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The new Salto XS4 One S Keypad

Industry Sectors, Latest News, Product News, Technology / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Salto’s latest access control offering combines credential technology with advanced PIN code management for both online and stand-alone needs. Salto has launched the XS4 One S Keypad, a cutting-edge addition to the XS4 One product family and smart access ecosystem. This advanced smart locking hardware solution provides high-tech functionality. Its backlit, single-point, capacitive touch-enabled keypad guarantees intuitive operation, keyless access, and broad usability. It supports a wide range of credentials, including PIN codes, keycards, and mobile access. Users can expect robust, reliable access control that delivers unparalleled flexibility and security. The XS4 One S Keypad’s extensive capabilities ensure it meets the needs of diverse industries: hospitality, commercial, workspaces, education, multi-family residential, retail, and more. Leveraging Salto’s proprietary SVN data-on-card and BLUEnet Wireless technologies, this integrated hardware solution facilitates secure online connectivity while maintaining standalone functionality. It is engineered using quality materials, resulting in a keypad reader that is stylish, durable, and an ideal fit in any modern installation. The XS4 One S Keypad’s compact design makes it universally compatible with new or existing mortise locks. It is easy to install or retrofit on any door standard, including Euro, Scandinavian, and ANSI models. This compatibility simplifies door upgrades and new projects, cutting costs, and making retrofits effortless. This new solution integrates seamlessly with Salto’s access control platforms, including Salto Space, Salto KS, and Salto Homelok, for a cohesive, keyless experience. Keypad-based PIN code access control management made simple The XS4 One S Keypad elevates security and provides more ways for installers, operators, building managers, and service providers to offer entry solutions. Seamless keyless experience, with multi-factor authentication guaranteeing enhanced security. Multi-credential access through any combination of access methods, including smart keycards, mobile access, and PIN codes. Ensure total control from anywhere, on any device, with access to all incident event logs and audit trails. Fast, simple, and intuitive operation with a backlit, touchscreen keypad reader. Advanced connectivity through Salto’s best-in-class BLUEnet Wireless technology, ensuring seamless integration with innovative building systems. Unified ecosystem, harnessed in a solution that’s fully compatible with Salto Space, Salto KS, and Salto Homelok. Sleek, modern design that’s compatible with Euro, Scandinavian and ANSI door standards, and easy to install and retrofit on any new or existing internal door. Meets the highest standards for security, durability, and aesthetics. Available in seven elegant finishes and multiple handle options to match any project requirement, the new XS4 One S Keypad is now ready to order from Salto-certified partners. To read more news and exclusives, see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: Security Buyer Twitter (X): @SecurityBuyer Facebook: @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: [email protected]

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Facial Recognition: Innovation vs. Accountability

Exclusives, Industry Sectors, Product News, Technology / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Facial recognition technology is advancing with AI, IoT, and privacy-first security, but regulatory compliance, ethical AI, and data protection remain critical, says Rebecca Spayne of Security Buyer Facial recognition technology has rapidly become a cornerstone of biometric security, offering advanced authentication capabilities for access control, surveillance, and identity verification. By leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning, modern facial recognition systems provide a seamless, contactless method of verifying individuals, enhancing both security and user experience. However, as adoption accelerates, so do concerns surrounding privacy, data protection, and ethical AI governance. Industries ranging from finance and healthcare to law enforcement and smart cities are implementing facial recognition to improve operational efficiency and security. Leading manufacturers are refining AI-driven recognition solutions to prioritise accuracy, data security, and compliance with emerging regulations. While this technology has significant advantages, it remains a contentious issue, with regulatory bodies pushing for stricter guidelines on data privacy and algorithmic fairness. Ethical AI frameworks, legal accountability, and AI bias mitigation are now key focus areas in ensuring that facial recognition is both secure and responsible. This article will explore the advancements in facial recognition technology, the challenges surrounding AI accountability and compliance, and how manufacturers are addressing concerns over privacy and security while working within a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape. The discussion will also integrate insights from World Data Protection Day 2025, an event that underscored the critical role of corporate responsibility in biometric governance. AI-Driven Facial Recognition in Security Facial recognition is transforming physical security, offering fast and frictionless authentication for access control, real-time surveillance, and identity verification. Unlike traditional security methods, such as keycards or PINs, facial recognition provides a high level of accuracy and user convenience while eliminating risks associated with lost or stolen credentials. AI-driven facial recognition can process and compare thousands of facial features within seconds, enabling seamless authentication in highly secure environments. Leading manufacturers are advancing this technology by incorporating deep learning to enhance accuracy and security. Suprema and IDEMIA have developed facial recognition systems that integrate with enterprise security frameworks, ensuring precise authentication while reducing false match rates. ZKTeco has expanded its biometric deployments, introducing face recognition terminals that not only provide access control but also track employee attendance, enhancing workforce management. Princeton Identity is focusing on multi-modal biometrics, combining facial recognition with iris scanning to strengthen security precision. Facial recognition is also playing a key role in law enforcement and public safety initiatives. RecFaces has developed AI-powered identification software that enables police forces to match captured images against criminal databases, improving suspect identification rates. In commercial environments, Iris ID is enhancing customer experience and fraud prevention through facial recognition deployments in retail and hospitality sectors. While these advancements are improving security and efficiency, they also raise concerns around data privacy and ethical AI governance, which must be addressed through industry-wide reforms. AI Bias, Privacy, and Accountability One of the most pressing issues in facial recognition is AI bias. Studies by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) have found disparities in recognition accuracy across different demographic groups, with some facial recognition models performing less accurately for women and individuals with darker skin tones. These inconsistencies can lead to false identifications and discriminatory outcomes, making algorithmic fairness a critical priority. Manufacturers are responding to these concerns by improving dataset diversity and refining AI models to ensure more accurate identification across all demographics. RecFaces and Princeton Identity are working on bias mitigation strategies by incorporating broader and more representative training data into their machine learning models. IDEMIA is developing AI-driven liveness detection to prevent spoofing and enhance the fairness of authentication processes. Beyond bias, facial recognition technology raises significant privacy concerns. The increasing use of biometric authentication has led to growing debate over how facial data is collected, stored, and used. Regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe, the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) in the United States, and the Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) in Illinois impose strict controls on biometric data collection and processing. These laws require organisations to obtain explicit consent before using facial recognition and mandate that biometric data be stored securely to prevent unauthorised access. World Data Protection Day 2025 reinforced the importance of strong data governance in biometric security. Cynthia Overby, Director at Rocket Software, highlighted the financial and reputational risks of poor data security, stating that a single data breach can cost companies millions while eroding customer trust. She cited IBM’s 2024 Data Breach Report, which revealed that the average cost of a data breach reached $4.88 million per incident. As facial recognition adoption grows, businesses must prioritise compliance, integrating advanced security measures to protect user privacy while maintaining the benefits of biometric authentication…. To read the full feature, see our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: Security Buyer Twitter (X): @SecurityBuyer Facebook: @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: [email protected]

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The AI Shift in Hospitality Security

Exclusives, Industry Sectors, Product News, Technology / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Hannah Larvin assesses how AI-driven security in hospitality enhances surveillance, access control, and incident response, balancing safety with guest experience Security in the hospitality industry presents a unique challenge. Unlike sectors such as retail, transport, or corporate environments—where security measures are often front and centre—hotels must maintain a balance between high-level protection and a seamless guest experience. A hospitality venue should feel welcoming, not like a fortified space under constant scrutiny. Guests expect convenience and comfort, yet behind the scenes, security teams must mitigate risks ranging from petty theft and trespassing to more serious incidents such as organised crime, cyber threats, and terrorism. Striking this balance requires not only robust security infrastructure but also discretion and subtlety, ensuring that safety measures do not disrupt the overall guest experience. However, modern security threats—from unauthorised access and guest altercations to large-scale security breaches—are forcing hotels to rethink their approach. The rise of digital key access, mobile check-ins, and automated guest services has introduced new vulnerabilities, while increasing guest expectations for personalisation means more data is collected and stored, creating potential cyber risks. Traditional methods, such as CCTV monitoring, physical access control, and manual security patrols, are proving insufficient in an era where incidents unfold in real time and require instant responses. AI is emerging as the key enabler in this transformation, offering faster detection, predictive insights, and automated intervention. Hotels, resorts, and conference venues are increasingly integrating AI-driven solutions that go beyond passive surveillance, allowing security teams to move from reactive incident management to proactive risk mitigation. AI-powered analytics, facial recognition, and intelligent threat detection are transforming security operations, making it possible to anticipate potential threats before they escalate. But while AI’s potential in hospitality security is vast, its implementation is far from straightforward. Questions around bias, privacy, regulatory compliance, and guest acceptance must be addressed. Data protection laws, ethical concerns, and the impact of AI-driven monitoring on guest trust all come into play. The conversation is no longer about whether AI should be used in hotel security—it is about how it should be used responsibly, ensuring that technological advancements enhance both security and the guest experience without overstepping ethical boundaries. From Passive to Proactive Security For decades, CCTV surveillance has been the backbone of hotel security. Yet, its fundamental limitation is its passivity. Security teams have traditionally relied on manual footage review, often combing through hours of video after an incident has already occurred. This retrospective approach not only slows down response times but also fails to prevent security breaches in real time. This approach is rapidly becoming obsolete. AI-powered video analytics, driven by deep learning algorithms, are shifting surveillance toward a real-time, event-driven model. The introduction of natural language search and generative AI further accelerates this transition. Instead of merely recording events, AI-enhanced security systems can now interpret, categorise, and prioritise footage, significantly reducing the time security personnel spend on investigations. With the rise of generative AI, manufacturers are now embedding platforms like ChatGPT into their video management systems, allowing security teams to query footage using conversational prompts rather than tedious manual searches. AI-powered search eliminates the need for extensive human intervention, allowing personnel to focus on real-time decision-making rather than footage analysis. For example, Rhombus recently launched an AI-powered event search tool that allows hotel security teams to locate specific incidents with simple commands. Instead of sifting through endless footage, a security officer can type, “Show all instances of a man in a blue suit entering the staff-only door between 8 PM and midnight,” and the system will instantly retrieve relevant clips. This means that what once took hours or even days can now be achieved in minutes. This represents a clear shift toward efficiency, as AI eliminates the resource-heavy burden of manual video review. However, while this level of automation speeds up investigations, it also introduces questions of reliability and oversight. Can AI truly interpret security footage without human bias, or does it reinforce pre-existing inaccuracies in detection algorithms? What happens when AI misidentifies a guest or staff member, potentially flagging them as a threat? Hotels must weigh the benefits of AI-enhanced surveillance against the risks of misidentification and false positives—particularly in environments where guest privacy is a top priority. Additionally, the use of AI-based surveillance allows for behavioural pattern recognition, which can flag anomalies such as loitering in restricted areas, repeated attempts to access secure zones, or unusual movement patterns in public spaces. This proactive monitoring can prevent incidents before they escalate, but it also raises concerns about the ethics of predictive security. Will guests accept AI making assumptions about their behaviour, or does this verge into profiling? Furthermore, AI-driven surveillance can now integrate with other hotel security systems, such as access control, alarms, and crowd monitoring, creating a fully connected ecosystem. For instance, if a suspicious individual is detected in one part of the hotel, AI can instantly alert security personnel, lock specific doors, or direct staff to investigate. This represents an entirely new paradigm in hotel security, where AI is not just a tool for review but an active participant in maintaining safety. However, as reliance on AI grows, so does the need for clear operational guidelines, human oversight, and ethical safeguards to prevent the misuse of such powerful technology…… Read the full article in our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: Security Buyer Twitter (X): @SecurityBuyer Facebook: @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: [email protected]

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Rhombus Launches AI Capabilities for Faster, Smarter Security Investigations

Industry Sectors, Latest News, Product News, Technology / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Rhombus, a provider of cloud-managed physical security, announced the launch of three new additions to its AI portfolio that transform how organizations search, analyze, and respond to security events. Powered by the release of Rhombus Faces 2.0, combined event search, and a new ChatGPT integration, these AI-powered tools enable security teams to instantly locate specific incidents through natural language queries and automation—dramatically reducing investigation time and improving response efficiency. These new AI features address critical security challenges across education, retail, manufacturing, hospitality, and other sectors where the speed of incident reporting and reaction is critical. From monitoring campus safety and preventing retail theft to securing manufacturing facilities and protecting hotel guests, organizations can enhance existing security operations with more intelligent automation. With this launch, Rhombus is making it easier for all organizations to conduct smarter, faster investigations, prevent adverse events, and reduce resource drain. “Security teams are often inundated with video footage, and can spend hours manually searching for specific incidents they need to review,” said Brandon Salzberg, Vice President of Engineering, Rhombus. “Our latest release fundamentally changes this dynamic. By integrating ChatGPT and advanced AI into our platform, we’re enabling customers to find critical security events in seconds, while automating many routine tasks that otherwise bog down security operations. This launch continues our focus to advance businesses from traditional video monitoring to truly intelligent security management.” Key Features of the Rhombus AI-Powered Tools OpenAI ChatGPT Integration: Users can now hone in on specific events by simply describing what they are looking for in natural language. The ChatGPT integration interprets these descriptions and instantly locates relevant footage. The system automatically marks these events on the timeline for quick review and export. Enhanced Facial Detection: With its Faces 2.0, Rhombus offers next-generation facial recognition algorithms that deliver more accurate identification across camera feeds. Security teams can track movement patterns, receive real-time alerts about unauthorized access, and maintain detailed logs of facility entry and exit. Intelligent Event Recognition: With its new combined event search, Rhombus leverages advanced AI models to quickly and automatically detect and categorize security events, eliminating hours of manual video review. This enables Rhombus to efficiently locate people of interest using facial recognition, clothing color, and region filters. It also facilitates searches for license plates and vehicle colors, while consolidating views from cameras, access control systems, and other devices into a unified interface. Enterprise-Grade Scalability: Built on Rhombus’ unified cloud platform, each of these new tools helps process video data across hundreds or thousands of cameras while maintaining sub-second response times. Organizations can easily expand coverage without compromising performance or user experience. Read more exclusives and news in our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: LinkedIn: Security Buyer Twitter (X): @SecurityBuyer Facebook: @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: [email protected]

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Milestone Systems Sets New Pace

Industry Sectors, Latest News, Product News, Technology / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

At Intersec 2025, the Middle East’s flagship security and safety event, Milestone Systems made a resounding statement about the future of data-driven video surveillance and analytics. The Danish video management software (VMS) leader showcased its latest innovations, highlighting the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in redefining safety and operational efficiency across industries. A Growing Regional Footprint According to the independent, global analyst company Omdia, Milestone Systems is estimated to be the largest supplier of video management software in the Middle East and Europe. The Middle East, a region investing heavily in smart cities and large-scale infrastructure, has proven fertile ground for Milestone’s ambitious growth. The company has consistently outpaced the average growth rate of 8-9% in the VMS sector, driven by heightened demand for robust and intelligent surveillance solutions. “We are proud to participate for the 15th time in Intersec 2025, as a security leader in the transformation of the Middle East towards smart cities.” said Louise Bou Rached, Regional Director of META at Milestone Systems “Our strategy is to strengthen partnerships with integrators, resellers, and end-users to drive growth and innovation and simultaneously expand our presence in the MENA region.” Milestone’s plans include strategically bolstering its UAE operations and Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing market, where smart city initiatives like NEOM signal tremendous potential. Tech for Tomorrow’s Challenges Central to Milestone’s presence at Intersec was the flagship product, XProtect Video Management Software, and the AI-driven BriefCam Video Analytics platform. Milestone underscored the value of collaboration, announcing seamless integrations with eight leading technology partners, including Conexao Technology and CIAS. These partnerships highlight the open-platform flexibility of XProtect, a key differentiator in a crowded market. Together, these technologies demonstrated the power of converting video into actionable data insights, from monitoring bustling airports to streamlining operations and enhancing public safety supporting diverse industries from retail, hospitality, and healthcare to public safety and government infrastructure. The company’s emphasis on AI-driven analytics reflects the growing demand for smarter surveillance tools that go beyond recording footage. BriefCam’s capabilities, for instance, allow organizations to analyze hours of video in minutes, enabling everything from faster emergency response and forensics to operational cost savings. MENA’s Next Big Play Milestone’s reputation has been bolstered by its role in securing major events like the FIFA World Cup, which showcased its ability to handle complex, high-stakes environments. Now, the company is turning its focus to the Middle East’s booming hospitality and aviation sectors, two pillars of the region’s economic diversification efforts. “The demand for hybrid and cloud-based VMS solutions is surging as governments and businesses prioritize digital transformation,” Bou Rached noted. “Our technology is designed to meet these evolving needs, ensuring the safety of public spaces while enabling smarter business operations.” A Future Shaped by Innovation As the Middle East accelerates its journey toward smart cities, Milestone Systems is positioning itself as a cornerstone of this transformation. By combining advanced AI, strategic partnerships, and an expanding regional presence, the company is helping shape a safer, more connected future for cities, businesses, and communities alike. At Intersec 2025, the message from Milestone Systems was clear -innovation in video analytics isn’t just about surveillance, it’s about empowering industries, enhancing public safety, and building smarter cities for generations to come. Read more exclusives and news in our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Security Buyer @SecurityBuyer @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: [email protected]

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Intersec Exhibitor Profile: Motorola Solutions

Exclusives, Industry Sectors, Product News, Technology / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Motorola Solutions centred on addressing safety and security challenges for public safety agencies and enterprises Motorola Solutions has made a significant impact at Intersec 2025, highlighting its role as a leader in advancing video security and access control technologies. With a commitment to innovation and safety, Motorola Solutions continues to address the evolving needs of public safety agencies and enterprises globally. Motorola Solutions showcased a portfolio of solutions designed to enhance safety, operational efficiency, and situational awareness. International Security Buyer caught up with Pedro Simoes, Corporate Vice President, Video Security & Access Control at Motorola Solutions at the show to find out the key themes that are integral to Motorola Solutions, and their display at Intersec. Simoes emphasised the company’s dedication to solving complex safety challenges. “Our customers are hospitals, utilities, retailers, hospitality venues, police, and border protection agencies, all of whom have a responsibility to keep people safe, secure facilities, and respond efficiently to threats,” Simoes explained. “We have continued to invest in new acquisitions and product integrations, always remaining focused on expanding our customers’ capabilities to protect their people and operations.” Bridging Public Safety and Enterprise Needs One of Motorola Solutions’ key strengths lies in its ability to bridge the gap between public safety agencies and enterprises. Simoes noted, “Our unique ecosystem connects those who need assistance with those who can provide it. By leveraging AI across our portfolio, we enable faster response times and greater interconnection. This focus on integration is unmatched in the market.” Motorola Solutions’ approach to AI is rooted in responsibility. “Building responsible AI is critical,” Simoes stated. “We ensure our products comply with regulations, such as the EU AI Act, and prioritise user-friendly, compliant solutions.” The company’s commitment to responsible AI is evident in its investment in research and development, having allocated over $13 billion in the last decade. Simoes highlighted the global trend toward cloud adoption and AI integration. “Cloud and AI are the two major trends shaping our industry. By 2030, a significant portion of the market will be cloud-based, transforming how data is managed and accessed,” he explained. Motorola Solutions’ acquisitions and product developments reflect this shift, offering hybrid and cloud-native solutions tailored to diverse market needs. Key Technologies on Display at Intersec 2025 At Intersec 2025, Motorola Solutions showcased an array of advanced technologies that meet these key themes: Silent Sentinel Jaeger and Thermal Cameras: These cameras are designed for extreme environments, offering precise detection capabilities up to 30 km away. They are ideal for securing critical infrastructure, maritime operations, and border protection. HALO Smart Sensor: This versatile sensor incorporates vape detection, air quality monitoring, gunshot detection, and emergency keyword recognition, ensuring safety while maintaining privacy. Noggin Cloud-Based Software: Providing business continuity planning, operational resilience, and critical event management, Noggin empowers enterprises to anticipate and respond effectively to unforeseen events. Avigilon Unity Video and Access Features: Enhancements include incident reporting for video security and alarm grouping for streamlined access control, improving compliance and incident management. Unity H6A PTZ Camera: Featuring 360-degree pan, tilt, and zoom capabilities combined with AI-powered video analytics, this camera is tailored for monitoring large sites. Pelco Sarix Enhanced Duo Camera: A dual-head device providing multi-directional coverage, ideal for large spaces like hallways and stairwells. Addressing Regional Challenges with Tailored Solutions Recognising regional differences in technology adoption, Motorola Solutions’ portfolio offers flexibility to address specific market needs. “In regions like Europe and Latin America, cloud adoption is accelerating, but challenges such as infrastructure limitations persist,” Simoes said. “We offer solutions that balance local recording capabilities with cloud-based metadata management, enabling operational efficiency and security.” For industries with stringent regulatory requirements, such as gaming or critical infrastructure, Motorola Solutions provides end-to-end compliance solutions. “Our portfolio supports data security and operational resilience, helping enterprises navigate complex regulations while leveraging advanced technologies,” Simoes added. Enhancing Public Safety with AI and Cloud Technologies Motorola Solutions’ focus on AI extends to public safety applications. “Reducing response times saves lives, and our mission is to solve for safety,” Simoes emphasised. Products like weapon detection systems, integrated video security, and access control solutions enable faster, more coordinated responses to emergencies. A notable example is the integration of AI-powered systems with emergency services, providing real-time data and actionable insights. “In North America, our systems detect weapons and send alerts to mobile devices, enabling swift action in schools and public spaces,” Simoes explained. “This level of interconnection between enterprises and public safety agencies is pivotal in improving safety outcomes.” Innovation-Driven Future As the video security landscape evolves, Motorola Solutions remains at the forefront of innovation. The company’s presence at Intersec 2025 underscores its commitment to advancing technology for safer communities, schools, and enterprises. “Our mission is to create the most secure platforms in the world,” Simoes concluded. “From AI-powered analytics to on-premise solutions, we are dedicated to delivering technologies that protect people and assets while addressing emerging challenges.” Attendees at Intersec 2025 were able to visit Motorola Solutions at booth SA-C11 to explore the latest advancements in video security and access control. With a robust ecosystem of technologies, Motorola Solutions continues to lead the way in creating safer environments for all. About Motorola Solutions Motorola Solutions is solving for safer. We build and connect technologies to help protect people, property and places. Our solutions enable the collaboration between public safety agencies and enterprises that’s critical for a proactive approach to safety and security. Learn more about how we’re solving for safer communities, safer schools, safer hospitals, safer businesses – safer everywhere – at www.motorolasolutions.com.

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Motorola Solutions Focuses on New Innovations at Intersec 2025

Industry Sectors, Latest News, Product News, Technology / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

At Intersec 2025, Motorola Solutions (NYSE: MSI) is highlighting the crucial role its technologies continue to play in addressing the evolving safety and security needs of enterprises and public safety agencies of all sizes. From rugged, thermal long-range cameras that can detect anomalies up to 20 miles (30 km) away, to intelligent sensors that detect real-time health and safety threats, the company continues to invest and introduce new innovations in video and physical security. “Our customers are hospitals, utilities, retailers, hospitality venues, police and border protection agencies, who are responsible for keeping people safe, securing their facilities and responding efficiently to threats,” said Pedro Simoes, corporate vice president, Video Security & Access Control, Motorola Solutions. “We have continued to invest in new acquisitions and product integrations, always remaining focused on expanding our customers’ capabilities to protect their people and operations.” Motorola Solutions is highlighting the expansion and advancement of its video and physical security portfolio at Intersec with the following solutions: Silent Sentinel Jaeger and Osiris long-range thermal cameras; designed to provide highly accurate detection capabilities in extreme environments to help secure and support aviation, maritime, critical infrastructure and border protection operations. Camera options in both the Jaeger and Osiris ranges can detect vehicles up to 30 km away. HALO Smart Sensor; an all-in-one intelligent sensor with built-in vape detection and air quality monitoring, gunshot detection, abnormal noise and motion detection and emergency keyword detection to extend safety while protecting privacy. Noggin cloud-based business continuity planning, operational resilience and critical event management software; helping enterprises anticipate, prepare for and more efficiently respond to events. New features within Avigilon Unity Video, including Incident Reports; enabling security teams to document events and strengthen compliance with corporate policies and government regulations. New features within Avigilon Unity Access, including Alarm Grouping; designed to streamline incident response. Unity H6A PTZ; a new camera custom-built for large sites with 360-degree pan, tilt, zoomable views and AI-powered video analytics. Pelco Sarix Enhanced Duo Camera; the brand’s first dual-head device (two sensors in one camera) designed to provide multi-directional coverage in large areas and multiple directions, making it ideal for hallways and stairwells. Motorola Solutions’ safety and security ecosystem, including on-premise and cloud-connected video and access control offerings and AI-powered command center solutions, is on exhibit January 14-16 at the Motorola Solutions Intersec booth, SA-C11, Dubai World Trade Center. Read more exclusives and news in our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Security Buyer @SecurityBuyer @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: [email protected]

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Casino Operator looks to IDIS for secure video

Industry Sectors, Latest News, Product News, Technology / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Balkans casino operator Merit International has deployed an advanced IDIS video solution at its newest luxury casino and hotel resort, the Starlit development in Budva, Montenegro. The company, which has a USD$1bn-plus portfolio of hospitality and gaming resorts in Northern Cyprus, Croatia, and Bulgaria, is aiming to set new standards in security, customer service, and business efficiency The 2,500-square-meter Starlit Resort & Casino is the company’s third and most ambitious development in Montenegro. A penthouse-level gaming area with stunning sea views, the resort also encompasses a luxury hotel complex, private residences and high-end guest facilities. The end-to-end IDIS video solution, installed by Volga Electronics Ltd, comprises more than 90 NDAA-compliant cameras, including 5MP IR domes and compact PTZs with true WDR and two-way audio; four 64-ch ready-to-install IDIS Solution Suite (ISS) servers with dual power; plus, all network accessories including specialist surveillance keyboards. The solution ensures HD coverage of the entire hotel and casino, including gaming tables, slot machines, and surrounding areas, allowing real-time monitoring of all transactions and activity. ISS federation services enable a centralized monitoring and management environment, and distributed control functionality, linking Merit’s various casinos and resorts and providing enhanced situational awareness. The VMS also supports integration with the casino’s ERP software, with transaction data overlayed on recorded video for efficient incident investigation. Merit is also testing AI-powered analytics including people counting and heat maps. The modular IDIS VMS infrastructure and plug-and-play installation of devices make it easier and faster to deploy deep learning analytics and target existing and new areas as required. Koray Ozyildirim, IDIS Türkiye Country Manager, confirmed that the resort would be taking advantage of this future-proofing capability which is a benefit of all IDIS technology. “As well as ensuring the safety and satisfaction of guests, and providing a deterrent to would-be criminals, the IDIS solution opens new routes to harnessing AI-powered video analytics, for example with people counting, which can help to improve staff and resource allocation, as well as by taking a more proactive approach to security. “The casino already has data collection systems, but heat maps can provide a unique extra layer of business intelligence – for example, allowing directional footfall and dwell time metrics to be compared to customer spending patterns; and revealing the most-used areas where customers spend time even when they are not spending money.” He added that this additional level of insight would give managers the confidence to change the positioning of gaming tables and slot machines, improve the utilization of guest services staff, target promotions, and perfect the overall customer experience. Malik Oğuz, Surveillance Director, Merit International, welcomed the flexibility provided by the IDIS solution, and its potential for future enhancement with new AI capabilities. “As we continue to expand and build Merit International’s reputation for excellence, we are delighted with the value and performance of IDIS video solutions. IDIS gives us the best surveillance capabilities and the flexibility to adapt and take advantage of new AI video functions in the future as our security, safety, and business intelligence requirements evolve.” Read more in our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Security Buyer @SecurityBuyer @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: [email protected]

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What it takes to protect the Desert

Exclusives, Industry Sectors, Product News, Technology / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

The land of endless possibilities; Khodor Habbouche, MENA Sales Manager for Gallagher Security explores the unique security challenges present in the Middle East region There’s a saying in Arabic, al-ʾafaalu ʾablaġu min al-ʾaqwal, “Promises should be backed by actions.” Well known across the Arab world, it is often used in leadership settings. We spoke to Gallagher Security Sales Manager – Middle East and North Africa, Khodor Habbouche about some of the most pressing security issues facing the Middle East, the intricacies of doing business in the region, and how Gallagher solutions are being used to meet the needs of the Middle East market and some of its most ambitious projects to date. Gallagher is a company that is truly backed by action. For more than 35 years Gallagher Security has been a global leader in the design and manufacture of award-winning security solutions. Proudly securing over 20,000 customers across more than 140 countries, their innovative solutions are trusted by government, defence, commercial, industrial, healthcare, transportation, mining, and educational organisations across the globe. For the last 18 years, Gallagher has built a strong presence in the Middle East, securing more than 31,000 doors, and protecting over 200km of perimeter for over 750 customers across 14 different countries. The company currently has a team of 14 based in Dubai, a second office in Lebanon and is expanding its footprint further, with the opening of a third office in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia later this year. This will ensure they are best placed to meet the demands of future development earmarked for the region, as outlined in the Saudi 2030 Vision, including the recently awarded multi-million-dollar contracts for Qiddiya Water Theme Park and King Salman Park. Heralded for its commitment to innovation, the Middle East is a dynamic region, and with six of its Arab countries also members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, there is scope for significant crossover in terms of furthering political and economic integration amongst the participating countries. “The Middle East is an exciting and dynamic place to be. As a region it is progressive, committed to innovation and exploring new ways of doing business, living, and utilising the unique environment on which it sits,” says Khodor. “There is constant growth and expansion here which is both energising and exciting. The region has a number of ambitious projects both underway and in the pipeline, and the trajectory at which these are coming to fruition is encouraging,” adds Khodor. Like any region, the Middle East has its own set of idiosyncrasies, many of which are based on the sheer number of countries that make up the region. As Khodor points out, “The Middle East can be somewhat complicated as we are dealing with many different countries, each with their own development priorities and vision. In the United Arab Emirates, we are focusing on all vertical markets, while other countries have a specific industry focus, for example, education, healthcare, entertainment, critical infrastructure, hospitality, government projects, banking, sports, or transportation. The beauty of this, however, is that Gallagher solutions are easily integrated into, and compatible with, all vertical markets, and together with our Channel Partners we can coordinate the best solution for the environment in which it is required.” The wide-ranging security challenges faced by the Middle East mirrors the diversity of the region’s security priorities, however, as Khodor points out, there is an obvious commonality when looking at the region’s most pressing security issues. “The region’s unique geopolitical dynamics, rapid technological adoption, and socio-economic conditions all contribute to the security issues faced in the Middle East,” he says. Like many other countries around the globe, the Middle East is at growing risk of cybersecurity threats, critical infrastructure vulnerabilities, physical security challenges, regulatory and compliance issues, and data privacy and protection among other mounting security concerns. “Differing regulations and standards across countries within the region can lead to inconsistent security measures and vulnerabilities, as can a lack of standardisation with international standards” says Khodor. The Middle East regularly faces attacks from Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) groups. These cybercriminal groups carry out multi-stage, carefully planned attacks targeting a specific industry or group of industries. Their objective in the Middle East is to obtain information that can provide political, economic, and military advantages. Risk of these attacks also poses a threat to the region’s critical infrastructure, particularly the energy, water, and electricity industries. “The oil and gas industry, a cornerstone of many GCC economies, is a prime target for cyberattacks. Disruptions can have widespread economic and security implications, while attacks on the region’s water and electricity utilities can lead to severe public safety issues and undermine confidence in public institutions,” says Khodor. Gallagher’s award-winning site management platform, Command Centre, is being used across the region to protect critical infrastructure and mitigate the risk of potential cyber-attacks. It was the first system to offer alarm, access, and perimeter security in one single product, and offer continual enhancements by way of two major releases each year to ensure customers remain at the forefront of innovation. “Our system comes with robust encryption and regular software updates to mitigate cybersecurity risks. The Command Centre software includes features to monitor network security and detect anomalies,” says Khodor… Read the full article in our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Security Buyer @SecurityBuyer @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: [email protected]

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Merklingen train station: World’s largest electric vehicle charging park

Industry Sectors, Latest News, News Desk, Product News, Technology / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Merklingen train station, located between Stuttgart and Ulm, boasts the world’s largest electric vehicle charging park with 259 charging points and locally generated solar power. Since its inauguration in December 2022, the station has served 1,000 to 1,300 passengers daily, contributing significantly to the local economy. The state Ministry of Transport estimates an annual economic benefit of 4.8 million euros for the region, spurred by growth in hospitality, retail, and tourism. Ensuring safety and efficient operations at this key transport hub, the Zweckverband Schwäbische Alb management team enlisted Reif GmbH to install an advanced video management system (VMS). The station required a future-proof, intuitive system compliant with the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Advanced Video Management System Hanwha Vision’s WAVE VMS was selected for its user-friendly interface, NDAA compliance, and robust camera features. Reif GmbH, a Diamond Partner of Hanwha Vision, provided a 5-year warranty on the cameras. A total of 37 cameras, including the QNO-8080R (5MP Network IR Bullet Camera), TID-600R (Intercom), and XNO-9082R (4K IR Bullet Camera with Wisenet7 chipset), were installed around the station’s car park. These cameras offer powerful video analytics such as directional detection, audio detection, shock detection, and face/upper body detection, ensuring continuous monitoring and safety. Benefits of an Open System Hanwha Vision’s open platform offered the flexibility needed for future integrations, including a custom AI parking control system developed with a regional software company. This system automates parking management, eliminating the need for personnel to manage access and fees. The open platform also supports future expansions of the video surveillance system, providing scalability as the station’s needs evolve. Enhanced Security and Compliance The integrated cameras prevent unauthorised vehicle entry and capture crucial footage for investigating property damage. The XNO-9082R camera, with its Wisenet7 chipset, excels in various lighting conditions, providing clear images for situational awareness. Its IK10 water and vandal protection ensures durability in outdoor settings. Compliance with GDPR is a priority, and Hanwha Vision cameras meet these requirements by ensuring no productive data is passed to external parties. The system operates entirely on-premise, with data accessible only to authorised personnel. Maintenance staff can access the on-premise server remotely in emergencies via WAVE Mobile, ensuring continuous operation and swift issue resolution. “The performance and quality of Hanwha Vision cameras along with the open WAVE VMS that could work with the in-house AI parking management system made it the logical choice for the Merklingen station project,” said Andreas Baumann, Managing Director at Reif GmbH. Merklingen train station continues to set a benchmark in integrating sustainable transport solutions with advanced security and management systems, contributing to a safer and more efficient travel experience for all visitors. See our latest issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Security Buyer @SecurityBuyer @Secbuyer Media Contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922 Email: [email protected]

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