CCTV Systems

In this week’s edition of Surveillance Videos of the Week, we celebrate the best holiday of the year, one that’s all about getting together with your family, eating a meal together and watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade followed by three National Football League games , with a nap (or two) mixed in along the way. While we don’t yet know what video surveillance cameras will catch on Thanksgiving Day 2025, there’s enough classic video surveillance material from previous years that we decided to gather them together for you to watch when you need a break from basting the holiday turkey or trying out a new recipe for the family feast. Enjoy an extra serving of classic video surveillance clips either before you stuff the bird and yourself around the Thanksgiving table or when you’re putting together a leftovers sandwich on your way to brave the holiday shopping crowds at your local retailers. I’ll be checking them out as I scour the Internet for the perfect gifts and hope to ne...

The last two months, we ran through your career transition and transmission by exploring the Park and Reverse modes. Now, let’s drive your career forward into 2026 and beyond. You have now objectively analyzed where your career has been and looked at new avenues available in our abundance of different security industry opportunities. If you are in the early stages of your career evaluation or a military veteran looking for a more team and mission-orientated industry, try our physical/cybersecurity industry! Here are some reasons for this consideration. You can choose from operations, technical design, engineering, customer field support, remote management of programming, pre- and post-sales support, outside sales, inside sales, customer training, marketing, service and maintenance and management. If you are new to our security and safety industry, I guarantee it will be challenging. Security is never boring. It’s meaningful/purposeful work to protect and save lives. Different indu...

The corporate world was put on high alert following the murder  of UnitedHealthcare Chief Executive Brian Thompson, which has led to a significant increase in personal security measures for top executives across the United States. Thompson’s killing has highlighted the vulnerabilities faced by leaders in high-profile positions and has prompted many companies to reevaluate and enhance their security protocols. Executive Security and Corporate Safety Measures on Rise According to a recent report from  Ayco , a financial planning arm of Goldman Sachs, personal security is now the second most common benefit being considered for executives. The survey, conducted between April 30 and June 27, reveals that over one-quarter of compensation and benefits professionals have already implemented personal security benefits for their CEOs, which is notable 10-percentage point increase compared to 2023, reports HR Brew. These security benefits often include assigning at least one securit...

Most integrators think marketing starts with ads, SEO or posting more content. In reality, the most powerful, and arguably most underutilized, marketing channel in the security industry is the one dealers already have: their existing customers. A happy customer could do more for your brand than a month of paid ads. A single five-star review outranks a dozen clever social posts. And, according to the Spiegel Research Center, having just five reviews can increase purchase likelihood by 270% compared to having none. The challenge isn’t convincing customers to say good things about you. The challenge is building a process that makes advocacy automatic. Here’s how integrators can turn their customer base into their most effective and credible marketing engine. Systematize How You Capture Reviews Too many dealers still rely on hope: install the system, shake hands, and assume the customer will remember to leave a review someday. That is not a strategy. You need a review-capture work...

The 2025  CE Pro  &  Commercial Integrator  IoT/Connected Product Awards, recognizing innovation and excellence in the custom residential and commercial technology integration industry, are open for submissions with new categories. “As the Internet of Things revolution continues unabated, commercial spaces are transforming, becoming ever more interconnected and boasting device-to-device communication that was heretofore unimaginable,” says Dan Ferrisi, group editor of content + editorial, industrial + tech, Emerald. “AV integrators who specialize in commercial environments are certainly embracing the power and capabilities that IoT offers. A program like the Connected Product Awards ably highlights the products and technologies that will help integrators run their businesses better and complete their projects more effectively,” he says. The Internet of Things (IoT) encompasses a network of physical devices such as cameras, TVs, locks, automated ...

BALTIMORE — Armed police recently detained and searched a Kenwood High School student after the school’s artificial intelligence (AI)-driven security system mistakenly identified an empty bag of chips as a possible firearm. The student, Taki (insert your own crunchy snack-related joke here) Allen, was waiting for a ride home with friends after football practice when the weapons detection system flagged a bag of Doritos he was carrying, reports  The Banner . The subsequent response involved handcuffing Allen, despite the school’s safety officials quickly determining beforehand that there was no weapon. Officials Call for Review of School District’s AI Weapons Detection System In response to the incident, Baltimore County officials are calling for a thorough review of the AI security system used in the school. This system, operational since 2023, analyzes footage from over 7,000 security cameras installed throughout the district. Kenwood High School Principal Kate Smith no...

LEHI, Utah — Vivint has announced two new professionally installed security and smart home systems designed to bring greater accessibility, flexibility and customization to homeowners. The new offerings, HomeProtect and HomeProtect Pro, are positioned as scalable solutions that combine professional installation, in-house monitoring and an updated app experience aimed at making connected living more intuitive. According to Vivint, HomeProtect is intended to provide essential security and energy management features at a price point that typically aligns with DIY systems. The company cites a starting cost of $199.99 for equipment with professional installation and $24.99 per month for monitoring. The system includes a new panel-less security hub, long-range keypad, three door and window sensors, a motion sensor, and 24/7 professional monitoring staffed by Vivint employees. Customers can also add devices such as a smart thermostat, video doorbell, and smart lock. Vivint says Home...

While the 2000s have seen the channel become more corporate, among security’s enduring charms is its entrepreneurial spirit—with one foot firmly planted in cottage-industry roots and the other stepping through MBA programs. The top end of the industry has expanded with larger players and better-known brands, which is great for several reasons, including boosting professionalism, security awareness and investment capital. But a key ingredient that has kept the industry so vibrant and growing is its accessibility to enterprising technology innovators and security solutions providers. Pair that with the critical overriding mission to protect people and property along with the demand and necessity for it, and you have a noble purpose and limitless opportunities to fulfill it. I am reminded of Russian comedian Yakov Smi Uprnoff’s signature line (Google it, youngins), “What a country!” In this case, what an industry! Grown Up But Not Fully Mature There is no doubt the industry has grown...

Virginia has allocated $12 million in School Security Equipment Grants to 433 schools across 99 school divisions, representing the state’s latest investment in educational safety infrastructure. The Virginia Department of Education announced on October 9 the funding distribution, which brings total security infrastructure investments to $60 million since fiscal year 2022. A total of 1,132 public schools have received enhanced security funding during this period. How Are Virginia’s School Security Grants Distributed? School divisions received grants through a competitive application process, with awards capping at $250,000 per division. The Virginia Department of Education and Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services evaluated applications based on specific criteria prioritizing schools with the greatest security needs. Evaluation factors included: Schools with higher offense rates Identified equipment gaps from security audits Limited local resources for security upg...

McLEAN, Va. – The Monitoring Association ( TMA ) welcomed more than 150 monitoring and security professionals to Addison, Texas, last week for its 2025 OPSTech, drawing the annual meeting ‘s most attendees in its five-year history. Over the course of three days, attendees took part in “dynamic sessions and interactive roundtable discussions led by respected industry leaders and technology innovators,” according to the association announcement. “From the opening Welcome Reception to the closing workshops, this year’s OPSTech was exceptional,” says TMA president Alan Gillmore IV, in the announcement. “I was among a record number of first-time attendees this year. I took away actionable intelligence that I plan to readily implement in my own business. “Moreover, I had the opportunity to reconnect with friends and colleagues from across the industry and meet new colleagues and thought leaders. The opportunity to engage one-on-one was invaluable,” he says. What Did TMA OPSTech Attende...

UNIONTOWN, Ohio — SSI 2025 Installer of the Year Securitas Technology has released its 2026 Global Technology Outlook Report, its eight annual look at the state of security technology and the trends shaping the future of security investments over the coming years. The 2026 Global Technology Outlook Report offers “perspective and research on the trends driving the electronic security industry,” according to the company announcement. It is the result of a combination of survey data of Securitas Technology clients and other end user decision makers on security technology investments across multiple markets; contributions from security product manufacturers and technologists around the world; and other expert insights across multiple technical disciplines. “The Technology Outlook Report is grounded in our commitment to innovation, our deep connection to our clients and industry partners and our data-based thought leadership,” says Tony Byerly, global president and CEO of Securitas T...

Do you know an outstanding campus safety leader? It’s time to nominate them for the 19th annual Director of the Year award. This prestigious program, presented by SSI sister publication Campus Safety , recognizes exceptional police chiefs, security directors, public safety chiefs, emergency managers and other administrators who have shown outstanding leadership and innovation in protecting our nation’s hospitals, schools and universities. CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR NOMINATION! There is no cost to enter and this is your chance to honor a deserving colleague — or even yourself — who goes above and beyond the call of duty. Benefits of Winning Winners and finalists receive significant recognition for their contributions to campus safety. Winners receive an exclusive prize package, including: A feature article on CampusSafetyMagazine.com. Widespread recognition within the campus public safety and security community. A custom-made trophy to commemorate their a...

IRVINE, Calif. — Allied Universal , which provides security and facility services to retailers, malls and shopping centers, is offering holiday shopping safety tips for consumers, as well as insights on retailer security strategies to keep things merry and bright during the holiday shopping season. Staying vigilante isn’t just good advice for shoppers, according to the Allied Universal 2025 World Security Report , which finds that retailers are investing or planning to invest more in artificial intelligence-based surveillance technology and upskilling and training of security teams to help keep shoppers safe. From biometric access control to AI-powered video surveillance and threat detection, retail organizations “are planning to ramp up security efforts to help protect against theft and bad actors,” the company announcement says. “While retailers are prioritizing a strong security infrastructure, shoppers can do their part for a safe and enjoyable holiday shopping experience,” a...

Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the landscape of video surveillance – and for integrators, resellers and installers, it’s creating a major opportunity. Many organizations are racing to incorporate AI into their systems, not just to stay competitive but to stay ahead of rising security challenges. Falling behind could mean missed opportunities for faster threat detection, streamlined operations and smarter decision-making. The physical security industry is well-suited for AI adoption. Video surveillance systems generate enormous amounts of rich data that AI thrives on. From detecting anomalies in real time to automating analytics across hundreds of cameras, AI promises to reshape how organizations protect people, property and assets. However, incorporating AI is not as simple as it may seem. Legacy infrastructures still linger throughout the industry and these older systems are not equipped to support AI workloads. Limited storage and antiquated architectures can create ser...

In today’s Best Advice Q&A, we talk to Chris Hugman, founder and chief executive officer of System Surveyor. He offers up the best advice he’s ever gotten, what he does to help young security industry pros elevate their profiles and the person to whom all others should listen when it comes to security sector excellence. Security Sales & Integration: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? Chris Hugman: It came from my first boss after college. While in telcom at the time, I believe the advice applies doubly to the security industry: “If you don’t have time to do a job right, when will you have time to do it over?” SSI: What advice would you give to those looking to achieve success in the security industry? Hugman: This industry is very dynamic with a broad range of rapidly emerging technologies and challenges. So, my advice is to be an avid lifelong learner. Stay curious, be humble and keep asking questions. SSI: Who in the security industry should up-a...

DALLAS — The Electronic Security Association (ESA) today announces that registration is officially open for the 2026 Electronic Security Expo ( ESX 2026 ), the annual event where “the brightest minds in the electronic security and life safety industry unite for education, innovation and high-impact networking.”   Scheduled for June 1-4, 2026, at the Irving Convention Center in Irving, Texas, ESX is “where the business of security meets the future of technology,” according to the ESA announcement. Known across the security industry as the recurring monthly revenue (RMR) educational event of the year, this event “brings together integrators, dealers and monitoring professionals who are ready to take their businesses to the next level,” the announcement says.   Why Should You Register for ESX 2026? Designed by and for security pros, ESX 2026 will feature “peer-led education, cutting-edge solutions and exclusive access to industry leaders, all aimed at helping attendee...

The most-hyped movie of the year, “Wicked: For Good,” is set to hit theaters nationwide on Friday, with Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jeff Goldblum, Bowen Yang and the rest of the gang back to wrap up the story of how Elphaba became the Wicked Witch of the West. What does that have to do with surveillance video, though? In the leadup to the movie’s debut, several cast members headed to Singapore for a premiere event. An overzealous fan slipped past security and tried to get a photo with Grande as she walked in to the theater on the yellow carpet, but Erivo stepped in to make sure the situation didn’t get any more serious for her friend. Of course, someone recorded the whole incident and we’re sharing it here with you. Other surveillance video highlights this week include a jewelry store owner who took matters into his own hands to defend his business and New Jersey police rescuing a man after a fiery car crash. Click here to check out the latest batch of Surveillance Videos of the...

ATLANTA  —  Full-service fire protection, life safety and service service provider Pye-Barker Fire & Safety  has  acquired Lubbock, Texas-based Texas Homeland Security & Sound. This transaction “adds to Pye-Barker’s strong fire protection presence in the area, providing opportunity for the company to offer full fire code compliance for additional Texas communities,” according to the joint announcement. Texas Homeland Security & Sound – serving an area from Lubbock to San Antonio, Austin and Houston – installs, services and monitors security, access control, video surveillance and fire alarm systems for commercial customers. The company “has extensive experience in security camera installation using a wide range of CCTV equipment, with team members elevating customer service by identifying optimal system design based on each customer’s unique needs,” according to the joint announcement. Why Did Pye-Barker Acquire Texas Homeland? “Exceptional customer...

NORCROSS, Ga. — Clearly, SALTO Systems has been doing something right during the past quarter-century since the company has navigated business conditions of all kinds to survive for 25 years, a milestone that’s reached by few companies, especially in the technology sector and particularly in the security industry. Recently, Colin DePree, sales strategy manager for North America for SALTO Systems, talked to SSI digital editor Craig MacCormack about how the company reached the 25-year mark, some of the ways the company has made its mark by its focus on innovation and a preview of what’s ahead for SALTO in the next 25 years. DePree also shares SALTO Systems’ plans for ISC East 2025 ( booth 318 ), set for Nov. 18-20 in the Javits Center in New York City, where the company will celebrate its history but continue pushing forward. Here’s the full conversation: The post SALTO Systems on 25 Years of Innovation and What’s Ahead for Them in the Next Quarter-Century appeared first on Secu...

A scuffle breaks out in a school corridor, and AI-powered video analytics immediately detect the unusual movement patterns and alert administrators before the situation escalates. Meanwhile, across campus, an AI system flags an unrecognized vehicle that’s been parked in the faculty lot for an unusual length of time. Both situations get immediate human attention because artificial intelligence acted as an early warning system. These examples aren’t science fiction. Technology solutions like this are already in operation at schools and universities across the country. Educational institutions are moving beyond traditional reactive security measures to embrace AI-powered systems that proactively identify threats, automate compliance processes and optimize campus operations. This transformation is enabled by open platform video management software (VMS) technologies that allow administrators to deploy customized artificial intelligence (AI) solutions fitting their unique needs,...

Video surveillance systems need to be viewed by purchasers of these systems so that everything does not start and end with using them just to help deter and/or look for shoplifters. In this example, a person enters a store to purchase household goods and, while walking through the store, claims she fell because something was spilled on the floor. Resultantly, 911 is called and the woman is taken from inside the store to the hospital for treatment. Subsequently, a lawsuit is filed against the business claiming that it acted negligently and that but for tripping and falling, her injuries would not have occurred. When you sell video surveillance systems, do you educate the prospective subscriber on the value of video surveillance systems as an evidence-gathering tool? In other words, beyond the myriad security benefits is its other intrinsic value: being able to provide mission-critical details of the event, which would not exist but for having a video surveillance system. Video Sur...