8/1/23, 9:57 AM How is AI changing the security sector?

How is AI changing the security sector?

ifsecglobal.com/video-surveillance/how-is-ai-changing-the-security-sector/

Lucy Booker March 9, 2023

We’ve all heard the term ‘Artificial Intelligence’, or ‘AI’ for short. There is a
widespread acceptance that it is set to have a significant impact on the physical
security sector in the years to come, if it isn’t already… But what does it really
mean and where is it being used? Viewpoints on the subject from experts are often
fascinating, but don’t always relate to the day-to-day uses of AI – IFSEC Global
decided to go back to basics and provide an overview of its role in security.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the security sector. With the Security Industry
Association (SIA) citing AI as the predominant trend for a second year in a row, there’s no
doubt that new technology is transforming the way we work.

According to a Microsoft-Accenture survey, 89% of leaders agree that digital

transformation is important. So, what kind of technology should be on our radar? And
where can AI add value to security and safety operations?

Here, we investigate what we really mean by the term ‘AI’ and how it’s developed over
the years. If, as many would argue, we now appear to have come to the point where AI is
genuinely changing the world of physical security, what is its impact on the processes and
people that work in the sector?

Image credit: Kittipong Jirasukhanont/AlamyStock

https://www.printfriendly.com/p/g/aF84bV 1/14
8/1/23, 9:57 AM How is AI changing the security sector?

What’s the difference between artificial intelligence and

machine learning?
AI and machine learning are intrinsically linked. AI is the branch of computer science that
builds machines capable of human behaviour. Machine learning, on the other hand, is
“the science of getting computers to act without being explicitly programmed”, according
to Stanford University,

In other words: AI tells a system what to do, and machine learning helps it to learn on the
job.

For example, machine learning will teach a video surveillance algorithm to distinguish
between objects that pose a risk, such as people and vehicles, and non-threatening
objects, such as animals or rubbish.

READ MORE: An overview of video analytics in security

How has AI in security developed?

Over the last few decades, the most common application for AI has been video
surveillance. Video Analytic (VA) applications, for example, have been detecting
suspicious activity (e.g. abandoned baggage) since the 1990s. However, unreliable
algorithms often trigger false alarms, as a result of harmless environmental factors such
as a moving branch or animal.

To date, the need for people to scan hours of footage after a security breach has taken
place means that much of this technology has served as a retrospective forensic tool.

But times are changing. Whether it’s in video surveillance, access control or risk
management, AI is enabling the industry to switch its focus from reactive to proactive
operations.

“Security leaders who do not embrace a digital mindset risk becoming business
irrelevant,” says Michael Foynes, Senior Director at Microsoft Global Physical Security
Operations.

“Cloud computing, artificial intelligence and machine learning are blurring the lines
between logical and physical environments. Traditional security risk management and
threat detection are quickly becoming obsolete.”

For companies struggling to recruit security professionals, machine learning that mimics
human behaviour over large areas will be a relief as it negates the need for hundreds of
operatives. Crucially, combining AI with skilled security staff means that people power can
be used where it’s most effective.

https://www.printfriendly.com/p/g/aF84bV 2/14
8/1/23, 9:57 AM How is AI changing the security sector?

As an example, the French Government has announced that it is ‘fast-tracking’ special

legislation to use AI in video surveillance for the 2024 Paris Olympics. While the ethics of
the decision remain under scrutiny, it has been highlighted that a key reason behind the
implementation is due to an estimated 30,000 deficit of security officers required to
properly secure the events.

But is the AI revolution coming fast enough? According to Microsoft and Accenture, over
three-quarters (78%) of leaders agree that the digital transformation of physical security
will generate a meaningful ROI – but only 30% deemed it urgent – suggesting that
security is lagging behind other sectors.

How easy is it to use AI?

Clearly, upgrading security equipment across the board isn’t always workable. But some
suppliers are keen to emphasise the importance of software over hardware. Hakimo, a
Silicon Valley technology company, produces access control and health checks systems
which claim to integrate superior AI software with existing hardware.

But when is the right time to upgrade stock?

The new wave of AI claims to answer some of the sector’s biggest headaches. Fisheye
cameras identify movement and re-adjust to reduce motion blur. In identity management,
cyber and physical security is converging with the use of dynamic behavioural user
profiles that combine network security (e.g. profiles) and physical access (e.g. badges).

However, even the latest AI needs teaching – and no technology is without its faults.
“Modern and sophisticated technology makes security staff’s life easier – but a human will
always be involved in the process; interpreting the alarm and using their intuition to
determine the appropriate reaction”, said Kevin Waterhouse, Managing Director at VCA
Technology, in a previous article for IFSEC Global.

Common applications for AI

The most common applications for AI in security include:

Video surveillance

According to Omdia, 64% of all network cameras will include AI by 2025. This technology
is game-changing for video surveillance as it delivers better object detection, fewer false
positives and enhanced image clarity.

ANPR

Even marginal gains in well-established technology such as ANPR can dramatically boost
performance. Better accuracy and higher resolution images are improving hit rates and
new AI even confirms the object is a vehicle, rather than mistaking a signpost or bollard,

https://www.printfriendly.com/p/g/aF84bV 3/14
8/1/23, 9:57 AM How is AI changing the security sector?

before analysing its registration number.

Drones

AI-powered drones can cover extensive

areas and process huge amounts of data.
Devices can be used simultaneously to
map an environment and identify anomalies
– all in a matter of minutes.

Applied Aeronautics “Albatross” long range

drone has been used on every single ANPR cameras in use on a motorway (Credit:
ImageSelect/AlamyStock)
continent and has helped with everything
from marine life protection to humanitarian
aid, for instance. The drone can fly for four hours straight and reach speeds of up to 90
miles per hour.

Access control systems

AI has turbo-charged access point security, with touch-free systems minimising common
challenges such as false positives and identity theft. Deep learning – a subset of machine
learning – identifies and remembers behavioural patterns, whilst continuously
understanding why security breaches happen.

Biometrics & facial recognition

Detailed physical biometrics, such as facial, finger and iris recognition, can be mapped
against large data sets. AI also broadens a system’s scope to include behavioural factors
(e.g working patterns) to tackle fraud, identity theft and security risk.

How is AI used in different sectors for security purposes?

AI enhances security in every single sector, including:

Retail

AI-driven data and analytics helped retailers to track customer numbers during the
pandemic. As well as reducing security issues (e.g. shoplifting), new technology is
streamlining retail operations by ensuring that stock makes it onto shelves as quickly as
possible and tailoring the customer experience in-store.

Law enforcement

https://www.printfriendly.com/p/g/aF84bV 4/14
8/1/23, 9:57 AM How is AI changing the security sector?

Live Facial Recognition (LFR) is being tested by some police forces. The Metropolitan
Police states that this kind of AI is “a carefully deployed overt policing tactic to help locate
a limited number of people the police need to find in order to keep London safe.” Whether
the regulatory environment will allow for this kind of technology remains to be seen.

Healthcare

AI-powered video technology and access systems mean that secured areas (e.g. wards
or medication) are only accessible for certain individuals. On a wider scale, physical and
behavioural biometrics can locate a lost and vulnerable person in a public place.
Elsewhere, AI is helping to reduce admin and understand complex treatment needs by
scanning patient records.

Business

Detecting strange behaviour using video surveillance or access control systems is a win
for office environments. For example, if an employee leaves a room, biometric AI can
detect inconsistent behaviour and restrict unauthorised access. At entry points, AI can
flag the same card being used at multiple locations at the same time – or even diagnose
faulty hardware

Built environment

According to Clarion Security Systems, there is an estimated 7.4million CCTV cameras in

the UK – or one camera for every 11 people. In the future, smart cities could see traffic
monitored by ANPR, people kept safe via video surveillance and access management
seamlessly automated. The use of video surveillance and drones at large-scale events
(e.g. the Paris Olympics) will test whether the public is ready for AI to become part of their
daily lives.

Logistics

AI cameras can recognise a variety of objects and even trigger tracking processes in
networked systems. At a micro-level, threat detection software uses AI to scan packages
and mail for threats – without the need for x-rays. Instead, desktop scanners use T-rays

https://www.printfriendly.com/p/g/aF84bV 5/14
8/1/23, 9:57 AM How is AI changing the security sector?

to produce dynamic 4-D images in real-time.

Inevitably, despite a new wave of more advanced AI, no technology is 100% accurate.
The robots aren’t here to take our jobs.

For the security sector, finding the perfect balance between using AI to flag possible
issues and deploying skilled labour to decide on the right action will be the sweet spot.

Read our latest articles about AI in security…

Town in India becomes a ‘smart city’

A town in Arunachal Pradesh, India, has had multiple security upgrades including AI video
analytics and a video management system installed by Videonetics to become a ‘smart
city’.

Read more

https://www.printfriendly.com/p/g/aF84bV 6/14
8/1/23, 9:57 AM How is AI changing the security sector?

US school turns to AI-driven security robot for additional surveillance measures

A school in New Mexico is piloting the use of an AI-enabled robot to patrol its campus
grounds and improve security for staff and students.

Read more

https://www.printfriendly.com/p/g/aF84bV 7/14
8/1/23, 9:57 AM How is AI changing the security sector?

Retail theft: The growing frontline threat in a cost-of-living squeeze?

Examining the rising threat of retail crime in a cost-of-living crisis, and exploring the
methods available to security staff to strike back.

Read more

https://www.printfriendly.com/p/g/aF84bV 8/14
8/1/23, 9:57 AM How is AI changing the security sector?

Security products round up – April/May 2023

IFSEC Insider takes readers through the latest product launches and updates to hit the
security market throughout April and May in 2023

Read more

Omdia Insights – Trends in the video surveillance market

At IFSEC, attendees heard how technological developments such as camera edge AI and
VSaaS are revolutionising the video surveillance market.

https://www.printfriendly.com/p/g/aF84bV 9/14
8/1/23, 9:57 AM How is AI changing the security sector?

Read more

Lessons from IFSEC: Why security technology is only as good as the people using
it

Shaun Hilton explained how staff need to be trained properly to recognise suspicious
behaviour and respond appropriately at IFSEC 2023.

Read more

https://www.printfriendly.com/p/g/aF84bV 10/14
8/1/23, 9:57 AM How is AI changing the security sector?

The IFSEC Converged Security Centre: 2023 Technology Showcase

A round-up of the integrated technology solutions on show at the IFSEC 2023 Converged
Security Centre in May.

Read more

https://www.printfriendly.com/p/g/aF84bV 11/14
8/1/23, 9:57 AM How is AI changing the security sector?

‘I was seen as a secretary, not a salesperson’ – Eddie Reynolds on increasing

diversity in security and attracting the next generation

Eddie Reynolds explains her drive to increase gender and ethnic diversity in the security
sector and promote it to the next generation.

Read more

https://www.printfriendly.com/p/g/aF84bV 12/14
8/1/23, 9:57 AM How is AI changing the security sector?

AI? Cyber security? 4K? What’s really most in demand in the video surveillance
market…?

We sit down with Jamie Barnfield to analyse the results of the 2022 Video Surveillance
Report that was released in November.

Read more

Listen to the IFSEC Insider podcast!

Each month, the IFSEC Insider (formerly IFSEC Global) Security in Focus podcast brings
you conversations with leading figures in the physical security industry. Covering
everything from risk management principles and building a security culture, to the key
trends ahead in tech and initiatives on diversity and inclusivity, the podcast keeps security
professionals up to date with the latest hot topics in the sector.

Available online, and on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasts, tune in for an
easy way to remain up to date on the issues affecting your role.

Listen to the podcast today

https://www.printfriendly.com/p/g/aF84bV 13/14
8/1/23, 9:57 AM How is AI changing the security sector?

https://www.printfriendly.com/p/g/aF84bV 14/14