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Security Case Study: Video Analytics can Protect Your Property

Written by Andrew DeNardo on . Posted in Blog, Design, Posts, Security, Video Analytics.

The Challenge: Vandalism and Property Loss

The Solution: Avigilon Cameras with Video Analytics Appliance

We recently worked with a world renowned non-profit organization based in Southern New Jersey. This group had their air conditioning (AC) units tampered with and stripped of their copper tubing. The group replaced the units, in full, only to actually have the new units stolen! Shortly after having the units stolen, they called us looking for a solution that could have prevented the theft and vandalism in the first place.

In response, we consulted with them about their business and any other issues they were experiencing. We do this in order to provide a comprehensive security solution. Our proposal then included installing a Video Surveillance System using Avigilon Cameras and other equipment with video analytics to monitor their property and the new AC equipment.

Alen Security installed four (4) new Exterior Bullet cameras with integrated IR, to add to their existing camera base, along with an Avigilon Rialto Analytic Appliance and talk-down speakers. The video analytics allow them to set up “triggers” or “alarms” so they can be alerted when a person or vehicle is in an area they are not supposed to be in. So, if an incident like this were to happen in the future, they will be able to be pro-active and someone can “talk-down” to the alleged perpetrators asking them to leave and alerting them that law enforcement has been notified.

The Result: Adding the Rialto Analytic Appliance to their existing analog camera network along with the new cameras we installed provided this organization with a cost-effective way to easily add video analytics to their existing analog video surveillance system. The best part is that they have not had any further incidents of theft or vandalism since the new system was implemented.

Frequently Asked Questions

What security problem was the nonprofit experiencing?

The organization’s air-conditioning units had been stripped of their copper tubing. After replacing the damaged units, the new equipment was stolen entirely.

What equipment was installed to protect the property?

Four exterior bullet cameras with integrated infrared technology were added to the existing camera system, along with a video analytics appliance and talk-down speakers.

How do video analytics detect suspicious activity?

The system uses triggers and alarms to identify when a person or vehicle enters an area where they are not supposed to be.

What happens when the system detects a potential intruder?

Security personnel can use the talk-down speakers to direct the person to leave and warn them that law enforcement has been notified.

Could video analytics be added to the organization’s analog cameras?

Yes. The analytics appliance worked with the existing analog camera network and newly installed cameras, providing a cost-effective upgrade without replacing the entire surveillance system. The organization reported no additional theft or vandalism after installation.

person-using-access-control-on-their-phone

Access Control Systems

Written by Andrew DeNardo on . Posted in Access Control, Blog, Security.

There are many sensitive areas that a business must monitor and secure – retail floors, service areas, offices, stockrooms, loading docks and more. How do you stay on top of it all and makes sure that someone doesn’t go where they are not supposed to be?

Let us design a Physical Access Control System to fit your needs using “state of the art” Access Card Readers that support multiple access technologies to ensure that only the people you want “in” get “in”. You can choose between swipe cards, proximity cards, or key fobs to allow entry for your employers, vendors or whomever you would like to have access.

And with the Avigilon Access Control Manager (ACM) you get a complete, IT-Friendly, system that is designed to keep your focus on securing your people, property and assets, and maximizing your time by helping you respond immediately to alerts wherever you are. ACM is a browser-based solution that can integrate with existing IT/HR systems, minimizing the need for duplicate data entry. ACM comes with a full set of standard features that not only help to maximize your time, but will reliably safeguard your information. ACM can also integrate with Avigilon’s ACC5 Video Management Software to connect critical alarm events enabling you to display visual verifications.

So, let US help YOU decrease security threats by restricting traffic and controlling who goes where. We do it all and ensure that it is done on-time and in compliance with all applicable codes. We’ve been helping our clients with specialized access control systems for over 45 years, and will work with you and your budget to make sure that you always feel comfortable and secure.

Have any questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

What areas can an access control system protect?

Access control can secure retail floors, offices, service areas, stockrooms, loading docks, and other sensitive locations where entry needs to be restricted.

What types of access credentials can a business use?

Businesses can provide employees, vendors, and other approved individuals with swipe cards, proximity cards, or key fobs.

Can access control integrate with existing business systems?

Yes. Avigilon Access Control Manager is a browser-based system that can integrate with existing IT and human-resources systems, reducing the need for duplicate data entry.

Can access control work with video surveillance?

Yes. The access control platform can integrate with Avigilon’s video-management software, allowing users to view video connected to critical alarms and verify what caused an event.

Can administrators respond to access-control alerts remotely?

Yes. The system is designed to help authorized administrators receive and respond to alerts wherever they are, making it easier to manage security without remaining at a specific workstation.

man-using-walkie-talkie-while-viewing-security-footage

Security Video is No Longer Just a Forensic Tool

Written by Andrew DeNardo on . Posted in Blog, Security, Video Analytics, Video Monitoring.

For years, the security industry has used video as a forensic tool, identifying what happened and if you were lucky, by whom, AFTER a break in, theft or tampering incident. But now, with our state-of-the-art video cameras, monitoring software and alarm systems, we can intervene and PREVENT incidents, BEFORE they happen!

Rather than coming in to find that your property has been vandalized or equipment missing, security video software can detect when an unauthorized person has entered your premises, alert the police and the people monitoring your site from a central location can talk to the perpetrator, announcing that the police are on their way, stopping the crime in progress.

Our IP Video Cameras with Video Analytics learn on their own by observation and also from the operators who actively use it. They automatically adjust to changing scene conditions, helping reduce false alarms, and provide superior protection for both assets and personnel.

These cameras can be programmed to send alerts when specific behaviors or scene changes occur such as Trip Wire, Direction of Travel, Region of Interest and Loitering. Not only that, but the cameras can be programmed to only respond to certain conditions or at certain times or days. For example, persons entering a server room after hours or cars entering a restricted parking lot on the weekends.

Frequently Asked Questions

What areas can an access control system protect?

Access control can secure retail floors, offices, service areas, stockrooms, loading docks, and other sensitive locations where entry needs to be restricted.

What types of access credentials can a business use?

Businesses can provide employees, vendors, and other approved individuals with swipe cards, proximity cards, or key fobs.

Can access control integrate with existing business systems?

Yes. Avigilon Access Control Manager is a browser-based system that can integrate with existing IT and human-resources systems, reducing the need for duplicate data entry.

Can access control work with video surveillance?

Yes. The access control platform can integrate with Avigilon’s video-management software, allowing users to view video connected to critical alarms and verify what caused an event.

Can administrators respond to access-control alerts remotely?

Yes. The system is designed to help authorized administrators receive and respond to alerts wherever they are, making it easier to manage security without remaining at a specific workstation.

security-footage-of-man-breaking-into-warehouse

Video Analytics Can Watch Your Business When You Can’t

Written by Andrew DeNardo on . Posted in Blog, Security, Video Analytics, Video Monitoring.

Video systems with self learning video and Video Analytics are the most intelligent and comprehensive security solutions available. They learn as they

monitor your assets and property, over time, becoming aware of your procedures and routines and more adept at identifying suspicious activity.

Our Video Analytics systems employ the HD Dome and HD Bullet cameras which use Avigilon’s “Teach by Example” technology. They learn on their own by observation and also from the operators who actively use it. They automatically adjust to changing scene conditions, helping reduce false alarms, and provide superior protection for both assets and personnel including server farms, data centers, computer labs and networking centers.

These Video Analytics cameras can be programmed to send alerts when specific behaviors or scene changes occur such as:

  • Trip Wire – A person, object or vehicle crosses a virtual line in a particular scene.
  • Direction of Travel – A person, object or vehicle moves in a particular direction through the camera view.
  • Region of Interest – A person, object or vehicle enters or leaves a virtual area in the camera’s view.
  • Loitering – A person, object or vehicle remains in the camera’s view for longer than a pre-determined period of time.

Video Analytics can be programmed to only respond to certain conditions or at certain times or days. For example, persons entering a server room after hours or cars entering a restricted parking lot on the weekends. Other applications may include:

  • Perimeters of corporate facilities: People approaching after hours, vehicles parked where they shouldn’t be, deliveries at unmanned loading areas.
  • Unmanned structures such as cell towers, utility substations and data centers: Unauthorized persons or vehicles approaching, fences being climbed, tampering.
  • Construction sites, laboratories, storage rooms, vaults: People present in restricted areas or when the building or site is closed, vehicles leaving or entering restricted areas or after hours.
  • Building rooftops: Vandalism or theft of rooftop equipment, attempted entry.
  • Unoccupied/un-rented buildings: Theft of copper, vandalism, vagrancy.
  • Computer labs, cubicles, server farms: Theft of equipment, data theft, unauthorized usage, individuals abusing internet privileges or using unauthorized peripherals.
  • Transportation/logistics: People tampering with sealed trailers, unauthorized loading or unloading, vehicles in unauthorized areas, employee theft/shoplifting.
  • Medical/research facilities: People present outside of regular operating hours, people present in restricted areas, unauthorized access of patient records or drug cabinets, vehicles entering or leaving after hours, theft, and inventory control.

Learn more about how your site can benefit from a system with self learning video and Video Analytics.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do self-learning video analytics identify suspicious activity?

The system learns a property’s normal routines through observation and feedback from operators. Over time, it becomes better at recognizing activity that falls outside those usual patterns.

What types of events can trigger a video analytics alert?

Alerts can be triggered when someone crosses a virtual line, moves in a specified direction, enters or leaves a defined area, or remains in one location longer than permitted.

Can video analytics operate on a specific schedule?

Yes. The system can respond only during selected times or days, such as when someone enters a server room after hours or a vehicle enters a restricted parking lot on a weekend.

What types of properties can use video analytics?

Video analytics can help protect corporate campuses, construction sites, laboratories, data centers, utility facilities, warehouses, medical facilities, rooftops, and vacant buildings.

How can video analytics help protect sensitive equipment and information?

The system can detect unauthorized access, equipment theft, data theft, tampering, improper use of computer systems, and activity involving restricted records or storage areas.

man-monitoring-security-camera-footage

State-of-the-Art Interactive Remote Video Monitoring

Written by Andrew DeNardo on . Posted in Blog, Security, Video Monitoring.

Our state of the art interactive remote video monitoring systems provide the highest resolution footage available, months of storage, talk down audio and more, to effectively monitor and protect your property, employees and assets.

Featuring Avigilon’s new line of HD Dome and HD Bullet Cameras with Self Learning Video Analytics, these cameras offer cutting edge technology without the hassle of manual calibration, ensuring easy installation and top notch performance.

IP Video Systems are designed to improve facility management, allowing one person to monitor more than one location at a time. Imagine being able to monitor multiple locations simultaneously. Essentially this is what an IP Video System with Network Video Recording and Interactive Remote Video Monitoring can do for you.

Systems include:

  • Scalable hard drives which expand to fit YOUR needs and applications.
  • An easily searchable database. Within seconds, verify an alarm and search a file from two minutes ago or sixty days ago.
  • Network Video Recording with RAID 5 Storage for Redundancy
  • Dual Power Supplies for increased reliability
  • 1 Megapixel to 30 Megapixel Cameras
  • IPad/IPhone App
  • Google Play App
  • Self Learning Video Analytics
  • Wireless Network Video Systems
  • Pan/Tilt/Zoom Cameras
  • Day/Night Cameras with Infrared Technology

Interactive remote video monitoring systems allow you to more efficiently and effectively monitor:

  • Entry and exits to thwart intruders
  • Parking facilities for employee safety
  • Sensitive areas inside to deter in-house theft
  • School hallways & computer rooms
  • Industrial controls and processes

Monitor your property and watch productivity improve while liability goes down.

Alen Security has a proven track record of providing the expertise to specify, design, install and maintain some of the most complex and sophisticated systems used in the Tri-State Area (New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is interactive remote video monitoring?

Interactive remote video monitoring combines IP cameras, network video recording, video analytics, remote viewing, and features such as talk-down audio to protect property, employees, and equipment.

Can one person monitor multiple locations?

Yes. An IP video system allows an authorized user to view and manage cameras at multiple properties from one location.

How quickly can users find recorded footage?

The system provides a searchable video database that can retrieve recent or older recordings within seconds, whether the event occurred minutes or weeks earlier.

Can the surveillance system expand as a business grows?

Yes. Scalable hard drives allow storage capacity to be increased based on the organization’s changing needs and applications.

What areas can interactive video monitoring protect?

The system can monitor entrances and exits, parking areas, sensitive interior spaces, school hallways, computer rooms, and industrial equipment or processes.

gloved-hand-coming-out-of-computer-to-steal-credit-card-information

What You Need to Know About Data Theft

Written by Andrew DeNardo on . Posted in Blog, Security.

As anyone who has been the victim of one of the recent data breaches that have hit major retailers like Target and Michaels know, data theft is a big deal. Sony Pictures found that out the hard way as did their video game division when they were hacked too. While most companies are concerned with hackers that come from the outside, they tend to forget that a lot of data theft comes from the inside, namely disgruntled employees. Your IT department probably does all it can do prevent this but your security system can help too. Video surveillance and access control can help you spot suspicious activity after hours or in areas where files and servers are kept. They can also alert you to network logons that happen when there shouldn’t be anyone online at that time. This can help you spot potential data theft. Your security solution should also include access control, which will allow you to lock down server rooms, file rooms, and anywhere else sensitive and/or confidential data is kept. This is especially crucial for medical facilities with collections of patient records who must comply with HIPAA laws.

Contact us today for a consultation and let us help you design a security system that’s right for your company. We can customize for any size, need and budget and cater to many different industries. With over 40 years of experience and access to the newest technologies, we can help you keep your data and your company secure. Call or email today and see what we can do for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can data theft come from inside a company?

Yes. Although businesses often focus on external hackers, the article warns that data theft can also involve employees, including disgruntled team members with access to company systems or records.

How can video surveillance help detect possible data theft?

Video surveillance can document suspicious activity after hours or around areas where servers, files, and confidential information are stored.

Can a security system identify unusual network activity?

The article explains that a security system can alert a business to network logins occurring when no one should be online, helping the company investigate possible unauthorized access.

How does access control protect sensitive company data?

Access control restricts entry to server rooms, file rooms, and other locations containing confidential information. Only individuals with approved credentials can enter those areas.

Why is physical access control important for medical facilities?

Medical facilities store sensitive patient records and must comply with HIPAA requirements. Restricting access to the locations where those records are kept adds another layer of protection against unauthorized access or theft.

man-sneaking-inventory-from-building

Reducing Employee Theft

Written by Andrew DeNardo on . Posted in Blog, Security.

According to a recent report, a whopping 43% of lost revenue is due to employee theft. That’s around $18 billion in loss every year. The retail industry is the hardest hit by employee theft but all industries suffer from some degree of it, whether it’s as petty as office supplies or as serious as embezzlement. There’s no way to completely eliminate it but there are things you can do to greatly reduce it.

To start, if you aren’t already, do through background checks on prospective new hires including reference checks. While it’s true most places won’t give details about previous employment, the answers to questions like “Would you hire X again?” can say a lot.Personality testing can be very helpful as well, as can simply paying attention to how interviewees answer the question, “Why did you leave your last position?” be sure to take in their non-verbal cues too-most people who are lying give that fact away in their body language. This can eliminate or at least sharply reduce your chances of hiring someone that turns out to be a thief. A good video surveillance system is also a must, including video analytics and access control. For example, a store room where spare computer equipment is kept shouldn’t be open to access by anyone except the IT employees responsible for setting them up and assigning them. Just knowing they are being monitored does a lot to discourage the temptation to steal.

We have provided some of New Jersey’s top companies with full and customizable security solutions to help them secure their assets, employees and property. Let us help you secure your company too. Regardless of your size or budget, we can design the perfect system, one that will do the job now and for years to come. Contact Us today for a quote!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which businesses can be affected by employee theft?

Although the article identifies retail as the industry most heavily affected, employee theft can occur in any organization. It can range from taking office supplies to serious financial crimes such as embezzlement.

Can businesses completely eliminate employee theft?

No security measure can eliminate every risk, but careful hiring practices, access restrictions, and surveillance can significantly reduce the opportunity for employee theft.

How can hiring practices reduce the risk of internal theft?

Businesses can conduct background and reference checks, ask previous employers whether they would rehire the applicant, and pay close attention to how candidates explain leaving earlier positions.

How does access control help prevent employee theft?

Access control limits sensitive areas to employees who need to enter them. For example, a room containing spare computer equipment could be restricted to authorized IT personnel.

Why is video surveillance important for preventing employee theft?

Video surveillance and analytics can monitor sensitive areas and document activity. Employees who know those areas are being monitored may also be less likely to attempt theft.

several-keys-and-copies

How to Hire a Great Locksmith

Written by Andrew DeNardo on . Posted in Blog, Locksmith.

Many of us may need the services of a good locksmith at some point, whether it’s because of misplaced keys, new construction in need of security locks and doors, or a simple upgrade. Unfortunately locksmith scams are far too common and since we often hire a locksmith for an emergency situation, they are easy to fall for. Fortunately there are things you can do to spot and protect yourself and your company from scams.

First, only hire locally owned and operated locksmiths. Those located out of state should be avoided. You’ll also want to avoid companies that refuse to provide a quote in advance. If at all possible, research and chose a locksmith when you don’t need one right way instead of waiting until an emergency happens when you may not be thinking clearly. A good locksmith will arrive in a clearly marked company vehicle and be happy to provide ID. If they refuse to, send them away. If they tell you they need to drill your locks? Beware. That should be a locksmith’s last resort. A good locksmith will go out of his way NOT to damage your property. Here in New Jersey, state law requires locksmiths to be licensed. Don’t be afraid to ask for proof that they are in compliance with the law.

We’re proud to offer full-service locksmith services with licensed and professional locksmiths. Our services include lock rekeying, safe installation, electronic and high security locks, installation and service of panic bars, aluminum glass doors, master key systems and more. We’re locally owned and operated and have been in business since 1970.

Frequently Asked Questions

When might a business need a locksmith?

A locksmith may be needed after keys are lost, during new construction, when installing security doors and locks, or when upgrading an existing locking system.

How can a business avoid locksmith scams?

Choose a locally owned and operated locksmith, request a quote in advance, and research providers before an emergency occurs whenever possible.

How can you verify that a locksmith is legitimate?

A professional locksmith should arrive in a clearly marked company vehicle and willingly provide identification. In New Jersey, the article also recommends asking for proof of the locksmith’s required state license.

Does a locksmith always need to drill a lock?

No. Drilling should be a last resort. A qualified locksmith should first explore methods that avoid unnecessary damage to the lock or surrounding property.

What services can a commercial locksmith provide?

Commercial locksmith services may include rekeying locks, installing safes, setting up master-key systems, servicing panic bars, and installing electronic locks, high-security locks, and aluminum glass doors.

man-using-access-control

Benefits of Access Control

Written by Andrew DeNardo on . Posted in Access Control, Blog.

Have you implemented access control at your company? If not, you should. Access control has many benefits over just a simple surveillance system. It gives you more control over access to specific areas. You can even restrict access on specific days and specific times. This adds another layer of security as it significantly reduces foot traffic. For example a pharmaceutical company can use access control to restrict access to areas where drugs and chemicals are stored. Companies that handle sensitive data can use access control to restrict access to file rooms that contain it, and it can also be used to protect expensive assets. Access control is also an excellent way to protect residents of dormitories and apartment buildings.

Access control is also economical and saves money compared to traditional keyed entries because when an employee leaves, is terminated, or misplaces their card you can simply remove that card from the system, thereby rendering it useless. If you had a keyed entry, you’d have to replace the locks or have them rekeyed, which is a real hassle. Alternately, if you hire a new employee you simply have to print a new card for them rather than getting new keys made. Simple, cost effective and secure!

We provide comprehensive access control systems for every size business. Our systems can be customize to fit your individual needs, easily integrate with your existing systems and are flexible so they can grow with you and accommodate future advances in technology.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does access control provide more security than surveillance alone?

Surveillance records activity, while access control actively restricts who can enter specific areas. It can also limit access to particular days and times, reducing unnecessary foot traffic.

What types of areas can access control protect?

Access control can protect pharmaceutical storage areas, chemical rooms, confidential files, sensitive data, valuable equipment, apartment buildings, and student dormitories.

What happens when an employee loses an access card?

The missing card can be removed from the system and rendered unusable, preventing someone else from using it to enter the facility.

Is access control more economical than traditional keys?

It can be. When an employee leaves or loses a credential, the company can deactivate the card instead of replacing or rekeying its locks. New employees can also receive newly issued cards without requiring physical keys to be cut.

Can an access control system expand as a business grows?

Yes. The article explains that access control systems can be customized, integrated with existing systems, and expanded to support future growth and advances in technology.