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Matrix Comsec is All Set to Unveil New-Age Security and Telecom Solutions for Enterprises at IT EXPO’19

Fort Lauderdale, Florida 30th Jan to 01st Feb 2019

Matrix Comsec, a leading manufacturer and provider of Security and Telecom solutions, is participating in IT EXPO 2019 at Fort Lauderdale, Florida held on 30th Jan to 1st Feb 2019. Matrix will be showcasing its comprehensive range of People Mobility Management, IP Video Surveillance and Unified Communication solutions at the event. Matrix is known for its customer centric, innovative range of solutions for Unified Communications, IP Video Surveillance, Access Control and Time-Attendance applications catering to diverse and complex deployments especially for the SMB, SME and large enterprises.

Matrix will be launching several solutions for SMB at the event

1. Enterprise Video Collaboration solution, SPARSH VP710 that sets a new benchmark by offering enhanced video and voice capabilities.

2. SMB IP-PBX, SPARK100, an all-in-one communication solution with Enterprise grade Unified Communication and Collaboration.

3. Next Generation Door Controller COSEC ARGO for the Access Control market. The new door controller is equipped with features like 3.5” IPS Touchscreen LCD with Gorilla Glass, Powerful Processor for Ultra-fast User identification, Intuitive User Experience, Vandal Resistant (IK08).

Matrix will also be demonstrating seamless integration between Matrix IP Video Surveillance, Access Control and Unified Communications solutions along with Matrix Video Management and Device Management software suite.

Additionally, at this event, Matrix will exhibit its range of Gateways. These gateways allow easy integration with most of IP-PBX, TDM PBX, Softswitch and Hosted solutions. Award winning series of Matrix Gateways are perfect for enterprise and carrier-class solutions for multi-site connectivity and remote survivability while offering superior voice quality and state of the art routing features.

Talk to our solution experts to know more about these unique solutions by visiting Matrix at IT EXPO Fort Lauderdale, Florida from 30th Jan to 1st Feb 2019.

About Matrix

Established in 1991, Matrix is a leader in Security and Telecom solutions for modern businesses and enterprises. As an innovative, technology driven and customer focused organization, the company is committed to keep pace with the revolutions in the Security and Telecom industries. With around 40% of its human resources dedicated to the development of new products, Matrix has launched cutting-edge products like Video Surveillance Systems – Video Management System, Network Video Recorder and IP Camera, Access Control and Time-Attendance Systems as well as Telecom Solutions such as Unified Communications, IP-PBX, Universal Gateways, VoIP and GSM Gateways and Communication Endpoints. These solutions are feature-rich, reliable and conform to the international standards. Having global footprints in Asia, Europe, North America, South America and Africa through an extensive network of more than 2,500 channel partners, Matrix ensures that the products serve the needs of its customers faster and longer. Matrix has gained trust and admiration customers representing the entire spectrum of industries. Matrix has won many international awards for its innovative products.

www.MatrixComSec.com

Contact:

Phone: (714) 453-9756

Mobile: (714) 788-1539

shaun.trivedi@matrixcomsec-us.com

Contact:

abhay.Joshi@matrixcomsec.com

Intersec 2019 opens in Dubai, featuring 1,212 exhibitors from 54 countries

Intersec 2019, the world’s leading trade fair for security, safety, and fire protection, opened in Dubai today (20 January), featuring 1,212 exhibitors from 54 countries.

Source: Intersec

The annual three-day event, which runs until 22nd January at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, is organised by Messe Frankfurt Middle East, and supported by the Dubai Police, Dubai Police Academy, Dubai Civil Defence, the Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA), and the Dubai Municipality.
They’re joined by a further 35 international government partners, trade associations, and non-profit institutions aimed at advancing the global security, safety, and fire protection landscape.

Highlights this year include the new Intersec Future Security Summit, featuring 40-plus regional and international experts and government speakers, while returning features include the Drone Zone, an Outdoor Demo Area for live firefighting and emergency rescue operations, along with workshops and seminars to keep an expected audience of 30,000-plus visitors informed about the latest market trends and technologies.

World Premier of TIGON specialty firefighting truck at Intersec 2019

Spanning 60,000sqm Intersec 2019 covers the six show sections Fire & Rescue (431 exhibitors), Commercial Security (375 exhibitors), Safety & Health (142 exhibitors), Information Security (120 exhibitors), Homeland Security & Policing (90 exhibitors), and Physical and Perimeter Security (54 exhibitors).

The dedicated showpiece event is often used as the annual platform for hundreds of exhibitors to launch their latest products and solutions for the global security, safety, and fire protection industries.
Rosenbauer from Austria, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of systems for firefighting and disaster protection, was among these this week, and unveiled TIGON, dubbed as a ‘radically designed, extraordinarily all-terrain specialty firefighting vehicle for industrial use.’
“The special vehicle combines proven off-road expertise from Tatra and optimally designed drive components with outstanding extinguishing technology from Rosenbauer,” said Christian Mairzedt, Senior Vice President and Head of the Middle East and North Africa at Rosenbauer.
“The Rosenbauer TIGON is one of the most all-terrain, variable, and long-lasting industrial vehicles worldwide. Its powerful performance makes it one of the most extraordinary fire fighting vehicles of our time.”

 

World’s top fifty security solutions providers in the spotlight

Nearly two-thirds of the world’s top 50 security manufacturers are also on-board Intersec 2019, including 17 of the top 20 incumbents comprising Hikvision, Dahua, ASSA ABLOY, Bosch Security Systems, Axis Communications, FLIR Systems, Hanwha Techwin, Tiandy Technologies, Avigilon, Infinova, Optex, VIVOTEK, CP Plus, Nedap, Raysharp, Milestone Systems, and Kedacom.

All are showcasing their latest solutions, from Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based safe city services and smart home security products, to the latest high definition IP-Network cameras and analytics software used across industry verticals from banking and retail to hospitality and oil & gas.

Avigilon is showcasing its newly released Avigilon Control Center (ACC) 6.14 software, with enhanced capabilities for Avigilon Appearance Search technology across ACC sites, increased security and enhanced performance. The Canadian-headquartered company is also shining the spotlight on its Avigilon Appearance Search technology, a deep learning AI search engine that sorts through hours of footage with ease.

Paul Such, Vice President of Sales for Avigilon in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, said Avigilon’s Appearance Search technology allows users to quickly locate a specific person or vehicle of interest across multiple sites that are connected to the same ACC client.  “We’ll also feature Avigilon Unusual Motion Detection (UMD) technology, an advanced AI technology that will bring a new level of automation to surveillance,” said Such. “UMD technology is designed to continuously learn what typical activity in the scene looks like and focus the operator’s attention on atypical events needing further investigation.”

“Such said a critical mass has been reached in the volume of video data captured and the limits of human attention to effectively search through that data, adding: “As such, the demand for video analytics is increasing globally. Through the power of AI, Avigilon is developing technologies and products that dramatically increase the effectiveness of security systems by focusing human attention on what matters most.”

Artificial Intelligence and IoT in focus at Future Security Summit

The 21st edition of Intersec in 2019 also coincided with the launch of the three-day Intersec Future Security Summit, where Future Foresight on Security, Artificial Intelligence, along with the Internet of Things (IoT) and Intelligent Systems were among the central themes on the first day.
Martin Gren, Co-Founder of Axis Communications, and the inventor of the world’s first IP-Network camera, was among the headline speakers today, offering his view on the future of the global security industry.

“We see security needs increasing and new applications are enabled by new and complementing technologies,” said Gren, adding that while AI has shown tremendous improvements over the last few years, it’s still at an early stage.

“Everyone expects to see industry disruption from AI and Deep Learning, and this is an area that Axis are heavily investing in, but I think the true benefits are still several years away. Instead you will see AI help with regular basic algorithms, and personally, I think the market for audio is going to move from analog to IP as it’s still currently 98 percent analog.”

Gren said the Middle East and the UAE in particular have always been an innovator in security and security technologies, on account of the region having limited exposure to traditional analog technologies. “The Middle East was an early adopter of technology, and I think the UAE has shown a scale and willingness to invest that is much stronger than most other countries,” continued Gren. “This has given a modern, and upgraded, network of smart and intelligent systems that is quite unique.”

Middle East market on track for double-digit growth

Intersec 2019 takes place amid a Middle East market where demand for security, safety, and fire protection continues to climb. Andreas Rex, Intersec’s show director, said: “The Middle East market for physical and perimeter security, commercial and information security, fire protection, and drones, is currently estimated to be worth US$14.5 billion. Analysts say this will grow at a compound annual growth rate of 13.5 percent over the next six years, valuing US$31 billion in 2024.

“Governments are taking a lead role in ensuring infrastructure, buildings, borders and societies are safe and secure, and the region continues to be an early adopter of smarter, integrated, and innovative solutions spanning both the public and private sectors – from banking, aviation, education and retail, to hospitality, healthcare, construction and energy.

“These solutions are course on show this week at Intersec, where more than 1,200 exhibitors from 54 countries are gracing the exhibition floor,” added Rex.

With 83 percent international participation, Intersec 2019’s 15 country pavilions are coming from Canada, China, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Italy, Korea, Pakistan, Russia, Singapore, Taiwan, UK, and the USA.

Other conference highlights include the one-day Intersec Fire Conference on 21st January, which will provide insights into the changing global trends in fire protection and its implications on the Middle East, while Dubai’s Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA) Forum on 22nd January will also return with the latest updates in security law and industry regulations in Dubai.

Returning popular features include the Drone Zone, an Outdoor Demo Area, and the Safety Design in Buildings Pavilion. Intersec is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

More information is available at: www.intersecexpo.com.

Securitas appoints Divisional President Security Services Europe

Peter Karlströmer has been appointed Divisional President Security Services Europe and a member of Securitas Group Management. He will start latest on March 4, 2019.

Peter comes from Cisco Systems where he led the business with telecom operators in Europe, Middle East, Africa and Russia. Before that Peter led the geographic business in the Nordics, Benelux and Baltics. Prior to joining Cisco in 2012, Peter worked with McKinsey & Company for 15 years as a partner in business leadership roles across Europe, Middle East and Africa.

“I am very happy to welcome Peter to Securitas. Peter comes with solid competence and broad international experience. His personality and strong leadership skills will contribute substantially to Securitas journey going forward. Peter will be a great addition to our team”, says Magnus Ahlqvist, Securitas President and CEO.
Peter Karlströmer is 47 years old and holds a Master of Science in Business Administration and Economics, and a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering from Lund University. He will be based at Securitas head office in Stockholm.

Smiths wins $50M order for US airports

Smiths Detection has received an order from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to supply CTX 9800 Explosives Detection Systems (EDS) for checked-baggage screening. The systems, which utilise computed tomography (CT) imaging, will be deployed to U.S. airports as security equipment upgrades or as part of enhanced security measures.

The CTX 9800 3D CT imaging technology detects and identifies explosives. The scanners can be incorporated into customised networking solutions and deliver operational efficiencies, including energy savings. Along with being certified by TSA, the CTX 9800 is also approved by the European Civil Aviation Conference as it meets the Standard 3 requirements.

Shan Hood, President of Smiths Detection Inc., said, “TSA’s continued use of CTX 9800 EDS in airport screening upgrades or expansions demonstrates Smiths Detection’s leadership in applying computed tomography to aviation security. This additional order for CTX 9800 EDS will enable even more U.S. airports to protect travellers while ensuring that security screening keeps pace with a growing number of passengers.”

This order follows a previous $70m order from the TSA announced in June 2018 for CTX 9800 Explosives Detection Systems (EDS) to be deployed at ten airports across the U.S.

Global ANPR market on target for 800 million USD by 2022

According to the latest research by IHS Markit, the global market revenues from sales of intelligent ANPR devices are forecast to reach $800 million by 2022 and increase at a compound annual growth rate of 16.4 percent.

The types of applications where automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) can be used has increased and so has the range of offered functionalities. Advances in video analytics and processing power used in modern ANPR devices are reshaping the market says the research company.

(R)evolution in the industry

Speed enforcement devices can now offer more functions than ever before, such as seatbelt detection in vehicles and helmet detection for motorcyclists. The more advanced algorithms used in these devices rely on machine learning and deep-learning techniques to analyse recorded images for seatbelt or helmet presence. This recognition process is very complex, because the ANPR camera needs, for example, to differentiate the image of the seatbelt within an image with a lot of background noise, such as light reflections from the car windshield and shading and obstructed views caused by a driver using a sun visor. The advanced algorithms allow for real-time accurate object detection.

Detection of dangerous driving, which can tell whether a car is tailgating an emergency vehicle or whether it is driving between two lanes of traffic, is another important add-on feature enabled by analytics powered with artificial intelligence (AI).

Red light enforcement is another key ANPR application that has benefitted greatly from advances in analytics. Traditionally there was a need for two separate devices to be deployed in one location – one to read the licence plate of the car and another to record the red light. Modern devices with improved analytics are increasingly able to perform both tasks with a single device, which helps lower system cost and speed up the ticket processing for violations.

ANPR devices are now more likely to have analytics deployed on the camera. They do not require back-office processing software to perform their functions, which reduces the overall system set-up costs and lowers adoption barriers across many industries. Processing power improvements have allowed ANPR devices to become much more compact, further simplifying installation. Advances in video analytics have had a big impact on modern ANPR solutions, which has led to increasing adoption in access control and parking applications, including at hotels, hospitals and airports. These advances allow hotel chains, for example, to offer free parking to their guests at all associated hotels, not just the one where the guest is booked for their stay.

More data, more privacy concerns

Despite the great promise of advanced analytics, regulatory and practical considerations are the two main barriers to broader adoption of ANPR systems.

On the regulatory level, concerns over privacy will play an important role. As ANPR systems gather more data across industries, and additional devices are deployed in more locations than ever, the concerns over privacy of vehicle drivers run high. People are questioning why ANPR images are being recorded, as well as where they are stored and how secure they are. These concerns will have to be proactively addressed by manufacturers and installers alike, to help prevent a public backlash against these technologies.

On the practical level, the biggest barrier to adoption is still system cost. In countries where labour costs are quite low and the concepts of smart cities are not very well developed, the law enforcement agencies may prefer to continue conducting manual checks. Private businesses might not be willing to invest in training their staff in how to operate ANPR devices.

Onward and forward

Advanced analytics are transforming ANPR devices into multi-purpose detection systems, which fit very well with the concept of safe cities and smart cities, despite many other competitive technologies at the core of these systems. The next stage for ANPR systems, according to IHS Markit, is to integrate facial recognition with number-plate recognition. While these two functions have already been combined in some access control applications, the detection is still performed by two separate cameras, mostly due to installation angles and other practical factors. However, in the future, improvements in camera features and analytical algorithms could open the door to these two features combined into one single system, which would greatly improve the investigative capabilities of these devices.

Nedap Identification appoints new MD

Joost van der Willik, Managing Director of Nedap Identification Systems
Nedap – a leading specialist in long-range identification and wireless vehicle detection solutions – has appointed Joost van der Willik (35) as the new Managing Director of Nedap Identification Systems.

“For many years, Nedap Identification Systems has delivered cutting edge technology in various markets and verticals. I’m excited to team up with a global team of knowledgeable professionals, eager to pursue new heights by further inspiring our partner network and the clients that benefit from our technology on a daily basis.” said Joost van der Willik, Managing Director of Nedap Identification Systems.

Since the company’s founding in 1929, Nederlandsche Apparatenfabriek ‘Nedap’ N.V. has been manufacturing smart technical applications for the challenges of today and tomorrow, and selling them all over the world. Headquartered in Groenlo in the Netherlands, Nedap boasts a workforce of approx. 680 employees and operates on a global scale.

LET THE COUNTDOWN BEGIN: SICUREZZA AND SMART BUILDING EXPO WILL BE BACK AT FIERA MILANO NEXT YEAR

Innovation, training, and renewed synergy between the two shows. SICUREZZA is ready to consolidate the leadership of an event with an increasingly international appeal.

SMART BUILDING EXPO extends its offering to the photovoltaic industry and smart cities. Milan, 30 November 2018 – the next edition of SICUREZZA will be back in less than a year, from 13 to 15 November 2019 at Fiera Milano.

This is Italy’s leading trade fair in the security & fire sectors and a must-attend international event for European players. Next year’s edition is going to be legendary, as many major companies will showcase their best solutions. As a matter of fact, there will be an additional pavilion and it will be an opportunity for focusing on training in the security and fire-fighting industry.

Security technologies are everywhere, from our homes – the residential sector has been growing consistently in the past few years, also thanks to government incentives – to our cities and workplaces. And SICUREZZA is getting ready to provide an overview of the current market.

Video surveillance, which has always been well represented at the trade fair, is already a widespread industry, but video cameras are enhancing their performance and are more and more sophisticated, smart, and an integral part of complex systems. This is leading to the multiplication of settings that are becoming testbenches for the most innovative technologies, providing HD images and being effective with any kind of lighting and weather condition. The recent debate in Italy about the possibility to install video cameras in kindergartens and hospices says it all. The aim is to turn this technology into a tool that can be a deterrent and a defence for weaker categories, while respecting everyone’s privacy.

The spotlight will be also on other new developments in the security industry. The access control sector is getting smarter, thanks to electronic locks and increasingly sophisticated biometric solutions, which can archive and monitor thousands of different users. On the other hand, the anti-intrusion segment is becoming progressively more oriented towards the integration of home or office management functions that can be controlled remotely via apps.

State-of-the-art modular solutions and data transmission systems allow for the transfer of vast quantities of information in real time from all the various types of sensors, with the possibility of identifying anomalies and immediately monitoring situations and activities.

Besides efficiency, new security technologies are asked to face an important challenge, especially in view of the recent enforcement of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Data processing is even more challenging because securing data goes beyond protecting them and preventing risks. In the Internet era, the security of data, things, and people is a strategic asset to ensure the benefit and effectiveness of any type of technology. Security is no longer just a technical matter, but a corporate governance responsibility. Whether we are talking about companies, cities, or shopping centres, security-related decisions are a value on which clients base their idea of reliability.

In this ever-changing context, players’ competency becomes essential, because security has become a topic for many people: constructors, designers, and installers (who must comply with the GDPR), as well as major users and private citizens, who can now integrate their security systems, thus being a resource for the entire community. The security culture is something that any constructor and representative of the supply chain are asked to feed continuously.

SICUREZZA 2019 will be back to consolidate all this with its rich panel of high-profile meetings, organised in collaboration with associations and publishers, and inform and update all the players of this industry.

SMART BUILDING EXPO: A STRONGER SYNERGY

After the success of this first edition, Smart Building Expo, the event organised by Fiera Milano and Pentastudio, will be back stronger than ever to provide designers, system integrators, facility and energy managers, as well as public administration, a richer and more complete offering, which includes smart building.

The two events will be very synergetic (Smart Building will take place in pavilion 6 together with a part of the SICUREZZA trade fair) and will have shared contents, thanks to a schedule including cross-cutting topics.

Smart Building Expo has always focused on the market’s evolution, and the 2019 edition will add new product sectors to those traditionally covered in the home and building automation field. The world of electricity self-production, especially using photovoltaic technology with a natural opening towards e-mobility infrastructure will join energy efficiency and smart lighting. The concept of Audio Video Control will extend to the outdoors, as an integral part of a smart city.

The design and start-up areas will be implemented thanks to the collaboration with some major Italian business incubators and accelerators. The smart city area will be the newest introduction of the 2019 edition, which will put the limelight on 5G deployment as an infrastructure enabling new applications in an urban environment.

To mark the investments in this strategic area, which is open to future developments, Smart Building Expo, together with a few institutional partners, is organising an importantInternational Conference, which will take place during the trade fair. The conference is going to attract a highly qualified international audience, who will help enrich the event through best practices.

 

THE ROADSHOW CONTINUES: A NEW STAGE IN THE SOUTH

After Spain, Germany, and Romania, the SICUREZZA and Smart Building Expo promotional roadshow stopped in the South of Italy, in Bari for the Smart Building Levante event.

To present the latest developments of the next edition to the players from the South, SICUREZZA has promoted a conference on Integrated Safety with the service provided by professionals and industry players.

To learn more, visit: www.sicurezza.it and www.smartbuildingexpo.it .

 

Fiera Milano Press Office

Rosy Mazzanti, rosy.mazzanti@fieramilano.it

Mariagrazia Scoppio, mariagrazia.scoppio@fieramilano.it

T +39 024997.6214 F +39 024997.7174

FUJIFILM Optical Devices Europe GmbH: Binoculars for a Stable Field of View at High Magnification

Kleve, November 2018

FUJIFILM has released Fujinon binoculars with exceptional performance: the TECHNO-STABI TS 12×28 has an image stabilizer, which can be used without a tripod, even at high magnification.

When normal binoculars are held by hand, distant objects can appear to tremble and blur. This is particularly distracting when working with high magnifications and dark scenery. The TS 12×28’s image stabilizer provides stable images even at 12x magnification. The vibration correction works precisely at an angular range of ± 3°. This makes it very possible to observe moving vehicles or ships.

Furthermore, the TS 12×28 has an extraordinary light intensity, which also produces sharp and high-contrast images for astronomical observations. This is achieved through multi-coated optics and phase-coated prisms. The focus is adjusted by means of a central focus wheel, which can be operated with one finger.

Thanks to the fiberglass-reinforced and compact plastic casing, the binoculars are lightweight, easy to handle, robust and waterproof. The power consumption is so low that one battery charge lasts up to 12 hours. The power saving mode also switches the device off automatically after 10 minutes. Therefore, the TS 12×28 is recommended for very long observations.

The application areas are unlimited, for example in sports, in nature, at concerts or on the high seas.

Links:

Product:
https://www.fujifilm.eu/eu/products/optical-devices/binoculars/techno-stabi-series#techno-stabi-ts12x28

Data sheet:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/pdcctgx3ljo3msy/TS12x28%20sell%20sheet%201PP_FINAL%201-12-18.pdf

Images:

Techno-Stabi TS12x28 (white background)
https://www.dropbox.com/s/9cxtse5c9cw5icu/FUJI-224_3QL.png

Techno-Stabi TS12x28 (black background, stylized)

https://www.dropbox.com/s/hhtfqhmjztpcvwu/FUJI-224_Style_2.png

Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yjLw2m8_HAQ

 

Contact:

FUJIFILM Optical Devices Europe GmbH

Fujistraße 1

47533 Kleve

Phone: +49 2821 / 7115 400

E-mail: bino_eu@fujifilm.com

www.fujifilm.eu/fujinon

 

About FUJIFILM Optical Devices Europe GmbH

FUJIFILM has been producing award-winning lenses for many decades. It develops and produces innovative, cutting-edge solutions for almost any application in the entertainment industry, for security systems and in industrial image processing.

FUJINON binoculars are known worldwide. FUJINON binoculars are particularly popular in professional nautical environments, as well as in scenarios related to water sports, security forces, and nature/sky observers. Users will appreciate the optical quality in combination with the robust, lightweight and waterproof casing. For special requirements there are also sophisticated features, such as night vision and electronic image stabilization.

FUJIFILM Optical Devices Europe GmbH in Kleve is responsible for the sales, services and marketing of professional FUJINON lenses for TV and film productions, CCTV and Machine Vision as well as of FUJINON binoculars in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Global critical infrastructure spending to reach 125B USD by 2023

Critical infrastructures are radically transforming on an unprecedented scale, boosted by a rapid adoption of ‘smart’ operational technologies. Cyber security is a growing part of that evolution. ABI Research, a market-foresight advisory firm providing strategic guidance on the most compelling transformative technologies, forecasts security spending for the protection of critical infrastructures will hit US$125 billion globally by 2023.
Currently, defence contractors (Lockheed Martin, BAE Systems, Harris, Northrop Grumman), industrial OEMs (Honeywell, Siemens, Airbus, Rockwell, Boeing), tech leaders (IBM, Amazon, Microsoft, Verizon), and energy companies (Shell, Total, Exxon) are the big security spenders.

Three primary drivers are pushing better digital security in sectors such as utilities, transport, and healthcare: digital transformation and increased connectivity of operational technologies; democratisation of cyber attacks targeting critical infrastructure; and a maturing market for industrial and IoT security.

“Connected OT has enabled optimisation and greater efficiency for decades-old legacy systems, cutting costs and vastly improving operations for operators,” said Michela Menting, Research Director at ABI Research. But it has also introduced new vulnerabilities and opened new threat vectors to previously air-gapped technologies. The first specialised attacks against industrial control systems are over a decade old, and the attack tools and methods are accessible to even the most common cyber criminals. Fortunately, the cyber security industry has been working in parallel to address that security gap between IT and OT.

As a result, security solutions for industrial control systems and IoT have been fast maturing, rendering them more widely available and affordable. “So, while critical infrastructure operators face an expanding threat landscape, they also have greater choice and support in terms of digital protection of their OT and IT systems. Security budgets have increased significantly, which is encouraging news for those sectors which have long lagged in digital security,” Menting explained.

However, these positive developments face-off against several obstacles plaguing critical infrastructures: a macro-focus slowdown by governments regarding national cyber security strategies, especially in the U.S., and the E.U., continued resistance to cyber security regulation and sectoral information sharing, and cyber threat fatigue leading to general apathy regarding cyber security by the private sector. Many stakeholders view cyber security as a check-box exercise for one-time spending rather than investing on a continuous basis. “Consequently, while current security spending levels are significantly higher compared to just a few years ago, there is still significant room for further investment, both from an awareness and an implementation perspective,” Menting concluded.

Pieter de Vlaam person of the year

The ESSA International Leadership Award, which was introduced for the first time last year, was once again awarded to an important person in the international security industry this year. The award honors people, who have made a special contribution to the continuous development of the industry due to their extraordinary commitment.
This year, Pieter de Vlaam from Gunnebo was honored with the award. “Pieter de Vlaam has dedicated his entire career to the industry. He is one of those rare people whose dedication and motivation have really made a difference in our field. Above all, his analytical way of dealing with difficult topics with little emotion and full of confidence is impressive.”, says Wolfgang Bruna (Wertheim Betriebsberatungs) in his laudatory speech.

Pieter de Vlaam shaped the industry mainly through his extraordinary commitment to standardization. Since the beginning of the 1990s he took over the management of ad-hoc group tools. Furthermore, since 2003 he has been the convener of Working Group 2 for “Fire Resistance”. In this capacity, he quickly introduced the standard for light fire storage cabinets. In addition to these positions, he also heads the Certification Board of the European Certification Body since 2016.

“We are very pleased that the award is so well received by all our member companies. We are already looking forward to the submissions for next year.”, states Dr. Markus Heering, Managing Director of ESSA. The next ESSA International Leadership Award will be presented at the next ESSA General Assembly on the 13th and 14th of November 2019.