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2024 Retail Security Trends: Enhancing Safety in Brick-and-Mortar Stores

December 11, 2023

As we hurdle towards 2024, the retail industry is continuously evolving, adapting to new technologies, and facing increasing security challenges. This shift is particularly crucial for brick-and-mortar retailers, who must strike a balance between providing a seamless shopping experience and implementing robust security measures. In this article, we explore the latest trends in retail security and the role of commercial security providers in enhancing safety in physical stores.

Transition from Home to Retail Security

In recent years, home security systems have seen significant advancements, from high-resolution surveillance cameras to smart locks and automated alarm systems. These innovations are now being adapted and expanded upon in retail environments, providing commercial security systems with a new level of sophistication and effectiveness. The transition from home to retail security involves scaling these technologies to meet the unique challenges faced by brick-and-mortar stores, such as high foot traffic, large-scale inventory management, and the need for customer-friendly security measures.

Advanced Video Surveillance

High on the list of security measures for retailers is advanced video surveillance. Modern surveillance systems incorporate high-resolution cameras that provide clear, detailed footage of your store. More importantly, these systems are increasingly enhanced with artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities. AI-powered surveillance can identify suspicious activity, track customer movements, and even analyze customer behavior to optimize store layouts and product placements. In essence, these systems serve a dual purpose: deterring theft and gathering valuable insights for business growth.

Effective Checkpoint Control

Checkpoint control systems are another crucial component of retail security. These systems prevent shoplifting and unauthorized access, ensuring that only paid-for merchandise leaves your store. Electronic article surveillance (EAS) systems and radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology play a significant role in modern checkpoint control. EAS systems trigger an alarm when tagged items pass through detection antennas at store exits, while RFID tags enable real-time tracking of merchandise, contributing to efficient inventory management.

Comprehensive Alarm Monitoring

Alarm systems form the backbone of retail security. Sophisticated alarm monitoring services for business premises are designed to detect break-ins, theft, and unauthorized entry, alerting store personnel and local authorities in real time. Today’s alarm systems are interconnected with other security components, enabling quicker response times and comprehensive security coverage. For instance, a triggered EAS system can activate surveillance cameras to record the incident, providing valuable evidence for subsequent investigations.

Fire Alarm and Safety Systems

Fire detection and alarm systems are a non-negotiable aspect of retail security. These systems protect your assets, employees, and customers in the event of a fire, providing early warnings and triggering immediate emergency response. Modern fire alarm systems are often integrated with other security systems, ensuring a coordinated response to emergencies. For example, in the event of a fire, your security system can automatically unlock all doors, facilitating swift evacuation.

Interactive Security Solutions

Interactive security solutions represent the future of retail security. These systems allow for real-time monitoring and control of your security measures, often remotely via mobile devices. Alerts of potential security breaches can be sent directly to your phone, enabling quick decision-making and immediate action. From viewing live surveillance footage to remotely controlling locks and alarms, interactive security solutions put the power of security management in your hands, wherever you are.

Conclusion

As we move towards 2024, the advancement of retail security systems is clear. From high-tech surveillance and checkpoint control to comprehensive alarm systems and interactive solutions, retailers have a plethora of options to enhance the safety of their premises, products, and people. Staying updated with these technologies is not just a matter of protecting your assets; it’s about providing a secure, enjoyable shopping experience for your customers.

5 Best Cloud-Based Access Control Systems in 2023

June 19, 2023

In the past, access cards and keypads were considered the height of security and access control to various premises. They proved valuable and effective. However, these traditional methods of automated access control are expensive to maintain. Moreover, they need closer supervision and management.

Businesses today require a more scalable, efficient, and mobile method of managing access control in offices and facilities. Cloud based access control best meets these needs and more.

What Is Cloud Based Access Control?

Cloud based access control systems enable administrators to remotely manage and control physical access to restricted areas in an office, business establishment, or facility. Cloud access control allows administrators to lock doors and gates or grant specific individuals entry without visiting the premises.

Since access control is done through the cloud, administrators enjoy the convenience of a centralized security management system. They have complete visibility and control over access controls sans the cost, complexity, and dependence on physical devices of the more traditional keypad or key-card access locks.

94% of companies around the world now use cloud computing and optimize its benefits for their everyday operations. Therefore, switching or upgrading from traditional to cloud based access control systems shouldn’t be difficult.

Top Access Control Systems for Businesses

Physical access control systems can improve security and accessibility throughout your business premises and facilities. Finding a system that works best for your organization is imperative.

To get you started, here are five of the best access control systems available today:

1. Brivo

Brivo is a cloud based access control system designed for big and small properties. It’s easy to scale up or down, thanks to built-in options for managing physical access to one building or a multi-building complex.

Brivo provides tools to manage access and credentials via a laptop or smartphone remotely. Property managers can manage access controls, whether they are inside or outside the premises. It offers the following safety features:

Entry logs – A useful feature for monitoring tenants and visitors coming in and out of the premises.
Personnel control – A sophisticated security feature that only lets people in after they’ve completed a daily screening process.
Energy usage monitoring – An extra feature that helps property managers control lighting and heating to reduce energy consumption.
Create Schedules – You can now set times for entrances and alarms.
Manage Permissions – You can easily grant levels of access for any employee in your company.
Monitor Events – You can get event alerts and access real time video of any part of your business.
View Reports – You can receive event data in an easy to read and understand report

2. Butterfly MX

Butterfly MX “makes property access simple” by enabling property managers and access control supervisors to manage permissions and open any door or gate via a mobile app. It is one of the top access control systems used in various venues such as apartment buildings, gated communities, student housing, commercial establishments, offices, senior living communities, industrial facilities, and more.

With Butterfly MX, property managers can:

Manage physical access to rooms or buildings using Butterfly MX’s web-based dashboard
Manage building-wide access while on the go through their mobile phones
Quickly grant access to new visitors
Use various entry methods to categorize access permissions
Communicate with people at doors and gates through an integrated video intercom

This cloud based access control system has four components:

A powerful access controller that enables remote access control management
A Mullion reader that recognizes key fobs, cards, and windshield tags distributed to on-site employees, residents, workers, guests, etc.
A keypad that can read RFID cards and serves as an alternative access point for guests given PIN codes to enter restricted areas.
A vehicle reader that detects windshield tags and allows verified guests to enter the main entrances without having to stop or step out of their cars.

3. Openpath

Openpath provides technology for keyless access entry and cloud based access control. It is a sophisticated system that enables users to open a locked door and enter restricted areas using their mobile phones. With Openpath, facilities can implement a truly hands-free entry protocol.

Openpath also offers the following safety features:

On-site security system integration – Openpath can connect to your on-site security system. So if an intruder breaks into your facility, Openpath can alert your emergency monitoring provider to provide immediate backup.
Access scheduling – Openpath allows administrators to heighten security by specifying when people are allowed access to certain areas of the facility. This is very useful when permitting third-party service providers, such as outsourced cleaning staff or plumbers, on the premises.

4. Kisi

Kisi is another flexible cloud based access control system that works for big and small properties. It is also used in various industries, such as multi-tenancy buildings, commercial buildings, and corporate offices.

Property administrators and security managers can enjoy the following functionalities with Kisi:

Multi-site management – Administrators can remotely manage multiple locations with ease.

Access groups and roles – Kisi allows administrators to create groups and manage their access levels based on their roles on site. This makes managing access controls and credentials easier and faster. Administrators can assign guests and new staff to their corresponding groups, and they will automatically inherit that group’s access configurations.

Elevator controls – This feature is useful in facilities that separate work areas by floor. Staff can only access the levels they are allowed to enter.

Video and security hardware integration – Kisi can be connected to video intercoms, doorbells, face scanners, automatic locks, alarm systems, and other security devices.

5. Salto KS

Salto KS is more geared toward the hospitality industry, and multifamily residential, retail, and commercial buildings. Administrators can manage and control access permissions through a web-based dashboard or mobile app. The best part is that tenants can also use the Salto KS app to open their doors using their smartphones and give visiting guests temporary digital keys.

The Salto KS system gives administrators the following management features:

Automate access controls with Groups and Roles – Admins can create user groups and roles with their respective access settings.
Remote management – Admins can create and adjust access permissions remotely.
Entry logs – Salto KS tracks and logs entry events, which admins can review according to date and time.
Provide physical access options – Salto KS offers wireless smart locks, wall readers with or without keypads, and RFID key fobs.

Strengthen On-Site Security With the Best Cloud Access Control Systems

Choosing the best access control systems for your business facility is crucial as it will positively impact everyone’s safety and well-being. More importantly, it will keep confidential data, network systems, and business-critical equipment safe and ensure your business’s continued operation.

Aeon Systems, a company specializing in security system installations and services, can help set up a cloud based access control system for your business. We serve clients in different industries, helping them establish access protocols and giving them tools and technology to manage physical access controls independently.

2023 Commercial Security Trends

June 5, 2023

Security is a holistic matter in a commercial and corporate environment. There should always be a significant focus on physical security because threats from trespassers, burglars, thieves, and corporate spies will always be present. At the same time, the current digital environment calls for a more robust cybersecurity infrastructure that will protect an enterprise from digital and cyber threats: hackers, hacktivists, data thieves, malware, spyware, and more.

Knowing about these security threats isn’t enough, however. The environment and technologies behind them constantly evolve, making it crucial for organizations to update their security infrastructure.

This article discusses the 2023 commercial security trends you need to know about.

Physical Security Technology

Commercial security trends for on-site security systems are shifting towards improved usability. The workforce shortage is a big concern in physical commercial security because of high training and labor costs. There is also a growing preference for security systems that one or few specialists can man.

These are the security trends we’re seeing for commercial users this year.

AI-powered surveillance

Artificial intelligence has progressed tremendously in the past year alone, and its reach has extended to surveillance and security solutions. Video surveillance is valuable to physical security, but it is mainly passive and reactive. Unless full-time security staff monitors the security cameras, businesses and companies can only react to threats after the fact instead of during or before.

With AI, video surveillance can help predict and prevent threats instead of passively recording crime footage. There is now a greater focus in supporting real-time security response instead of capturing HD videos. For example, AI can enhance smart cameras’ ability to identify real threats (i.e., people in restricted areas versus birds flying too close to the camera or stray cats jumping over fences) and trigger security alarms before trespassers enter the building.

In sum, 2023 commercial security trends for surveillance and physical security solutions primarily feature harnessing AI technology to help security personnel achieve more while doing less.

Security for smart technologies

Smart systems developed from AI technology. The idea of integrating mechanical operations into an automatic, wireless network was exciting, and the public immediately got behind it, making smart technologies integral to commercial and home security trends.

With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated, it is imperative to implement safeguards to prevent hackers from exploiting vulnerabilities in smart systems.

Endpoints are some of the most vulnerable points in offices and establishments with integrated smart technologies. Endpoints are physical devices that connect to your virtual network. Smart office endpoints include laptops, mobile phones, smart televisions, light management systems, automatic curtains, and thermostats.

Advanced hackers can penetrate secure networks by hacking these devices. Hence, we expect IoT physical security solutions to develop further this year.

Innovative video deterrence solutions

More home security trends are making their way into physical security solutions for commercial users:

Smart locks with remote, real-time video and audio communication capabilities
Night and thermal vision cameras with improved battery life
More open smart ecosystems that can accommodate diverse devices, manufacturing brands, and operating systems
AI-powered anomaly detection systems that can be used to monitor equipment and environmental factors (i.e., temperature and air quality) and trip alarms when safety thresholds are crossed
New security technology with far-improved, 24/7 imaging capabilities that use infrared (IR) and visible-light imaging to capture video or photo images in vivid color, even in dim lighting
CCTV cameras with machine-learning technology that reduces visual noise to capture clear and crisp images

Commercial and home security trends are intrinsically linked because consumers naturally want the best products. People in charge of on-site security for businesses and offices will look toward home security innovations and explore the possibility of applying them to their businesses.

Zero-Trust Cybersecurity

With cybersecurity threats getting more sophisticated, there’s an even greater need for a zero-trust cybersecurity strategy.

As the name suggests, zero trust is an IT security model that operates with the belief that no one and nothing is trustworthy. Threats can come from outside and within a network, so everyone seeking access must undergo a strict identity verification process. Many refer to the zero-trust approach as a castle-and-moat setup because of this.

Trust is a vulnerability in zero trust cybersecurity, and this puts everyone, regardless of position, on even ground. This means rank-and-file employees to C-level executives must follow security guidelines like changing passwords monthly and installing multi-factor authentication for network logins. Experts say zero trust will continue to factor heavily into 2023 commercial security trends.

Sustainable Security Technology

Growing environmental awareness propels the move towards more eco-friendly security solutions. While power consumption is inevitable, many companies compensate by choosing manufacturers that prioritize low-carbon initiatives and waste reduction and produce devices with longer lifespans. Products constructed and packaged with recyclable materials also have higher appeal to companies and brands committed to meeting their sustainability goals.

Stay on Top of Security Threats With the Latest On-Site and Cybersecurity Solutions

It pays to know how security evolves and keeps up with real-life and cyber threats. The best way to stay safe is to assume that hackers, burglars, and thieves will only get better, so there is no choice but to update your security infrastructure and upgrade when possible constantly. Investing in security is not always cheap, but spending money to secure your business is better than incurring losses due to a failed security system.

For your and your stakeholders’ peace of mind, consult physical and cybersecurity experts to protect your business from 2023 onwards.

Aeon Systems, a one-stop shop for residential and commercial security systems and services, can offer sound advice and solutions to meet your security needs. The company also offers 24/7 alarm monitoring and customer support as reinforcement for your on-site security. For details, call 817-466-9079 or reach out through our Contact Us page.

How AI is Changing Home Security

April 30, 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) has gained a massive footprint in modern society’s day-to-day existence. Many don’t realize it, but AI is now a primary driving force for many things we currently enjoy and do. It is part of nearly everything we do, from the moment your alarm, placed across the room on top of a dresser, woke you in the morning and you reached for your phone to turn it off to the end of the day when you used your car’s GPS to find the least-congested route from your office to your home.

It’s a sobering realization that AI’s integration into our lives is just starting. It’s becoming more prominent in another area of our home life: home security.

Many homeowners are now choosing AI-powered home security systems that take conventional electronics like e-locks and CCTV networks to the next level.

What Makes an AI Home Security System Appealing?

AI and home security are a match made in heaven. Security is paramount for every household, and AI enhances its functionalities to be more agile, flexible and effective.

An AI home security system also offers a high degree of personalization. One of the best things about investing in an AI smart home security is that you can customize and pick options that best suit your lifestyle and needs. Of course, the “intelligence” of the technology is another significant benefit because it makes home security SOPs easier to implement, for example, locking your front doors when leaving the house. It’s also more convenient to use, for example, activating a door’s smart feature to open when you have both hands full carrying groceries, carrying your sleeping child, etc.

Considering the present and predicted capabilities of AI and home security technology, what can we expect from innovators and manufacturers of modern home security systems moving forward?

Here are some examples of how AI revolutionizes home security.

Intelligent Surveillance

It is a sobering realization that AI’s integration into our lives is just starting. It is becoming more prominent in another area of our home life: home security.

The following are examples of how AI has improved surveillance for residential use:

- Real-time Video Analysis: AI technology can identify threatening vs. non-threatening subjects caught in the camera frames.
- Remote Surveillance: An AI home security camera is an upgraded version that empowers homeowners to keep an eye on their homes while at work, on vacation or anywhere outside their homes.

Intelligent Recognition: AI has enabled surveillance cameras to distinguish between a squirrel darting across the yard and a human scaling a wall and walking across an enclosed area. Security cameras with this capability can trigger an alarm, alerting the occupants inside the house of a potential threat and notifying the house’s owner of suspicious, real-time activity on the premises via text, messaging or email. Advanced security cameras can even send clips of the recording along with the notification.

Greater Visibility

An AI home security camera gives homeowners greater visibility throughout their properties. Multi-camera setups are the norm today, and most systems enable homeowners to toggle between outdoor and indoor views, as well as long shots and close-ups of each camera feed inside the house. This is again ideal for households with small children who sometimes slip away unnoticed and unsupervised.

Other AI-powered features that increase residential surveillance coverage include:

Real-time Video and Audio Transmission: This feature is common in households with young children left home with their older siblings or nannies while the parents are at work. Parents can remotely view real-time and recorded footage of what’s happening inside their house on their phones or computers.

Integrated Speaker and Microphone: An added feature to real-time video and audio transmission, the built-in speakers and microphone in AI surveillance cameras allow homeowners to talk to people left at home as though they are making a phone call.

Motion Detection: Modern cameras can pan to capture a wider angle or focus and zoom in on a specific point on command. This feature heightens remote surveillance, giving homeowners greater visibility and control over their home security system.

Drones: Drone surveillance is helpful in vast estates and residential properties isolated in undeveloped areas. AI-powered drones provide much broader video coverage, can map the physical environment and identify anomalies homeowners need to look out for.

Predictive Analytics

One of the best features about AI is its ability to analyze patterns and predict future outcomes with a high degree of accuracy. This capability is usually associated with data analytics and forecasting for business, marketing or finance. Fortunately, home security innovators saw its potential and compatibility with surveillance and integrated AI predictive analytics into CCTV.

With this capability, an AI home security system can analyze camera images and footage. It can then identify potential threats and predict when and where a break-in will happen. Also, with rapid-fire alarm notifications, homeowners can immediately respond to real-time threats inside or outside their homes. Predictive analytics in home security empowers homeowners to be proactive about their safety and prevent potentially devastating incidents from happening.

Examples of features that benefit from AI’s predictive analytics are:

Robotic Monitoring: Private estates no doubt still see value in hiring security guards but can also take advantage of AI-powered robotic monitoring systems. People get tired and may overlook something when they’re not 100% focused. Robotic monitoring can support or take over completely to give people time to rest and take a break. With all of the capabilities of AI, the security system can watch over the property and contact emergency services if it detects and predicts a potential threat.

Motion Detection With Sensors: Surveillance cameras with built-in sensors capture the data AI analyzes to identify possible threats. AI also enhances the cameras’ visual and motion trackers to identify non-threatening and non-intrusive subjects like a pet, an insect hovering near the camera or cars speeding on the street right before the house. Since it can distinguish between threatening and non-threatening situations, the security system is less likely to send false alerts to the authorities.

Behavior Tracking: Advanced AI security systems track people’s routines and automatically configure home security protocols as needed. For example, the system will recognize that the house stands empty during certain hours and days. It will heighten surveillance and access protocols and alert homeowners if it detects unusual activity inside or around the house.

Voice and Facial Recognition

With AI able to identify animals vs. humans, security tech innovators took this a step further to add facial recognition to home security. Sophisticated systems also include voice recognition, similar to how smart home technologies work.

AI smart home security with built-in voice and facial recognition enables homeowners to open or lock doors, turn on alarms, turn on or switch off lights and more by showing their face to a scanner or giving out a voice command. These features are becoming increasingly popular, especially since they complement smart home systems.

AI brings the following features to smart home security systems:

Authorization Recognition: The smart home devices and home security system will only grant access to homeowners registered in the system as “authorized.” This prevents guests and outsiders from controlling the home’s smart devices or manipulating security protocols without the homeowner’s knowledge.

Intruder Alert: AI facial recognition is also used to identify unauthorized people and alert homeowners when strangers roam inside their homes. This feature is helpful when people hold large parties at home and there are too many people to keep an eye on at once.

Smart Locks

AI-powered smart locks use facial and voice recognition to open doors, similar to how RFID keyless locks work. However, instead of needing a key card or traditional key, homeowners can simply walk up to the front door for a facial scan or to utter a voice command. The system recognizes authorized individuals versus strangers and restricts access to the latter.

Keyless Entry: This is a convenient feature that ensures homeowners won’t have to stress over finding their keys every morning or losing them in public.

Log: Smart locks are cloud-based and store data virtually. Homeowners can review access logs and verify the time and date people accessed locked rooms in the house. While not a typical feature in regular homes, it is helpful in large estates where over 20 contractual household staff work in shifts.

Ultimately, AI enhances the earlier iterations of electronic home security systems, making them customizable, flexible and more proactive. Home security can also stop threats and not just provide a passive defense. Thanks to AI, households have greater control over their security measures and always be on top of things, whether they are in or out of the house.

Learn more about AI home security integrations, and discover how to incorporate this technology into your home security system. Get in touch with Aeon Systems, and let’s talk about the most effective ways to protect your family and your home.

All Your Home Security Questions Answered

April 26, 2021

The benefits of having a home security system seem apparent. First and foremost, a home security system aims to protect your property, valuables, and those inside your home from a break-in, home intrusion, and even disasters like a fire or burst water pipe. Today’s home security systems can also act as a hub for home automation systems, adding a modern feel to your space by including things like energy savings options to your home.

Let us help you figure out if you are ready to have home security monitoring set up in your home by answering some of the most frequently asked questions that home security companies get proposed about their services. Here, we answer all your common questions.