September 4, 2026
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Home Articles posted by a&s Adria (Page 71)

European Commission Imposes Another Record Fine on Google Over Digital Advertising

The European Commission has imposed a new record fine of €2.95 billion on Google over what it described as unfair practices in digital advertising, marking the latest chapter in Brussels’ long-running battle with U.S. tech giants. Regulators argue that the company abused its dominance by favoring its own services at the expense of competitors, warning that forced divestitures of parts of Google’s business remain an option if the company fails to comply. EU Competition Commissioner Teresa Ribera stated that Google must present a credible solution to address conflicts of interest, stressing that the EU “will not hesitate to impose strong remedies.”

Google quickly announced plans to appeal, calling the decision excessive and harmful to European businesses that rely on its tools. “This ruling demands changes that will make it harder for thousands of companies across the EU to operate,” said Lee-Anne Mulholland, Google’s Global Head of Regulatory Affairs.

The case has further heightened political tensions between Brussels and Washington. U.S. President Donald Trump denounced the fine as “discriminatory” and threatened retaliatory measures under the 1974 Trade Act, saying he would not tolerate what he described as attacks on “American ingenuity” and hinting at possible tariffs. This penalty, the fourth Google has faced in the past decade from the EU, follows years of investigation and complaints from publishing associations. It comes just days after a U.S. court rejected a request to break up Google, underscoring the sharp contrast between regulatory approaches on the two sides of the Atlantic.

Artificial Intelligence Could Face Strict Oversight, Warns OpenAI CEO

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has warned that the world may be on the verge of a “fraud crisis” fueled by artificial intelligence. Speaking to U.S. media, Altman said AI has already defeated most traditional authentication methods, pointing to banks that still rely on voice recognition as a serious risk. He cautioned that criminals are increasingly able to use AI-generated voices and videos to impersonate people and carry out scams.

The FBI and U.S. officials have previously reported cases of AI voice cloning used to trick parents and even attempts to impersonate senior government leaders. Altman predicted that what begins with phone calls will soon escalate into video interactions indistinguishable from reality. “I am very nervous that we have an impending, significant fraud crisis,” Altman told the audience.

His remarks come as the White House prepares to release its “AI Action Plan,” a strategy for regulating artificial intelligence and ensuring U.S. leadership in the field. OpenAI has been active in Washington, confirming that it will open a new D.C. office early next year with about 30 employees. The office will serve as a hub for policy engagement, training programs, and research on AI’s economic impact.

Despite acknowledging the risks, OpenAI has urged the Trump administration to avoid regulations it says would weaken U.S. competitiveness against foreign AI rivals. On jobs, Altman said predictions about AI’s economic impact are uncertain, though he expects some jobs to vanish while new forms of work emerge. He suggested that in the distant future, many people may no longer hold “real jobs” but instead create roles to feel useful and maintain social value.

OpenAI also released a report by its chief economist comparing AI’s impact to transformative technologies such as electricity and the transistor. The report notes that ChatGPT now has around 500 million global users, with many young Americans turning to the tool for learning and upskilling.

Zenitel Announces New Center of Excellence in Hungary in Partnership with RIEL

Zenitel, a global leader in intelligent critical communication solutions, is proud to announce the launch of a new Zenitel Center of Excellence in Hungary for its Safety & Security BU, through a strategic partnership with RIEL Elektronikai Kft, a renowned provider of integrated security and communication solutions in the region.

With more than 30 years of continuous growth and innovation, RIEL has established itself as one of the largest value-added security distributors in Hungary and Central Europe. The company’s deep technical expertise in integrated added value security solutions, particularly in critical audio solutions, makes it an ideal partner for Zenitel’s regional expansion.

The new Center of Excellence will serve as a hub for customer engagement, technical training, solution demonstrations, and partner collaboration.

It aims to support clients across sectors such as critical infrastructure, healthcare, transportation, and industry—bringing Zenitel’s intelligent communication solutions closer to customers throughout Central and Eastern Europe.

“Establishing the Zenitel Center of Excellence in Hungary is a key step in strengthening our EMEA presence,” said Wim van Winghe, SVP EMEA at Zenitel. “RIEL’s long-standing commitment to quality, their exceptional technical capabilities—especially in audio—and their deep market knowledge, ensure that our customers in the region receive unparalleled service and support. We are excited to deepen this partnership and jointly drive innovation in secure and intelligent communications.”

Bàlint Farkas CEO of RIEL, commented: “We are honored to become Zenitel’s Center of Excellence in Hungary. Over the past 30 years, RIEL has built a strong reputation in audio and integrated security systems. This partnership is a recognition of our expertise and a major opportunity to bring even more value to our clients. Together with Zenitel, we look forward to shaping the future of critical communication in the region.“

The Zenitel Center of Excellence in Hungary is now fully operational and welcomes customers, partners, and stakeholders to explore the latest in intelligent audio and communication technologies.

About Zenitel: Zenitel is a leading provider of Intelligent Critical Communication Solutions, enabling everyone to hear, be heard and be understood, every time and everywhere. Zenitel’s Safety and Security business unit primary system offering is within Intercom, Public Address, Voice Alarm and IP speakers. We are recognized globally for offering state-of-the-art communication solutions that deliver the interoperability you need and the reliability you demand.
Learn more at https://www.zenitel.com/safety-and-security

ICT® and KONE Announce Integration of Protege GX with KONE Office Flow

Integrated Control Technology (ICT®), a leading provider of intelligent access control, intrusion detection, building automation, and security solutions, together with KONE, a pioneer in innovative people flow solutions, have announced the integration of ICT’s Protege GX system with KONE Office Flow. This powerful partnership delivers a unified elevator and access control platform designed to enhance operational efficiency, reduce administrative workload, and strengthen security in commercial buildings.

The synchronization of Protege GX with KONE Office Flow ensures user records are seamlessly integrated across both systems, creating a centralized and automated approach to building management. Access details such as elevator cars, floors, and control panels are populated within the Protege GX interface, enabling precise programming of access levels, schedules, expiration dates, and credentials. Key KONE features, including destination control and direct elevator call, are also supported, improving the flow of people in high-traffic environments.

The integration brings several significant benefits. Operations are streamlined by synchronizing user records and data between Protege GX and KONE Office Flow, eliminating the need to manage separate systems. Administrative workload is reduced, as redundancies are removed and staff can save valuable time while minimizing the risk of errors.

Security is enhanced with a single point of control for doors, turnstiles, and elevators, combined with synchronized access event tracking for comprehensive oversight.

End users also benefit from a simplified experience, with a seamless single-credential solution for both door and elevator access that delivers unmatched convenience. Advanced elevator management features add further value: destination control groups passengers traveling to the same floors into the same car, reducing lobby congestion, while direct elevator call automatically dispatches an elevator to a user’s assigned floor, saving time and simplifying movement through the building.

This integration addresses key challenges in modern commercial properties, including managing high traffic, ensuring robust security, and improving tenant satisfaction. The synchronized system reduces operational complexity for building managers while enabling smooth people flow during peak hours.

Sarah Thompson, Chief Product Officer at ICT, commented: “This collaboration with KONE is an exciting step forward in intelligent building management. By integrating Protege GX with KONE Office Flow, we’re delivering a solution that combines streamlined operations, heightened security, and a superior user experience. It’s the future of smarter, safer, and more connected buildings.”

Hytera Europe Launches New Website

Hytera Europe has unveiled its new website at www.hytera.com/eu, designed to deliver a more modern and streamlined online experience. The platform offers improved navigation, refreshed content, and comprehensive information about products and solutions tailored for the European market. The new design follows contemporary trends, with strong product visuals, clear headings, and interactive presentations of key device series.

The homepage highlights current promotions and campaigns, while the intuitive menu ensures quick access to product categories, industry solutions, and company updates.

A particular emphasis has been placed on vertical solutions – from public safety and oil & gas to business enterprises and education – making it easier for users to find information specific to their needs.

The news and events section features the latest updates on global summits, awards, and partnerships, strengthening transparency and communication with the market. The website is intended to serve as a central hub for the latest news, marketing materials, and customer resources, with an open invitation for visitors to share feedback that will help further enhance Hytera’s digital presence. The existing site, www.hytera-europe.com, will be automatically redirected to the new domain from September 15, and users are encouraged to update their bookmarks accordingly.

IDIS Video Analytics Power DeFacto’s Business Expansion

Fashion retailer DeFacto is one of the best-known and most successful clothing brands in Türkiye, with a program of rapid expansion since its launch in 2004. This expansion has seen new branches prosper in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Central and Southeast Asia – and advanced video analytics are playing a role in the company’s success, with a solution from IDIS and its integration partner Secom Türkiye.

With many new locations being added each year, DeFacto is making significant investments in the use of advanced technology to drive efficiency and a focus on providing positive customer experiences.

Video surveillance is a key technology for DeFacto, but the camera systems it previously used were proving to be an obstacle to innovation. To support its expansion mission, DeFacto needed a new video solution that would deliver powerful AI functionalities and enable improved, centralized control.

Understanding the value of video analytics

Understanding the value of AI analytics for business intelligence, as well as for loss prevention, DeFacto also sought a video technology that would be easy to integrate with its broader business information systems.

To support management decision-making, the company prioritized a more accurate and affordable solution for people counting, conversion rate measurement, and capture rate analysis. DeFacto turned to IDIS and its systems integration partner, Secom Türkiye, for a solution that would combine the latest capabilities with the most competitive lifecycle value (lowest TCO).

Phased migration to advanced functionality

A proof of concept (POC) demonstrated that IDIS 5MP Fisheye cameras can achieve complete scene coverage of DeFacto outlets, typically spanning over 3000 sqm, with fewer cameras. Reducing the number of cameras required significantly reduced costs, with less cabling, fewer switch ports, and minimized installation and maintenance time.

Following the POC, a phased migration program allowed the old system to continue in operation as the new system was rolled out store by store, with IDIS VMS providing a stable and user-friendly operating platform.

A mix-and-match VMS architecture ensured best value, while allowing flexible system control: IDIS Solution Suite (ISS), IDIS’s feature-rich enterprise VMS, provides advanced functions for management teams at DeFacto’s head office, while the free client software allows essential video functions to be handled at local stores and on regional managers’ laptops.

DeFacto adopted IDIS Smart Privacy Masks, not only for GDPR compliance but for internal security and fraud prevention. An advanced, video-based people counting solution, utilizing IDIS’s DV-1304 AI Box, replaced a leading brand using conventional technology across DeFacto’s stores, covering up to nine doors in each location.

IDIS’s AI-powered people counting analytics were shown to be significantly more accurate and far less expensive. IDIS configured a new web-based dashboard to make it easy for DeFacto’s senior management to utilize analytics data, including conversion rates and capture rates.

More accurate metrics support growth strategy

DeFacto now has accurate video analytics data around customer footfall, passing traffic, and customer engagement, as well as enhanced head office oversight of prevention and risk management. The company can now make more confident decisions about store performance and staffing and identify new areas for investment.

The IDIS solution has transformed DeFacto’s management control across its portfolio, utilizing dependable, forward-facing technology that provides a sustainable service lifespan and the best total cost of ownership (TCO) affordability. “IDIS video technology is uniquely suited to supporting DeFacto’s growth strategy,” says Erdoğan Tekin, Deputy General, Secom Türkiye. “This powerful, yet easy to install, solution helps retail chains reduce losses and risks, improve centralized control, and deliver valuable insights into store performance and trading conditions in each location.”

For more information, see the IDIS eBook: eBook_2025_IDIS_Retail_Biz_Intelligence

Aikom International at Adria Security Summit 2025: Showcasing Innovation in Security and Connectivity

Aikom International is proud to announce its participation in the Adria Security Summit 2025, taking place on October 8–9 at Hotel Aleksandar Palace in Skopje, North Macedonia. As a leading value-added distributor in the ICT and security sectors, Aikom International will be present at Booth 10, bringing a curated selection of cutting-edge technologies from its partner brands.

A Strategic Presence in the Adriatic-Balkan Region

The Adria Security Summit is one of the region’s most important gatherings for professionals in commercial security, cybersecurity, IoT, smart cities, and telecommunications. For Aikom International, this event represents a key opportunity to connect with system integrators, technology partners, and public sector stakeholders, fostering discussions on innovation, infrastructure resilience, and the future of smart and secure environments.

What to expect at Aikom Booth

At the Aikom International desk, visitors will have the opportunity to experience and test the latest WAVE PTX devices from Motorola Solutions, designed to ensure reliable, continuous and secure voice communication. Alongside these, the new MOTOTRBO R2 and R5 professional radios will also be available, built to meet the needs of mission-critical operations in demanding environments.

Great attention will also be given to the latest connectivity solutions from Cambium Networks and Teltonika Networks, which are engineered to deliver reliable, high-performance networking infrastructure, suitable for both industrial and public sector projects.

Another key highlight will be the SELEA ANPR camera, developed for automatic number plate recognition. This solution is ideal for urban security, access control, and traffic management projects, offering high accuracy, reliability and full compliance with privacy and data protection standards.

Lastly, attendees will be able to explore Townet’s solutions designed to enable video surveillance even in remote or hard-to-reach areas. These technologies are developed to support scenarios where security monitoring is required despite the absence of traditional infrastructure.

A Commitment to Value-Driven Distribution

Aikom International continues to distinguish itself as a strategic enabler of innovation for system integrators and ICT professionals across Europe. By partnering with top-tier brands and offering deep technical expertise, Aikom empowers its clients to design and implement high-performance, scalable, and secure projects in smart city development, critical infrastructure, and mobility.

Euro Defence Expo 2026 Gains Momentum with Strong Industry and Government Support

Euro Defence Expo (EUDEX), the new international trade fair for the defence industry, will take place from September 22 to 25, 2026, at Messe Essen. With one year still to go, more than 80 exhibitors from twelve countries have already confirmed their participation, including Belgium, Germany, India, the Netherlands, Poland, Ukraine, and the United States. Several joint stands with regional and thematic focuses are also planned, fostering greater exchange and networking opportunities within the sector.

Additional momentum comes from Berlin, as the German Federal Ministry of Defence has expressed its support for the event. According to the organizers, political recognition at the federal level significantly increases the appeal of EUDEX for decision-makers from both the military and government. “We are delighted by this strong signal, which provides crucial legitimization and confirms the importance of EUDEX in strengthening Germany’s military capabilities within alliance systems,” said Oliver P. Kuhrt, CEO of Messe Essen.

What makes EUDEX unique is its integration of military and civil security dimensions.

The fair will run in parallel with Security Essen, the leading international exhibition for civil security, which previously hosted more than 500 exhibitors. This alignment creates a comprehensive platform that brings together all relevant security solutions in one place.

Adding further value, the annual conference of NATO’s Joint Air Power Competence Centre (JAPCC) will also be held at Messe Essen, bringing together over 400 senior military representatives and experts from 32 NATO member states. The close connection between these events will generate valuable synergies between industry and the armed forces. In addition, the specialist conference organized by CPM-Verlag will offer further opportunities for dialogue between experts from industry, politics, and the military.

Online registration for exhibitors is already available at www.eurodefenceexpo.de. Alongside exhibition halls, EUDEX will also provide outdoor areas and options for live demonstrations.

OpenAI and Meta Introduce New Safeguards for Teen Users

OpenAI and Meta have announced updates to the way their AI chatbots operate in order to better protect teenagers and users showing signs of emotional or mental distress. OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, said parents will soon be able to link their own accounts to their teenager’s profile. This will allow them to disable specific features and receive alerts whenever the system detects that their child may be experiencing acute emotional distress.

The company also emphasized that, regardless of a user’s age, the most sensitive conversations will be redirected to more advanced AI models designed to provide higher-quality and more appropriate responses.

These measures come shortly after the parents of 16-year-old A.R. from California filed a lawsuit against OpenAI and its CEO Sam Altman, alleging that ChatGPT played a role in their son’s suicide. While experts caution that such cases cannot simply be attributed to the technology itself, companies say the new safeguards are meant to create a safer digital environment—particularly for younger users.

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a&s Adria – professional security magazine for providing total security solutions is a monthly circulating publication and a licenced representative of Messe Frankfurt New Era Business Media for Adriatic region, which consists of following countries: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Kosovo, Montenegro, FYR Macedonia, Slovenia and Serbia.