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The Rise of Unified Security: Why Integrating CCTV, Access Control, and Biometrics Is No Longer Optional in 2026

The Rise of Unified Security: Why Integrating CCTV, Access Control, and Biometrics Is No Longer Optional in 2026 The days of managing security through disconnected systems are over. In 2026, businesses face increasingly sophisticated threats that demand a coordinated response, one that siloed CCTV cameras, standalone access control panels, and isolated biometric readers simply cannot deliver. Unified security integration isn’t just a competitive advantage anymore. It’s a baseline requirement for any organisation serious about protecting its people, assets, and data. At Arana Security, we’ve seen this shift accelerate dramatically. Our clients are no longer asking if they should integrate their systems, they’re asking how fast we can make it happen. What Is Unified Security? Unified security brings together previously separate systems, video surveillance, access control, and biometric identification, into a single, cohesive platform. Instead of operating in isolation, these systems communicate in real time, sharing data and triggering coordinated responses. Here’s what that looks like in practice: Traditional Approach Unified Approach CCTV records footage that’s reviewed after an incident CCTV triggers instant alerts when access anomalies occur Access cards can be lost, stolen, or shared Biometric verification ensures the right person is using the credential Security teams monitor multiple disconnected screens A single dashboard provides complete situational awareness Incident response is reactive Automated workflows enable proactive threat mitigation Why 2026 Is the Tipping Point Several converging factors have made unified security essential this year: Threats Have Become More Sophisticated Today’s security risks don’t respect system boundaries. A tailgating incident at your front door, a cloned access card, or an unauthorised after-hours entry all require multiple systems working together to detect and respond effectively. Regulatory Pressure Is Mounting Compliance frameworks increasingly demand audit trails that span physical and digital access. Unified systems create comprehensive logs that satisfy regulators and simplify reporting. AI Has Made Integration Practical Edge-based artificial intelligence now enables real-time video analytics, behavioural detection, and instant correlation between what cameras see and what access systems record. This wasn’t cost-effective even two years ago, now it delivers measurable ROI. Legacy Infrastructure Is Reaching End-of-Life Many organisations installed their current systems 8-10 years ago. As these age out, the replacement conversation naturally turns toward integration rather than like-for-like swaps. The Three Pillars of Unified Security CCTV: From Passive Recording to Active Intelligence Modern video surveillance does far more than record. AI-powered analytics can: Detect unusual behaviour patterns (loitering, aggression, crowd formation) Recognise faces and cross-reference against access permissions Automatically track individuals across multiple camera views Trigger alerts when someone enters a restricted area without proper credentials When integrated with access control, your cameras become verification tools, confirming that the person who badged in is actually the credential holder. Access Control: Beyond the Badge Physical credentials alone are no longer sufficient. Integrated access control combines: Something you have (card, fob, mobile credential) Something you are (biometric verification) Contextual intelligence (time, location, behavioural patterns) This multi-layered approach dramatically reduces the risk of credential sharing, theft, or cloning. Biometrics: The Identity Anchor Biometric solutions, whether fingerprint, facial recognition or iris scanning, provide the definitive link between a credential and an individual. In a unified system, biometrics serve as: Primary authentication at high-security entry points Secondary verification when anomalies are detected Audit trail anchors that prove exactly who was where and when Real-World Benefits for Your Organisation Faster Incident Response When systems communicate, response times shrink dramatically. An access denial at a secure door can instantly pull up the relevant camera feed, alert security personnel, and lock down adjacent entry points, all within seconds. Reduced Operational Costs Managing one unified platform requires fewer resources than maintaining multiple disconnected systems. Training is simplified, and your team spends less time correlating data across different interfaces. Enhanced Visitor Management Unified systems streamline the visitor experience while maintaining security. Pre-registration, credential issuance, and access permissions flow seamlessly from booking to badge-out. Future-Proof Investment Open, integrated platforms adapt to new technologies as they emerge. Your investment today won’t become obsolete when the next generation of sensors, analytics, or credentials arrives. Common Concerns (And Why They Shouldn’t Stop You) “Our existing systems are from different manufacturers.” Modern integration platforms are designed for interoperability. At Arana Security, we specialise in bridging equipment from multiple vendors into cohesive solutions. “We can’t afford to rip and replace everything.” You don’t have to. Phased integration allows you to unify systems incrementally, prioritising high-risk areas first while maximising the value of existing infrastructure. “Biometrics raise privacy concerns.” Properly implemented biometric systems can be designed with privacy by default, using on-device processing, encrypted templates, and strict data retention policies that satisfy both security requirements and privacy regulations. How Arana Security Can Help As a specialist security integrator, Arana Security brings together the technical expertise and vendor relationships needed to deliver truly unified solutions. We: Assess your current infrastructure and identify integration opportunities Design tailored solutions that align with your risk profile and budget Implement seamless deployments with minimal disruption to operations Support your systems with ongoing maintenance, monitoring, and upgrades Our approach is vendor-agnostic, which means we recommend the right technology for your specific needs, not the products that pay us the highest margins. The Bottom Line In 2026, unified security isn’t a luxury, it’s the foundation of effective protection. Organisations that continue operating disconnected systems face longer response times, higher costs, compliance risks, and security gaps that sophisticated threats will inevitably exploit. The question isn’t whether to integrate. It’s whether you’ll lead the transition or be forced into it by an incident that could have been prevented. While your threat environment has evolved significantly over the last decade, your systems remain rooted in assumptions from 10 years ago. Ready to unify your security? Contact Arana Security today for a no-obligation assessment of your current systems and a roadmap to integrated protection. Arana Security is a leading security integrator specialising in CCTV, access control, and biometric solutions for commercial and enterprise clients.

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Martyn’s Law: What Your Business Needs to Know About CCTV, Access Control, and Intruder Alarms

Understanding Martyn’s Law and Its Impact on UK Businesses On April 3, 2025, the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, commonly known as Martyn’s Law, received Royal Assent, marking a significant shift in how UK businesses must approach security. Named in honour of Martyn Hett, one of the 22 victims of the 2017 Manchester Arena terrorist attack, this legislation aims to ensure that public venues and events are better prepared to protect people from potential terrorist threats. With an implementation period of at least 24 months, businesses now have a critical window to assess their current security measures and ensure compliance before the law comes into force. But what exactly does Martyn’s Law require, and how can security integrators like Arana Security help your business meet these new obligations? Who Does Martyn’s Law Apply To? Martyn’s Law applies to premises and events across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland where members of the public can access. The legislation introduces a tiered approach based on the number of individuals expected to be present: Standard Tier (200-799 People) If your premises reasonably expects between 200 and 799 individuals to be present from time to time, you’ll fall under the standard tier. This includes: Restaurants and cafes Retail shops Small entertainment venues Community centres Places of worship Enhanced Tier (800+ People) Larger premises and qualifying public events expecting 800 or more individuals face more comprehensive requirements, including: Shopping centres Entertainment venues and stadiums Conference centres Large hospitality venues Major public events What Security Measures Does Martyn’s Law Require? The legislation mandates different requirements depending on which tier your business falls under: Standard Tier Requirements For businesses in the standard tier, the focus is on implementing public protection procedures that are “reasonably practicable.” These are described as simple, low-cost activities centred primarily around time spent rather than expensive physical measures. However, having effective systems in place is still crucial: Public Protection Procedures: Actions to reduce risk of physical harm during a terrorist incident Registration: Notification to the Security Industry Authority (SIA) that you are responsible for the premises Emergency Response Plans: Documented procedures for staff to follow during an incident Enhanced Tier Requirements Businesses in the enhanced tier face more stringent obligations, including the need for physical security measures: Comprehensive Public Protection Procedures: More detailed planning and response protocols Physical Security Measures: Including CCTV monitoring, access control systems, and perimeter security Vulnerability Assessments: Regular evaluation of premises to reduce vulnerability to terrorism Documentation: Detailed records of all procedures and measures, provided to the SIA Senior Leadership Accountability: Designation of a senior individual (director or partner level) to oversee compliance Examples of physical measures specifically mentioned in the legislation include bag search policies, CCTV or other monitoring systems, and vehicle security checks. The Critical Role of CCTV, Access Control, and Intruder Alarms While Martyn’s Law focuses on terrorism protection, the security systems it requires provide comprehensive protection for your business. Here’s how each system contributes to compliance: CCTV Systems Modern CCTV systems are explicitly mentioned as key measures for enhanced tier venues. They provide: Real-time monitoring of all entry points and public areas Deterrence to potential threats through visible security presence Evidence collection for authorities in case of an incident Remote monitoring capabilities for rapid response Integration with other security systems for comprehensive protection Access Control Systems Access control is fundamental to managing who enters your premises and when: Controlled entry points to monitor and restrict access Credential management ensuring only authorized individuals can access secure areas Audit trails documenting all entry and exit activity Lockdown capabilities to secure premises quickly during an emergency Integration with CCTV for visual verification of access attempts Intruder Alarm Systems While not as explicitly mentioned as CCTV in the legislation, intruder alarms form an essential part of a comprehensive security strategy: Perimeter protection alerting to unauthorized access attempts Out-of-hours security when premises are unoccupied Integration capabilities with CCTV and access control for coordinated response Rapid alert systems notifying security personnel and authorities Zone-based monitoring to identify specific areas of concern How Arana Security Can Help Your Business Achieve Compliance As the implementation period for Martyn’s Law progresses, businesses need expert guidance to navigate these new requirements. Arana Security, as a professional security integrator, offers comprehensive solutions tailored to your specific needs and tier requirements. Expert Compliance Assessment Arana Security begins by conducting a thorough assessment of your premises to: Determine which tier of Martyn’s Law applies to your business Identify current security gaps and vulnerabilities Understand your specific operational requirements and constraints Develop a customised compliance roadmap within your budget Integrated Security Solutions Rather than piecemeal security installations, Arana Security designs integrated systems that work together seamlessly: Unified CCTV Networks: High-definition cameras strategically positioned to cover all critical areas, with intelligent analytics to detect unusual activity Sophisticated Access Control: From basic entry systems to advanced biometric solutions, scaled to your needs Comprehensive Intruder Detection: Multi-layered protection combining perimeter sensors, motion detection, and alarm response protocols Centralised Management: Single-platform control of all security systems for simplified operation and monitoring Documentation and Compliance Support For enhanced tier businesses, documentation is a legal requirement. Arana Security provides: Detailed system specifications and operational procedures Training materials for staff on security protocols Maintenance and testing records to demonstrate ongoing compliance Support with submissions to the Security Industry Authority Staff Training and Ongoing Support Technology is only effective when people know how to use it properly: Comprehensive staff training on security systems and procedures Regular refresher sessions to maintain awareness 24/7 technical support for system issues Regular system maintenance and updates to ensure reliability Scalable Solutions That Grow With Your Business Arana Security understands that your business needs may change: Modular systems that can be expanded as your premises grow Future-proof technology that integrates with emerging security innovations Flexible service agreements tailored to your operational model Regular reviews to ensure your security keeps pace with evolving threats The “Reasonably Practicable” Standard: What It Means for Your Business A key principle of Martyn’s Law is

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The benefits of cloud-based CCTV over local

Leave a Comment / CCTV Articles, Cloud Services, Workspace Security Articles / tigrisnet

At Arana Security, we’ve seen an increase in the number of our clients using cloud-based CCTV over local storage, and it’s not hard to see why. In recent years, the way we manage, process and store personal and business data has drastically changed with the advancement of cloud computing technologies. From scrolling through social media to watching the latest Netflix hit series, interaction with ‘the cloud’ has crept into the daily lives of millions across the globe. By 2025 it is predicted that the total data stored in the cloud (including public, government and private clouds) will reach 100 zettabytes – that’s 50% of the entire world’s data. Cloud storage has enabled digital data to be stored online from multiple servers and locations with ease and simplicity. This new way to manage data has revolutionised the video surveillance industry, with many businesses choosing to move their CCTV onto the cloud and away from the traditional local storage methods. In this article, we explore how cloud-based CCTV works and why you might want to consider upgrading to the cloud if you haven’t already. What is cloud-based CCTV? Traditional CCTV systems rely on centralised hardware, with local servers and video recorders. These local systems store their recorded data in physical locations on physical devices. With cloud-based CCTV, this data is stored online, negating the need for expensive, bulky hardware. As long as there is an internet connection, data can be uploaded, accessed and downloaded anywhere, at any time. What are the benefits of cloud-based CCTV? 1. Higher level of security Cloud-based CCTV storage is encrypted making it very difficult to tamper with, unlike local footage storage. If your local hard drive is damaged, stolen or the hard drive fails, the data could be corrupted or even lost altogether. Cloud data is collected and stored off-site, so this vulnerability isn\’t an issue. Only authorised individuals can access the data in the cloud, so anything recorded is safely stored and can be easily retrieved and shared with security personnel or the police. If anyone does access, download or share the data on the cloud, there will be an audit trail providing an extra layer of security that is lacking with local storage. Biometric facial recognition technologies like our facial recognition security solution, can be integrated with IP cameras. IP (internet protocol) cameras are surveillance cameras that receive and send footage uploaded to the cloud. This ability to integrate CCTV cameras with AI technology means that security personnel and police are able to use search and detection in seconds. With a local CCTV system, this would is done manually, taking much more time. The cloud-based system also allows for real-time alerts, providing personnel with the intruder\’s most recent whereabouts or current location, allowing the perpetrator to be either caught in the act or identified. Data privacy laws dictate that images must be stored in a particular way, limiting access to a certain number of people and ensuring the rights of those recorded are protected. The safeguarding protocols in place when using cloud storage systems automatically protect data exchanged between devices. These protocols provide a much higher level of data security than analogue local CCTV systems, which are more vulnerable to being lost, damaged, stolen or hacked, potentially leading to expensive legal battles for organisations affected. 2. Cost-effective and sustainable There are numerous ongoing costs associated with physical CCTV storage systems. The hardware required to store the collected data is expensive and more personnel are required to manage the equipment and storage facilities. Switching to cloud-based CCTV reduces the need for extensive hardware to store the data. Traditional CCTV systems require more cameras and monitors than their cloud-based counterparts. Large corporations and businesses can use the cloud-based system to cut surveillance of multiple large buildings into one central location, saving money, space and energy. 3. Accessibility Storing data in the cloud makes this centralisation of CCTV surveillance possible – all you need is an internet connection. You can manage and control all cameras across multiple sites from one device, allowing access to authorised individuals while maintaining data compliance. If you lose internet access the footage will still be archived and retrievable. 4. High-quality and reliable The IP cameras used for cloud-based CCTV have much higher quality image resolution than traditional CCTV cameras. In fact, it can be up to 20 times higher. IP cameras can be remotely controlled to zoom in, which conventional analogue cameras cannot, and even if they had the capability, the quality would be too low to get a clear picture when zoomed in. IP cameras also have tilt and 360 rotate functions, so much larger areas can be surveilled with a lot fewer cameras. If your organisation is considering making the move to cloud-based CCTV, we can help. At Arana Security, we offer high-quality, reliable CCTV surveillance. All of our CCTV security cameras utilise the latest digital recording technology for clear imaging, day or night. We also offer 24-hour remote monitoring systems for round-the-clock observation, from anywhere in the world. Book a security consultation and upgrade your security today.

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Arana Security partners with Ava to help organizations proactively respond to security threats

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London, March 22, 2021 — Arana Security has recently announced its new partnership with Ava Security. Ava is uniquely positioned to deliver both cyber security and physical security solutions to organizations worldwide. This partnership will focus on the intelligent video surveillance solution from Ava. Ava’s powerful AI video management system, Ava Aware, comes equipped with integrated machine learning capabilities accessible in the cloud or on-premises. Aware analyzes all the video feeds from all your cameras all the time and in real-time. It identifies objects and events and sends instant notifications and alarms based on rules and unusual activity detection. “By identifying all security threats before they become incidents, organizations can take a more proactive security posture,” said Tormod Ree, CEO, Ava. Ava Aware delivers end-to-end proactive video security and insight, including integrated video and audio analytics uniquely powered by machine learning algorithms, smart appliances, and smart cameras. The Ava Aware platform can also add intelligence to existing CCTV systems helping you to detect threats, human or vehicle and raising alerts to respond in real-time. Ava Aware increases security efficiency, streamlines forensics and searches, and provides valuable operational insights and data beyond traditional surveillance systems.With Aware, you can manage your devices and security across sites with simple web and mobile-based interfaces accessible from anywhere without additional plugins or configurations “We’re excited to add Ava’s enhanced CCTV technology to our solutions. We pride ourselves on providing advanced technology to our client’s and we believe Ava will allow us to do this.” Ali Nasser, Sales Director at Arana Security. Arana Security looks forward to working with Ava to help mobilize companies and keeping them protected from all potential security threats – malicious, careless, or accidental. To learn more about Ava Security solutions visit https://aranasecurity.com/products/ava-security-systems/ About Ava Founded in 2020, Ava’s vision as a unified security provider is to help organizations detect, monitor, and respond to threats in real-time across both cyber and physical domains. The company offers best-in-class insider threat detection cybersecurity solutions, and intelligent, end-to-end video security solutions to protect people, assets, and data, helping your company see the whole picture to respond quickly. Arana Security is a tech company on a mission to bring clients the most up to date technology and Applications. With an in-house team of developers, we strive to meet our clients’ needs by producing customised solutions. We offer Biometric solutions, including access control, payment and biometric ID, as well as CCTV and Application development. we work in close collaboration with clients to deliver a solution that ensure harmony between quality, reliability and cost. We work on the basis of providing full end-to-end solutions to our clients, managing projects from start to finish. We work with some of the top manufacturers to bring the most state-of-the-art technology to the market which offers the best in security. With our extensive experience delivering such solutions internationally to both public and private sector organisations, we ensure that we find the best solution for you. We work across different sectors, including: – Governmental – Healthcare – Events- Financial – Education – Transport and Airports – Leisure and Commercial buildings.

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What Are The CCTV Regulations In the UK for Commercial Businesses?

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The use of CCTV for security measure in the workplace can be highly beneficial as a deterrent for criminal activity. For some there may be a concern around the legal responsibility and considerations for the use of CCTV by businesses, which does need to be explored by each business to determine the benefits and suitability of security and surveillance systems. How is CCTV governed? It is important to know that GDPR laws cover images captured by CCTV and so steps must be taken to ensure the organisation is compliant. The Information Commissioners Office (ICO) is a government body that is responsible for regulating data privacy issues. The ICO sets out a code of practice but is not a legal act itself. The practical advice that is offered will help organisations comply with the legal framework. The Surveillance Camera Commissioner’s Office (SCCO) also issues a code of practice that details the legal obligations for CCTV users and again like ICO is not an act itself but is an officially-sanctioned document. The legal framework that the ICO and SCCO draw on to create the code of practice is based on 4 aspects of law; The Data Protection Act (DPA), which regulates how personal data can be processed and moved, and how it must be protected. The Freedom of Information Act (FOI), which regulates access to information held by public authorities The Protection of Freedoms Act (POFA), which regulates (among others) how surveillance and biometric data can be used, and how these types of data must be safeguarded. The Human Rights Act (HRA), which includes provisions regarding the right to privacy Rules on CCTV There are several points to consider when looking to decide if a business requires a surveillance security system: Consider if it necessary to use CCTV and what needs to be recorded? Register with ICO Appoint a data controller to be responsible for the storage, processing and review of data Perform Privacy impact assessment (PIA) Inform all employees that they are being recorded and provide clear signage Ensure areas of expected privacy, eg toilets and changing rooms are not included in surveillance areas. Subjects of CCTV data can ask for any personal data that has been collected, which must then be provided to them within a reasonable time frame. Comply with any requests to supply CCTV data for Legal proceedings Benefits of compliance with regulations/Laws There are benefits for businesses that work to comply with the laws that govern use of CCTV in commercial setting; Allows for security infrastructure to be optimised as the legal framework looks to strike a balance between privacy and security The organisation will be protected by authorities when data is held in accordance with DPA should any issue arise regarding the data held. Internal documentation that is required to be maintained will allow for a continually refined and strengthened security strategy. Breaches in compliance carry a heavy legal consequence, with more serious breaches resulting in £500,000 penalties and even custodial sentences. Who is responsible for the data? A business that hold personal data is required to appoint a Data controller who is legally responsible for the data. They decide what data is processed, the reason and manner. They don’t necessarily carry out surveillance or processing themselves. The data controller can be an individual, organisation or any other corporate or unincorporated bodies of persons. The Guarding the data is the legal responsibility of businesses and so data must be stored securely and only accessed by authorised personnel. A business must also be able to show an audit trail of how the data is collected and kept. Once the data is no longer needed, it must also be disposed of in a way that it would be impossible to recover. How long can data be kept? Data should only be stored for as long as legitimately needed. No specific duration is defined for keeping data, and that is likely to vary depending on the circumstance that the data is collected. For example, a restaurant is likely to only need CCTV footage for a few hours while a hotel corridor perhaps a few days. The legislation related to surveillance equipment aims to strike a balance between security and privacy by giving the CCTV users means to protect staff and assets without compromising basic human right to privacy. Having a well planned and efficient CCTV will bring benefits to a business. If you would like more information or to discuss your requirements, you can contact Arana Security, here.

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