CES Amps Up Security Amid Safety Risks
CES organizers added vehicle blockades, more armed security and other safety measures for the giant tech trade show.
- By Sydny Shepard
- Jan 09, 2018
We in the security industry know how hectic a trade show can be, especially one in Las Vegas. This week the annual Consumers Electronics Show is in full force and organizers have taken every precaution to ensure its 170,000 attendees and more than 3,900 exhibitors are safe during the show.
While CES organizers work year-round to ensure the safety of their attendees, the Las Vegas mass shooting just three months ago focused those energies with more urgency. In response to that tragedy and new and potential threats, CES this year includes a noticeably visible front of security featuring vehicle blockades and highly visible armed law enforcement.
The increased safety measures at CES highlight the new challenges the show faces as a potential target for future attacks. For example, Ajit Pai, the chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, may have cancelled his appearance at CES due to death threats.
Additional security measures at CES include bag searches and restrictions, armed law enforcement, vehicle deterrence measures and a safety app, which is new to CES in 2018. The app, named LiveSafe, gives CES attendees safety information, ability to report tips and contact security.
About the Author
Sydny Shepard is the Executive Editor of Campus Security & Life Safety.