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Innovative Biometric solutions for the education sector

The current global pandemic has led to shifts in the biometric security industry. Accelerating the demand and shifting the focus on to contactless access control and security systems. The future involves a move away from touchpad systems for fingerprinting, palm scanners, and such technology. Instead, there will be a move towards contactless fingerprint scanners and face recognition solutions.   Why does the education sector need biometric solutions? Education institutions will have different levels of need for biometric solutions depending on their set-up and size but generally, their use can enhance the student experience. Biometric systems can more efficiently record student attendance while streamlining administrative tasks for the teachers, thus increasing the time they are available to teach. The added benefit is the attendance data is more readily available with increased accuracy, as it can\’t be forged and human error risks are removed.   The more obvious need for biometric systems is for access control to provide safe and controlled environments for both staff and students. Facilities installing a biometric system at the main entrance will produce an accurate record of who enters and leaves the premises as well as preventing unauthorised access to the building. A biometric system can also be extended to include allowing students to access different facilities such as the library, canteen, printing, equipment allocation, specific classrooms/labs, or even to prevent access to certain areas.   What are the potential Biometric Solutions? Arana Security can provide customised solutions to the education sector that is tailored to their specific needs and requirements. There are 3 potential systems that can be of benefit;   1. IDEMIA VisionPass Face Recognition   One innovation anticipated to have wide use before the end of the new decade is facial recognition. VisionPass is the most powerful facial recognition device in the current market. The newest addition to IDEMIA’s range of frictionless biometric access control devices. This robust and reliable device provides near-motion 1-second verification through multiple angles and in all light conditions and is resistant to all kinds of spoofing attempts. This is the ideal solution for contactless access control to facilities     2. Contactless enrollment/access control with IDEMIA Morphowave Compact   IDEMIA created their patented, contactless 3D fingerprinted technology, to accurately and quickly capture fingerprints with a single hand movement. Convenient and simple to use whilst removing surfaces that act as potential germ transmission. The Morphowave Compact can also be used with the VisionPass for access control solutions.     3. Biobox enrolment   Using Arana Security’s Biobox enrollment and verification system, with an integrated biometric application and hardware, to capture and store biometric data. A trusted, and flexible biometric enrolment system will help create a much more efficient, accurate, and faster enrollment process for students.  The biometric data can include face recognition, fingerprints, Iris, and signature. The quality of biometric data is such that it can be printed and ID cards even created should there be a need. The system is easily customised with various types of biometrics and peripherals to create the required enrollment workflow.   The Future of Biometrics in the Education sector is here   Education facilities are continually implementing the use of new technologies, to both support and enhance the learning experience. Using technology such as tablets, laptops and smart-boards are a common sight in education institutions. A step towards biometrics can bring further benefits. Not only will using biometrics assist the daily operations but also bring aspects such as accountability, security, and authentication. As well as student attendance, the system can be used for staff time and attendance. To control access with biometrics to restricted areas will ensure that confidential documents are kept secure.

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What you need to know about application development?

The fast-paced world of smart devices has in turn brought about not only a massive industry but a world of opportunity for so many with the creation of the applications (Apps) market. From the humble beginnings of ‘snake’ on Nokia, considered to be the first app by many, in 1997,  to the leap that Apple made by launching the Apple store with 500 Apps in 2008, was just the beginning. Today there are millions of Apps available across multiple platforms.  In 2018 the global apps market was valued at $106.27 billion, which is expected to exceed $400 billion by 2026.   What is an App? A term that is denoted to a computer program that runs on PC, mobile phones, tablet, or other electronic devices. Each app is designed with functionalities related to its intended use. There are 3 types of applications; Native Apps – are those developed specifically for the mobile on a particular platform such as Android or iOS. They have full access to the device’s functions and capabilities which will allow for a richer user experience and interactive opportunities. These types of apps will have a higher development cost and require maintenance. Also, these apps will use storage space on the mobile device. Web Apps – these are accessed through the web browser. They are responsive websites and so will adapt to the users’ device. It does not require the user to download it, so they don’t use storage, they only need an internet connection. They have lower development costs and can be accessed from any device, it’s not limited to a particular platform, ie Android or iOS. The limitation that it cannot access the device functions and capabilities as the native Apps do so will give a more limited experience. Hybrid Apps – As the name suggests these are a mixture of both native and web Apps. they are developed using web technologies but will act in a way that native Apps do. The advantage is they are faster and cheaper to develop and lower cost to maintain. The disadvantage is that they do not give an optimised user experience. Why Do we have them and need Apps? Research shows that people are increasingly spending more time on their device as well as becoming more dependent on the functionality that these devices provide. The tools provided to users by the Apps mean that gradually people are more dependent on them. The benefits of an App to a business include; Increased visibility A direct marketing tool to consumers/users Building brand recognition Increasing customer loyalty There are also benefits to the user of the apps, which include; Getting up to date information from business/brands they rely on Having access to a large number of tools that will increase productivity to help manage an aspect of their life Gives a loyal customer benefits/ rewards Provides convenience to have so many resources available at the touch of a button. How are Apps developed? One of the critical points to consider when exploring the App development process is the availability of resources. App development can be a lengthy and costly process. Depending on; the type of App and the platform chosen, the level of maintenance required, functions the app will provide, if it requires customer support, all will affect the level of investment required. A brief outline of what the development process may look like; The first step would be to conceptualise the App, purpose, functions, and platform/type. Research the market and do a feasibility study, who is the competition? Design the workflow and interface Develop the App according to specification, using in-house, outsourcing, etc Testing of the App to make sure it works as expected with no bugs Launch it This is a simplified suggestion of the process of the development of an App. it can take anywhere from 3 to 9 months (sometimes even longer) to develop an App, depending on the complexity. The App market has become massively competitive, with an estimated 6 million Apps available in Google Play and Apple Store combined. With a good idea, plan, and good implementation the rewards can be worthwhile.

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Smart Cards and Access Control

The global smartcard market is expected to reach $24.4 billion by 2027 which is an accelerate increase caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The demand for technology that reduces human physical interaction outside of the home has been shunted into the for-front of many business leaders’ minds as a solution to reducing potential points of spread of illness.   What are smart cards?   They are credit card size plastic cards embedded with a micro-controller and/or a memory chip, that will store or transect data depending on its particular function.  This data is usually associated with either value, information, or both and is stored and processed within the card’s chip. Smart cards are used for many different reasons in varying settings. The uses for smart cards include identification, authentication, financial, mobile phone (SIM), data storage and application processing.   Smart cards have been widely used in the financial sector for many years now, in order for banks to offer their customer more flexibility securely. In more recent years smart cards have been applied to the transport system allowing travellers to move around more efficiently and to retail loyalty schemes.   What are the Types of Smart cards? There are different types of smart cards based on how they are read by the card reader device;   Contact Smart Card – the most common type of smart card and is required to be physically inserted into a card reader to work. Contactless Smart Card – can be read by the reader when the card is in close proximity and does not necessarily require physical contact with the reader. the communication between the card and reader happens via radio wave frequency. Hybrid cards – this type of card contain both contact and contactless interfaces that are not connected and can give increased range of function. This is rare type of card, not widely used. How Do Smart card Readers work? A device that is used to read or process Smart cards require a reader to access the information or to process the application stored within the chip. There are 2 ways to connect to the reader; Physical contact readers – use electrical contacts on the card chip to connect with the reader when the card is inserted. Contactless readers – uses radio frequencies such as Short-range wireless connectivity (RFID) or Near field communication (NFC) to read the card when it comes into close proximity to the reader. How are Smart Cards used in Access control? A smart card access control system is a cost-effective security system that is used to restrict or monitor access of personal within a building/area. By using anyone of the smart card types and reader combination a security system can be designed and even customized for a business needs and requirements.  Using smart cards for access control allows for higher level of security and also provides more efficient access control for employees/staff within a business. The smart card can also be used for other tasks such as time and attendance records, accessing vending machines, allowing photocopying and printing and logging onto computers.   Smart card sector is a large global market with potential for expansion. The use of smart cards in security adds benefits and reduces cost so likely to be further developed and invested in many business and manufactures alike.

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Biometric Data Security – How Safe is Biometric Data

Biometric data is the unique information that can be used to identify a person with accuracy. With every industry being enrolled into the use of biometric authentication, the concerns and reluctance of consumers with regards to the safety of their biometric data becomes ever more important to address them. In 2019 survey showed that 56% of Europeans expressed concern over the security of biometric data.   Although data security has always been an issue, hacking and stolen information has caused many issues for companies/businesses over the years, once a breach is known then passwords and usernames can be changed. However, biometrics cannot be changed as they are unchangeable human features which adds to the complication of securing the data.   To use biometrics for authentication, the data must first be collected, analysed and converted to data, in the form of a biometric template. This will help to keep the biometrics in a more secure format.   The biometric data can be stored in different ways:   Hardware based recognition system  The data is stored locally onto a hardware that will work with the Biometric device to recognize the data. This will give a rapid response as it doesn’t require an external response, instead the data is stored locally. This is one of the more secure methods for storage of the data, as it doesn’t need to be transferred.   Portable Token System The biometric data is stored within a token and be part of a 2-part authentication process, using ID card and the token. This can be a more costly method but as you need 2 step verification, then security is increased, reducing risk of compromise and fraud.   End-user Device Most commonly smartphone device, stores the data on a chip, separate to the device network. This method means that the implementer or the biometric data has no control over it. This is a more secure method as the data is not stored on large database and little risk of hacking.   Biometric Server A cost-effective but potentially susceptible method. The biometric data is held on an external server and should be encrypted when transfer is happening to protect it. It is more susceptible to hacking.   Distributed Data Storage This uses both a server and device to store the data. This system is makes it more difficult for data to be compromised and gives the business complete control of the data. Business must continuously look to the security of their data and improve processes. Also, to opt for the solutions that gives the most secure options for the biometric data and to meet their responsibility to the consumer whose data they must protect.

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Biometric security for the Air Travel Sector

The development of biometric security technology has paved the way for significant changes in the way passengers experience air travel.  The current COVID-19 pandemic has only accelerated the global shift towards the increased use and reliance on biometrics in the air travel industry. The sudden heightened need for a contact-free approach to many processes and services across most industries has highlighted several benefits of using biometric security systems. With the air travel industry being one of the hardest affected by the global pandemic, its future is dependant on creating changes to the current system quickly. There is an immediate need to provide both employees and passengers with the tools they need to move through the airports with increased safety and efficiency. The use of biometric security systems will make the travel experience more comfortable for passengers at the same time as increasing the efficacy for the airports to move travellers through in a way that will not compromise on the security or safety. How can Biometrics Help? The use of biometric security systems will help to improve the travel experience for passengers while also giving a higher level of assurances in relation to the risks emphasised by the current pandemic. Such systems will also help to create the added benefit for airports by moving passengers through in a way that is more efficient but does not compromise on security or safety of passengers and staff. The biological identifiers such as fingerprints, iris scans and face-recognition are so unique to individuals that they can be used to identify a person with certainty that cannot be matched by the paper-based identification documents. Which brings about the potential for using our unique biometric data to authenticate ourselves for our journeys by mobile device or in airport terminals without the need for ID documents 1,200 million electronic passports are in use across more than 120 different countries globally. And 1.2 billion photos accessible in a standardised format by face recognition systems. So, the foundations have been set for implementation of face recognition technology that will benefit all involved. Using automated systems would solve for the bottlenecks in passenger flow which can be a big issue for airports at peak travel times. With the passenger numbers expected to double by 2030 reaching a predicted 5.9 billion, passenger flow will become more challenging across the world’s busy airports. The use of face recognition can be expanded beyond security and check-in processes to include other airport services, such as paying for duty-free shopping, thus further streamlining and simplifying the airport experience for passengers.  It’s possible to even further extend the uses of this technology beyond the airport and on to the aircrafts themselves to allow in-flight staff to provide much more personalised and higher quality of service. The benefit of biometrics within airports is not only limited to the passengers but can be useful for identifying staff members and controlling the access to sensitive locations which in turn will lead to higher levels of security in a place that can be highly vulnerable. With several trials currently happening, along with those planned in the near future, in airports across the globe using various biometric technologies, the air travel industry is being upgraded and subsequently bringing benefits to all. 

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The Potential of Voice Recognition and AI System

The Start of Voice Recognition Capturing speech and transcribing it to text is the basis of the technology that is revolutionising the way people live and work. Over the last 50 years there has been exponential growth in voice technology. In 1952 the potential for voice recognition was first demonstrated. Then by 1976 computers could only understand around 1000 words. By the early 80\’s that number was around 20,000, with continuous development until 1996 when IBM released the first commercial product, that could recognise continuous speech.    In the last decade the development of Artificial intelligence technology (AI) has speared ahead the technology to unprecedented potential and turned it into a multi-billion Dollar market, expected to be worth $31.8 by 2025. AI is a term used to describe a series of related technologies that use large volumes of data to make predictions. So, in this case analysing the text that has been captured by voice recognition to predict the meaning and find a suitable response.   The machines ability to learn over time and become ‘better’ at predicting what is being said and its meaning has allowed the uses for voice recognition to grow, and the development of products such as Amazon’s echo and Apple’s Siri have quickly gained acceptance by consumers fr use of voice recognition and AI incorporated products. Voice recognition technology is today used by consumers to transcribe speech to text, set up reminders, internet searches, traffic and weather reports and get responses to simple questions and request.   The Use of Voice Recognition in Security Solutions Voice recognition has also found a place in the security sector. The human voice is considered to be a type of biometric, known as a voiceprint. Each person has voice characteristic that are unique to them and can be used for the purpose of identification. Using voiceprint in this way is actually the easiest biometric to implement as it does not require the use of specialised equipment. With the continuous ‘learning’ potential of AI systems it means that the technology will become increasingly reliable and secure.   Voiceprint is already being used to authenticate customers on the telephone by banks. With its ease to implement, voiceprint can also create an added layer of security to existing multi-biometric identification processes.   Research has shown that voice recognition is favoured as a form of identification as it’s a non-contact and non-intrusive and easy to do. Although there is great promise, there are still potential challenges to Voice. The potential high error rate, due to variability in a person’s voice due to illness, mood changes, poor quality voice samples due to the presences of back ground noise are some issues yet to be overcome.

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Top 3 Biometric Solutions for the Financial Sector

Technological advancements in the field of biometrics has made the availability of devises and systems that harness the power of biometrics much more accessible and affordable to business of varying sizes. Use of this technology has rapidly increased over the years, and has redefined the way we see security. The biological identifiers such as fingerprints, iris scans ad voice prints are so unique to individuals that they can be used to identify a person with certainty that cannot be matched by the paper-based identification documents. The financial sector is one that depends heavily on its ability to secure and protect itself from fraud and breeches. Currently Biometric technologies can provide a wide range of applications for the financial sector, all of which aim to increase security while simplifying the processes and providing convenience to both industry and consumer.   MorphoWave Compact Access Control With IDEMIA newest addition the MorphoWaveâ„¢ Compact and Arana Security’s customisable application, a contactless biometric access control solution for capturing and matching 4 fingerprints with a single hand movement can be implemented. It implements a patented, truly contactless 3D fingerprint technology in a stylish and compact wall-mounted device, suitable for any location. The MorphoWaveâ„¢ Compact does not only acquire extremely accurate fingerprint data but also overcomes the challenges of wet/dry fingers and latent prints pose to the conventional scanning systems. This plays a vital role within the finance sector that has the critical need to control access of customers and employees into specified areas. Combining the progressive technology and convenience the Morphowave Compact is the solution to contend with.   Safety Deposit Box Solution An application that works with the Morphowave compact to give customers the benefit of a secure next level clearance through the use of touchless biometrics. A solution that can benefit financial institutions by simplifying the verification process for the bank and the customer.The introduction of a touchless biometric reader on site will enable the verification of clients to be fast, smooth and accurate, it means less time wasted at the desk waiting for confirmation of ID and less stress on both the clients and employees. With its sleek and modern appearance, the Wave will sit in its place and remain discreet yet effective. The safety of this establishment must be obtained as soon as you step inside all the while creating a stress-free flow of authentication, maintaining the highest level of security and not compromising at any stage.   Contactless Biometric Payment Terminal Arana Security have introduced a contactless payment terminal offering the latest technology for contactless payments. This is an integrated system using Idemia’s MorphoWave compact device and our customisable application to enrol users and verify payment at the cashier. This system can also be applied within a bank for customers to use to withdraw and deposit cash securely.   For more information on any of the solutions mentioned in this article, please contact us.

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Security measures and applications to help organisations adapt to a world with COVID-19

The arrival of COVID 19 has forced many organisations to re-think the way they operate. With the knowledge that this threat has the potential to be around for the foreseeable future, many organizations are now having to adapt their workspaces to allow their employees to continue working and for their business to continue to operate. COVID-19 has pushed several security solutions into the spotlight, one of which is contactless access control. With the need for businesses to protect their property but the added concern of hygiene, many are now looking to adopt contactless biometric solutions. Below we have listed some of the solutions we believe can benefit businesses at this time.   MorphoWave Compact Access control With IDEMIA\’s newest addition, the MorphoWaveâ„¢ Compact and Arana Security’s customizable application, a contactless biometric access control solution for capturing and matching 4 fingerprints with a single hand movement, can be implemented. It implements a patented, truly contactless 3D fingerprint technology in a stylish and compact wall-mounted device, suitable for any location. The MorphoWaveâ„¢ Compact acquires extremely accurate fingerprint data and overcomes the challenges of wet/dry fingers, and latent prints pose to the conventional scanning systems.      D-Flow by Digicon gates D-Flow is a new paradigm with normally open doors that brings more comfort, faster flows, with higher levels of accessibility and security. It can be teamed up with the MorphoWave Compact to give a true contactless experience. Such technology can revolutionise industries such as the aviation industry. Boarding pass information can be stored and authenticated using the individual’s biometrics, meaning they can pass through the gates with no contact. Teamed with the open-door functionality of the d-flow, this solution can save on que times as well.     QuikPay Shop, bag and go application for retailers This application developed by Arana Security will allow customers to shop, scan, bag, and go with a simple mobile application. This minimizes any contact they may have with staff and payment terminals reducing the threat of COVID-19 for both customers and staff. The application will need to be downloaded onto the customer\’s phone, create an account, scan items and then place them in their bag. The application is fully customisable for your organisation.     Contactless Biometric Payment Terminal Arana Security has introduced a contactless payment terminal offering the latest technology for contactless payments. This is an integrated system using Idemia’s MorphoWave compact device and our customisable application to enrol users and verify payment at the cashier. This will help to adapt your business to offer touchless payment services to your customers in the current climate. This solution can be implemented in retail and financial institutions such as banks.        VisionPass Facial recognition access control Using IDEMIA’s VisionPass facial recognition and a customisable application Arana Security offers a fast, reliable, and contactless access control solution. This product uses the latest advances in Artificial Intelligence and facial recognition algorithms with a state-of-the-art optical set combining 2D, 3D, and infra-red cameras to meet most clients\’ expectations.   For more information, contact us at info@aranasecurity.com.

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QuikPay- Shop, Bag & Go

Arana Security have launched a new application for contactless shopping. Introducing QuikPay, a new in-store shopping app that lets you scan your items as you go, bag them as you continue shopping and skip the checkout queues with the in-app payment. It is literally that simple, Scan…Bag…Go!   During the recent unprecedented times of change, having the ability to shop and remain contactless as much as possible became a challenge. With so many companies resorting to card payments only, many customers became concerned about the constant use of cards even on a tap and go basis. Arana Security made it our goal to assist in eliminating the risk even further with our QuikPay application, allowing for a smooth and completely contactless transaction to occur. QuickBuy also allows for rewards card to be connect to a customer’s profile too.   The application is simple and super easy to follow with a step by step introduction guide once downloaded. The stress-free process allows customers to get all their shopping over and done with in record time. Once the application is downloaded, the customer follows  the prompts and completes the user form, and then proceeds through the shop scanning their items as they go and place them in their bag. When the customer has finished their shopping, they simply follow the steps to complete the in-app payment process and receive a completion barcode, which they then scan at the designated area before leaving.   Arana Security specialises in Biometric solution, Access Control, Smart card solutions and Surveillance systems. Our goal is to meet the needs of clients and fulfil their requirements through combining know-how, expertise and ­­technology with excellent quality of support and services.

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6 Ways you can keep your office safe

In the current climate many business premises have been left empty and so ensuring the premises is protected is more important than ever. Below we have defined some guidelines to follow in order to ensure your business is secure. Alarm System This is one of the basic security features any business should have. A monitored alarm system is essential to ensure you can secure your business when no one is in the office. They transmit emergency signals via a mobile phone connection. Some can even dispatch police to the premises when needed. Some systems can even have a two-way intercom. Use effective lighting It is much more likely for burglaries to happen at night, in fact 60% of burglaries in the UK do. So, having effective lighting outside your offices is a very important deterrent.  If a burglar is looking at your office as a potential place to steal from, then effective outdoor lighting can make them feel as though they are being put under a microscope and vulnerable to being caught. Install CCTV The best way to protect your property and ensure it is safe and secure is by using an effective CCTV system. CCTV is a huge deterrent and if you combine it with effective lighting and locks, this is the ultimate trio to ensure your office’s security. There is a wide range of CCTV systems out there that don’t have to be costly. However, it is important that you seek advice from a reputable company before installing CCTV as they will be able to advise where the CCTV cameras should be placed to have the optimum effect. Use a biometric laptop/desktop lock In case someone does gain unauthorised access to your office it is important to ensure your data is safe by using a biometric lock on all laptops or desktops. Biometric locks are much more secure as it is practically impossible for someone to get in without your biological characteristics. Whereas many hackers are able to get into password protected machines. Important documents should be locked away This one is especially important with the UK GDPR laws that are in place. There could be some serious financial implications if you do not take the appropriate steps to protect your clients’ information. If you own a business in which you deal with the private details of clients (which most businesses do!), then you are responsible for keeping their details safe and ensuring that they do not fall into the wrong hands. The loss of confidential documents can end up being detrimental to your business and so it is extremely important that you take this seriously. Keep Cash Locked Away As well as locking away any important documents, you should lock away any cash you may have. It is best to lock away cash in a Eurograde safe which is fixed into the wall. If you are unsure what Eurograde is, this is an essentially standard set out across Europe which measure how burglar-proof your safe really is. You can also include biometric to secure the safe and having the safe opened either using fingerprint, Iris or even facial recognition.   If you would like help in implementing some of our top tips on keeping your office safe then please get in touch.

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