Government Security


Diebold Wins Frost & Sullivan Award

Based on its recent analysis of the physical security solutions market, Frost & Sullivan recognizes Diebold Security (Diebold) with the 2009 Global Frost & Sullivan Physical Security Systems Integration Company of the Year Award for its excellence in developing physical security solutions with a focus to increase productivity, improve customer service, reduce costs and enhance security for assets and people.

Department Of Defense Chooses Sony IP Cameras

The Department of Defense is rolling out more than 350 of Sony’s latest-generation 1.3 megapixel high-resolution network security cameras to its facilities worldwide. According to Strategic Solutions Unlimited (SSU), a security systems integrator based in Fayetteville, N.C., the Department of Defense is in the second phase of its camera deployment, adding 300 units to the 50 cameras initially installed in 2008.

Hazards and Hoaxes

Less than eight years ago, anthrax letters killed five people, sickened many others and disrupted mail operations nationwide. Despite large investments in time and treasure, suspicious white powder continues to bedevil security executives and mail center managers worldwide.

IP Video, Access Control System Helping To Secure Texas Police Station

911SecurityCamera Inc. recently announced the completion of an integrated IP surveillance system for the Deer Park Police Station in Texas. The IP video surveillance solution gives the department centralized control over all aspects of security. The surveillance system provides 24 hour monitoring of all areas of the department's operations including booking areas, holding cells, interview rooms, parking lots and the entrances.

DNSSEC Deployment Coordination Initiative, DHS To Present Program

Focusing on deploying domain name system security extensions, "The Keys to Deploying Domain Name System Security Extensions (DNSSEC): Managing and Meeting Your OMB Domain Name System Requirements," will be presented by the DNSSEC Deployment Coordination Initiative, and supported by the Department of Homeland Security during GovSec and U.S. Law March 11-12

GovSec Summit Looks At Role Of IP-Based Security

We are receiving a phenomenal response to our IP Summit, scheduled for March 11, at GovSec. The interest generated and number of registrants has been impressive but also anticipated.

Former FBI Director To Keynote GovSec, U.S. Law

A keynote speech from former FBI director Louis Freeh will highlight the 2009 GovSec and U.S. Law show running March 11-12 in Washington, D.C.

GovSec Program To Focus On Military’s Expanding Role In Domestic Defense

A new symposium at GovSec and U.S. Law, “DOMESTIC DEFENSE 2009: The Expanding Role of U.S. Military Forces in Defending America,” will take place on Wednesday, March 11. DOMESTIC DEFENSE 2009 will provide insight into the changing role of military forces resulting from the Pentagon’s approval to establish a 20,000 rapid reaction force to support activities in the aftermath of a chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear or high-yield explosive attack on American soil.



Expanded Law Enforcement Education Opportunities Highlight Conference

GovSec and U.S Law, running March 11-12 in Washington, D.C., will feature expanded educational opportunities for the law enforcement community. The expanded focus will include law enforcement-related education sessions, new exhibitor product categories and the Third Annual ASIS International Law Enforcement Appreciation Luncheon.

GovSec IP Summit Examines Application Of Convergent Strategies

Security Products and Network-Centric Security magazines are sponsoring the IP Summit March 11 during GovSec in Washington, D.C.

BridgeWave Technology Powers Wireless Video Surveillance During Inauguration

BridgeWave Communications recently announced that its gigabit wireless products provided the network backbone to support mission-critical video surveillance traffic run by local and national security agencies during the 2009 U.S. presidential inauguration.

Finding the Right Formula

Following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, the government instituted increased levels of security planning for critical infrastructures in the United States. Not surprisingly, the petrochemical industry is one of 14 sectors deemed by the Patriot Act of 2001 to be of high criticality and sensitivity.

Ask the Expert

Advanced X-ray Technology To Help Protect Federal Courthouses

Smiths Detection recently announced a $3.5 million contract with the United States Marshals Service for HI-SCAN 6046si advanced X-ray screening systems. The systems will be installed in courthouse lobbies throughout the United States to screen personal belongings of those entering the building.

New Michigan Jail To Feature Digital Video Surveillance Technology

A modern, new 250-bed jail will soon replace the currently overcrowded 98-bed facility in Midland County, Mich., and digital video surveillance technology from Panasonic System Solutions Company will boost security at the $25 million, 103,000-square foot facility.

Secure Strategy Group Formed

Rampart Partners LLC, a business consulting firm focused on the security industry, recently announced that its founders Robert Rutkowski and Joseph Costa are joining forces with Scott Greiper, formerly a managing director at Legend Merchant Group and head of the firm's Convergent Security Group. The three business and security industry experts have launched a new entity called Secure Strategy Group.

Magal Security Systems To Protect U.S. International Border Crossing

Magal Security Systems recently announced that it has received, through its U.S.-based subsidiary, an order to supply a security and protection system for a major United States international border crossing. The order is expected to be delivered during 2009.

Presidential Inauguration Security Detail Uses Emergency Text Messaging System

With more than 2 million people expected to attend the historic swearing in of President-elect Barack Obama, 58 law enforcement agencies in the District of Columbia and surrounding jurisdictions will rely on Alert DC, an interoperable emergency text messaging system provided by Cooper Notification, to coordinate the largest security and safety operation for a presidential inauguration in the nation’s history.

In Tandem

The combination of security and efficiency can sometimes appear to be the equivalent of oil and water. We have all felt the delays associated with tightening security procedures at government buildings and facilities. Depending on the location, these delays can sometimes last 10 to 30 minutes—or more. For people who enter these facilities regularly, this burden can have a large impact on their day.

Statewide Security

Since 1965, the Delaware Capitol Police has worked to ensure that the state government can operate safely and uninterrupted. The agency’s responsibilities include protecting legislators while in session, safeguarding the governor’s mansion and residence, and servicing approximately 100 state buildings. Over time, the number of state buildings has increased, along with the agency’s scope of responsibilities.

AMAG Technology Helps Guide Department Of Defense To FIPS 201 Compliance

The Department of Defense issues Common Access Cards to more than 4 million military, retried military and contractors throughout the world. DoD was tasked with complying with the Federal Information Processing Standards Publication 201. FIPS 201 is a federal government standard that specifies Personal Identity Verification requirements for Federal employees and contractors.

TSA Approves Biometric Readers For TWIC Pilot

The Transportation Security Administration has approved four biometric readers from Sagem Morpho for deployment in critical pilot tests of the Transportation Worker Identification Credential program at major U.S. ports including Los Angeles, New York and Long Beach, Calif.

Research: E-Passports, ID Cards Drive Up Demand For RFID Hardware

A recent report from Research and Markets says that even in the government sector, initiatives such as e-passports and RFID enabled ID cards are expected to drive demand for RFID hardware.

GE Security Launches Authorized GSA Service Provider Program

GE Security, Inc., a business of GE Enterprise Solutions, recently announced the company has modified its contract with the General Services Administration (GSA) to update the schedule of available GE Security products.

Conference Tackles Identity, Cybersecurity Programs In Next Administration

U.S. federal government identity and smart card programs have grown significantly under the Bush administration. But with the election a week away, one important question on people's minds is, what will happen under the next administration?

Texas Airport Protects Black Hawk Helicopters With Wireless Video Surveillance

Airport officials at the Draughon-Miller Central Texas Regional Airport in Temple, Texas, can now watch over ground crews and protect military assets using a wireless video surveillance network.

Hirsch Electronics Enters Distribution Business

Hirsch Electronics, a supplier of physical access control systems, has signed an exclusive global distribution agreement with SCM Microsystems, a supplier of smart card readers for secure authentication, to provide SCM’s Physical Access Control Terminals (PACT) series physical access readers to the open market.

Department Of Defense Division Selects Fargo Printer/Encoders

HID Global recently announced that it has been selected to supply its Fargo HDP5000-LC printer/encoders to the Department of Defense Defense Manpower Data Center. As part of the DMDC’s migration to the next generation of ID card printers, the HDP5000-LC units will be utilized throughout the DMDC to support its Identity Protection and Management projects.

Emergency Notification System Expanded At Air Force Bases

AtHoc Inc. recently announced that the Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC) has expanded its use of AtHoc IWSAlerts within the command. AFMC awarded a contract for AtHoc software licenses and services, and the emergency notification system is now deployed to an additional 25,000 people.

United States Postal Service Chooses Diebold To Implement Nationwide Security Program

The United States Postal Service (USPS) recently announced the implementation a multi-site, technologically-advanced video security program. With more than 40,000 sites across the country, the USPS has selected Diebold Security to manage this nationwide implementation under a three-year agreement.

Department Of Veterans Affairs To Use CoreStreet Technology For HSPD-12 Smart Card Program

Driven by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) goals and implementations, CoreStreet recently announced that the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) will leverage CoreStreet’s credential validation technology for the validation services required as part of its HSPD-12 smart card program.

Safe and Secure TV

Click here to view the latest collaboration between Security Products and the Safe and Secure TV Channel.

Is Our Telecomm Infrastructure Secure?

The events of Sept. 11, 2001, and the 2005 hurricane season emphasized U.S. dependence on an effective national telecommunications infrastructure. Telecommunication companies are a critical part of America’s infrastructure and key to securing the homeland in times of emergency. Reliable, resilient communication services can provide the bridge between emergency responders, firefighters and law enforcement for cohesive emergency management.

Delta Scientific Announces More Than 400 Deployments Of DSC2000 Barricades

Delta Scientific, a manufacturer of counter-terrorist vehicle control systems used in the United States and internationally, recently announced that it has sold systems deploying more than 400 DSC2000 shallow foundation barricades to customers throughout the world.

San Pedro Bay Ports Open New Enrollment Site for Federal Security Credential

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Port of Los Angeles worked together to open an additional enrollment site recently on Terminal Island in an effort to facilitate enrollment for the Los Angeles/Long Beach port worker, mariner and trucker communities into the federal Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) program.

TSA Participates in Cooperative Inter-Modal Transportation Security Exercise

The exercise was held June 25 at Washington's Union Station and brought transportation entities from the national capital region together to reinforce strategic plans for preventive and protective response in the event of emergency situations.

ASIS Issues Second Edition of TASR Guideline

The ASIS Commission on Standards and Guidelines has released the second edition of the Threat Advisory System Response Guideline (TASR).

In the Public Eye

Building automation has revitalized public safety in Puerto Rico by employing a video surveillance system that improves communication throughout the police force and centralizes public housing issues.

Report Examines Law Mandating Scans of All U.S.-Bound Cargo Containers by 2012

Congress reaffirmed its will to implement 100-percent scanning in four years while government witnesses defended their position that the deadline was unrealistic.

A Volatile Time

If you’re a security integrator working with companies that store or produce chemical or petroleum products, your clients have probably asked for assistance with the Department of Homeland Security’s Chemical Facilities Anti- Terrorism Standards.

Smoother Sailing

The maritime industry is clearly one of the most powerful drivers of international commerce and economic vitality in the world. The statistics are astounding, including a worldwide fleet of nearly 11 million marine containers, a transportation cargo unit that can hold up to 500 computer monitors.

Researchers Show On-Card Fingerprint Match Is Secure, Speedy

A fingerprint identification technology for use in Personal Identification Verification (PIV) cards that offers improved protection from identity theft meets the standardized accuracy criteria for federal identification cards according to researchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology.

Taking This Show On The Road

GovSec, U.S. Law and Ready has wrapped up its Washington, D.C. tradeshow, and one event truly has captured the essence of helping others in a meaningful way. Tradeshow officials have teamed up with Verizon Wireless to support HopeLine.

Intelli-Check/Mobilisa Introduces TWIC Card Reader

Intelli-Check/Mobilisa Inc. recently announced that it will be launching its latest product, the IM 2700 -- Transportation Worker Card Reader at GovSec, U.S. Law and Ready.

USIS Launches Screening Service From Special Investigations Unit

USIS, a provider of pre-employment screening and the largest provider of security investigations to the U.S. government, is launching a new service by the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) of the company’s Investigative Services Division (ISD).

Security Solutions By The Handful

GovSec 2008 is in the books. I like saying it that way because it reminds me of when I coached baseball. In the books meant it was a good game, and we likely won. GovSec was a good tradeshow, and exhibitors likely won.

videoNEXT, SightLogix Announce Collaboration

videoNEXT, a developer of security management solutions, recently announced in a collaborative effort with SightLogix Inc, that the two companies have completed the implementation of a video surveillance system for a high-security military installation.

Pivot3 Exhibits High-Definition Storage

Pivot3 will exhibit the company's High-Definition Storage at Booth 2527 during GovSec, U.S. Law and Ready.

Homeland Security Group Launches Waterproof, Body-Worn DVR

Homeland Security Group has launched its new PDVR-1000, a waterproof, body-worn DVR that strongly improves security for agents in the field, offers evidential quality recording of suspects and allows supervisors to coordinate tactical operations.

Focusing On Government Security

GovSec, U.S. Law and Ready kicked off its first edition Wednesday since the 1105 Media team bought the event. A strong list of keynote speakers will highlight daily activities.

SIA Calls for Greater Collaboration To Improve HSPD-12 Implementation

In recent testimony before the U.S. House Subcommittee on Government Management, Organization and Procurement, Rob Zivney called implementation of HSPD-12 a pioneering effort which will require both a financial investment and development of new infrastructure.

Ready for Takeoff

When hurricanes in 2005 leveled the Charlotte County Airport in Punta Gorda, Fla., airport officials chose to rebuild, and to do so stronger and smarter. That meant making sure the airport’s security system satisfied federal and state regulations in a post-9/11 world that had to protect against potential terrorists turning airplanes into deadly bombs.

The Fight for Immigration Reform

Immigration is one of those controversial issues that touch on many aspects of American life. It's challenging because on one hand, there are those who come to the United States to seek a better life. But in doing so, they are breaking the law. Three people believe they have the answers to resolve this issue, and oddly enough, all three want to be president of the United States.

Second National Fusion Center Conference Fosters Greater Collaboration

More than 900 federal, state and local law enforcement and homeland security officials recently attended the National Fusion Center Conference in Washington, D.C. to further the U.S. government’s plans to create a seamless network of these centers.

United States, Germany Agree To Share Fingerprint Databases, Information On Terrorists

Officials from the United States and Germany recently initialed a bilateral agreement related to sharing access to biometric data and spontaneous sharing of data about known and suspected terrorists.

DHS Conducts Cyber Storm II To Examine Preparedness, Response Capabilities

Cyber Storm II is the second in a series of congressionally mandated exercises that will examine the nation’s cyber security preparedness and response capabilities. The exercise will simulate a coordinated cyber attack on information technology, communications, chemical, and transportation systems and assets.

ASSE, ASIS Join Brady Center Against Oklahoma Guns-at-Work Law

The associations joined in an amicus brief urging the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals to agree that the Oklahoma statute, by forcing employers to allow guns such as this Beretta, runs afoul of the General Duty Clause.

Down to Earth

One of the first reactionary attempts to bolster security after 9/11 occurred at airports. Immediately after air service was reinstated, the public saw uniformed Marines armed with M-16s at every security checkpoint, concrete barriers at each entry point, security guards ransacking passengers’ luggage and, of course, taller fences going up around airfield perimeters. As with most things in life, an unexpected event usually generates an unexpected— and sometimes irrational— response. Such was the case with the nation’s aviation facilities.

A Boost at the Border

Mention border security, and you might imagine the intersection of two countries, or perhaps the border separating government facilities from private land. But border security also can be defined as perimeter security, which expands the concept to encompass walls, fences, roads and other perimeters around businesses, schools, prisons, utilities, research facilities, and other properties and buildings.

Data Mining E-Mail Can Spot Insider Threats In Organizations

A rapid way to spot insider threats from individuals within an organization such as a multinational company or military installation is reported in the current issue of the International Journal of Security and Networks.

Featured

  • Maximizing Your Security Budget This Year

    7 Ways You Can Secure a High-Traffic Commercial Security Gate  

    Your commercial security gate is one of your most powerful tools to keep thieves off your property. Without a security gate, your commercial perimeter security plan is all for nothing. Read Now

  • Surveillance Cameras Provide Peace of Mind for New Florida Homeowners

    Managing a large estate is never easy. Tack on 2 acres of property and keeping track of the comings and goings of family and visitors becomes nearly impossible. Needless to say, the new owner of a $10 million spec home in Florida was eager for a simple way to monitor and manage his 15,000-square-foot residence, 2,800-square-foot clubhouse and expansive outdoor areas. Read Now

  • Survey: 72% of CISOs Are Concerned Generative AI Solutions Could Result In Security Breach

    Metomic recently released its “2024 CISO Survey: Insights from the Security Leaders Keeping Critical Business Data Safe.” Metomic surveyed more than 400 Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) from the U.S. and UK to gain deeper insights on the state of data security. The report includes survey findings on various cybersecurity issues, including security leaders’ top priorities and challenges, SaaS app usage across their organization, and biggest concerns with implementing generative AI solutions. Read Now

  • New Research Shows a Continuing Increase in Ransomware Victims

    GuidePoint Security recently announced the release of GuidePoint Research and Intelligence Team’s (GRIT) Q1 2024 Ransomware Report. In addition to revealing a nearly 20% year-over-year increase in the number of ransomware victims, the GRIT Q1 2024 Ransomware Report observes major shifts in the behavioral patterns of ransomware groups following law enforcement activity – including the continued targeting of previously “off-limits” organizations and industries, such as emergency hospitals. Read Now

Webinars

New Products

  • ResponderLink

    ResponderLink

    Shooter Detection Systems (SDS), an Alarm.com company and a global leader in gunshot detection solutions, has introduced ResponderLink, a groundbreaking new 911 notification service for gunshot events. ResponderLink completes the circle from detection to 911 notification to first responder awareness, giving law enforcement enhanced situational intelligence they urgently need to save lives. Integrating SDS’s proven gunshot detection system with Noonlight’s SendPolice platform, ResponderLink is the first solution to automatically deliver real-time gunshot detection data to 911 call centers and first responders. When shots are detected, the 911 dispatching center, also known as the Public Safety Answering Point or PSAP, is contacted based on the gunfire location, enabling faster initiation of life-saving emergency protocols. 3

  • Luma x20

    Luma x20

    Snap One has announced its popular Luma x20 family of surveillance products now offers even greater security and privacy for home and business owners across the globe by giving them full control over integrators’ system access to view live and recorded video. According to Snap One Product Manager Derek Webb, the new “customer handoff” feature provides enhanced user control after initial installation, allowing the owners to have total privacy while also making it easy to reinstate integrator access when maintenance or assistance is required. This new feature is now available to all Luma x20 users globally. “The Luma x20 family of surveillance solutions provides excellent image and audio capture, and with the new customer handoff feature, it now offers absolute privacy for camera feeds and recordings,” Webb said. “With notifications and integrator access controlled through the powerful OvrC remote system management platform, it’s easy for integrators to give their clients full control of their footage and then to get temporary access from the client for any troubleshooting needs.” 3

  • A8V MIND

    A8V MIND

    Hexagon’s Geosystems presents a portable version of its Accur8vision detection system. A rugged all-in-one solution, the A8V MIND (Mobile Intrusion Detection) is designed to provide flexible protection of critical outdoor infrastructure and objects. Hexagon’s Accur8vision is a volumetric detection system that employs LiDAR technology to safeguard entire areas. Whenever it detects movement in a specified zone, it automatically differentiates a threat from a nonthreat, and immediately notifies security staff if necessary. Person detection is carried out within a radius of 80 meters from this device. Connected remotely via a portable computer device, it enables remote surveillance and does not depend on security staff patrolling the area. 3