The journey began over 3 years at The Folly in London, where 35 women convened with no particular agenda, just a shared understanding of the value of connection and empowerment in our industry. From that initial meeting, a ripple effect set in motion an inspiring a series of events that deepen bonds, share insights, and a unified commitment to growing the presence and influence of women in security.

The HSBC event was a tremendous success, featuring a lineup of inspirational women in business and security. Each speaker brought a unique perspective, rooted in energy, passion, and confidence. We heard from:

• Emma Kay – Walksafe
• Smita Niranjan – Interr
• Colleen Harris –Portmarnock Group
• Saskia Garner – Suzy Lamplugh Trust
• Sophie Malone – Zinc Systems
• Chantal Anabtawi –Ocular
• Ruth Sharman – Carlisle Support Services
• Sarah Walker – Safer Business Network
• Gaby Price – Women’s Aid Luton 

The event emphasised that feeling safe is a foundation for success and overall well-being. When women feel protected, they are more empowered to lead, innovate, and contribute to their communities. The collective efforts of these trailblazing women are forging a future where security is rooted in purpose, collaboration, and proactive prevention.

Women in security recognise that a safer environment is fundamental to thriving both professionally and personally. With alarming statistics related to gender-based violence and domestic abuse,  women are driven to raise awareness and implement measures that protect everyone. By leveraging technology—such as incident reporting platforms, threat mapping, and data analysis—we aim to prevent harm and ensure safety in workplaces, public spaces, and during travel.

The women of Women in Security Network UK are demonstrating that change is not only necessary but achievable. Our passion and drive to equity and safety are setting a new standard—one where communication, connection, and shared purpose drive meaningful progress. Our aim is a more diverse, inclusive, and secure environment for all.

We are truly grateful to every person who attended this event, and we apologise to the massive waitlist who were unable to participate; however, this marks a positive step in continuing to grow these events and provide more opportunities. 

Who are the key players in shaping this vision? Liz Lloyd, Emma Harris and Sarah Jane Cork, who recognise that women coming together to collaborate, connect and communicate empower and uplift everyone.

The next events are:

• The Christmas Markets, which will provide an opportunity to share the festive season.
• International Women’s Day celebration at The Old Library in Digbeth, Birmingham on the 5th of March, 

More events will be announced on the Women in Security Network LinkedIn page

The post Women in Security Network UK autumn event highlights importance of empowering women appeared first on City Security Magazine.

What are the implications of the move from plastic keycards to phone-based access control systems? Is this just a technological upgrade or a more significant change in how organisations approach security?

The UK security landscape is experiencing a fundamental transformation as organisations increasingly abandon traditional plastic keycards in favour of smartphone-based access control systems.

This shift is particularly evident in the commercial real estate sector, where mobile access control solutions offer greater intelligence, flexibility, and convenience, whilst delivering enhanced security. Rather than simply being a technological upgrade, this represents a strategic evolution in how UK businesses approach security infrastructure.

The security risks with plastic access cards

Traditional plastic access cards present significant security risks that mobile solutions effectively mitigate. Unlike our phones, which have become essential personal items, access cards are frequently treated as disposable afterthoughts – easily lost, forgotten, or carelessly shared with colleagues. Consider the everyday reality: most people instinctively check their smartphone dozens of times daily and feel genuinely anxious when separated from it, yet that same plastic access badge often gets forgotten in yesterday’s jacket pocket or left behind on the kitchen counter.

When physical cards go missing, the security implications extend far beyond inconvenience. Lost credentials create immediate vulnerabilities, requiring emergency lockouts, temporary access arrangements, and urgent replacement procedures. Meanwhile, the missing card could potentially be exploited by unauthorised individuals for days or weeks before the loss is even reported.

The benefits of mobile credentials

Mobile credentials eliminate these risks entirely. When access control is integrated into the device people already guard most carefully – their smartphone – the likelihood of credential loss drops dramatically. The embedded security features within smartphones themselves, such as biometric authentication, encrypted storage, and real-time credential management, provide additional protection layers that plastic cards simply cannot match.

When a mobile device is compromised or lost, administrators can instantly revoke or update credentials remotely through cloud-based platforms. This capability provides immediate response to security incidents, contrasting sharply with the delays inherent in traditional card replacement processes.

The technology operates through two primary communication standards that ensure broad compatibility and security. Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) offers flexible interaction ranges, whilst Near-Field Communication (NFC) provides secure close-proximity authentication similar to contactless payment systems. Both standards support iOS and Android devices, ensuring comprehensive compatibility across diverse organisational environments. Today, most modern systems also support digital wallets, further integrating access control into users’ daily digital routines.

Operational benefits drive adoption

The operational advantages of mobile access extend well beyond security enhancement. Centralised identity management simplifies onboarding procedures and access provisioning, particularly valuable for organisations with multiple locations. Security teams can manage credentials remotely, eliminating physical card distribution logistics and associated costs. Real-time reporting capabilities enable comprehensive monitoring of access activities, providing valuable insights for security audits and compliance requirements. This data-driven approach allows organisations and building managers to analyse occupancy patterns, optimise security protocols, and make informed strategic decisions.

Environmental considerations

With sustainability increasingly influencing UK business decisions, mobile access helps them to significantly reduce their environmental footprint, as it eliminates plastic card production and distribution. This aligns with green certification requirements including LEED and BREEAM, and other environmental standards increasingly valued by UK property owners and tenants. The subscription-based model of mobile credentials, whilst representing a shift from one-time card costs, often proves more cost-effective when considering the total cost of ownership, including card replacement, shipping, and administrative overheads.

Successful mobile access deployment requires careful planning and stakeholder alignment. Unlike traditional access control decisions typically handled by single departments, mobile access necessitates collaboration across IT, security, HR, and facilities management teams.

Organisations must evaluate whether existing access readers support mobile credentials or require upgrades, as some legacy systems may need replacement to accommodate new technologies. Understanding workforce device preferences – whether iOS, Android, or mixed environments – influences implementation strategy and user adoption rates.

Integration requirements present another critical consideration. Seamless integration with existing security systems, HR platforms, and building management systems ensures optimal functionality and user experience. Mobile access systems must also meet relevant UK regulations and industry standards, including data protection requirements under UK GDPR and sector-specific compliance mandates.

The future landscape

Mobile access control represents a critical component of modern security frameworks. According to the 2025 State of Security and Identity Report, 37% of organisations are already implementing mobile credentials, with another 32% planning deployment. The technology’s alignment with digital transformation initiatives, sustainability goals, and user expectations positions it as an essential element of future-ready security strategies.

Advanced features such as identity positioning are transforming the sector by providing anonymised real-time occupancy data. This evolution transforms access control from purely security-focused systems to comprehensive building intelligence platforms, enabling integration with HVAC systems, workplace applications, and space optimisation tools. Such capabilities allow facilities managers to automatically adjust lighting and climate control based on real-time occupancy data, creating smarter, more efficient buildings.

UK organisations considering mobile access should adopt a strategic approach encompassing comprehensive stakeholder consultation, infrastructure assessment, and phased implementation planning. Success requires selecting experienced technology partners offering proven expertise, future-proof solutions, and comprehensive support capabilities.

The transition to mobile credentials represents more than technological advancement – it signifies a fundamental shift towards smarter, more sustainable, and efficient security infrastructure.

Organisations embracing mobile access now will be better positioned to adapt to evolving security requirements, regulatory changes, and user expectations in the increasingly digital landscape transforming the region. As workplace dynamics continue to evolve and security threats become more sophisticated, mobile access control offers the flexibility and intelligence needed to maintain robust security whilst supporting modern business operations.

Jaroslav Barton

Regional Product Marketing Manager

PACS Europe,

HID Global

www.hidglobal.com

The post The strategic evolution of mobile access control in UK security appeared first on City Security Magazine.

A career in security can begin anywhere and lead anywhere. For some, it’s a lifelong passion to serve on the frontline, for others, it’s a springboard into new skills, expertise, and opportunities they never imagined.

The strength of our industry lies in equity of opportunity and choice. Whether exploring specialist areas, thriving at the heart of operations, or stepping into leadership, there’s room to grow in the direction that’s right for you. With investment in development, inclusive learning, and clear development pathways, a career in security can empower anyone, regardless of background, to shape their own future. In this industry, it’s not just about filling roles; it’s about enabling futures.

Leading with authenticity

Effective leadership stems from a simple truth: there is no single way to lead. The intention must be to help people discover their personal leadership style, grounded in their own unique strengths, values, and experiences.

Blended development through interactive workshops, scenario-based challenges, and real-world problem-solving, equips tomorrow’s leaders with the confidence and operational judgment to inspire teams and drive excellence. Leadership is defined by the value created, not the title held.

A ladder of equitable opportunity

Apprenticeships are designed to open doors, enabling professionals to deepen expertise, gain formal qualifications, and develop skills that future-proof the industry.

From the Level 2 Professional Security Operative to a security-contextualised Level 5 Management Apprenticeship, each stage is aligned to the Private Security Profession Map, developed through industry-wide collaboration with the Security Skills Board to ensure clear, credible, industry-recognised development pathways.

Learning from experience

Often, the most important lessons come from those who’ve walked the path, and there is enormous value in seeking the support of accredited coaches and business mentors. Such relationships can offer one-to-one guidance and tailored support, helping security professionals to develop strategic thinking, build resilience, and navigate their career with confidence.

Technology that opens doors

The next generation of talent expects learning to be accessible, immersive, and inclusive. AI-powered video avatars and virtual reality scenarios are fuelling flexible, engaging, and impactful training experiences that adapt to different schedules and learning styles.

A collective responsibility

Creating an inclusive future for security, and positioning the industry as an exciting, fulfilling career choice relies upon breaking down barriers and providing meaningful entry-level positions with clear opportunities for advancement. As an industry, we must work together to ensure that no matter the location, role, or background, security professionals can access high-quality development and equitable career opportunities.

Wherever ambition leads, the path to get there must be accessible, transparent, and fair.

Amy Dean

Head of Communications and Community Relations

Wilson James Limited

www.wilsonjames.co.uk

The post Breaking Barriers Building Futures appeared first on City Security Magazine.

The Security Institute and International Professional Security Association (IPSA) co-host a celebration of International Security Officers’ Day.

Sometimes the most powerful moments happen when an entire industry stops to say thank you, and that’s exactly what happened in July at the Meta offices in London for International Security Officers’ Day (ISOD) 2025.

The International Professional Security Association (IPSA) and The Security Institute (SyI) joined forces to create this year’s sold-out event. The two organisations, representing thousands of security professionals across the UK, collaborated with one sole purpose – to focus on what really matters: honouring the people who keep us safe every single day and recognising the contribution of half a million frontline security officers working 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 364 days a year.

The event was about giving security officers the recognition they’ve always deserved but rarely received. Security officers are the first people you see when you enter a building, the last line of defence when things go wrong, and the steady presence that makes everyone else feel safe. Yet how often do we actually stop to acknowledge their contribution?

Security officers from across the UK didn’t just want to attend – they needed to be there; to be in a room where their work was celebrated, where their challenges were understood, and where their contributions were acknowledged by peers who truly get it.

The theme of the day, ‘Our Frontline: a celebration’, featured a series of insightful talks and discussions from Sal Naseem FRSA, Kristin Thue & Sarah Brown, highlighting the professionalism, challenges, and growing recognition of those working on the frontline of our industry. These sessions provided a valuable platform to reflect on best practice and the evolving role of security professionals.

The main event of the day was the IPSA Hall of Fame Awards, where security officers who had gone above and beyond and surpassed all expectations were formally honoured.

On the day the following officers were recognised:

• Torrez Desrae Gordon, K4 Security (K4 Group): awarded for de-escalating a high-risk incident and saving a life
• Sylwia Dudley Stuck, ISS A/S: twice acted under pressure, saving lives with calm leadership
• Charlotte Wigg M.IPSA, SGC Security Services: for lifesaving response at a packed concert
• Barry Higgins, ProFM Group: for helping a resident in crisis with compassion and care
• The late Mumtaz Hanif, Interr: remembered for his kindness and worldclass service. His legacy continues through his son Muhammad Ibrahim, who now steps into the same noble profession

The security officers who lost their lives in the course of duty since 2020 were also remembered.

Satia Rai, CEO IPSA, said: “A heartfelt thank you to all our frontline security professionals and the wider IPSA membership – thank you for believing in us and the work we do. This event was our way of giving back to those who protect us every day. You’re seen. Respected. Supported.

“International Security Officers’ Day isn’t just one day, it’s every day, and this year, we made history. In collaboration with The Security Institute, and partners Meta & MOONHUB, we honoured the real heroes keeping us safe – with meaningful, custom awards that reflect their impact. Having started my career on the frontline 30 years ago, I know what it takes to do this job. It’s tough, often invisible. But absolutely vital.

“ To everyone in the security profession: your story matters. Your actions matter. You can achieve this too. The world is finally paying attention to what we do and it’s about time.”

What made ISOD 2025 truly special wasn’t just the event itself, but what it represented: proof that the security industry is stronger when we work together.  IPSA and the Security Institute chose collaboration over competition, creating something bigger and more meaningful than either organisation could have achieved alone.

Partnerships like this send a clear message to every security officer in the UK: your industry is united in supporting you.

Andrew Cooper

Director of Communications

www.ipsa.org.uk

The post Joint IPSA & Security Institute Event Celebrates frontline heroes appeared first on City Security Magazine.

Georgina Martin, Head of Talent Resourcing at CIS Security discusses recruitment and evolving hiring practices, highlighting the importance of an inclusive approach and diverse paths to learning for successful onboarding.

Rethinking recruitment: hiring for character, not just credentials

As threats to people, property, and physical assets evolve, so must the approach to hiring those who protect them. Security is no longer just about boots on the ground, it’s about people who understand customer service, emergency response, surveillance technology, access control systems, risk & threat, and securing people, property, and assets. In this new reality, organisations must rethink how they attract and retain top security professionals.

In an increasingly competitive and driven sector, recruitment has evolved from a reactive process to a strategic foundation of organisational success. As we step deeper into 2025, companies are reimagining how they attract, assess, and retain top talent. Recruitment is no longer just about filling seats; it’s about building future leaders-ready teams.

Traditional hiring practices often prioritise CVs, application forms, job titles, and formal qualifications. But these alone don’t tell the whole story of who a person is or what they’re capable of becoming. At the heart of effective recruitment lies a simple truth: the right people aren’t always the ones with the longest CVs, but those with the strongest values.

When recruiting, three core qualities should be emphasised: communication, professionalism, and decision-making under pressure. These aren’t just skills, they’re essential behaviours that reflect how someone operates in real-world situations. But beyond those competencies, looking for the right calibre should include those who are eager to learn, self-aware, reflective, motivated by personal growth, and guided by values, not just ambition.

Life experiences can be as valuable as job experience. Whether someone has navigated challenges, community projects, cared for family, travelled, studied independently, or reinvented themselves, those journeys shape resilience, empathy, and resourcefulness.

These strengths should be recognised, by not just asking. “Where have you worked?”; instead ask, “What have you learned? How have you grown? What do you value?”. This approach shifts recruitment from a checkbox exercise to a thoughtful conversation, aiming to understand the person behind the profile, their story, their mindset, their potential. Of course, experience and skills still matter, but the right attitude, character, and willingness to grow often outweigh a “perfect CV”. Some of the most successful candidates can come with non-traditional backgrounds allowing them to thrive because they align with a company’s culture and values.

Building a diverse and inclusive security industry

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) is no longer a “nice to have” or an internal checkbox exercise, it’s a mindset and a culture. It’s a long-term investment in your people and by extension, your brand, your customers, and your future. Companies that embrace inclusive hiring practices and build truly diverse teams are not only doing what’s right ethically, they are also unlocking better performance, innovation, and trust. The most successful hiring strategies today revolve around employer branding, personalised candidate experiences, skills-based hiring and a diverse skill set from situational awareness and de-escalation skills.

Inclusive hiring practices, blind resumé reviews, diverse interview panels, and equitable job descriptions aren’t just fair; they yield stronger teams. As when people feel included, valued, and supported, they don’t just stay longer, they perform at a higher standard. This is especially critical in service-oriented roles, where trust, communication, and professionalism are key.

The security industry has long been male- dominated. Modern recruitment strategies should actively seek to diversify the workforce, welcoming women, LGBTQ+, minorities, and neurodiverse individuals into roles at every level. A diverse team not only reflects the communities they serve, it enhances decision-making, creative thinking and team performance.

Recruitment in security is evolving just like the threats professionals are hired to deter. By adopting forward-thinking hiring practices, investing in training, supporting inclusive innovation, promoting diverse leadership and valuing personnel as an essential part of organisational success, companies can build security teams that are not just capable, but exceptional.

Building a diverse and inclusive security industry isn’t a one-time initiative, it’s a long-term cultural shift. It requires commitment from leadership, community engagement, and accountability and transparency to ensure a secure future is an inclusive one.

Investing in Learning & Development

In security, the role of people is just as critical as the systems, policies, and technologies in place. While surveillance cameras, access control, and risk protocols are essential, they are only as effective as the individuals trained to use, understand, and act on them.

As with many things in life, a balanced and varied approach can often lead to optimal results, by creating diverse pathways to learning and development and cultivating a diverse range of security professionals, from all walks of life and experiences.

Companies should strive for all colleagues, from entry level through to management and beyond, to develop themselves through blended learning. Promote diversity, by showing individuals there are new and alternative routes and pathways to formal qualifications or professional development, and encouraging and supporting them all to follow them. Embracing these different routes to education allows us to bring in “life experiences” as part of the development life cycle and therefore achieve true diversity – the practice or quality of including or involving people from a range of different backgrounds. These include:

• Security Apprenticeships such as Level 2 Professional Security Operative, Level 3 Security First Line Manager, and the new Level 4 Protective Security Advisor.
• Short Courses – regulated courses from SIA Refreshers and First Aid courses to Health and Safety and Fire Safety, as well as in-house, bespoke, and specialist webinars and networking.
• Scenario-based training such as handling escalations, and active threat situations
• Regular up-skilling on tools like CCTV systems, access control tech, and incident reporting software, plus legislation and regulation updates.
• Leadership and communication workshops for front-line supervisors.
• Cross-training to improve coordination with facilities, HR, emergency response, and external agencies.
• Values-based training to reinforce professionalism, inclusion, and ethics.
• E-Learning – this should not just be a “tick-box exercise”, rather a component of the wider learning culture. Short, sharp and focused learning for outside the classroom setting.

As security becomes more integrated with technology and workplace culture, the most valuable asset continues to be people – trained security professionals who understand their environment, lead with integrity, and act with confidence in uncertain situations. We’re not just training for today’s threats; we build teams that can handle tomorrow’s. And that starts by hiring the right individuals, developing their capabilities, and fostering a culture where learning never stops.

Comprehensive learning for real-world readiness

The effectiveness of security professionals hinges on their preparedness, expertise, and ability to adapt to diverse situations. In the security industry, one of the most powerful ways to achieve this is through targeted, high-quality training. The goal should be to equip every security professional with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to respond decisively to incidents – managing challenges dynamically while maintaining service excellence.

Providing rich, meaningful learning experience that combines technical skill-building with personal and professional growth ensures all are not only operationally ready, but also supported in their wellbeing, personal ambitions, and sense of belonging.

Core security knowledge areas

These cover the fundamental concepts and practices necessary to protect people, property, and physical assets from threats like unauthorised access, theft, vandalism, terrorism, and natural disasters. A few to highlight include:

• Situational Awareness – Staying alert, observing surroundings, and assessing dynamic environments to identify potential risks and take proactive measures.
• Radio Communications – Using radios and communication tools clearly, professionally, and effectively to ensure accurate, timely information exchange.
• Report Writing – Producing clear, factual, and well-structured incident reports that uphold accountability and legal compliance.
• Conflict Management – Applying techniques to de-escalate confrontational situations safely and professionally.
• Emergency Response – Acting promptly and calmly in a range of emergency scenarios, following protocols, and making sound decisions under pressure.
• Relevant Legislation – Understanding the legal frameworks that govern security work, including the rights and responsibilities of security professionals.
• Uniform Standards – Maintaining a professional appearance that reflects our values and inspires public confidence.
• Professional Conduct – Demonstrating integrity, accountability, and respect in all aspects of duty, both independently and as part of a team.
• Chain of Communication – Following established communication lines to ensure clarity, consistency, and efficiency in information flow.
• Chain of Command – Respecting operational hierarchy, recognising roles and responsibilities, and escalating matters appropriately.

Building a stronger future together

By fostering continual growth in core competencies and providing a supportive, inclusive environment, security professionals will be well-prepared to meet today’s challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities. By investing in people’s wellbeing, inclusion, and development, we are not just building skilled security professionals, we are strengthening our community and safeguarding our future.

Whether patrolling a facility or overseeing global security operations, every professional in the security industry contributes to a shared mission: safeguarding people, property, assets and peace of mind. With clear career pathways, a growing demand for skilled personnel, and ever-evolving challenges, security offers a rewarding and essential career across industries and sectors.

A workplace should be more than just a place to work, it should be a community where individuals grow, thrive, share ideas, and feel valued and included. It should be dedicated to building a culture that reflects values and supports every individual on their journey to success. That means putting equal emphasis on individual wellbeing, inclusion, and personal development, ensuring that everyone can perform at their best while feeling a genuine sense of belonging and purpose within the security industry and their career.

From hiring and vetting to uniforms, training, and the accumulation of valuable institutional knowledge, the costs of bringing someone on board go far beyond the initial salary; each new hire represents a significant investment. That’s why short-term thinking in recruitment is a fast track to wasted time and money. A strategic, long-term approach not only protects that investment but amplifies its return.

Georgina Martin

Head of Talent Resourcing

CIS Security

The post The changing face of professional security appeared first on City Security Magazine.

 NPSA research indicates that many UK businesses haven’t considered whether their personnel security is fit for purpose and are therefore carrying unknown insider risk.

The Personnel Security Maturity Assessment tool is designed by NPSA to help you understand personnel security maturity in your business and provide steps to manage insider risk.

The Personnel Security Maturity Assessment tool covers the seven key areas of personnel security

• Governance and Leadership
• Insider Risk and Management
• Pre-Employment Screening
• Ongoing Personnel Security
• Monitoring and Assessment of the Workforce
• Investigation and Disciplinary Practices
• Security Culture and Behaviour Change.

It will provide you with an assessment in each of these key areas plus an overall assessment across all seven keys areas of your personnel security maturity. On completion, the tool will recommend actions to take that will guide you to the next level of maturity. It will also suggest digital learning, guidance and behaviour change campaigns that will help you achieve the appropriate level of personnel security for your business.

The tool is completely free with no fees or subscriptions, available now on the NPSA website.

Is the tool right for me?

This assessment tool has been designed for any business to independently use, regardless of the size or sector. If you’re unsure about its suitability, begin with a short triage questionnaire to assess your readiness for the full assessment.

These questions will help determine whether the tool will be useful in your business’s journey towards developing a personnel security programme and provide next steps so that your organisation gets the most value from using the full assessment tool.

If you are responsible for personnel security in your business or are in a role where you would like to get a snapshot of personnel security maturity, this tool can take you through that process and help you focus resources to build or maintain a proportionate personnel security programme.

The assessments can raise awareness of potential gaps and vulnerabilities in your current personnel security programme to your senior decision makers. It will help to focus attention on those specific areas and support bids for appropriate resources, with engaging colour-coded management information to tell the story.

If you have an insider risk stakeholder group, the tool can help shape your organisation’s action plans, support priorities and measure your organisation’s performance against key indicators.

How does the tool work?

You’ll answer five questions across each of the seven key personnel security areas. For each question, select the response that most closely describes your current business position. You may need to consult other business areas to gather accurate information. The tool allows you to pause and save responses, returning later without losing information.

To ensure the output of the tool provides you with a meaningful and fair reflection of your personnel security maturity, along with relevant signposting to appropriate resources, you are, of course, encouraged to respond as accurately as possible.

Based on your responses, you will be immediately provided with an assessment of your maturity in each key area with links to resources that will help you to improve, or maintain, your maturity in those seven key areas.

You will be also provided with an overall personnel security assessment for your business and indications on where improvement is required. This will be presented in graphical format for quick export into reports for senior leaders.

The questionnaire takes approximately 30 minutes to complete by one person who has an in-depth knowledge of the existing personnel security arrangements in your business. You may choose to record your own evidence and notes as you progress through the questionnaire to support your decision making.

You should look to repeat this assessment in the future, as your action plans are implemented and embedded, to help maintain oversight on the development of your personnel security maturity. This information could help influence proportionate resourcing and instil confidence in security-related decisions.

To access this tool please visit the NPSA website: https://psma.npsa.gov.uk

The post Strengthen your organisation’s personnel security with the NPSA maturity assessment tool appeared first on City Security Magazine.

Nathan Emmerich, comms expert and integral member of the Martyn’s Law campaign team, discusses the recent support and subsequent arrests for proscribed group Palestine Action.

The right to protest is at the heart of our democracy. It is rightly protected under Human Rights legislation and gives people from all backgrounds the opportunity to have their voices heard.

In recent weeks, there have been nearly 600 people arrested for showing support for the proscribed group, Palestine Action. Notably, of the 532 people arrested on Saturday 9 August, almost half were aged 60 and above, including more than 100 in their 70s. The optics of their arrest and the ensuing reaction is concerning. While they turned up knowing that they would be arrested, they responded as if this was something being done to them.

I don’t think anyone in Parliament Square on that Saturday was a terrorist, but it does bring into question the seriousness of the actions from people who wilfully ignore the law to promote a terrorist organisation, all under the banner of the right to protest.

Since the brutal terror attack carried out by Hamas in Israel on 7 October 2023, and the ensuing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, hundreds of thousands of people have peacefully taken to the streets of London and cities across the UK, almost weekly, to protest their concerns about the brutality of the war.

While the ripple effects of the conflict have been acutely felt by Jews and Muslims here in the UK, including increasing rates of hate crimes, the majority of those protesting do not seek to cause harm or to isolate communities based on their cultural backgrounds or religious beliefs.

Currently there are 84 terrorist organisations proscribed under the UK’s Terrorism Act 2000, with 14 organisations in Northern Ireland proscribed under previous legislation. Following the 7 October 2023, the Government has proscribed four groups – Hamas, Hizb ut-Tahrir, Terrogram, and most recently Palestine Action.

Under the Terrorism Act 2000, the UK Home Secretary has the powers to proscribe an organisation if they believe it is concerned in terrorism, and it is proportionate to do so. Under the Act, “terrorism” is defined as the use or threat of action which involves serious violence against a person; involves serious damage to property; endangers a person’s life; creates a serious risk to the health and safety of the public or section of the public.

The use or threat of such action must be designed to influence the Government or an international governmental organisation, or to intimidate the public or a section of the public, and must be undertaken for the purpose of advancing a political, religious, racial or ideological cause.

If we consider the actions taken by Palestine Action who damaged two military aircraft at RAF Brize Norton in an attempt to protest against the UK’s weapons sales to Israel, then this clearly fits under the definition of the Terrorism Act 2000. The Home Secretary has also set out factors that contributed to the group’s proscription, including intimidation, serious violence and information that cannot be disclosed due to national security reasons.

Whatever your opinion of the reasons for, and the proposed outcome regarding the conflict in Gaza, the scenes and testimonies coming from the people living it daily are harrowing to witness. But the scenes in recent weeks raise a question around the willingness of individuals to ignore the seriousness of supporting a proscribed terrorist group.

It appears that those showing support for Palestine Action are deliberately or unknowingly conflating the proscription of Palestine Action with the conflict itself and view their actions as a legitimate means to protest.

We also know that terrorists seek to disrupt and divide by sharing extremist narratives, as well as misinformation and disinformation. Social media has become a central tool for terrorist groups who deliberately share graphic content to stoke emotive responses. And the influence on those vulnerable to extremism is clear across the spectrum, from far-right to Islamist extremism.

It is difficult not to perceive these protests as a publicity stunt that would be celebrated by those groups who wish to undermine our democratic values and who wish to disrupt societal cohesion in the UK – there’s a risk that these protests embolden extremists and groups on the far right. The operational resource used to arrest 532 people cannot be understated – this ‘protest’ was designed to disrupt and stretch our police forces.

The focus in recent days has been on the possible consequences for those arrested, but we need to go further than dealing with this as an isolated incident. We need a national conversation about how we deal with these issues and how we reduce the influence of extremist groups, whilst allowing people to respectfully discuss matters of concern. We also need UK authorities to firmly grip these matters and to strengthen their response – violence, intimidation and support for a proscribed terrorist group can never be accepted.

Nathan Emmerich

SW-One Communications

The post Why violence, intimidation and support for a proscribed terrorist group can never be accepted appeared first on City Security Magazine.

Mats Thulin, Director of AI and Video Analytics, Axis Communications, discusses the role the modern security-tech industry must play in ensuring the safe, effective deployment of AI.

AI technology is transforming the security landscape.

Advanced video analytics offer new opportunities to refine and enhance the security process.

AI is changing the rules: human-centric security is rapidly transforming into human-augmented security. Our growing knowledge of AI, combined with innovations in the use of multiple data streams and algorithmic analysis, means we’re entering a new era, one in which AI filters out irrelevant information, leaving security teams sharper and more effective than ever.

But let us be clear: for all its growing power, AI is not a universal solution. It is a vital aid and a great driver of efficiency, but it is not an answer to every problem. Without careful deployment AI can get things wrong. It is effective in the right situations, but blind reliance on AI can lead to costly mistakes, false alarms, or overlooked threats. Its performance depends on quality data, thoughtful configuration, and a full understanding of its limitations.

The burden and importance of clarity

Responsibility for this understanding goes beyond the user. As AI-driven security solutions become more prevalent, it is vital that manufacturers, vendors and installers highlight what they can and can’t do.

Transparency is essential for building trust and enabling end users to make informed decisions. The security industry benefits from a head start in understanding and managing the use of AI – and its potential misuse. With that experience comes a responsibility to ensure that AI is deployed ethically and effectively.

Technology providers, therefore, must generate trust through transparency

Responsibility does not just mean ensuring that technology is used properly, it means being open about the capabilities of AI, the areas in which it will shine and those in which it might struggle. Businesses can only make informed decisions on their security if they have the full information.

They must be able to grasp how different systems perform under various conditions, because any misrepresentation of capabilities or limitations can lead to dangerous blind spots.

Safety through solution design

Some use cases are more sensitive than others. For organisations in critical infrastructure, manufacturing, or chemical processing, an undetected security breach or a system failure could lead to severe consequences or loss of life. In any industry, an AI tool that misses the presence of a trespasser or a mechanical malfunction could result in significant harm.

No AI solution offers universal functionality – its abilities are influenced by the environment in which it operates. AI is, in every case, situational. Certain analytics, for instance, may struggle in poor lighting or noisy environments, necessitating additional data sources or different positioning. Poor camera sensors may not be able to offer AI engines the data they need to perform analytics well. And biases, too, can impact the decision-making capabilities of AI.

If a model consistently struggles to detect movement in certain weather conditions, for example, it is critical that users are informed. Clarity about the limitations of AI helps create a good foundation of overall system design and allows businesses to construct more effective security solutions by avoiding flawed assumptions about AI’s capabilities.

Ensuring responsible use of AI

Technology providers have a secondary responsibility. The power and versatility of AI systems mean they have, like any technology, risks of exploitation and misuse. Some may employ AI in unethical or illegal ways. The security industry has always carried ethical responsibilities in areas such as surveillance. With AI, those responsibilities are equally important.

Measures must extend beyond vendors refusing to sell to customers known to use technology irresponsibly

AI’s growth demands a transparent approach throughout the sales channel. It is imperative that vendors, integrators and manufacturers work hard to foster trusted, open relationships with each other – and exhibit the discretion to work only with partners that align with their ethical and moral views on AI use.

Building an AI future – the right way

The pace of AI innovation makes it difficult to predict what security technology will look like in the coming years. Given this uncertainty, the need for an ethical discussion cannot be overstated: by prioritising openness and fostering strong industry relationships, security providers can positively contribute to a safe and responsible future for AI. Manufacturers should place trust at the top of their list of business goals.

Trust creates a significant competitive advantage in a crowded market, as vendors and integrators are far more likely to recommend a company that has shown a commitment to responsible behaviour over one which acts impulsively over something as powerful and divisive as AI.

As artificial intelligence evolves, the businesses which have demonstrated such a commitment today will be the ones trusted in the future. They are the ones that will lead the industry forward towards a smarter, safer world.

Mats Thulin

Director of AI and Video Analytics

Axis Communications.

Learn more about Axis approach to AI: www.axis.com/campaigns/ai-in-video-surveiliance

The post Why transparency is vital in the AI era appeared first on City Security Magazine.

Adopting advanced technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), is essential for security companies seeking to enhance operational efficiency, service delivery and business growth.

In the fast-evolving security landscape, technology plays a pivotal role in determining the growth trajectory of businesses, meaning scalability can be achieved without impacting labour resourcing.  Here are six strategies for integrating AI across your processes – from marketing and tendering to stakeholder management – to unlock significant growth potential and adapt to an environment marked by rapid change.

1. Craft strategic growth initiatives

To remain competitive, security businesses need clear growth strategies that leverage technology. Incorporating AI into strategic planning can help organisations identify emerging opportunities and potential threats. AI systems can sift through vast amounts of data, identifying patterns that human analysts might overlook. This insightful data-driven approach allows businesses to pivot quickly, ensuring they remain ahead of industry trends and adapt to new regulatory demands.

The emergence of new legislation, such as the Employment Rights Act and Martyn’s Law, emphasises the importance of creating a safer community environment. Security companies should make this best practice to comply with these regulations and adapt their services to meet evolving evolving standards. AI can facilitate this by ensuring businesses stay informed about changes in risk and automatically adjust their protocols to enhance compliance and workplace safety, providing better decision making.

2. Transform marketing and communication

Effective marketing will drive growth in the competitive security landscape. Companies can optimise their marketing efforts by leveraging AI, precisely tailoring campaigns to target specific audiences. AI algorithms analyse behaviour and preferences, allowing organisations to create personalised interactions and relevant content. This targeted approach improves customer and employee engagement and maximises marketing budgets.

Additionally, AI can enhance communication strategies. AI-powered chatbots provide real-time customer support, promptly addressing inquiries and issues. This improves client satisfaction and helps build strong relationships with stakeholders.

3. Win and retain business

The tendering process is often a significant hurdle for security businesses. AI can help refine and improve tender applications by analysing previous successes and failures, providing insights for future submissions and creating a business large language model (BLLM). By harnessing lessons from past bids, teams can craft more competitive proposals that align closely with potential clients’ needs.

Effectively managing service level agreements (SLAs) is essential for maintaining customer trust and satisfaction. AI can monitor SLA compliance in real time, alerting teams to potential breaches before they escalate. This capability safeguards client relationships and enhances the overall service delivery process.

4. Enhance employee experience and client efficiency

Central to any growth strategy is enhancing the employee experience. Businesses that invest in employee well-being and provide the tools necessary for success often see increased employee productivity and client satisfaction. AI is an opportunity for this enhancement, offering personalised training programmes, real-time feedback, and streamlined communication channels.

Businesses can ensure employees feel empowered and engaged by creating a supportive work environment backed by technology and real-time data at their fingertips.

As employees become more efficient, the benefits cascade down to clients. Engaged employees are more likely to deliver high-quality service, fostering better relationships and enhancing client satisfaction. This increased efficiency extends the value proposition of security businesses, making them more attractive partners for businesses seeking security solutions.

5. Embrace AI for operational efficiency

Security businesses need to understand AI’s potential application within their operational framework to capitalise on its capabilities. AI can streamline various processes, allowing teams to focus on strategic initiatives. For instance, automating routine tasks can free up valuable resources, enabling them to concentrate on higher-value activities like employee and client engagement and strategy development.

Moreover, AI can enhance decision-making through predictive analytics. By analysing historical data, AI tools can provide insights into trends and help organisations anticipate client needs and market shifts. Implementing AI-driven analytics tools enables security teams to make decisions based on factual data and enhance responses to be proactive, ultimately improving operational efficiency.

6. Feed AI with quality content

Despite AI’s tremendous potential, its effectiveness hinges on the quality of input it receives. Businesses must take the time to curate and maintain high-quality content for AI systems to analyse. Regular reviews and updates of data ensure that AI remains a valuable tool for decision-making and operational support. This diligence enhances AI’s utility and nurtures a culture of continuous improvement within the business.

Integrating technology and AI into the security landscape is not merely an option but an urgent necessity for unlocking growth potential. By embracing AI across operational processes, security businesses can enhance efficiency and cultivate an improved workplace experience for employees and clients. As the industry evolves and adapts to new legislative frameworks, these technological enhancements will pave the way for a more secure and prosperous future, fulfilling the promise of a safer environment for all stakeholders involved.

Sarah Cork

Milieu Associates

www.milieuassociates.com

The post How security companies can embrace AI: Six strategies for growth appeared first on City Security Magazine.

 Security operations are changing. Over the past few years, the conversation around AI and how it will disrupt the industry has mostly been limited to buzzwords and conference keynotes. Now, the industry is at a point where talk is being turned into action and business intelligence, data analytics and artificial intelligence are working together to solve real problems in ways that matter to security businesses.

Look at how security firms work today. Managers juggle complex challenges every day. Staff scheduling often feels like a never-ending puzzle. Decisions happen too late. Profit margins stay thin. Clients want more, but companies struggle to deliver – or to prove they have delivered.

The problem isn’t lack of data. It’s lack of meaningful clean and curated data. Security officers who are using workforce management technology and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are already capturing officer movements, client interactions, scheduling details and performance metrics. Still, much of this data sits unused, locked in a myriad of tables in your source ERP systems.

Powerful data analytic and AI systems will change how we use this information, become more agile and make truly data-driven strategic choices.

What’s shifting in security ops

Security teams aren’t new to digital tools. Many already use software for scheduling, payroll, patrol logs and incident tracking. But just using systems isn’t the same as getting full value from them. Right now, the gap is in how data is handled.

Even companies that rely on ERP or workforce management systems often find themselves flying blind when they need fast answers. That’s because most analytical and AI tools and platforms aren’t built for deep analysis or real-time insights that are industry specific. As a result, many companies operate reactively: schedules are fixed after a problem happens, rather than ahead of it. Staffing shortages catch teams off officer. Service lapses are discovered only after a client complaint. And none of this is due to a lack of data.

Security firms are collecting a huge amount already – from clock-in data and patrol check-ins to site notes and officer certifications. The challenge is organising and analysing that data in a near real-time way that helps managers make better decisions, faster.

Why better data matters more than more data

A large volume of information doesn’t help if it’s hard to access, slow to process, or siloed across platforms. That’s where analytics and AI come in – not as flashy features, but as tools that connect the dots.

The real opportunity isn’t in replacing your existing systems. It’s in making them smarter. By layering intelligence onto the platforms you already use, you can take advantage of data that’s just been sitting there. Think of it like turning on the lights in a room you’ve always used in the dark.

Same room, different visibility

For example, instead of manually adjusting schedules every week, you can forecast staffing needs based on actual patterns and fast-moving scheduling changes. Instead of reviewing weekly reports to spot problems, you can see problems and solve them before officers ever leave shift. Instead of being reactive, you’re being proactive.

What happens when you add intelligence

When these tools support true business intelligence, you start gaining real insights.

Things you can gain include:

• Clearer insight into real-time job performance against budget

Instead of waiting for end-of-month reports to understand whether a job ran over budget, you can see that data in near real time. That helps you spot overspending earlier and make changes before it hits your margins.

• Track turnover trends and retention risk

Identify patterns that often lead to attrition – like last-minute shift changes, excessive travel between sites or inconsistent hours. When you know which officers are at higher risk of leaving, you can intervene earlier with support or reassignments to improve retention.

• Exception reporting

With analytics layered into your security software platform, you can more easily detect anomalies when something is operating outside the norm. This reduces surprises and makes compliance easier to manage.

• Employee schedules align better with actual needs

 Predictive analytics can use past data –seasonal trends, site-specific risk levels contract terms – to recommend schedules that match expected demand. That avoids both under-coverage and unnecessary labour costs.

• KPIs are not disparate

Things like average cost per post, revenue per hour worked and client satisfaction tied to officer performance can be pulled from your system automatically – no matter who is pulling them. And because the data is live, you’re not relying on backward-looking reports to guide next month’s decisions.

All of this adds up to a better grip on operations and stronger client delivery.

The financial side of smarter ops

For a lot of security companies, labour is the biggest expense. So small improvements in scheduling or coverage can create large savings. And when officer turnover is high (as it is for much of the industry), anything that helps make the job more stable – like more consistent shifts or fewer last-minute changes – helps reduce churn.

That translates into lower hiring and training costs.

There’s also value in what you can prove. If your systems help you track exactly how SLAs were met, or how quickly an issue was handled, that improves client trust. It can also help in competitive contract bids.

Security’s next phase isn’t in the future – It’s Now

This isn’t a five-year plan. Many companies are already making these changes. The tech exists and, in many cases, the data is already being collected. What’s different now is how that data is being pushed for maximum value to your bottom line.

For firms willing to take this next step – by recognising this technology is no longer future-state, but happening and necessary now – the payoff is clear.

David Libesman

SVP & GM AI & Data Analytics

TEAM Software

www.teamsoftware.com

The post Data & AI Disruption – and Opportunity – is happening now! appeared first on City Security Magazine.