16 June 2020

5G: Computer virus or human virus?

5G: Computer virus or human virus?

During the Coronavirus pandemic new conspiracy theories surrounding the emerging 5G network have come to light. This article debunks these theories and analyses cyber security concerns Homeland Security is reportedly issuing alerts to wireless telecom providers and law enforcement agencies about potential attacks on cell towers and telecommunications workers by 5G/coronavirus conspiracy theorists. The DHS warned that there have already been “arson and physical attacks against cell towers in several US states.” The claims that 5G can spread the coronavirus, either by suppressing the immune system or by directly transmitting the virus over radio waves, led to dozens of tower burnings in the UK and mainland Europe. Now, the DHS “is preparing to advise the US telecom industry on steps it can take to prevent attacks on 5G cell towers following a rash of incidents in Western Europe fueled by the false claim that the technology spreads the pathogen causing Covid-19. The DHS alert will include advice on ways to reduce the risk of attack, including installing appropriate sensing and barriers, cyber-intrusion detection systems, closed-circuit television and monitoring drone activity near towers. A telecom-industry official said that carriers in the US “have seen sporadic attacks on their cell towers that were apparently prompted by Covid-19 disinformation” over the past few weeks. Professor Stephen Powis, a Medical Director for NHS England in the UK, called the links between 5G and the coronavirus “outrageous” and “absolute and utter rubbish.” The UK government has also branded the claims “dangerous nonsense” and labeled conspiracy theories “crackpot.” The broader 5G fears have largely been addressed by regulators, scientists, and independent groups. While some implementations of 5G use millimeter-wave (mmWave) band transmissions, a higher frequency of radio waves than 4G or 3G, regulators in the UK have recorded 5G electromagnetic radiation levels well below international guidelines. The International Commission on Non‐Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) also found no evidence suggesting 5G poses a risk to human health. The ICNIRP updated its guidelines last month, following a seven-year study. “5G technologies will not be able to cause harm when these new guidelines are adhered to,” said ICNIRP Chair Eric van Rongen. Gunter Reiss, Vice President, A10 Networks While these theories garnered social media and news stories, the impact is likely to be minimal. Research undertaken by A10 Networks this year has shown this will be minimal with seventy-one percent of service providers saying they will begin commercial 5G deployments within the next 18 months. The impact of COVID-19 has actually demonstrated the value and need for denser, higher speed 5G services in industries like health care, education and a variety of service-oriented industries.  The conspiracy theories did prompt the World Health Organisation (WHO), the UN agency which is leading the response to the pandemic, to add the 5G conspiracy to its COVID-19 myth busters article, which highlighted that “viruses cannot travel on radio waves/mobile networks. COVID-19 is spreading in many countries that do not have 5G mobile networks.”  Since the start of the global outbreak, we have seen a spike in cyber-attacks in this period of uncertainty and therefore we must be extra vigilant. At the same time, since almost everyone is working from home these days, the organisations they work for are facing new challenges as multiple new attack vectors are being introduced into their networks.   We have seen different attacks, ranging from attackers targeting the World Health Organisation (WHO) to steal information to mass phishing email and spam campaigns targeting remote workers. We have even seen cases where cybercriminals are launching websites with domain names related to Coronavirus and COVID-19, exploiting people’s curiosity or worry to eventually launch ransomware attacks. When it comes to cyber security, just like public health, prevention can be better than the cure. 5G and cybersecurity 5G will be a physical overhaul of our essential networks that will have decades-long impact. Because 5G is the conversion to a mostly all-software network, future upgrades will be software updates much like the current upgrades to your smartphone. Because of the cyber vulnerabilities of software, the tougher part of the real 5G “race” is to retool how we secure the most important network of the 21st century and the ecosystem of devices and applications that sprout from that network.   To view the full article, see our next edition of Security Buyer!

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travel safe

Biometrics for safe travel reopening

Role of biometrics for safe travel reopening examined by IBIA Executive Director Tovah LaDier Biometrics will play a critical role in the redesign and future success of the aviation industry, but expanded outreach education and networking are needed to back that redesign, International Biometrics + Identity Association (IBIA) Executive Director Tovah LaDier writes for International Airport Review. LaDier provides a history of the U.S. government’s use of biometrics in air travel, beginning with the aftermath of 9/11 and the three pieces of legislation that underpin biometric passenger screening in the country. A decade of little visible progress on what is now known as Biometric Entry/Exit early on, with “no precedent on how to proceed and there was no obvious affordable solution,” reflected concern about rushing to implement technology that pilots showed was not ready. Once real-time biometric matching with facial recognition was adopted, LaDier explains that privacy activists seized on popular anxiety about data breaches and misuse not involving biometrics to challenge the technology. LaDier sets out and refutes arguments that facial recognition is ‘biased,’ that matching algorithms are not perfect and therefore not good enough, that human recognition is sufficient, and that facial recognition is synonymous with surveillance. Legacy airport processes need to change to rebuild and regain passenger confidence, and LaDier argues that in part by accelerating the adoption of touchless biometrics from check-in, the health of passengers and airports alike can be ensured. Rail operators face many similar pressures, and are similarly using video analytics and biometrics to detect masks as part of their safety measures, according to an article by Thales. The new environment of safety and regulatory concerns, combined with new travel patterns and the need to reassure passengers present an unprecedented challenge, following drop-offs in traffic as high as 95 percent. AI-based video analytics may also be used for instant temperature checks with thermal imaging, the company says. Thales provides a range of digital and automated solutions for rail operators. See more biometrics news here.

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Critical Communications Week

Critical Communications Week 2-6 Nov 2020, the new online experience TCCA is delighted to announce a new dedicated online event that will bring together the critical communications ecosystem in an unprecedented week of live and on-demand content and creativity. Critical Communications Week will run from 2-6 November 2020, following the decision to reschedule Critical Communications World to 8-10 June 2021 at the IFEMA in Madrid. “With the continued uncertainty around travel, and given the current business climate, this new online event presents a superb opportunity to spotlight our sector,” said Tony Gray, TCCA Chief Executive. “Even though many countries are looking to gradually return to business as usual, we are concerned about the impact that holding Critical Communications World this year would have on exhibitors’ and sponsors’ budgets. However, not having an event in 2020 is not an option. CCW brings the critical communications ecosystem together like no other occasion and sets the agenda for the months ahead. “We are therefore delighted to announce, after consultation with our exhibitors, TCCA’s Board and event managers MA Exhibitions, that this year we will be launching Critical Communications Week online, from 2-6 November 2020. This unrivalled global collaborative event will enable all in our ecosystem to network, learn, share, exhibit, demonstrate, innovate, and participate in the ongoing debates around what really matters in the advancement of critical communications.” The online event will enable participation in cutting edge presentations, discussions in real time, and access to the products and services that underpin critical communications services worldwide. At the same time, content will also be stored and regularly updated in the runup to CCW 2021 in Madrid, providing an invaluable resource, a strong foundation for next year’s event and a permanent platform to showcase the critical communications world. CCWeek will follow the theme of ‘Protect, Enhance, Envision, Advance’. Full details of the conference agenda, virtual exhibition, and joining details will follow. See more event news here.

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TRENDnet introduces Mira, free surveillance camera management VMS Software

TRENDnet Introduces Mira, Free Surveillance Camera Management VMS Software with Mobile App TRENDnet, a global provider of reliable SMB and consumer networking and surveillance solutions, has introduced Mira, a new professional-grade surveillance camera management software to help users manage TRENDnet’s robust IP camera line. Mira is also the name of the software’s companion app, a free surveillance camera app for mobile devices that simplifies IP camera installation. The Mira VMS software includes advanced camera management features designed to simplify the monitoring of your surveillance footage and the management of your TRENDnet IP cameras. It includes much of the same features as previous TRENDnet VMS software such as live view for up to 64 TRENDnet IP cameras; motion detection, scheduling, and event trigger recording options; advanced playback by event; and custom viewing modes. TRENDnet’s Mira VMS software also offers features not available before, including support for Mac® computers, e-maps for floor plan designs, and mobile app integration. “Surveillance needs are constantly evolving as technology continues to advance and new real-life challenges are presented,” said Sonny Su, VP of technology at TRENDnet. “Based on the valuable feedback from our partners and IP camera customers all over the world, we overhauled our new camera management software and incorporated specific features to meet the needs and demands of our users.” Mobile app support is key for many surveillance applications; it provides instant alerts that allow for immediate action to help reduce risks and damages. TRENDnet’s new IP cameras can be easily setup with your mobile device; simply scan the QR code on the camera with the Mira mobile app to start the installation process. The Mira mobile app also offers access to live video, saving screenshots and videos, push notifications, and much more. TRENDnet’s Mira VMS software and mobile app are free with all supported TRENDnet IP camera models. TRENDnet IP cameras are available online through the TRENDnet store, and worldwide through our distribution and retail partners. The following TRENDnet IP cameras will launch this year and support the new TRENDnet Mira VMS software and mobile app:   TV-IP1314PI / TV-IP1315PI Indoor/Outdoor 4MP H.265 WDR PoE IR Network Cameras – 4MP HD resolution – Smart covert IR LEDs for night vision up to 30m (98 ft.) – Outdoor IP67 weather rating – 120dB Wide Dynamic Range image balancing – Micro SD card slot (up to 128GB) – TV-IP1314PI product page: www.trendnet.com/products/TV-IP1314PI – TV-IP1315PI product page: www.trendnet.com/products/TV-IP1315PI – MSRP: GBP £121.61 – Availability: On Sale Now TV-IP1318PI / TV-IP1319PI Indoor Outdoor 8MP 4K H.265 WDR PoE IR Bullet Network Cameras – 8MP 4K UHD video (3840 x 2160) at 20 fps – Smart covert IR LEDs for night vision up to 30m (98 ft.) – Outdoor IP67 weather rating – 120dB Wide Dynamic Range image balancing – Micro SD card slot (up to 128GB) – TV-IP1318PI product page: www.trendnet.com/products/TV-IP1318PI – TV-IP1319PI product page: www.trendnet.com/products/TV-IP1319PI – MSRP: GBP £165.39 – Availability: June/July 2020 TV-IP1313PI Indoor/Outdoor 5MP H.265 WDR PoE Enhanced IR Network Camera – 5MP HD video (2944 x 1656) at 20 fps – ENHANCED IR LEDs for long range night vision up to 80 meters (262 ft.) – Outdoor IP67 weather rating – 120dB Wide Dynamic Range image balancing – Micro SD card slot (up to 128GB) – TV-IP1313PI product page: www.trendnet.com/products/TV-IP1313PI – MSRP: GBP £194.57 – Availability: July 2020   TV-IP1328PI / TV-IP1329PI Indoor/Outdoor 4MP H.265 PoE IR Network Cameras – 4MP HD video (2560 x 1440) at 20 fps – Night vision up to 30m (98 ft.) – Outdoor IP67 weather rated housing – 120dB Wide Dynamic Range image balancing – TV-IP1328PI product page: www.trendnet.com/products/TV-IP1328PI – TV-IP1329PI product page: www.trendnet.com/products/TV-IP1329PI – MSRP: GBP £116.77 – Availability: July 2020   TV-IP1331PI Indoor/Outdoor 4MP H.265+ Color IR Fixed Turret PoE Network Camera – 4MP HD video (2560 x 1440) – Night vision with color up to 30m (98 ft.) – Outdoor IP67 weather rating – Availability: November/December 2020  

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SECON & eGISEC 2020 rescheduled to 2021

SECON & eGISEC (International Security Exhibition and Conference) 2020 has officially announced its postponement from 6-8 July to 10-12 March 2021. SECON & eGISEC 2020, organised by Informa Markets BN Co Ltd, was planned to be held from 6th to 8th July, attracting more than 450 leading security companies from 20+ countries and over 45,000 security professionals and government officials.  After the event’s first postponement last February, the Organisers of SECON & eGISEC, in close cooperation with KINTEX and the public health authorities, have been preparing to host the event by reviewing the best course of action and fortified preventive measures against COVID-19. Online meetings were also prepared in order to provide overseas buyers and delegations with the opportunity to meet the exhibitors of SECON & eGISEC.  However, due to the most recent enhanced quarantine measures of the public health authorities in Korea, the Organisers, taking the safety of our customers as the top priority, had no other choice than to reschedule the event. Thus, SECON & eGISEC will be postponed to 10-12 March, 2021, at KINTEX, Korea.  The revised event date will allow more time to ease travel restrictions and provide a more engaging business platform for all exhibitors, stakeholders, and visitors. The SECON & eGISEC team will follow-up with participants shortly with additional information. Information Classification: General  ‘We seek the understanding of all participants and overseas buyers who had looked forward to attending the show in July and regret any inconvenience. We will continue to focus on the development of the event and successfully prepare for the post-COVID-19 era. Lastly, we would like to thank you for your continuous support to SECON & eGISEC and look forward to seeing you again in SECON & eGISEC 2021.’ – SECON & eGISEC Team.

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video cloud offering

3xLOGIC develops powerful new video cloud offering

New VIGIL CLOUD video offering leverages Amazon Web Services IoT services and highlights company’s continued industry leadership in innovation and growth 3xLOGIC, a provider of integrated, intelligent security solutions today announced the new VIGIL CLOUD, a cloud platform that leverages Amazon Web Services (AWS) infrastructure and Internet of Things (IoT) services to create a highly-secure, scalable solution for collecting, processing, and analyzing video data to empower users with unique, actionable insights into their business. 3xLOGIC’s cloud offering benefits from AWS’s proven and secure infrastructure to bring its customers a scalable and easy-to-use cloud recorded solution. “3xLOGIC is changing the approach to video. We’ve reimagined the way we manage and store video in the cloud. Developing this Cloud platform with AWS services and infrastructure enables 3xLOGIC to focus on creating differentiated solutions for our customers, while ensuring them a secure platform for their data needs today and far into the future,” said Brad McMullen, General Manager of 3xLOGIC. “At AWS, we constantly try to invent on behalf of our customers, and it has been great working with an organization that shares those values. We look forward to seeing the impact the VIGIL CLOUD platform has on organizations across the globe seeking secure solutions for managing the collection, storage, and processing of video data at scale, and to continue working with the 3xLOGIC team on future innovations,” said Aditya Krishnan, Head of Amazon Kinesis Video and Data Streams. The 3xLOGIC VIGIL CLOUD platform is currently completing beta testing and will be commercially available in Q3. 3xLOGIC will be demonstrating this new revolution in CLOUD video security along with the newest additions to its ecosystem of scalable solutions to meet any business need during a webinar series kicking off May 14th, 2020 at 11 am EST. To reserve your place at this event, please visit:  https://3xlogic.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_aQvkOfmORtaYeCbn5NpnEA   For more news see here.

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