and the NYFSEC Industry Dedication Award. Providing strategic value In conjunction with this new appointment, Ken Gould Consulting will be participating in the upcoming NJELSA Annual Symposium, held at Harrah’s Waterfront Conference Center in Atlantic City from February 18–20, 2026. Attendees are invited to visit Booth #10. Lew will be on hand throughout the event to discuss his new role and share how he and the Ken Gould Consulting team can provide strategic value to the company. He and Ken will be joined by COO John Farrington and Project Manager, Joseph Cordi. This symposium offers a premier environment for networking with industry leaders while earning critical Continuing Education Units (CEUs). While visiting the booth, attendees can also pick up a copy of Ken Gould’s insightful book: “The Day You Start Your Business Is the Day You're Selling Your Business.” This essential resource underscores the necessity of proactive exit strategy planning and thorough due diligence. Whether users are just launching their venture or are deep into preparations for a future sale, this book provides the roadmap for maximising the company's value.

Access control applications

DeterTech partners with Brentford FC for community safety
DeterTech partners with Brentford FC for community safety

DeterTech, the official site security partner of Brentford FC, is proud to support an accredited Safe Haven established by the club at Gtech Community Stadium, reinforcing both organisations’ commitment to community safety and wellbeing. Located in Brentford FC’s west stand security hub on Lionel Road South, it will provide support 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. It will be managed by trained security staff and is open to any member of the public who feels vulnerable or needs help. Contacting emergency services Safe Havens are dedicated spaces of support that help people with their onward journey by providing various forms of assistance, such as contacting emergency services, phone charging facilities, calling a taxi, or reaching friends and family. Accredited by the Safer Business Network, shops, cafes, pubs, libraries, and other venues can also become a registered Safe Haven. “Our purpose at DeterTech is always to bring greater peace of mind to people and communities, every day. The Safe Haven campaign is one of many powerful examples of how we put that into action,” said Sarah Craig, Chief Marketing Officer at DeterTech. Various forms of assistance Brentford’s chief executive Jon Varney said: “We are a club that sits in the heart of the community and it is vital that we are able to support our fans and those living in the local area. In creating a Safe Haven space at our stadium, we are ensuring there is help available for anyone at any time of day.” “This builds on the wide-ranging work we are doing with fans and partners as part of our continued commitment to create inclusive and safer environments for women and girls, not just on a matchday but everyday.” Crime prevention sessions As the official site security partner of Brentford FC, this initiative is another way for DeterTech to assist Brentford FC’s commitment to fan safety and community wellbeing, following other events such as crime prevention sessions and free bike marking for fans on matchdays. Drawing upon DeterTech’s experience in risk management and deterrent technologies, DeterTech will support the Safe Haven team with resources and guidance to help Brentford FC deliver a safe and inclusive experience for all.

Chubbsafe: Secure storage for Greek Luxury Villas
Chubbsafe: Secure storage for Greek Luxury Villas

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 AI deployed in NJ schools for gun detection
ZeroEyes AI deployed in NJ schools for gun detection

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's SafeStore Auto at Sibaya Casino
Gunnebo's SafeStore Auto at Sibaya Casino

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.