Insights from the Security & Policing Expo: Biometrics, Public Safety and Preparing for Martyn’s Law

Key Takeaways:

• Our team, Ali Nasser and Sima Mansouri, exhibited at the Security & Policing Expo, connecting with security professionals, policymakers, and industry leaders.

• Visitors explored Arana Security’s biometric technologies, including the RapidID device, BioBox M, and the HID U.R.U camera integrated with the BioWave platform.

• Conversations with Figen Murray and Paul Murray highlighted the importance of improving venue security and preparing for Martyn’s Law (Protect Duty).

• Arana Security hosted a webinar on March 19th aimed at helping business owners and security managers understand Martyn’s Law and enhance their security strategies, highlighting our commitment to proactive security education.

Security is an integral part of our daily lives. From public venues and workplaces to major events and transportation hubs, numerous systems and procedures work behind the scenes to ensure people’s safety. At Arana Security, we believe that enhancing security starts with education, collaboration, and staying ahead of emerging technologies.

Recently, members of our sales team, Ali Nasser and Sima Mansouri, exhibited at the Security & Policing Expo, held at the Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre and hosted by the UK Home Office. The event brought together security professionals, technology providers, and government representatives to discuss the evolving challenges and innovations shaping the security sector.

Showcasing Biometric Security Technology

At our stand, visitors had the opportunity to explore several of Arana Security’s biometric solutions and see how identity verification technology can strengthen modern security systems. The team demonstrated our RapidID device, designed for fast and reliable identity verification, alongside the BioBox M, a compact biometric enrolment and authentication solution. Visitors were also able to see the HID U.R.U camera, which integrates with the BioWave platform to enable secure facial recognition within a broader identity management ecosystem.

We also showcased the IDEMIA MorphoWave XP, a contactless biometric access control device that we have integrated with the BioWave platform. The solution allows users to verify their identity simply by waving their hand over the sensor, enabling secure, touchless access while maintaining a seamless user experience.

These demonstrations enabled attendees to understand better how biometric technologies can help organisations prevent security breaches, manage identities more securely, and improve operational efficiency.

A Powerful Conversation About Martyn’s Law

One of the most impactful moments for our team during the event was meeting Figen Murray and Paul Murray, the parents of Martyn Hett, who tragically lost his life during the Manchester Arena bombing in 2017. Since that devastating event, Figen Murray has become a leading advocate for improved public safety standards. Her campaign helped bring forward Martyn’s Law (Protect Duty), legislation designed to ensure that venues and organisations take appropriate steps to protect the public from potential terrorist threats.

Meeting individuals who have directly influenced national security policy was a powerful reminder that security technology is ultimately about protecting people, not just systems or infrastructure.

Helping Organisations Prepare for Martyn’s Law

With Martyn’s Law likely to bring new responsibilities, awareness and preparation are essential. Arana Security hosted a webinar on March 19th for business owners, security managers, and venue operators to feel supported and confident in their understanding of the law and in enhancing security strategies. Led by Ali Nasser and Sima Mansouri, the session covered legislation, practical security tips, and how technology can help meet future needs. Click here to watch the full webinar.

Addressing Misconceptions Around Biometrics

Throughout the event, our team discussed how biometric authentication can enhance security. Modern biometric systems transform biometric data into encrypted mathematical templates that represent the distinctive features of a fingerprint or facial structure. These templates cannot be reverse-engineered to recreate an image, ensuring both robust security and the safeguarding of personal privacy. 

Educating organisations about biometric technology is crucial in helping them adopt solutions that minimise risks such as credential sharing, fraud, and unauthorised access.

Learning from Global Security Practices

Another topic discussed was the global use of biometric security technologies. In Europe and the Middle East, biometrics are common at large venues and events, managing high visitor numbers and ensuring identity verification. In the UK, adoption is still growing. As security needs evolve, biometric verification may become more crucial in balancing safety and visitor experience.

Continuing the Conversation

Events like Security & Policing provide valuable opportunities to connect with professionals across the industry, share knowledge, and discuss how technology can support safer environments.

For our team, the conversations reinforced an important point: improving security requires collaboration between policymakers, technology providers, venue operators, and the wider public.

At Arana Security, we remain committed to supporting organisations with the knowledge and tools they need to build stronger, more resilient security systems for the future.