Larkin to Serve Ohio as New DMP Regional Sales Manager

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Call for participation in TMA-VMS-01 video procedural standard committee.Reid Larkin has joined DMP as the regional sales manager for Ohio. He will provide ongoing service and support to dealers across the state. This addition represents a restructuring of DMP sales regions, designed to further elevate personalized service to dealers. Larkin is a native of Ohio and grew up in Cleveland.

“The main reason why I chose DMP was because I saw the impact DMP was making across the industry for both its dealers and its users,†said Larkin. “I became aware of DMP through connections within the industry who have always praised DMP for being top notch in the way they conduct business and design their products.â€

Larkin is excited about the company’s strong commitment to continuously improving products, especially when the values and culture align so closely with his own.

Before joining DMP, Larkin spent five years in sales, including roles in account management and business development across numerous industries. His Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Dayton focused on improving organizational effectiveness and efficiency. His passion is helping businesses identify solutions and methods of growth.

Contact Information:

Reid Larkin | Regional Sales Manager, Ohio
Direct Cell: (417) 340-4902
Email: RLarkin@DMP.com

Josh Simon to Serve Los Angeles as New Regional Sales Manager for DMP

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Call for participation in TMA-VMS-01 video procedural standard committee.Josh Simon has joined DMP as the regional sales manager for Los Angeles. He will provide ongoing service and support to dealers throughout LA and the surrounding area. Simon’s experience in the security industry led to his interest in becoming part of this team.

“I chose DMP for several reasons, but primarily because throughout my years in the industry, every encounter I’ve had with a DMP representative has been marked by genuine enthusiasm and kindness,†said Simon. “They consistently demonstrated honesty regarding their objectives with their dealers, and they genuinely cared about fostering growth in their businesses.â€

Simon’s expertise gives him an excellent understanding of dealer needs. He spent two years in product management and three years in sales and account management. Additionally, he worked as a low-voltage installer for six years. He has firsthand experience installing DMP products, appreciating their consistent quality and success.

Contact Information:

Josh Simon | Regional Sales Manager, Los Angeles
Direct Cell: (417) 399-0358
Email: JSimon@DMP.com

FCC Makes AI-generated Voices in Robocalls Illegal

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Published by SIW.com, 2/8/24

Today the Federal Communications Commission announced the unanimous adoption of a Declaratory Ruling that recognizes calls made with AI-generated voices are “artificial” under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA).

The ruling, which takes effect immediately, makes voice cloning technology used in common robocall scams targeting consumers illegal.  This would give State Attorneys General across the country new tools to go after bad actors behind these nefarious robocalls.

“Bad actors are using AI-generated voices in unsolicited robocalls to extort vulnerable family members, imitate celebrities, and misinform voters.  We’re putting the fraudsters behind these robocalls on notice,” said FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel.  “State Attorneys General will now have new tools to crack down on these scams and ensure the public is protected from fraud and misinformation.”

The rise of these types of calls has escalated during the last few years as this technology now has the potential to confuse consumers with misinformation by imitating the voices of celebrities, political candidates, and close family members.

While currently State Attorneys Generals can target the outcome of an unwanted AI-voice generated robocall—such as the scam or fraud they are seeking to perpetrate—this action now makes the act of using AI to generate the voice in these robocalls itself illegal, expanding the legal avenues through which state law enforcement agencies can hold these perpetrators accountable under the law.

In November of 2023, the FCC launched a Notice of Inquiry to build a record on how the agency can combat illegal robocalls and how AI might be involved. The agency asked questions on how AI might be used for scams that arise out of junk calls, by mimicking the voices of those we know, and whether this technology should be subject to oversight under the TCPA.

Similarly, the FCC also asked about how AI can help us with pattern recognition so that we turn this technology into a force for good that can recognize illegal robocalls before they ever reach consumers on the phone.

The Telephone Consumer Protection Act is the primary law the FCC uses to help limit junk calls.  It restricts the making of telemarketing calls and the use of automatic telephone dialing systems and artificial or prerecorded voice messages. Under FCC rules, it also requires telemarketers to obtain prior express written consent from consumers before robocalling them. This Declaratory Ruling ensures AI-generated voices in calls are also held to those same standards.

The TCPA gives the FCC civil enforcement authority to fine robocallers. The Commission can also take steps to block calls from telephone carriers facilitating illegal robocalls. In addition, the TCPA allows individual consumers or an organization to bring a lawsuit against robocallers in court.  Lastly, State Attorneys General have their own enforcement tools which may be tied to robocall definitions under the TCPA.

A coalition of 26 State Attorneys General—more than half of the nation’s AGs—recently wrote to the FCC supporting this approach.  By taking this step, the FCC is building on its work to establish partnerships with law enforcement agencies in states across the country to identify and eliminate illegal robocalls.

These partnerships can provide critical resources for building cases and coordinating efforts to protect consumers and businesses nationwide. The FCC offers partner states not only the expertise of its enforcement staff but also important resources and remedies to support state investigations.

The FCC currently has a Memorandum of Understanding with 48 State Attorneys General to work together to combat robocalls.

Telguard Expands Presence in Canada with Appointment of New Representative in the Security Industry

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Telguard, a leading provider of security and life safety technologies, is thrilled to announce the appointment of a new representative to serve the Canadian market. This strategic move marks an important step in Telguard’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge security solutions to clients across Canada.

As the demand for advanced security measures continues to rise, Telguard recognizes the importance of having a dedicated presence in key markets. With the appointment of our newest representative, Nathan Wilkinson, we are poised to better serve our customers in Canada with personalized attention and tailored solutions.

Nathan brings six years of experience in the security industry, with a proven track record of fostering strong client relationships and delivering exceptional results. His expertise and insights will be invaluable as we expand our footprint in Canada and address the evolving needs of our clients.

“We are excited to welcome Nathan Wilkinson as part of our team,” said Melody Parham, Director of Sales at Telguard. “His deep understanding of the Telguard product line, coupled with a passion for delivering top-notch security solutions, makes Nathan the perfect fit to represent Telguard in Canada.”

Nathan added, “I am thrilled to be part of the team and contribute to its mission of providing best-in-class security solutions. Canada presents immense growth opportunities, and I am committed to building strong partnerships and exceeding our clients’ expectations.”

With a comprehensive portfolio of cellular alarm communicators, Telguard is well-positioned to address the diverse security needs of businesses and organizations across Canada. From cellular solutions for residential interactive applications and commercial intrusion to sole-path and dual-path fire communicators, Telguard offers a range of ULC-listed innovative technologies designed to enhance safety and security.

For more information about Telguard products and services in Canada, please contact Nathan Wilkinson at nathan.wilkinson@ametek.com.

Acadian Total Security Acquirs Pinpoint Security

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Acadian Total Security, based in Lafayette, La., has acquired Pinpoint Security, a security systems installer serving Bridge City, Texas, and surrounding areas.

The strategic acquisition strengthens Acadian’s footprint in the growing Texas market and bolsters its ability to deliver security services to homes and businesses across the region, according to an announcement.

Over the years, Pinpoint Security has built a strong reputation for its personalized service, expert installation and high-quality security systems. With a focus on exceeding customer expectations, Pinpoint Security aligns perfectly with Acadian’s core values of placing customers first, stated Brandon Niles, vice president of Acadian companies

“We are thrilled to welcome Pinpoint Security to the Acadian Total Security family,” Niles said. “Their dedication to customer service and expertise in the local market make them a perfect fit for our expansion plans. Together, we will be able to offer a wider range of security solutions and even better service to our customers in Texas.”

The acquisition’s benefits include:

  • Expanded service area: Acadian Total Security now has a wider reach in Texas, offering its comprehensive security solutions to a larger customer base.
  • Enhanced service offerings: Customers will benefit from a broader range of security solutions, including fire services in Texas
  • Continued local expertise: Pinpoint Security’s experienced team will remain on board, ensuring continued personalized service and local market knowledge.
  • Combined resources: Acadian’s resources will enable Pinpoint Security to invest in new technologies and training, further improving its service capabilities.

Acadian Total Security is a leading provider of comprehensive security solutions for homes and businesses. The company offers a wide range of security systems, monitoring services and access control solutions.

Resideo Invests in Pro AV Firm

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XTEN-AV, a California-based provider of professional audio-visual design and proposal software, announced it has received a minority investment from Resideo Technologies.

According to a company press release, XTEN-AV provides a collaborative software platform for integrators to conceptualize designs and streamline proposal processes.

“We continue to see Pro AV as a growth category, and we’re investing in technology to help drive the industry forward,” said Stu Tisdale, senior vice-president and chief experience officer, ADI Global Distribution, a Resideo division. “We recognize the value XTEN-AV’s platform delivers, and we’re excited to support them to advance their software platform and help deliver greater impact to customers.”

“We are excited about the support from Resideo and ADI, as it enables us to reach a broader audience globally,” added Vibhav Singh and Sahil Dhingra, co-founders of XTEN-AV. “This strategic investment not only strengthens our position in the market but also signifies a shared vision of advancing the Pro AV industry through innovation and efficiency.”

Milesight and 3dEYE Announce Strategic Collaboration to Enhance Pure Cloud AI Video Solutions

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Milesight, a leading provider of innovative IP-based video surveillance solutions, and 3dEYE, a pioneer in cloud-based video management, AI analytics and automation, proudly announce their strategic collaboration to deliver enhanced cloud video solutions to their mutual security and monitoring industry customers.

The partnership between Milesight and 3dEYE brings together Milesight’s cutting-edge IP camera technology with 3dEYE’s advanced pure cloud video AI platform, providing customers with key advantages, such as:

  • Scalable centralized monitoring: The joint effort between 3dEYE and Milesight allows for scalable centralized monitoring, enabling seamless management of multiple cameras across various locations through a single, user-friendly interface – there’s no limit on the number of users or devices connected.
  • Enhanced AI analytics to reduce false alarms: The partnership leverages 3dEYE’s advanced cloud-side AI analytics, empowering users to layer server-side AI to any Milesight camera on-demand: people counting, object detection, classification and tracking, safety vests/hard hats, other PPE detection, fire and smoke, ALPR, object-based loitering. This integration offers heightened valuable automatic insights for monitoring that simplify the operators work.
  • Ease of deployment and low Total Cost of Ownership (TCO): The collaboration facilitates hassle-free deployment by eliminating the need for substantial upfront investments into servers of bridges (no capex). It operates as plug-and-play, allowing businesses to invest precisely when needed, enabling cost-effectiveness and flexibility for each customer or camera addition.

Through this collaboration, users of Milesight’s high-performance IP cameras can seamlessly integrate with 3dEYE’s sophisticated cloud-based video AI platform.

“Milesight is excited to partner with 3dEYE, combining our state-of-the-art camera technology with their advanced cloud video AI platform. This partnership underscores our commitment to delivering future-ready monitoring and video surveillance solutions that cater to the evolving needs of our customers,” says Angel Cai, Marketing Manager at Milesight.

“The joint solution offers enhanced security, operational efficiency, and actionable insights to users across various industries,” said Katherine Balabanova, CRO and Board Director at 3dEYE.

For more information about this collaboration and the integrated solution, please visit www.milesight.com.

Howard Stone named Vice President, Global Risk Services & Analytics for Jewelers Mutual Group

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Call for participation in TMA-VMS-01 video procedural standard committee.Before being named Vice President, Global Risk Services & Analytics for Jewelers Mutual Group, Howard spent more than nine years with Amazon as Director, Amazon Security & Loss Prevention, AMER. Prior to that, he spent six years with Wet Seal as Sr. Director, Loss Prevention. Earlier in his career, he held AP/LP roles with Anchor Blue Retail Group, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Gap Inc., and Macy’s.

Altronix Appoints Core4 to Increase Presence and Product Support in Wisconsin and Northern Illinois

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Altronix has expanded Core4 Technologies’ existing territory which includes MN, ND, and SD to also now cover all of Wisconsin and Northern Illinois, effective December 1st.

“Core4 provides the highest levels of experience and professionalism, and the proven ability to support our customers’ system applications across many verticals,” said Alan Forman, President, Altronix Corporation. “By employing their resources, Altronix effectively strengthens our presence in the region and ability to best serve both new and existing customers.”

Core4 is a premier manufacturers representative agency that prides itself on delivering results. Core4 provides solutions for a diverse account base that includes electrical, networking, security, industrial, and lighting end users. Beginning with just a single employee at startup, the company has since grown to a team of 48 and continues to expand.

“Having spent more than a decade representing Altronix throughout the Midwest, we are extremely excited with this expansion,” said James Anderson, Sales Representative, Core4. “We pride ourselves on serving a diverse account base and look forward to reaching more low voltage professionals in need of high-quality Altronix products.”

For specific information regarding representative coverage, please visit our rep locater here. For more information on Altronix’s extensive line of products, call toll free 1-888-258-7669, e-mail info@altronix.com or visit www.altronix.com. 

Elite Interactive Solutions Celebrates Record Year in Preventing Crime

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Elite Interactive Solutions (EIS), the pioneer in manned guard replacement using proprietary intelligence and 100% verified police calls, announces its final 2023 year-end crime prevention results have shattered the company’s previous high-water marks. Elite’s industry-leading remote guarding services are making a dramatic impact in preventing crimes as verifiably proven by having achieved more than double the voice-down command center interventions since 2021 and teaming with law enforcement on 80% more arrests as compared to 2022.

Call for participation in TMA-VMS-01 video procedural standard committee.By the time 2023 reached its conclusion, Elite’s 24/7/365 Security Operations Command Center (SOCC) directly had prevented nearly 73,000 incidents and actively assisted with police in nearly 1,700 other real-time crime situations that concluded with suspects being detained or arrested 60% of the time. Those are all record highs, as are the nearly 8 million events that were managed and 1,010 detainments and arrests.

It’s the culmination of a five-year stretch in which Elite has consistently grown its client base as well as its crime prevention metrics.

“Utilizing and leveraging the technology appropriately to remote guard several hundreds of properties across the nation has immensely helped in crime prevention and dispatching officers to crimes in an efficient and timely manner,†says EIS Security Director Noel Delgado. “These past years’ numbers show and prove that when a system is calibrated correctly you can prevent numerous amounts of crime without engaging officers, which our SOCC does 96% of the time.

“For the other 4% of the time, when we do engage officers to respond, we have a 60% rate of arrest/detainments. This is testament to the hardworking men and women at Elite who contribute in all areas to make sure a site is forensically engineered, installed, serviced and commissioned perfectly.â€

Equipped with either law enforcement or military experience, Elite’s command center agents represent one of the four key areas the company has focused on to optimize effectiveness in preventing crime. Along with personnel, the other three elements are expert best practices, leading-edge technology and partnering with law enforcement.

Regarding the latter, Elite maintains an internal Law Enforcement Advisory Board (LEAB) comprised of former law enforcement executives that acts as a liaison to agencies across the country. The LEAB reviews SOCC activities daily to ensure EIS continues to help first responders do their jobs more effectively and safely.

“Understanding how to structure and deploy Elite’s essential components evolved from my longtime vision to bring a more proactive approach of true crime prevention to the security industry,†says EIS Founder and CEO Aria Kozak. “These latest metrics show that what many had viewed as impossible is now achievable through the right blend of expertise, technologies, best practices, trained personnel and police relationships.â€

Elite’s diverse, nationwide customer base encompasses more than a dozen commercial and industrial vertical markets. According to the final 2023 data, the applications in which the remote guarding solution has had the greatest effect, in terms of arrest/detainments percentage, is in retail and shopping centers (77%) and general commercial deployments such as office, parking structures and warehouses (70%).

“Considering that, according to a recent market report, security incidents cost corporate America in excess of $1 trillion annually, it’s gratifying to know that Elite’s customers are not part of those losses,†adds Kozak. “The only people that might be happier about that than the customer and Elite are the insurance companies that don’t have to process or pay out those claims. This is a solution where everybody wins, except the bad guys.â€

Kozak and Elite Interactive Solutions President Michael Zatulov are scheduled to speak about the company’s success during a Feb. 8 presentation at the Barnes Buchanan Security Conference in Palm Beach, Fla.

About Elite Interactive Solutions

Elite Interactive Solutions is a remote guarding pioneer and leader in offering security solutions that provide clients with dramatically more effective security at greatly reduced costs when compared to traditional guard services. The proprietary combination of systems and processes helps clients avoid losses and set new standards in crime prevention. To learn more about Elite Interactive Solutions, visit eliteisi.com.