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Innovation has peaked in the wake of the pandemic, necessitating the need for organizations to adopt these advancements if they want to stay ahead of the curve. One of the many segments that have witnessed a change is physical security.
The rise of AI and data analytics, along with the pervasiveness of the internet, has resulted in new trends in physical security. Likewise, the pandemic has changed how we approach security, emphasizing hygiene and contactless solutions.
Here's an overview of the seven top emerging trends in physical security.
Top 7 Trends in Physical Security
It shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone that the world is moving towards more digital solutions. The same is true for physical security, which is evolving to take advantage of new technologies, particularly in data analytics and artificial intelligence.
Let's take a look at some of the emerging physical security trends.
Thermal Cameras
Thermal Scanning is a type of technology used to detect the infrared energy emitted by an object and create a detailed thermal image. In terms of physical security, this can detect unusual heat signatures indicating a fire or even a person hiding behind a wall.
The technology is becoming increasingly prevalent as it can be used in various settings, from airports to office buildings.
For instance, airports can use thermal scanning to detect weapons or explosives hidden under clothing. Meanwhile, office buildings can use it to monitor the temperature of employees and customers to ensure they are not sick.
Biometric Authentication
Another emerging trend in physical security is the use of biometric authentication. Simply put, it's the process of verifying a person's identity by analyzing their physical or behavioral characteristics. Examples of biometric identifiers include fingerprints, iris scans, and facial recognition.
One advantage of biometric authentication is that it is much more difficult to spoof than other forms of identification such as passwords or PINs because biometric data is unique to each individual and much more difficult to copy or fake.
In addition, biometric authentication can be used in conjunction with other forms of identification, such as ID cards or security tokens, to provide an additional layer of security. It's likely that businesses adopting this technology will see a decrease in physical security incidents.
AI Video Analytics
Statistics show an increase in crime worldwide, mainly due to the economic decline that came as an aftereffect of the pandemic. Thus, organizations will increase their reliance on AI (artificial intelligence) video analytics to amp up their physical security.
For one, AI video analytics can help identify potential security threats, such as a person loitering in a restricted area or an object left behind in a public space. In addition, AI video analytics can be used to track the movement of people and things, which can help investigate crimes.
Furthermore, AI video analytics can generate real-time alerts, which can help security personnel respond quickly to potential threats. The most significant benefit of AI video analytics is that it can help reduce false alarms, which often plague traditional security systems.
Likewise, AI threat detection tools are an excellent way for businesses to keep their facilities secure. AI threat detection tools use artificial intelligence algorithms to analyze video footage and identify potential security threats.
They can be used to monitor a wide variety of security risks, including intrusions, fires, and environmental hazards.
Security Convergence
Security convergence means the integration of physical security programs and information technology. In other words, it is the communication and collaboration between the two industries to protect people, property, and information.
The goal of security convergence is to strengthen security overall by using each industry's strengths. Considering the current need for more comprehensive security programs, convergence between the IT and physical security industries is essential.
While the concept of security convergence is not new, it has become increasingly important in recent years. The rise of digital technologies and the internet of things has made it easier for criminals to commit cyber crimes.
At the same time, traditional crimes such as theft and vandalism are still a significant concern. As a result, security programs must be able to address both physical and cyber threats.
The best way to do this is by integrating the strengths of both industries. For example, physical security can provide a deterring presence that can make it harder for criminals to commit crimes.
On the other hand, IT security can help identify and track criminals. By converging the two industries, it is possible to create a more comprehensive security program to better protect everyone.
An excellent example of such a solution is Keer. Adding a cyber dimension to your organization’s physical security, Keer ensures that your Access Control assets and alarm systems have firewall-like capabilities for top-notch security. Request a demo to learn more.
IoT in Physical Security
Experts forecast the Internet of Things (IoT) market to grow to $1.6 trillion by 2025, making it one of the most disruptive technologies in recent years. IoT technology is being adopted across industries at an unprecedented rate, and physical security is no exception.
But how exactly can IoT be used in physical security? For one, IoT devices can be used to create a "smart" security system that can automatically detect and respond to security threats.
For example, by installing sensors and cameras connected to the internet, a security system can be created that can automatically detect and respond to a break-in attempt.
Additionally, businesses can use IoT devices to monitor temperature, humidity, and air quality to ensure that their premises are safe and secure. IoT devices can also help create a virtual fence around a property, triggering an alarm if someone tries to enter the premises.
A ''virtual fence'' is a perimeter created by connecting a series of sensors and cameras to the internet. The sensors and cameras can detect movement, and an alarm will be triggered if someone tries to enter the premises.
The most exciting notion about smart technology is its ability to make independent decisions about how to respond to a security threat.
For example, if a sensor detects that a door has been opened, it can automatically turn on the lights and send an alert to the security system.
Similarly, if a camera detects someone climbing over a fence, it can automatically activate the alarm system. The possibilities are endless.
As the technology continues to evolve, so will the ways in which it can be used to improve physical security.
Hybrid Cloud Solution Transitioning
The IT services spending on cloud computing is expected to reach $1.3 trillion in 2022. So, it shouldn't be a shocker that cloud solutions are also making their way into physical security.
More and more companies are adopting hybrid cloud solutions, a blend of on-premise and cloud-based security systems. The appeal of these kinds of systems is that they can be tailored to each company's needs.
For example, if a company's physical security needs revolve around access control and video surveillance, a hybrid system can be designed with those two needs in mind. The great thing about hybrid systems is that they can be transitioned to over time.
So, if a company currently uses an on-premise security system but wants to move to the cloud, it can do so gradually by adding cloud-based components to its existing system.
The transition can happen at a pace that makes sense for the company, and it doesn't have to be an all-or-nothing proposition.
Data Analytics
The final emerging trend in physical security is the reliance on data analytics. Businesses will use data analytics for the following, if not more, purposes:
Detecting Anomalies: When it comes to physical security, businesses will use data analytics to detect anomalies. The most common method to do this is through video surveillance footage. Video footage can be analyzed for loitering, crowd formation, and vehicle movement.
Predicting Incidents: Besides detecting anomalies, businesses can also use data analytics to predict when and where an incident will occur. Data analytics can help business owners see patterns and trends by analyzing past incidents. They can then use this information to deploy security measures accordingly.
Improving Response Times: Data analytics can help improve response times in an emergency. Businesses can also use data analytics to create better evacuation plans.
Businesses will likely use a combination of artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics to improve their physical security.
AI can help create predictive models while data analytics detect anomalies. Together, they can provide a comprehensive view of a business's physical security.
Conclusion
Data analytics, IoT, security convergence, and AI video analytics are some of the most notable trends in physical security. These technologies are revolutionizing the security industry and are expected to have a significant impact in the years to come.
With data becoming increasingly accessible, it is essential for security professionals to be aware of these trends and how they can be used to improve their security operations.
At the same time, it is essential to remember that physical security is not just about technology. It is also about people, processes, and policies. By integrating these elements, security professionals can create a more holistic and practical approach to security.