CNI Security Group announces second CNI Security Technology Day

Building on its highly successful previous event, the CNI Security Group will be hosting another CNI Security Technology Day aboard the former WW2 Royal Navy escort ship HQS Wellington, which is located on the River Thames at London’s Victoria Embankment.  

The free-to-attend CNI Security Group event is being held on Wednesday 29 June from 9.30 am until 4.00 pm and will focus on fully integrated, secure and future-proofed ‘Best of Breed’, end-to-end solutions for high-security sectors/environments.

Showcasing the latest and upcoming Critical National Infrastructure (CNI)/Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI) approved security technologies, the CNI Security Group event will be underpinned by 360 Vision Technology, barox, Harper Chalice, Identiv and ISM.

At the event, these leading manufacturers in the CNI sector will reveal their latest innovations in high-performance technology, including surveillance cameras, analytics, access control solutions, perimeter intrusion detection systems, industrial Ethernet switches and Physical Security Information Management software, including a variety of systems which are the only CPNI approved solutions in their class.

A number of informative and educational technology seminars covering a variety of developments in CNI technologies will run throughout the one-day event and impart invaluable security technology information for high-security/CNI end users, consultants and system designers, not to mention anyone responsible for the safety and security of utilities sites, power plants, prisons, nuclear locations, airports, stadiums and arenas.

Global security  

The CNI Security Group’s guest keynote speaker for the event will be security and intelligence specialist Philip Ingram MBE. In his address, Ingram will present on ‘The Resetting of Global Security’, revealing why it’s so important for businesses to understand the geopolitical context and inter-relationship regarding global threats, trends and risks. Included in the free-to-attend event itinerary will also be a guided tour of the HQS Wellington ship and luncheon.

“Following the success of the last ‘full house’ CNI Security Technology Day, we are delighted to once again be engaging face-to-face with customers at this CNI Security Group event,” enthused Sara Fisher, 360 Vision Technology’s sales director. “Visitors to the event will be able to view live displays of the latest integrated CNI security technologies. To help maximise delegates’ understanding of the latest technology solutions available, there will be a series of technology seminars and Q&A sessions.”

*Access the full agenda and register for the free-of-charge CNI Security Technology event online at https://www.360visiontechnology.com/cni-security-technology-day/  

**Places are strictly limited. Tickets will be allocated on a ‘first come, first served’ basis

IDIS marks 25th Anniversary by producing ‘tech’ innovations film

Surveillance solutions developer IDIS has marked its 25^th Anniversary (and cementing its position as Korea’s foremost in-country video manufacturer) by producing a celebratory ‘tech’ video and running a prize draw. The company also plans on making more donations to charities and other good causes, orchestrating a series of innovative ‘tech’ launches and introducing a Premier Partner Programme for systems integrators and distributors.

The celebrations kick-off this month with the release of the video, which commemorates a quarter of a century of innovations that have helped to improve lives for people and communities around the world, while at the same time delivering security and efficiency benefits for organisations operating across and within multiple sectors. The film also looks ahead towards future possibilities.

The video is running on the IDIS YouTube channel as well as on the company’s Facebook and LinkedIn pages, giving followers the opportunity to participate in the celebrations and offering the chance to win Amazon vouchers.

End-to-end solutions

Since 1997, IDIS has built a reputation for high-quality, end-to-end solutions and achieved consistent year-on-year growth through a strategy of close collaboration and mutual loyalty with a global network of partners.

IDIS now operates across 50 countries, with more than two million recorders and over 17 million cameras installed, and supports its end users with reliable single-source, true ‘plug-and-play’ ‘tech’. Through the years, the business has won the trust of distributors, system integrators and end user customers due to the delivery of a responsive personal service spanning everything from proof-of-concept demonstrations through to long-term customer support.

Since 2019, IDIS has also been praised for its ‘Create a Better World’ campaign, which has seen video equipment donations made to community groups, social welfare projects and charities. One of the latest good causes set to benefit is the Kurnell, the NSW Men’s Shed depression support-focused organisation, whose premises will now be protected by an end-to-end IDIS video solution supplied by distributor Hills Limited as it builds back from a break-in and the theft of equipment.

This year, IDIS has also donated Apple Watches to individuals for their outstanding actions during the pandemic, including those who administered vaccines, delivered COVID test kits to peoples’ houses and took meals to those who were sick or isolated.

Technology launches

Technology launches unveiled during this 25^th Anniversary year will include the latest Artificial Intelligence (AI) Retail Box release, which gives retailers all the benefits of AI-powered business and customer intelligence without the usual price tag, easy and affordable options for public display and spot monitoring, new parking management solutions and a range of edge AI cameras.

“As we mark 25 years of success,” commented Joon Jun, president of the Global Business Division at IDIS, “the whole IDIS family is coming together to celebrate and look forward to an even brighter future. We all know that imagining, designing and manufacturing the best solutions is a shared endeavour that involves many committed people working in partnership. All of us here at IDIS are looking forward to the next 25 years of delivering innovations and earning the trust of those whom we help to protect.”

*More information on IDIS’ solutions is available online at www.idisglobal.com

Mul-T-Lock completes security upgrade project at Bristol University

As part of an ongoing complete security upgrade throughout the campus, Bristol University has benefited from Mul-T-lock’s MTL600 master key suites, designed and installed by Guardian Security Systems.

Bristol University is one of the most popular and successful universities in the UK and currently ranked 62nd in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2022.

Mul-T-Lock has worked closely with Guardian Security Systems, supplying high-security MTL600 suites to over 20 buildings across the university campus, all of them operated on a master key suite basis.

Antony Blundal, security services manager (systems) at Bristol University, explained: “University premises present a number of security challenges due to the open nature of the campus sites. There are different access requirements across all the facilities to consider. Working closely with Guardian Security Systems and Mul-T-Lock, we developed a specification using MTL600, which is flexible and remains cost-effective. The master key operation is invaluable to keep maintenance to a minimum, while the patent protection allows us better control of how many key copies are in existence.”

Patent protected until 2032, MTL600 presents a superior locking solution, with a combination of several technological elements involved to create strong resistance against different types of lock manipulation.

The high-security solution is available in various formats to allow Guardian Security Systems to create master keying systems with different locking products across campus, including a wide range of cylinders, padlocks and locks, in turn delivering the necessary protection and maximum convenience.

Precision engineering

Ken Ham of Guardian Security Systems commented: “MTL600 uses the latest design technology and highly automated production techniques to deliver precision engineering with unparalleled performance. This is why it was particularly suitable for Bristol University, who we worked with to design, build and maintain the master key suites across campus to ensure high-quality security, while also providing necessary access for staff and students.”

Ian Thresher, regional sales manager at Mul-T-Lock, responded: “The changing nature of the university ‘ecosystem’ in the UK, with significant developments such as rising tuition fees, has many implications, among them consequences for the safety and security of students, staff and the public.”

Thresher continued: “The legal and reputational issues arising from any failure to protect and secure people, physical assets and information data are also increasingly severe. Hence, it’s integral for companies such as Mul-T-Lock and Guardian Security Systems to work closely with universities in order to understand bespoke security requirements and install the best solutions.”

*For more information on Mul-T-Lock’s range of patented master key suites visit www.mul-t-lock.co.uk

NSI unveils “extensive programme” for IFSEC and FIREX International 2022

The National Security Inspectorate (NSI) has announced an extensive programme of activity at IFSEC and FIREX International to ensure that installers/integrators and those interested in gaining third party certification have plenty of reasons to attend and visit Stand IF4050 at London’s ExCeL.

The UKAS-accredited certification body for the security and fire safety sectors will once again have a significant presence at IFSEC International and is encouraging those attending to take full advantage of the expertise on offer to visitors.

On the first two days of IFSEC International (ie 17 and 18 May) at 2.00 pm, the NSI will host an informal 30-minute session on-stand for security system and/or fire detection and alarm installers interested in becoming NSI approved such that they can find out about the application process.

Max Linnemann, the NSI’s director of certification services, will give an insight into key things you need to know when you apply, the due diligence process and eligibility criteria and how to ensure your application progresses as quickly as possible by avoiding the common mistakes.

Installers are invited to attend these sessions. No pre-booking is required.

‘Boardroom Talks’

For companies already holding approval with the Inspectorate, the NSI is joining forces with IFSEC International to host ‘Boardroom Talks’, an hour-long session taking place on Tuesday 17May at 11.30 am. This runs on the South Gallery in Room S13. Refreshments and luncheon is being provided for attendees. With an agenda curated specifically for senior leaders, the session will cover two specific topical business issues:

Changes in Procurement Rules, Outsourcing Services and Social Value

(Presenter: Jo Kenny, commercial lead at the Crown Commercial Service)

Meet the Sustainability Challenge: How to Embed Social Value and Net Zero

(Presenter: Sunil Shah, founder of Acclaro Advisory)

NSI-approved companies wishing to attend the ‘Boardroom Talks’ are requested to register in advance by sending an e-mail to marketing@nsi.org.uk Places will be confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis.

FIREX International 2022

Visitors attending FIREX International on Wednesday 18May are invited to join John Davidson, the NSI’s approval schemes manager (systems), who will present on the subject of ‘Fire Safety in Your Building: The Most Common and Serious Issues Facing Fire Risk Assessors’. This conference session runs at 11.15 am in the Fire Protection Association’s InfoZone Theatre.

The highly-respected Engineers of Tomorrow Competition for security and fire installer apprentices will once again be a key feature at this year’s event. Now part of WorldSkills (with the final taking place in November), apprentices will compete to demonstrate their technical abilities and understanding in front of their peers and industry colleagues in order to secure a place in the final.

NSI auditors will again be part of the adjudicating team, providing independent appraisal of those competing. The NSI encourages all visitors to ExCeL to support the industry’s future engineers and watch them in action.

‘Cash’, the NSI’s very much loved Turkmenian Eagle Owl, will be at IFSEC on Tuesday 17and Wednesday 18May. The NSI is encouraging visitors to ‘Swoop in for a Snap’ with ‘Cash’. Those who share their photos on social media and tag the NSI on Twitter or LinkedIn will receive a free gift on the day.

Compelling programme

Richard Jenkins, CEO at the NSI, stated: “IFSEC’s presence in the industry calendar is always greatly anticipated. Despite the pandemic forcing a break since the last in-person IFSEC back in 2019, we’re delighted to see the show return with such a compelling programme that brings the industry together.”

Jenkins added: “We look forward to welcoming industry colleagues old and new to our stand and to partnering with IFSEC in the ‘Boardroom Talks’, which we are jointly hosting for NSI approved companies.”

Visitors attending IFSEC International are invited to a Reunion Drinks Party taking place at Indigo at The 02 from 6.30 pm on Tuesday 17May. Complimentary drinks will be served on entry. Access is via the Emirates Air Line cable car.

*Register here to attend IFSEC International and its co-located events FIREX International, Safety & Health Expo, The Facilities Show and Intelligent Building Europe

Evolution targets further growth in Netherlands and across Europe

Evolution, the integrated fire and security systems business, has appointed Richard de Graaf as its new country manager in the Netherlands to further service and grow increasing business opportunities in that nation and, indeed, across Europe.

In this newly created role, de Graaf will be responsible for leading Evolution’s sales and growth strategy in the region with a particular focus on the Data Centre sector, as well as building and developing relationships with local service providers and suppliers.

Richard de Graaf

Joining Evolution with a wealth of experience in business development and commercial management including almost 20 years in the security industry, de Graaf is keen to build on the company’s strong presence in the Netherlands and across Europe.

In conversation with Security Matters, de Graaf stated: “Evolution has earned its reputation as one of the leading integrators, and I’m very much looking forward to building on this success by continuing to service and support new and existing customers in the Netherlands and throughout Europe.”

Given the ongoing skills shortage within the security industry, one of de Graaf’s immediate priorities is to focus on attracting and developing new talent that will help to grow the team.

“As a business,” continued de Graaf, “Evolution places great emphasis on its people. We are, of course, looking to merge the group culture here in the Netherlands. We want to build our team by adding talented and ambitious individuals. With this in mind, we’re already planning to develop and deliver a highly focused and comprehensive training and development programme.”

Richard Lambert, managing director of Evolution, stated: “Richard has vast experience of working in the security industry, while his knowledge of the region will prove invaluable for us. I’m pleased to welcome Richard to the team and look forward to working closely with him to continue the success and growth of the business right across Europe.”

Evolution’s Netherlands office

De Graaf’s appointment follows on from Evolution’s purchase of a new office building in the Netherlands back in January. Situated around 15 miles from Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport, the location delivers a new account management, service and support base in the country and beyond for both new and existing customers.

Abloy UK delivers hybrid Incedo training course for Advanced Overwatch

Abloy UK has created a new hybrid style of training that blends in-person seminars with online courses in order to help organisations learn more about its Incedo ecosystem. Coleraine-based Advanced Overwatch, the installer of a range of security systems, wanted to understand more about Abloy’s Incedo solution and, as such, has now become the first organisation to receive the new style of training.

Incedo is a flexible security ecosystem that combines ASSA ABLOY’s range of wireless locks and other access hardware with flexible software, multiple management options and the ability to scale on demand in any direction.

Incedo connects security software and hardware within a single, seamless platform with the ability to have complete remote control of a premises and manage the ever-changing movement of people across multiple sites. Incedo Mobile Keys also offer secure mobile access, simplified management and user convenience and efficiency.

Subjects covered

The training covers topics such as how Incedo products meet the increasing demands of the market and the benefits of access control, what the most common hardware components are in the Incedo range and also what the system architecture looks like.

Delegates also learn how to integrate Abloy’s wireless access control range, how to configure and commission using Incedo Lite software and how Abloy can support companies when it comes to winning more business.

Hands-on configuration

Hands-on configuration was delivered at the Advanced Overwatch offices by Derek White, access control sales manager at Abloy UK, to the company’s access control engineering team.

Expert technical support was provided by Ian Miller (the manager of Abloy’s new Digital Access Solutions Academy) and David Thompson via video link from Abloy’s head office at Willenhall.

Patrick Logue, managing director at Advanced Overwatch, said: “As a company that lives and breathes compliance, we specify and install Abloy solutions to deliver and exceed client expectations. Incedo training is the latest in a series of partner programmes undertaken with Abloy. The Incedo training course was exceptional. The hybrid blend of in-person and online training was an optimal mix.”

Baba Devani appointed CEO at The SmartWater Group

Risk management and crime deterrent solutions developer The SmartWater Group has announced the appointment of Baba Devani as CEO. Devani becomes the first externally appointed CEO in The SmartWater Group’s near 30-year history.

The SmartWater Group comprises a broad portfolio of integrated security solutions that enable customers to predict, prevent and detect criminal activities. In addition to the traceable forensic marking liquid for which the company first became known, its capabilities span real-time crime analysis, rapidly deployable video surveillance and solutions for access control and intruder detection.

With operations in the UK and Europe, the Group services hundreds of clients in sectors spanning critical infrastructure, construction, retail, leisure and hospitality, transportation and industry.

Backed by The SmartWater Group’s majority shareholder Freshstream and a refreshed senior leadership team, Devani will be responsible for driving the continued strategic growth and geographical expansion of the business.

Baba Devani

Critical business services

Previously the CEO of Survitec Marine, a global leader in critical safety equipment, Devani brings more than 25 years’ experience in critical business services and has held leadership positions at organisations including Berendsen, British Airways and Babcock International.

Devani commented: “I was immediately drawn to The SmartWater Group because of its excellent reputation and the unparalleled levels of knowledge and customer focus that exist within the business. I’m passionate about leading a business whose growth is achieved through providing peace of mind to our customers and communities.”

Andrew Tyler, chairman of The SmartWater Group, added: “We’re very much looking forward to seeing how Baba seizes upon the opportunities that lie ahead to expand our geographic reach, further develop our offer and serve our customers even better and faster.”

Comelit-PAC appoints Peter Kernachan in technical trainer’s role

Comelit-PAC has appointed Peter Kernachan to champion training in its Manchester office, facilitating new opportunities for customers to build on their knowledge of Comelit-PAC products and services.

Kernachan is evolving his role in the team at what is an exciting time for Comelit-PAC, which now stands as an all-encompassing provider of door entry, IP access control, CCTV and compliant fire safety systems.

Importantly, Kernachan has built up a significant product knowledge since joining the PAC company in 2013 after having worked for 29 years in the electronics servicing industry. He can now apply his knowledge to Comelit-PAC and the development of new training opportunities.

Peter Kernachan

Investment in the future

Kernachan informed Security Matters: “Training is an investment in the future of not only our own business, but also those of our customers. As a company, Comelit-PAC is committed to establishing a way forward and forming partnerships, while also recognising the time pressures faced in today’s market.  It will be my duty to be involved in the opportunity to create a portfolio of courses designed to support growth.”

Further, Kernachan observed: “Each of our products and services offers unique features and possibilities for different market sectors. My role is designed to ensure courses can be developed and tailored to suit different requirements dependent on projects. It’s also about making sure that our sales and technical team members are ready to offer advice for every stage of a works schedule.”

Step forward

Steve Riley, division director at Comelit-PAC, noted: “I’m pleased to see Peter’s role evolve to support our training opportunities. The skills acquired from his previous position within the company will allow him to curate courses that are individually designed to support and meet the needs of our customers, both new and existing.”

Riley concluded: “This is yet another step forward in Comelit-PAC’s continuous development as a company. Our objective is to be ‘With you always’ for our customers. I’m sure Peter will make a significant contribution to our future business development.”

*For more information on Comelit-PAC and its product range visit: www.comelitgroup.com

FCA review finds weaknesses in challenger banks’ financial crime controls

A recent review conducted by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has found that some challenger banks have significant weaknesses within their financial crime controls and need to improve how they assess financial crime risk.

The review, which was conducted during 2021, has revealed that, in some instances, challenger banks did not have financial crime risk assessments in place for their customers. It also identifies a rise in the number of Suspicious Activity Reports reported by challenger banks, in turn raising concerns about the adequacy of these banks’ checks when taking on new customers.

The review focused on challenger banks that were relatively new to the market and offered a quick and easy application process. This included six challenger retail banks, which primarily consist of digital banks, and covered over eight million customers.

The review did find some evidence of good practice, for example when it comes to the innovative use of technology to identify and verify customers at speed.

Financial crime controls need to be ramped up

Cyber crime on the rise

Sridhar Iyengar, managing director at Zoho Europe, commented: “Today, cyber crime and fraudulent activity is rapidly on the rise with more sophisticated episodes taking place all over the world. It’s no surprise that challenger banks are being impacted, but being able to verify customers at speed is no use if suspicious activity is being missed. As it stands, money launderers are still able to evade detection by capitalising on the shortfalls within a banks’ technological infrastructure.”

Iyengar continued: “There are many new features that can help make systems more secure or raise red flags early. Companies including banks can now benefit from the likes of Artificial Intelligence-based systems to help identify potential fraudulent activities. Immediate action can be taken and customers will remain sheltered from risk.”

Further, Iyengar stated: “In highly competitive markets such as banking, having modern IT systems in place can make a real difference in terms of providing business value and positively impact customer trust and the customer experience as a whole. For market challengers, this is even more important.”

The growing cyber risk, coupled with the growth of hybrid working, which can potentially add further security risks, makes it imperative for all businesses to assess their current IT systems.

Iyengar concluded: “Keeping operations secure, efficient and compliant with regulations is a different endeavour to what it was just a few years ago, and demands that all organisations modernise their IT systems such that the latter are fit for purpose in the post-COVID business landscape.”

Three-year strategy

Sarah Pritchard, executive director for markets at the FCA, said: “Our three-year strategy highlights our commitment to reducing and preventing financial crime. This is important in terms of creating confidence for consumers and market participants in financial services and in demonstrating that the UK is a safe place in which to do business.”

Pritchard concluded: “Challenger banks are an important part of the UK’s retail banking offer. However, there cannot be a trade-off between quick and easy account opening and robust financial crime controls. Challenger banks should consider the findings of this review and continue to enhance their own financial crime systems in order to prevent harm being done by criminals.”

Mul-T-Lock’s access control solution scores at Headingley Stadium

Mul-T-Lock’s high-security MTL500 patented cylinder system has been installed by MB Locks across hospitality suites and stands at Headingley Stadium as part of Yorkshire County Cricket Club’s investment programme designed to achieve strict Test Match cricket and Super League rugby dual criteria.

Headingley Stadium is a double-faced sports stadium that works seamlessly for both Yorkshire County Cricket Club and the rugby league club Leeds Rhinos. 

The jointly-owned stadium is undergoing a significant £50 million investment programme over a 20-year period, which itself involves architects and designers co-ordinating over security requirements at the location.

From the initial design process, Mul-T-Lock has worked in partnership with EM-B – part of the MB Group – in the role of technical design consultant for door hardware, checking on compliance across the premises with a keen focus on hospitality and stand security in order to bring the project together.

© Matthew Merrick Photography

To date, over 250 MTL500 cylinders have been installed on a master key suite, providing high-security protection and flexibility to accommodate the different access control requirements across the stadium complex.

Meeting the standards

Rob Oates, commercial director at Headingley Stadium, explained: “We continue to invest a significant amount of money to ensure that Headingley Stadium meets the strict criteria for both Test Match cricket and Super League rugby. We need to ensure every level of detail is commissioned to be as secure as possible both now and into the future, with no compromise when it comes to aesthetics and finishing styles.”

Oates continued: “Together with Mul-T-Lock, MB Locks demonstrated the advantages of MTL500. I’m particularly impressed with the flexibility of the master key system and its ability to incorporate all of our key access requirements. The MTL500 master key suite is now installed in the stadium’s hospitality areas and stands. Pleasingly, there has been minimal disruption to the dual ground operations.”

Mul-T-Lock’s MTL500 is the first cylinder in the UK to be supported by a key authorisation magnetic strip card. This card must be presented to a registered MTL500 locksmith before any additional keys can be supplied to ensure very tight control when it comes to key duplication.

Unique challenge

Philip Goldberg, managing director of MB Locks, informed Security Matters: “Headingley Stadium presents something of a unique challenge, as both the Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club and Yorkshire County Cricket Club have very different needs and requirements for the project in terms of security, accessibility and aesthetics. We worked on both sides of the stand including boxes, changing rooms, hospitality areas and concourses.”

Goldberg continued: “The benefit of working with Mul-T-Lock is our long-standing relationship, meaning that the specification could be quickly translated by the technical and sales team to design a master key suite, using MTL500 as a protective opportunity to meet the requirements. This solution can provide the ultimate in security, delivering a high-quality access control system with a huge number of usable combinations.”

Lee Mitchell, Mul-T-Lock’s regional sales manager, stated: “The specification for Headingley Stadium, and notably so for the hospitality areas, was exceptionally high. There had to be very high levels of security and access control for corporate and players’ entrances.”

Mitchell added: “Mul-T-Lock worked with EM-B Locks to deliver a tailor-made solution that could accommodate the different access requirements, all without compromising on aesthetics or security. The solution operates from the high-protection MTL500 master key system to offer strict levels of patent protection throughout the dual stadium premises.”