September 25, 2026
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Vertical Solutions

Senestar: Getting Ready for the EU Critical Entities Resilience Directive

The European Union’s Critical Entities Resilience Directive (CER) is a framework for strengthening the resilience of critical infrastructure against physical threats, be they natural or man-made, accidental or intentional. It covers a wide range of industries and sectors, including but not limited to energy, transportation, water treatment, and datacenters.

The CER requires that public and private organizations designed as critical infrastructure perform a security risk assessment and implement corrective actions. The directive also requires active cooperation and reporting within each sector’s applicable governing bodies. Adopted in 2023, regulatory enforcement is expected to begin by the end of 2026.

CER was introduced alongside NIS2, an updated cybersecurity framework. Like CER, NIS2 is concerned with the resiliency of designed critical entities, with both directives automatically applying. As both directives should be handled in parallel, a comprehensive risk assessment, one that takes both physical and cybersecurity considerations into account, is recommended.

Is Your Organization Ready?

There is a strong business case for meeting CER requirements – physical security is a substantial part of organization-level risk assessments and a key part of business continuity plans.

The CER process can be divided into four steps:

  1. Perform a physical security risk assessment.
  2. Create a resilience plan that describes the planned mitigation measures.
  3. Implement the plan.
  4. Monitor effectiveness and periodically reassess.

 A security fence along the perimeter of a facility is the first line of defense. But, by itself, it is only a minor deterrent to determined intruders – they can cut-through or climb it in seconds. Even without accessing any on-site buildings, intruders can threaten service, cause extensive damage, steal supplies, and/or injure themselves or others.

In addition to effective assessment and response tools, critical entities require scalable solutions that are suitable for deployment across large numbers of sites, are ultra-reliable, maintain a low nuisance alarm rate, and incorporate robust architectures that avoid downtime and unscheduled maintenance visits.

 Senstar offers a range of products that bring intelligence out to the perimeter. Intelligent lighting functions as an active deterrent while sensors and surveillance cameras detect and locate intrusion attempts. Perimeter detection enables a range of security responses, including triggering the site’s alarm system, queuing up camera systems, and engaging deterrence devices like audio messages or additional lighting. Interior areas can also be protected. As Senstar sensors share common communication protocols, a mix of sensors may be deployed at a site without adding additional infrastructure.

Securing Critical Infrastructure

With over 40 years of experience securing critical infrastructure worldwide, Senstar has the knowledge, European presence, and comprehensive portfolio needed to assist organizations in mitigating security vulnerabilities. Our perimeter intrusion detection, video management software, video analytics, and access control solutions are cost-effective, field-proven, and highly regarded throughout the critical infrastructure sectors.

The principles of gas measuring technology

How has gas detection developed over the years?

In mining, hazardous levels of gas concentration can build up all the time, causing powerful explosions and accidents. The search for methods for the early detection of hazardous gases, such as methane and carbon monoxide, was therefore already of crucial importance in the 19th and 20th centuries to ensure the safety of miners. The first method of gas detection involved the use of canaries. For this, a canary was kept in a small cage and monitored regularly. If the bird displayed any signs of stress or illness, this was taken as a clear warning signal for the presence of hazardous gases. To protect the animal‘s health, flame lamps would then be used to determine hazardous levels of gas concentration.

For this, the miners lit the flames in a fresh air environment. If the flame shrank in size or began to go out, this indicated a low level of oxygen in the air. If, on the other hand, the flame increased in size, this was a sign that methane – as well as oxygen – was present in the mine. Gas warning technology has continued to develop to this day. Today, precise, compact and robust gas detectors are used to monitor dangerous gas concentrations and combustible vapours.

Various technologies such as catalytic, electrochemical, infrared, ultrasonic or MPS technologies offer the best possible options for monitoring and analysing the ambient air. These allow safe and reliable gas detection in a wide range of applications and ensure maximum protection for lives and plants.

The gas detectors must monitor various gases and vapours safely and continuously in changing conditions. This requires maximum reliability, flexibility and stability in order to protect the safety of people and plants in the best possible way. In addition, not every gas detector may be used in every working environment. It is therefore necessary

to check whether the required device specifications are met before use. These device requirements are explained in the relevant standards and regulations.

What are gases?

Matter above its boiling point is generally referred to as a gas. In this physical state, the molecules or atoms move far away from each other and completely occupy the available space. In contrast to matter in solid and liquid states, gases have no solid form and no solid volume.

Gases consist of a swarm of molecules moving randomly and chaotically, constantly colliding with each other and with everything around them. They fill every available space and, because of the high speed at which they are moving, mix rapidly with any atmosphere into which they are released.

Gases can be lighter or heavier than air or have approximately the same density. Gases can have an odour or be odourless. There are coloured and colourless gases. Even if you cannot see, smell or touch them, this does not mean that they are not present. Gases in principle are not harmful. They are, after all, part of the earth‘s atmosphere. It is only when their concentration exceeds critical levels that there is a risk of poisoning and explosion and, if it falls below these levels, danger of suffocation from lack of oxygen.

Methane, for example, is colourless and odourless and difficult to detect when present. However, as this natural gas is used in many homes for heating and cooking, it is present in people‘s everyday lives. Vehicle engines burn fuel and oxygen and produce emissions/waste gases containing nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide

and are a hazard to life and plants. Oxygen and hydrogen must also be detected continuously to keep the ambient air clean and prevent oxyhydrogen explosions.

What are the different gas hazards?

Choosing the correct measuring principle is of central importance in the detection of gas hazards. Each measuring principle is suitable for different danger zones and is optimised for either toxic and/or combustible gases and oxygen. In principle, the following gas hazards can be distinguished:

  1. Explosion hazard due to combustible gases

Wherever combustible gases such as methane, butane and propane are present, there is an increased risk of explosion, for example in petrochemicals, industry and refineries. Sensors with a catalytic sensor element for combustible gases are used here.

  1. Excess oxygen and lack of oxygen

While excess oxygen makes materials more flammable, a lack of oxygen is life-threatening. Oxygen can be consumed or displaced by another gas. Sensors with an electrochemical sensor element are generally used for monitoring oxygen levels.

  1. Toxicity

Hazards from toxic gases can arise in a wide variety of areas, such as in industrial production processes or during transport, but also in natural processes, such as putrefaction processes during the degradation of biomass. Sensors with an electrochemical sensor element for toxic gases are used here.

In addition to the different gas groups, selecting the suitable measurement method depends on many other factors, such as checking whether other hazardous substances are present in the environment (cross-sensitivity), whether continuous measurement or long-term or short-term measurement is required and whether there needs to be an alarm and warning notification if limit values are exceeded.

What are the sensors and measuring principles used in gas detection?

The sensors use certain properties of the gas to convert them into an electrical signal. The following measuring principles are used in gas detection technology: the electrochemical measuring principle, the catalytic measuring principle, the infrared measuring principle, the semiconductor measuring principle and the MPS measuring principle.

The electrochemical measuring principle

Electrochemical sensors are often used because of their precision, sensitivity and fast reaction times. They are used in areas such as environmental monitoring, medical diagnostics, food control and industry.

Electrochemical gas sensors work in a similar way to batteries and are used to measure carbon monoxide (CO), nitric oxide (NO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ammonia (NH3) and oxygen (O2). The ambient air to be monitored diffuses through the filter membrane into the liquid electrolyte of the sensor.

The chemical process of the measurement is an oxidation, whereby one molecule of the target gas is exchanged for one molecule of oxygen. The reaction drives the oxygen molecule into the counter electrode, resulting in a current signal (nA) between the measuring and reference electrodes. As a rule, gas sensors are specific, so there is little – if any – cross-sensitivity to other substances.

Advantages

  • Linear measurement signal
  • Highly sensitive
  • Low cost

Catalytic measuring principle

The catalytic measuring method involves measurement using pellistor and catalytic bead sensors and is suitable for measuring explosive gases and vapours. In this measuring method, two platinum coils are embedded in a ceramic layer and connected electrically via a bridge circuit (a Wheatstone measuring bridge).

The surface of one platinum coil is activated with an oxidation-promoting catalyst, while the surface of the other platinum coil is not activated. Current flows through the coils, heating them to approx 500 °C. The oxygen in the air reacts with the combustible gas on the surface of the active coil. This increases the temperature and resistance in the active platinum coil, causing the bridge to become unbalanced. This process can be measured.

Advantages

  • Total measurement of many combustible gases
  • Linear signal
  • High measurement accuracy
  • Poisoning from silicones etc.

Infrared measuring principle

The infrared measuring principle involves the measurement of CO2, methane etc. using infrared sensors. The IR principle uses the individual absorption spectrum of the gas to be measured as a base and determines the exact concentration by analysing it precisely and quantitatively. Since all measured gases absorb in different spectral ranges, this results in a kind of „fingerprint“ that allows selective characterisation with almost no cross-sensitivities.

Advantages:

  • Low cross-sensitivity
  • High measurement accuracy
  • Wide measuring range
  • High selectivity
  • Dust & dew point sensitive
  • Long lifetime
  • Low maintenance costs

Semiconductor measuring principle

Semiconductor sensors are used for some toxic and explosive gases. A metal oxide-based semiconductor (tin oxide) is applied to a substrate. The substrate contains electrodes that measure the resistance of the semiconductor and a heater that heats the semiconductor to 200 to 400 °C.

The sensor reacts to changes in the composition of the surrounding atmosphere by changing the resistance of the semiconductor. Reducing gases such as carbon monoxide or hydrogen lower the resistance of the semiconductor. The sensitivity of the semiconductor to a specific gas can be changed through the temperature of the semiconductor.

Advantages

  • Low budget
  • Versatile in use
  • Non-selective
  • Robust

MPS measuring principle

MPS sensor technology is used to detect combustible gases such as hydrogen, methane, propane and acetylene as well as refrigerants. This highly flexible sensor solution is attractive for a wide range of applications. MPSTM sensors are particularly suitable for areas that are difficult to access, as they can operate for long periods without requiring calibration or maintenance. The integrated environmental sensor measures the change in thermodynamic properties.

Advantages

  • Lifetime 15+ years
  • Maintenance free
  • Low power consumption
  • High linearity
  • High stability
  • Non-selective
  • Environmental compensation

What do explosion protection and explosion limits mean?

 Explosion protection

Many combustible substances come into play in industrial processes. This releases combustible gases and vapours through valves or other openings. For prevention purposes, these danger zones are called Ex-areas in which only equipment of a safe ignition protection category may be used.

Explosion protection is standardised worldwide and based on the 3-zone concept. Ex zones are areas in which a hazardous explosive atmosphere exists. The zones can be distinguished as follows:

EX-Zone Type of hazard Areas in which a hazar­dous explosive atmosphere exists Permitted devices/

Protective measures
Zone 0 Permanent danger of explosive atmosphere e.g. inside containers Ex-protected devices required
Zone 1 Occasional danger of explosive atmosphere The immediate vicinity of Zone 0, e.g. filling openings Ex-protected devices recommended, non-ex-protected devices with special protective measures
Zone 2 Low risk of explosive atmosphere The area surrounding Zones 0 and 1 Non-ex-protected devices, provided the probability of an explosive atmosphere is low

Explosion limits

The explosion range is defined by a Lower Flammability Level (LFL) and an Upper Flammability Level (UFL). The Lower Flammability Level describes the lowest concentration of a combustible substance in the air at which a flame can ignite and spread.

The Upper Explosion Limit describes the highest concentration at which a flame can only just ignite and spread independently. However, it should be noted here that the situation can change rapidly, for example through dispersal of the mixture caused by a gust of wind, and the concentration can then again fall below the Upper Flammability Level.

Which requirements and guidelines apply to gas detectors?

 Safe Integrity Level – SIL

The Safety Integrity Level, also known as the safety requirement level (SIL for short), is an internationally-recognised measured variable in the field of functional safety. The Safety Integrity Level is used to assess electrical/electronic/

programmable electronic (E/E/PE) systems and refers to the reliability of safety functions.

4 SIL levels are used to determine the potential risk to persons, systems, plants and processes. These are realised using safety functions with the aid of a safety instrumented system (SIS), which may consist of different equipment such as sensors, actuators and control elements. A distinction is made between SIL1 up to SIL4, which requires the strictest measures for the greatest risk. These are requirement measures for the probability of dangerous random failures.

Functional safety is part of the overall safety of a device, a plant, a train, a car or any other complex automated system. The aim of functional safety is always to protect people, plants and the environment from malfunctions. Without functional safety, trains would not be accidentfree, chemical plants would not be able to be operated safely, or airbags would be triggered at the wrong moment.

Which certificates and standards are required for gas detectors?

Many applications require special certificates that prove that the gas detectors meet environmental requirements, such as ATEX, ISO, Marine, IEC, EN, SIL, etc. Gas detectors also differ significantly in respect of their technical features. In particular, there are sometimes considerable differences in terms of functionality, calibration, lifetime

and suitability for installation as well as userfriendliness. MSR-Electronic offers a wide range of gas detectors for the detection of toxic and combustible gases.

Fire Protection in Retail, Leisure & Entertainment Sites

Fire safety equipment in dynamic retail, leisure, and entertainment settings must be versatile, reliable but also discreet. Vladimir Zrnic, Regional Sales Manager for Europe at Advanced, outlines some important considerations when choosing the right fire safety solutions for these demanding settings.

 Avoiding false alarm harm

In leisure and retail venues, false fire alarms can be particularly unwelcome, disturbing people’s precious downtime, disrupting purchases and harming business reputations.

Effective management requires advanced detectors and fire panels capable of flexible alarm verification and investigation delays.

In hotels for example, automated verification timers can distinguish false alarms caused by shower steam or smoking from real emergencies. In theatres, multisensors and specialised modes can avoid unnecessary evacuations due to theatrical effects like dry ice smoke, ensuring safety and smooth operational continuity.

Safe, phased evacuation

Safe evacuation in large venues like shopping centres and hotels relies on effective cause-and-effect programming alongside the latest sounder or voice alarm integration to facilitate the evacuation of those most at risk during a fire.

Selecting a fire panel brand with sophisticated cause-and-effect capabilities is crucial for effectively managing evacuations during dynamic fire conditions and reacting to the spread of fire and smoke through multiple areas simultaneously.

Out of sight

Aesthetics are crucial for integrating fire safety equipment seamlessly into retail and leisure interiors.

Designer repeater panels with flush touchscreens look more attractive than standard fire panels but still provide full functionality during fires. Alternatively,custom finishes are available to help panels blend with the décor or branding, and colour-coordinated or low-profile detectors also help improve the look of fire safety equipment.  Some fire systems also allow control of LED blinking to minimise distractions in venues like cinemas and hotels.

Style and safety assured

Layout changes are frequent in some retail settings, so using scalable wireless systems is a wise option. Cable-free fire equipment is flexible and saves on installation costs, plus, EN54-13 compliant fire panels ensure continuous monitoring and fault detection, promptly alerting staff to hidden issues for timely resolution.

Clear communication

Larger venues can complicate emergency navigation, potentially delaying responses. Some manufacturers, such as Advanced, offer custom solutions such as digital mimics with colour-coded LEDs for simplified fire location identification.

In modern buildings, seamless integration of fire and building management systems is crucial for safety and efficiency. Advanced’s technologies, for example, streamline setup and save time by using a common industry protocol. This allows the creation of a system that consolidates data from multiple sources for monitoring via a single central location/PC or the Cloud.

In summary, choosing the right fire protection equipment for retail and leisure venues isn’t straightforward. However, checking that a manufacturer’s product range offers robust solutions to the common challenges outlined above is a great way of ensuring fire safety for retail and leisure venues and peace of mind for those enjoying them.

 To find out more about the features mentioned in this article, please visit advancedco.com or contact Vladimir Zrnic vzrnic@advancedco.com or call +44 (0)345 894 7000.

Backup has never been easier: Synology introduces ActiveProtect appliances for scalable, centralized and optimized protection of corporate data

June 5, 2024 – Düsseldorf, Germany – Synology today announced the new ActiveProtect appliances, a line of products designed specifically for data protection that combines centralized management for best-in-class usability with a highly scalable architecture.

“The launch of ActiveProtect reflects Synology’s unwavering commitment to giving our users the tools to manage their most valuable asset – data,” said Philip Wong, Chairman and CEO of Synology. “In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, organizations are facing unprecedented challenges in protecting their data. With the new ActiveProtect offering, we aim to empower organizations of all sizes to tackle cybersecurity challenges head-on.”

ActiveProtect centralizes enterprise-wide data protection policies, tasks, and appliances, providing a unified management and control plane. Comprehensive coverage of endpoints, servers, hypervisors, storage systems, databases, and Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace services significantly reduces IT blind spots and the need to run multiple data protection solutions.

“Enterprises are faced with the task of maintaining overly complex and costly data protection strategies, and we aim to solve all of these challenges at once with ActiveProtect,” said Jia-Yu Liu, Executive Vice President at Synology. “ActiveProtect is the result of extensive research, development, and experience working with our customers. We are confident to deliver a solution that will exceed the expectations of modern businesses.”

Easy deployment and management

IT teams can deploy ActiveProtect appliances in minutes and create comprehensive data protection plans with global policies from a central console. From implementing immutability and air-gapping policies to performing restore operations, ActiveProtect is designed to be intuitive to use, significantly reducing operational overhead.

Scalable for any organization

Each ActiveProtect appliance can operate in standalone or cluster mode. Storage capacity can be combined with Synology NAS/SAN storage solutions, C2 Object Storage, and other ActiveProtect appliances in the cluster. In addition, existing Synology Active Backup for Business deployments can be managed through the unified interface, providing high deployment flexibility.

 Fast and efficient

Purpose-built ActiveProtect appliances use incremental backups with source-side, global, and cross-site deduplication to ensure fast backups and replications with minimal bandwidth usage. ActiveProtect is up to 7x faster at data protection with a typical deduplication ratio of over 2:1, significantly reducing operational costs.

ActiveProtect will be available through Synology distributors and partners during 2024.

Egal: How to achieve fast, high quality testing of copper and fibre cabling

The proliferation of the Internet and smart buildings, increased investment in the telecommunications sector and the growth of data centres around the world are driving the demand for structured cabling and, consequently, the need for efficient testing of network installations.

The structured cabling industry, from manufacturers to designers and installers, is facing accelerated growth driven by system convergence, edge computing and cyber security. The speed at which telcos, systems integrators and cabling companies are migrating to fibre, green cabling, power over Ethernet (PoE) and other highly sensitive copper cabling technologies is increasing the demands on the delivery of quality structured cabling installations. Finally, the manufacturers of passive and active network equipment are making the certification and warranty of systems dependent on the performance of appropriate tests, which are becoming more and more demanding in terms of human resources, know-how and time due to the increasing complexity of the network.

Taking structured cabling testing to the next level

Structured cabling professionals need solutions that are affordable while offering the widest range of capabilities for use with a variety of cabling technologies in passive networks and applications.

The AEM TestPro CV100 structured cabling test system is recognised by cable companies around the world as the answer to the trends and growing demands of cabling construction, from data centres to smart buildings.

Speed: Users say the solution is extremely efficient and much faster than competing devices, allowing installers to test multiple connections in a day’s work, saving companies time and money.

Ease of use: The AEM TestPro CV100 testers are simple and intuitive to use, allowing cable infrastructure to be tested quickly and successfully by staff of varying skill levels.

Price: Additional cost benefits are provided by a price that is significantly lower than the competition, especially as network installers can use the same equipment to test copper, fibre and wireless networks.

One instrument for all tasks, from testing to certification

The AEM TestPro CV100 allows installation teams to use a single instrument with the same user interface for all tests, changing only the interfaces for each cable type – a particular advantage in smart buildings where complex cabling infrastructures are involved, from fibre optic to CAT6A cabling for PoE, CCTV, automation, and other advanced applications.

For those responsible for deploying and ensuring the operation of access points, IoT systems, smart lighting and security systems, TestPro CV100 offers a comprehensive set of tests to ensure the infrastructure is ready to support these advanced technologies. For example, TestPro CV100 certifies CAT6A cables in seconds, including all standard test parameters and additional parameters such as DC resistance imbalance, TCL and ELTCTL transmission losses and distance to fault. In addition, TestPro CV100 provides Level 1 fibre certification and, in combination with OTDR, Level 2 fibre certification.

In addition to the most feature-rich modular platform, AEM’s system also incorporates LiveWiremap software, which provides instant audio and visual confirmation of connectivity between endpoints. Users confirm that testing is further simplified by the use of dual displays – at both ends of the link – and by the sheer speed and ease of test execution and generating reports.

Gas Detectors Monitor the Parking Garage of the Dallas Cowboys

MSR-Electronic GmbH from Pocking equipped two parking levels at the Dallas Cowboys headquarters with gas detectors.

“The Star” in Frisco, Texas, is home to the headquarters and training centre of the Dallas Cowboys. Part of the  91-acre campus is the Ford Center, where the players practise their skills. There, fans have the opportunity to see the training units up close.

In addition to ultra-modern equipment, the training ground also provides an atmosphere of excitement that reflects the passion for American football in Texas.

Visitors can park right at the Dallas Cowboys headquarters. Two levels of the parking garage with an area of 35,000m2 have been fitted with gas detectors from MSR-Electronic to protect people and facilities.

Why is gas detection important in parking garages?

Because vehicles produce carbon monoxide, which is toxic in high concentrations, continuous gas monitoring is mandatory in parking garages. Fixed gas warning systems are crucial ventilation systems, as they continuously monitor the air quality for potential hazards and control when ventilation starts.

MSR-Electronic gas detectors are configured to react to specific gases in the ambient air. The controllers and sensors make sure that measures are taken to protect people and facilities in time when the permissible level of CO concentration is exceeded.

The core of a gas warning system

Gas sensors that reliably detect the CO and NO in the ambient air were installed in the parking garage for maximum safety. Monitoring and evaluation are carried out by the Digital-Gas-Controller DGC-05.

The Digital-Gas-Controller DGC-06 replaces the DGC-05. An easy to use system menu with a logical structure, right on the controller and requiring no special programming skills, is used to configure, operate and set the parameters for the Digital-Gas-Controller DGC-06.

The large number of freely configurable parameters and set points allows for individual adaptation to many applications. It fulfils the functions for monitoring carbon monoxide in garages and tunnels according to the current standard.

The controller also complies with SIL2 and EN50545 and is suitable for up to 128 gas sensors and more than 50 toxic and flammable gases.

Technical features

  • Easy, fast commissioning thanks to configuration with default parameters

  • 4 freely configurable alarm thresholds per sensor

  • Multiple alarm relays can be configured for each alarm

  • Alarm can be set to be triggered by rising or falling gas concentration for each alarm threshold

  • Connector socket for PCE06 Software on the controller module

  • Up to 32 relays with change-over contact, potential-free max. 250 V AC, 5 A; 30 V DC, 2 A (via GC-06 module and 1–7 EP-06 module)

  • Up to 96 relays with change-over contact, potential-free max. 250 V AC, 5 A; 30 V DC, 2 A (via MSC2/MSB2)

  • Up to 96 relays with change-over contact, potential-free max. 30 V AC/ DC, 0.5 A (locally via WSB2)

  • Fault-signal relay with normally open contact, potential-free max. 250 V AC, 5 A; 30 V DC, 2 A

  • Up to 16 analogue outputs, 4-20 mA, with selective signal output for special status, fault etc.

  • Up to 7 EP-06 expansion modules with integrated repeater function can be connected

  • Serial interface RS-485 with Modbus RTU protocol

 

Other optional features are also available, such as an integrated warning buzzer.

 

OPTEX’s 45-Year Legacy of Security Breakthroughs

Founded in May 1979 in Japan, OPTEX was born with a clear vision of building a global sensing technology business with precision and intelligent at its heart. This vision remains just as important now as it did 45 years ago, with OPTEX’s unwavering commitment to innovating new solutions and ideas that solve the everyday problems of its customers. Today, the OPTEX Group comprises almost 2,000 employees across 42 companies across the world, with a broad range of highly accurate and reliable security technologies perfectly suited for diverse applications, and remains at the forefront of the security industry. It offers a broad range of security detection systems suited for diverse applications ranging from high end security to the security of private homes and everything in between. Its focus, however, remains the same: Solving the everyday problems of its customers with innovative solutions and ideas.

OPTEX’s history

1979

OPTEX is founded by electronics engineer Toru Kobayashi and three colleagues.

1983

Developed one of the first wireless outdoor security sensors

1988

The introduction of double conductive shielding which enables the reduction of false alarms from RFI and intensive light sources

1990

Established Research and Development Centre

2004

Introduced the world’s first long range outdoor protection using digital communication technology (AX-100DH(J)/200DH(J))

2009

Developed laser technology for security applications and brought the innovative REDSCAN

LiDARs to the market (first models RLS-3060)

2010

Introduction of SMDA logic enabling sensors to learn from the environment and targeting

the main issue in the industry – reduction of false alarms in external sensors

2021

Introduced the world’s first security LiDAR with integrated camera (REDSCANPro)

Building on this legacy of innovation, the integration of LiDAR technology into OPTEX’s portfolio has marked a significant leap forward in detection system performance. As pioneers in LiDAR technology, OPTEX has continually developed and refined this technology over the years, leading to the current high reliability of their sensors.

Part of the award winning REDSCAN series, OPTEX’s next generation of LiDAR detectors, the REDSCAN mini-Pro series takes security technology a step further to provide highly accurate intrusion detection and visual verification for a wide range of indoor and outdoor applications.

The 20x20m PoE+ LiDAR sensor is equipped with a full HD camera and complies with ONVIF profile S, making it suitable for both outdoor and indoor high-security applications. It features analytics capable of recognizing a moving object’s size, its location, and the distance from the unit. For alarm verification, it includes a built-in full HD camera enhanced with an IR LED.

The illuminators automatically adjust according to the target’s distance to prevent overexposure and ensure a clear image, regardless of the light conditions.

This short-range sensor provides a 20x20m detection area with the ability to customize detection either vertically or horizontally. Additionally, it can be configured with up to eight detection zones, each with adjustable sensitivity, target size, and output.

Milestone: Combatting the Retail Crime Epidemic With Next-Gen Video Tech

As the Chair of the John Lewis Partnership, Dame Sharon White, said, shoplifting has become an epidemic that’s plaguing many retailers at a time when every pound and penny counts. Organized crime isn’t just petty shoplifting. It involves criminals stealing trolleys and truckloads of products that they then sell via the black market. Everything is a target, including food, clothing, shoes, luxury items, beauty items, and small electronics. Criminals may even steal to order, especially if the requested product can attract a premium on the black market. Organised theft rarely happens in isolation, particularly when organized criminals are involved.

By: Borislava Kenarova, Regional Sales Manager Eastern Europe, CIS and Israel, Milestone Systems

Now, retailers are fighting back with creative and proactive technologies to identify repeat offenders, share evidence with the police and courts for prosecution, and identify and remove vulnerabilities in store. With a host of advances in AI-powered video analytics, video management software (VMS), the Internet of Things (IoT) and other cutting-edge technologies, it’s time for retailers to win the battle against organized retail crime.

How Milestone’s VMS works

Video management software (VMS) can be customized to meet all your needs, from keeping people and property safe to running a more efficient operation—and helping you with cybersecurity, too. Experience Milestone’s VMS features with an exclusive demo trail that provides hands-on experience with state-of-the-art camera management solutions.

Open VMS, AI, machine learning

Core to all loss prevention efforts is the VMS, a single place that consolidates all of the data coming in from cameras in stores, body-worn cameras, sensors, and more. An open VMS is able to integrate with the different sensors (notably, from different vendors as there’s no lock-in) and cameras in a security system to make it easier for security teams to keep updated with the different data feeds coming from stores.

With advanced video analytics powered by AI, the VMS can automatically scan for potentially unusual or threatening behavior such as someone walking against the normal traffic flow, loitering, trespassing behind a counter or in a stock room, or (with an audio integration) shouting and screaming. It can then alert security teams to investigate further. The insights delivered to control rooms can even be shared in real-time with ground patrols to inform their approach and help with identifying people of interest, via their clothing or other visual attributes like eyeglasses wearing.

AI in video is now advanced enough to detect items being carried into a store like a knife or chain that can be used to rip out cabinets or ATMs. Delivering such insights quickly to ground teams is vital for their, and customers’ protection.

Crucially, thanks to machine learning that improves with every interaction, AI models are able to get better and identifying potentially criminal patterns over time. These insights aren’t just helpful for retailers but can be shared with others to improve collective threat intelligence across stores and with local authorities.

Groundbreaking technology

Some of the different sensors that a VMS can integrate with include mobile tracking devices that work using WiFi and Bluetooth. As shoppers move through the store, their phones and devices constantly interact with WiFi access points and Bluetooth beacons placed strategically throughout the location. Retailers can passively collect these device IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) to detect repeat offender devices entering stores. If a device was present during a known prior theft, then an alert can be shared with security teams with cameras automatically panning to the person of interest for monitoring.

Digital tags using RFID (radio frequency identification) can be placed on items so retailers can document when something is purchased and ready to leave the store. If an item leaves without being detected as scanned, security personnel can be informed so they can take action. Likewise, GPS sensors on goods can also tell retailers where stolen goods are being kept, helping law enforcement identify criminal stockpile locations. Knowing where large inventories of stolen goods are kept provides critical intelligence for preventing black market sales and recovering stolen property.

Anonymous facial recognition is another emerging technology, now being used in special locked “smart” cabinets to control access to high-value merchandise like designer goods or premium spirits. Cabinets with built-in cameras and AI-powered recognition software can geometrically map a shopper’s facial features upon first use, allowing entry to the cabinet if no issues occur. But if the shopper has previously stolen merchandise from the cabinet, their facial map will be flagged, and they will be denied access to the cabinet.

Strengthening your security foundation

With many exciting advances, retailers can be forgiven for forgetting to strengthen their security basics to deter criminals. The VMS, of course, is a foundational element needed for basic and innovative strategies. It not only supports emerging technologies and integrates these seamlessly with existing security infrastructure, but it can provide valuable insights to inform your long-term plans.  For instance, having enough staff in-store will help to combat shoplifting as a visual deterrent but also in monitoring goods and checking receipts. But how can you determine what the best staffing level is? Video data can tell you about the busiest times in-store when you need more people on the rota. It can even track criminal events over time so you can determine if there are specific times of day when it will help to have more security staff on site.

Benefits beyond retail security

The insights delivered by a VMS can also help to improve the in-store shopping experience by alerting management to potential overcrowding or queues forming. Additional store counters can be opened to reduce queues and customers encouraged to travel through other aisles to avoid busy areas. AI can detect an employee smoking in the wrong area or taking cash from tills. It can also monitor backroom areas to ensure staff aren’t put at risk by moving forklifts, that only authorized individuals are in restricted areas, and to monitor the entry and exit of vehicles.

About Milestone Systems

Milestone Systems is a leading provider of software for data-driven video technologies, both in security and beyond. Milestone’s VMS helps ensure security, protect assets and increase business efficiency with a scalable solution proven in more than 500,000 customer installations worldwide. Milestone was founded in 1998 and is now part of the Canon group. For more information visit: www.milestonesys.com. For news and other press releases, visit our Newsroom.

Building a Strong Cybersecurity Foundation for Your Video Solutions

In today’s digital world, it’s little surprise that cybersecurity is top of mind in many boardrooms. Indeed, 96% of CEOs say that it’s essential to their organisation’s growth and stability, according to Accenture.

And they are right to be concerned, because cybercrime is projected to cost the world a staggering $9.5 trillion USD in 2024 according to research firm, Cybersecurity Ventures. Such losses can be business-ending, without even considering the cost of reputational damage and unscheduled downtime.

By Jos Beernink, Vice President EMEA at Milestone Systems

The cyber-risks of video

Being aware of the risks of an insecure video surveillance system – and how to mitigate these – is therefore a critical skill for all security leaders. Cameras, connected sensors, and video management software (VMS) can present attractive targets for malicious actors, thanks to the data collected by them. This data can be used for blackmail or to gather confidential information. Hackers can sell footage of your building layout and staffing levels at different times of the day to criminals, for example.

IP cameras can also be used as gateway devices for larger attacks, including global distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks that use connected cameras and other devices to send a flood of traffic to targeted websites and other infrastructure.

When it comes to protecting businesses, no two systems will be the same. The protections for a school will be very different to that of a data centre or solar farm. The first step in protecting your organisation and its surveillance systems, therefore, is understanding what needs to be protected, how, and from whom. Plus the potential damage that can occur when (not if) an attack happens.

The NIS2 Directive

Protecting your camera and video systems is about to become even more important due to the incoming NIS2 Directive, a Europe-wide legislation that aims to boost the overall level of cybersecurity in network and information systems. Any surveillance installation that falls within targeted “essential” industries will be impacted by this (these include the energy sector, transport, banking, public administration, and digital infrastructures).

Under NIS2, users are required not only to assess their own systems, but also conduct a comprehensive risk assessment to ensure their entire supply chain is compliant. In today’s interconnected systems, achieving compliance across the supply chain can be challenging.

By way of an example, the Log4j vulnerability recently affected millions of computers across the world, and highlights the direct impact on systems utilising this open-source logging library as a small part of their software suite. It’s notable that a few software manufacturers, including Milestone Systems, which prioritize secure design and avoid any use of open source, remained unaffected.

The NIS2 Directive recognises that physical security threats pose a significant risk to organisations with digital operations. Installing cameras and other systems to control access to digital assets like server rooms and data centres is vital. Such organisations will need to take active, ongoing, steps to ensure their video network’s security is as robust as possible.

The importance of physical security

One unique aspect of video networks is how many devices are located in public, potentially vulnerable, areas. Most organisations need to install cameras to monitor busy areas, entrances and exits to restricted areas, or remote parts of a site. This can have the effect of putting cameras at higher risk; making it easier for attackers to gain access and disconnect devices. This means that multi-layered security to keep devices safe and separate from the wider IT network is essential. It also means that without adequate protection, a video surveillance system can be less secure than a classical IT system. That’s worth bearing in mind when addressing your video and IT network cybersecurity as a whole.

Everyone’s responsibility

The NIS2 Directive emphasises that IT and security work together to build a robust cybersecurity strategy. Your IT team will need to be closely involved when implementing your video cybersecurity strategy. They will work with you on some of the foundational elements of protecting your VMS and connected devices, because of their experience in areas like virtual private network (VPNs) and virtual local area networks (VLANs).

Knowing who takes care of what, can help you to assign accountability for things like upgrades, auditing, and penetration testing. Sometimes an external party, like a manufacturer or installer, is responsible for some aspects of your cybersecurity. Therefore, when starting your cybersecurity strategy, you’ll need to check:

  1. Assess the nature of the business – and its goals.
  2. Determine the local rules and regulations.
  3. Confirm who is responsible for maintaining your system.
  4. Ask who monitors your system. Unusual traffic or alerts of technical errors can be an indication of a cyber-attack.
  5. Be clear about who has access to your video and computer network. Is the level of access appropriate to their needs? Does an operator have too high a level of access, or does someone who has left your organisation still have login credentials?

Speaking of access, you’ll also need to consider physical elements like who has access to a VMS server room. Alarms and access control measures can help to prevent unauthorised individuals from getting into sensitive areas where your video data is located.

Consider the human element

It’s worth considering your overall training program, as the human factor can be a significant weakness in your cybersecurity — accounting for between 88 to 95% of data breaches, according to a joint study by Stanford University Professor Jeff Hancock and security firm Tessian. Even something as simple as re-using a personal password to log into a VMS account, or falling for social engineering attacks (like an ‘urgent’ email from a manager requesting account details) can undermine every technical cybersecurity feature you implement.

Hence why regular training for your security team is important, as it can keep them updated on the latest threats and new ways to protect themselves and your system from harm. User control can also assist here, with admin and data access rights only given to those who require it. Assigning different VMS user credentials will (hopefully) prevent password sharing and allows you to remove a user’s access when they leave your company.

Foundational cybersecurity measures

Alongside this, there are some basic foundations that you can ensure you’re following to make your video system less attractive to attackers. These include updating your cameras’ firmware and VMS device drivers to the newest versions. Updates are typically made on an ongoing basis, so make sure your camera manufacturer issues regular security updates that include vulnerability patching and additional protections against new threats. Much like how keeping your smartphone or laptop updated reduces the risk of a hack, staying up to date with your VMS and camera updates will make them less attractive to hackers.

Disabling your cameras’ built-in admin account, or changing the default password is one of the first things to do when installing a new device. Then you can ensure your cameras are only supporting HTTPS (the secure version of HTTP).

To ensure the best protection, your chosen password should be a combination of lowercase and uppercase letters as well as special characters and numbers. They should contain no easily guessable words or phrases – using the word ‘password’ is an absolute no! Passwords also shouldn’t contain any information that identifies a user, or that a hacker could gain off of their public profiles and social media. As importantly, VMS accounts shouldn’t be shared by multiple users.

Keep your networks separate

Generally speaking, it’s a good idea to keep your video network separate from your wider IT network. You can do this through VPNs (which is essential if you have people accessing your systems remotely, outside of your local network), and through VLANs that keep your video system partitioned and isolated from your other computer systems. If your cameras or VMS are compromised, for example by someone accessing a device located on the street or from an operator unwittingly using a USB with malware on it, a hacker cannot use your video system to access more of your organisation’s data. It serves to limit the damage.

The importance of multi-layered security

A widescale breach in 2021 offers a hard lesson in what can potentially go wrong when you fail to secure your camera systems effectively. A cyber-attack on a system provider in the USA exposed video recordings from 150,000 cameras, but also the sensitive financial information of high-profile customers. Hackers gained access to the provider’s systems using a username and password that was exposed in the public domain. This illustrates the importance of good password habits (regular password changes, using hard-to-guess passwords, and training people not to share their passwords with others).

Over 100 employees had ‘super admin’ privileges in the provider’s system, which gave access to footage from thousands of customer cameras, unknown to them. Setting the right access level for each user, ensures that the risk and potential spread of a hack is limited. Put another way, the more admins you have, the more targets there are for hackers to exploit.

Finally, alongside camera footage, hackers could also access sensitive financial and customer information through the breach. Separating your video network from your IT network limits how far a hacker can go if they do access your system. It prevents them from accessing your business’ financial and product data, operations, and other sensitive systems.

Cybersecurity is continuous

With all that said, every system will have vulnerability and the cybersecurity space is constantly evolving. Being aware, in control, and responsible when using video will go a long way in protecting your organisation.

To help you on your journey towards a cybersecure video network, Milestone Systems is hosting a series of cybersecurity webinars. Whether you are starting out on cybersecurity or are looking at building on existing cyber measures, these webinars and events will help you build resilience in your video system. More details of these webinars, including the first webinar on the foundational elements of a video cybersecurity strategy, can be found here: t.ly/nuvno.

Learn what Milestone can do for your organization. Our video management software (VMS) can be customized to meet your every need. From keeping people and property safe to operating businesses more efficiently. We invite you to experience the power and functionality of Milestone’s VMS software through the exclusive Demo Trail, providing a hands-on experience with our state-of-the-art video management solutions.

About Milestone Systems

Milestone Systems is a leading provider of data-driven video technology software in and beyond security that helps the world see how to ensure safety, protect assets, and increase business efficiency. Milestone enables an open platform community that drives collaboration and innovation in the development and use of network video technology, with reliable and scalable solutions that are proven in more than 500,000 customer sites worldwide. Founded in 1998, Milestone is a stand-alone company in the Canon Group. For more information visit: www.milestonesys.com. For news and other press releases, visit our Newsroom.

 

Aikom: Corporate Security: Business Needs and Innovative Solutions

In increasingly complex and dynamic business environments, security is a top priority. Motorola Solutions conducted an in-depth survey that provides a detailed overview of the security needs of enterprises, collected in the Security in Enterprises Report 2023. This report provides essential guidance for companies in every industry, highlighting innovative solutions and advanced technologies to address current challenges.

The enterprise environment is diverse and complex, with different industries facing specific challenges. However, the need for integrated communication technology is universal. Motorola Solutions interviewed over 370 representatives of organizations in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, covering areas such as health, retail, hospitality, manufacturing, transportation, and logistics.

Instant communication is key to business security

The report reveals that instant communication is critical, with 70% of respondents considering it the most important feature. Protecting workers and visitors with security features is just as crucial. The main priorities include: automatic alerts to prevent potential accidents, efficient management of emergencies, and the ability to reach workers anywhere, both on site and off site, with a single communication system.

The survey highlighted significant challenges for company voice and video communication systems, including the need to maintain reliable coverage on large sites, battery life (42%) and audio quality (36%). In this regard, digital two-way radios and devices are emerging as a preferred choice, offering superior audio quality, extended coverage and improved battery life.

Growing video security

29% of respondents feel insecure about the workplace, but 30% of the companies and factories involved in the survey do not yet have adequate safety tools. If video security is adopted by 34% of the participants, the future seems oriented to the widespread use of body cams, with 30% willing to invest in this technology in the next five years.

Motorola Solutions presents advanced solutions to address these challenges. The MOTOTRBO Ion is a hybrid device that combines bidirectional radio and smartphone functions with barcode reading offering reliability, endurance and advanced features. The MOTOTRBO R7 and WAVE PTX provide crystal clear communications and connectivity over large areas, while the VB400 body cam is an essential resource for collecting evidence.

To underline the interoperability of the Motorola Solutions devices just mentioned with video surveillance systems, making the management of the entire safety & security ecosystem in the company fluid and centralized.

The report

Motorola Solutions’ 2023 Enterprise Safety Report is an in-depth analysis of the current needs of enterprises to ensure the safety of workers, customers and business resources. Reading the document not only provides a unique opportunity to understand current challenges but also provides advanced solutions that are redefining the concept of business security. Download now the Security in Enterprises Report 2023 and get ready for a safer and more productive future!

Contact Aikom International for the ideal solution

To implement these cutting-edge technologies in your organization, contact Aikom International, the distributor specializing in connectivity, professional radio communications and video surveillance solutions. Visit www.aikominternational.com for further information and transform your company’s security with the latest technological innovations

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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.