Pros and cons of using drones for perimeter security

Pros and Cons of using Drones for Perimeter security

Physical intrusion in private properties still remains a major concern today. To counter this, people generally resort to video surveillance in combination with other hardware.

According to a report from Markets and Markets, the video surveillance market, which includes both hardware and software, is presently at USD 45.5 billion and is expected to reach USD 74.6 billion by 2025.

These unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) offer a range of benefits over traditional security measures, including improved coverage, faster response times, and reduced costs. For physical security installers, integrating drones into their security solutions can provide a significant competitive advantage and open up new business opportunities.

Perimeter security is an active barrier or fortification around a defined area to prevent all forms of intrusion. Modern security systems are an amalgamation of sophisticated hardware and software that generally include cameras, motion sensors, electric fencing, high-intensity lights, and a command center to manage them all.

Challenges with conventional security systems (without drones) for perimeter security

Below are some of the drawbacks and limitations that are inherent in a conventional security system:

·        CCTV cameras and motion detectors are stationary, thus leaving plenty of room for blind spots.

·        Patrolling requires human guards – for larger areas, this is the least efficient way of securing a premise.

·        Response to an intrusion is delayed since a human responder has to reach the location.

 

5 advantages of using drones for perimeter security

While there are several advantages to using perimeter security drones, customers must know that not every benefit may apply to every vertical. For example, drones may offer better coverage in some cases, but if a site is riddled with obstacles in the form of complex buildings, UAVs may find it difficult to operate. Having said that, here are five benefits:

1. Improved coverage

One of the most significant advantages of using drones for perimeter security is the ability to provide wider coverage of the area being monitored. Drones can fly at various heights and angles, enabling them to capture footage from locations that may be difficult or impossible to reach using traditional security measures. As a result, drones can provide a more comprehensive view of the perimeter and identify potential security threats more effectively.

2. Faster response times

Drones can respond to security incidents much faster than human security personnel. Once a potential threat is detected, the drone can quickly move to the location and assess the situation, providing real-time information to security teams. This enables security personnel to respond more rapidly and effectively, potentially preventing security breaches or minimizing the damage caused by such incidents.

3. Reduced costs

Drones can be a cost-effective alternative to traditional security measures. By using drones, physical security installers can reduce the need for expensive human resources, such as security guards. In addition, drones can provide 24/7 surveillance, reducing the need for multiple security shifts and reducing overall operating costs.

4. Flexibility

Drones can be deployed quickly and easily, making them ideal for providing security in a range of scenarios. They can be used for event security, construction site security, critical infrastructure security, and many other applications. Additionally, drones can be programmed to follow specific flight paths or patrol specific areas, providing increased flexibility and customization.

5. Improved safety

Drones can be used to provide security in hazardous or hard-to-reach areas, reducing the risk to human security personnel. For example, drones can monitor areas that are prone to natural disasters, such as flood-prone areas or earthquake-prone regions. This can help to ensure the safety of security personnel and reduce the risk of injury or loss of life.

5 disadvantages of using drones for perimeter security

Although the advantages may outweigh the disadvantages in many verticals, customers need to remain aware that drones have several limitations. At the end of the day, drones are restricted by several factors and optimizing your security operations around these limitations is essential to achieving the best results.

1. Limited flight time

One of the primary limitations of using drones for perimeter security is the limited flight time. Most commercial drones have a flight time of 20-30 minutes, which may not be sufficient for large areas or extended surveillance periods. This means that multiple drones may be required to cover a single perimeter, increasing costs and complexity.

2. Dependence on technology

Drones are highly dependent on technology and may be susceptible to system failures, such as signal loss or malfunctioning equipment. This could compromise the effectiveness of the security system and potentially lead to security breaches.

3. Weather conditions

Many drones are highly sensitive to weather conditions, and high winds, rain, or fog can compromise their effectiveness. This means that they may not be suitable for use in all weather conditions, reducing their overall effectiveness.

4. Privacy concerns

The use of drones for security purposes may raise privacy concerns among individuals in the area being monitored. This could lead to legal challenges or a negative public perception of the security system, which could undermine its effectiveness.

5. Regulatory constraints

The use of drones for security purposes is subject to a range of regulatory constraints, including restrictions on flying in certain areas or operating outside of certain hours. This could limit the effectiveness of the security system or add complexity to its operation. Also, several countries like the US require commercial drone operators to hold valid licenses, which might further increase operational costs.

Conclusion

In short, the use of drones for perimeter security has both advantages and disadvantages. While drones offer improved coverage, faster response times, reduced costs, flexibility, and improved safety, they are also limited by their flight time, dependence on technology, weather conditions, privacy concerns, and regulatory constraints.

Regarding technology, factors to consider also include the type of drone to use. For instance, while remote-controlled drones are popular, several leading companies offer autonomous drones that offer a host of several advantages and disadvantages.

Physical security integrators must carefully evaluate these factors before deciding to add drones into their security solutions. With careful planning and implementation, however, drones can provide a significant competitive advantage and help to enhance the effectiveness of security systems.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: How Drones add a new dimension to perimeter security?

A: Drones are mobile flying machines that can go anywhere. Thus they eliminate blind spots. In the event of an intrusion, a drone can apprehend an intruder real-time fast and send footage realtime to remote viewers.

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Q: What impact can drones have on the security industry?

A: Drones have pushed the technology bounds of the security industry. They are making security systems smart and robust, which can tackle all forms of threats.

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Q: What are the Uses of drones for perimeter security?

A: Drones are used in conjunction with CCTV cameras and other sensors to apprehend intruders fast and send real-time feedback to remote viewers.

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Q: Can we use drone for remote surveillance security purposes?

A: Drones can be remotely controlled using a fleet management system like FlytNow. Such a system allows a user to manage and control multiple drones from a unified dashboard remotely. The user even has access to the live video feed.

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Q: What drones are used for security operations?

A: 1. DJI Matrice 200 Series

2. Yuneec H520

3. Parrot Anafi

4. Autel Robotics EVO

5. DJI Inspire 2

6. DJI Phantom 4 Pro

7. Aibotix X6

8. Skydio 2

9. DJI Mavic 2 Pro

10. DJI Mavic Air

Security Industry Predictions for 2020

Security Industry Predictions for 2020

Wishing you a very Happy New Year.

Some trends observed by the security and surveillance sector are Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, Sensor, integration.

According to annual reports from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. In 2016-17, while the reported incidents stood at 35,418, in 2017-18 there were 69,539 incidents, rising to 274,465 in 2018-19. India reported slightly more than 313,000 cybersecurity incidents in the ten months to October.  The country is plagued with weak e-infrastructure and is not capable of meeting the needs of a growing economy and its population. Corporate growth and investments can be hampered if the government fails to close the e-infrastructure deficit. E-Infrastructure. E-Infrastructure comprises tools, facilities and resources that are needed for advanced collaboration and includes the integration of various technologies such as the Internet, computing power, bandwidth provisioning, data storage etc.

Some trends observed in the security and surveillance sector are Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity and integration. Intellectual property (IP)-based surveillance technology, touted as the future of surveillance systems, has replaced closed-circuit analogue systems. Some trends like sensors, biometrics, real-time connectivity, advanced processing software and analytics have also propelled the industry growth. Some of these trends have enhanced the efficacy of security systems, whereas others have the potential of having adverse impacts.

Common prediction themes across vendors include the 2020 elections in the U.S., more targeted ransomware, more ways to attack the cloud, and an explosion of problems with deepfake technology.

Cybersecurity

There’s disagreement on the most important cyber threats to focus on as we head into 2020, even though everyone agrees that cybersecurity is more important than ever before. Cyber-attacks of all kinds have become, and will continue to be, a major threat, making this one of the most important initiatives that today’s businesses embrace. From a manufacturer’s perspective, building cybersecurity into the product from its inception is critical, with integrators beginning to demand this level of consideration from the products they sell. As a result of a rise in the convergence of IT applications alongside security investments, end users are now seeking out solutions designed with data security top-of-mind. As HikVision, Dahua named Chinese product already ban in various sector globally including under umbrella brand. All network connected devices such as DVRs/NVRs, servers, IP cameras, access controllers, intrusion alarms, smart sensors, are vulnerable, which is why this added step in developing cybersecurity protocols and applying them across the organization is critical.

Internet of Things (IoT)

The Internet of Things (IoT) has been a major trend for the past few years in many industries, and this will continue as we integrate sensors of all kinds into the network. The collection and analysis of the data collected by these sensors is giving rise to a plethora of applications such as industrial applications, intelligent building management, event management, and much more. The physical security industry benefits by having additional intelligence for situational awareness and emergency management, as well as opportunities to provide additional value-added services and business insights. Being deployed in an increasing number of scenarios and with continued improvements in computing capabilities, video has the opportunity to become the eye of IoT.

AI-Enabled Devices

For 2020, AI does show up again in a number of new ways — with several specific warnings for those who fail to use AI to counter bad actors who will be using it. Software manufacturers are looking toward artificial intelligence to help propel advanced analytics in an effort to deliver more situational awareness to operators, and an increased ability to proactively assess threats or anomalies. While video and data analytic capabilities have been around for quite some time, some would argue they were rudimentary in comparison to software that uses AI to make existing applications such as facial recognition much more accurate, and to create new ways to detect anomalies. In addition, AI continues to be used to make sense of the large amounts of data that are being generated by intelligent sensors and by analyzing the growing amount of video.

Businesses and other organisations could face multimillion-pound fines if they are unable to explain decisions made by artificial intelligence, under plans put forward by the UK’s data watchdog in Nov 2019. The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) said its new guidance was vital because the UK is at a tipping point. where many firms are using AI to inform decisions for the first time. This could include human resources departments using machine learning to shortlist job applicants based on analysis of their CVs. The regulator says it is the first in the world to put forward rules on explaining choices taken by AI.

Are we still talking about robots as a threat to jobs? According to Google Trends data, automation remains a controversial topic. “Are robots taking over jobs” is peaking at a similar search volume as ten years ago — but a new concept is changing the role of automation in the workplace.  Augmented intelligence is one of the few technologies named on the Gartner Hype Cycle for Emerging Technologies, 2019 that are predicted to reach expectations, over the next two-to-five years. In contrast to artificial intelligence (AI), augmented intelligence emphasises collaborations between AI and human workers. It’s designed to enhance human skills and allow them to work faster and more efficiently, rather than replace them.

In contrast to artificial intelligence (AI), augmented intelligence emphasises collaborations between AI and human workers. It’s designed to enhance human skills and allow them to work faster and more efficiently, rather than replace them. That said, while advanced AI can fix some issues automatically, the process is not always devoid of human intervention. Other issues, such as emergency maintenance of a machine, will always require human involvement at some stage. AI can provide the alert, but it can’t always do the work.

Cloud and Mobile Capabilities

Mobility is critical for physical security and is emerging through the development and use of cloud-based services, as well as the ability to access security devices through a smart phone or Web-based browser. That’s why there’s been such an influx of mobile apps created to manage cameras, receive automatic alerts for the most diverse event, and giving users the ability to grant or restrict access to a facility. All of this demonstrates the world’s demand for mobility, connectivity and ease-of-use.

I believe there will be a data breach to end all data breaches, and it will happen in the cloud and affect billions of users. Chances are it will happen to a hybrid cloud that will lead the hackers down a rabbit hole that will gain them access to multiple cloud entities. This breach will cause a fundamental shift in how cloud providers handle security; look for serious changes to the authentication process of cloud providers by the end of the year.

5G Connectivity

2020 is the year 5G goes mainstream. It’s safe to say that 5G will revolutionize the way people stay connected to the internet. Extra speed, extra bandwidth are going to make our mobile devices faster, more powerful and hyperconnected, with the same thing happening to IoT connected devices such as cameras. This is going completely change the way we think about smart cities: More powerful IP devices connected to one another, powered by AI, will have a massive impact on the way we move, shop and live in urban areas. In 2020, 5G is likely to start becoming a reality in India with its spectrum allocation taking place in the coming months. This will enable telcos and equipment makers to conduct full-fledged trials. Smartphone makers such as as OnePlus and Realme have also announced their plans to bring 5G phones to the country next year to set the pitch for new networks.

2020 will be the year when we would see 5G emerging as a household network technology in many markets around the globe. Australia, Argentina, Canada, and Japan are amongst the key countries where the next-generation wireless technology is set to debut in the coming months.

Drones Open up New Pathway for Intelligence Gathering

To date, the security concern around drones has mostly been focused on the physical damage nefarious actors, including nation states, could perpetrate. In 2020, we could start seeing attackers focus more on what drones know and how that information can be exploited for intelligence gathering, corporate espionage and more.

Military usage of drones or RPAS (Remotely Piloted Aerial Systems) has become the primary use in today's world. Used as target decoys, for combat missions, research and development, and for supervision, drones have been part and parcel of military forces worldwide. 

Video — Everywhere

Video is the cornerstone of security, providing both real-time and forensic coverage for emerging threats and incidents, which is why it’s one of the fastest growing segments of the marketplace. The use of video for traditional applications in new markets, as well as for use in newer applications that are not necessary security related is poised to see the most movement. In some industries such as oil and gas, there is a trend towards extending video coverage into extremely harsh and hazardous environments, so manufacturers are challenged to develop appropriately certified equipment to meet a more stringent demand. Manufacturing facilities such as food processing plants are also increasing their use of video for training and compliance purposes to prevent incidents such as food recalls that can be extremely costly for the business. Huge number Video footage destroy without viewing what camera saw. in this 2020 video auditing will start journey. In order to mitigate occupational safety and health issues, several organizations employ various safety and security measures to address the same, one of them being CCTV/video surveillance systems. CCTV/video surveillance systems are highly effective at visually identifying several risks connected with unsafe behaviours of the workforce and the critical conditions of the working environment.

‘Auditing’ means 'seeing' what the cameras 'saw'. CCTV video footage should be audited daily; several times a day if need be. Depending on the requirements, auditing of CCTV footage of critical cameras on a daily basis must become an SOP. Auditing will help relevant stakeholders to ‘discover’ the 'unknown'. Auditing as an activity may be manual, it may be post-facto, but it is a very dedicated and systematic process, which helps address some of the challenges of live monitoring (video blindness, poor attention span, boredom, bias, fatigue etc.), as well as the challenges related to alert-based systems (how often has one faced false alerts, or what is called the ‘cry-wolf’ effect). Auditing will help discover issues as mentioned above as well as in identifying and analysing threats and hazards (THIRA/HIRA) of various kinds. Auditing CCTV video footage will also be extremely helpful in waste reduction and following the 5S philosophy, i.e. sort, set, shine, standardize and sustain (all part of Six Sigma practices). It’s an exciting time to be a part of the security market, as we’re really just beginning to see that, when it comes to technology advancements, the sky is the limit. I would argue at the core of these innovations is the video data being collected, and as we work to build technologies that can harness the power of these applications, we will continue to be at the forefront of this movement toward greater intelligence and business insights.

The Indian security market is experiencing unprecedented boom due to huge demand. The growing awareness in the retail and enterprise segment is giving security solutions a cult status. A new phase of the consolidation process is on in the Indian security market.