Elite Interactive Solutions to Speak at GSX

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Elite Interactive Solutions, a remote video guarding pioneer using proprietary intelligence and integration to achieve proven crime prevention, announced its participation as a featured presenter at this year’s Global Security Expo (GSX) Sept. 23-25 in Orlando, Fla. Elite is organizing the session, “Remote Guarding Has Made Real-Time Crime and Catastrophe Prevention a Reality,” scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 24, from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., at the Orange County Convention Center.

More and more CSOs, security directors and organizational stakeholders are discovering the extensive benefits of remote guarding systems. Unlike traditional security systems and monitoring center methods, this innovative solution actually prevents crime before it starts, versus only providing footage of what happened after the fact.

By combining proven system design practices, strategically placed surveillance cameras, specially tuned military-grade analytics and AI, high-end cybersecurity, highly trained command center agents experienced in diffusing threat or crime situations, and a tight, trusted relationship with law enforcement, remote guarding solutions are dramatically improving security across multiple industries.

The panel presentation, to be moderated by Elite Vice President of Security Solutions Scott Blakeman, will include on its panel law enforcement executives Tom Stone and Justin Feffer as well as Canyon Partners Senior Vice President and Director of Security Allen Azran. Stone and Feffer, who is also an attorney specializing in cybersecurity, are both members of Elite’s Law Enforcement Advisory Board (LEAB). All are experienced authorities for the topic at hand.

Those in attendance will learn how advances in AI, video analytics, cybersecurity, and other leading-edge technologies are being calibrated, integrated and deployed to deliver real-world results that proactively stop rather than merely react to crime. Attendees will also take away a understanding of the key characteristics that encompass a true remote guarding solution, as opposed to more general video surveillance or alarm monitoring.

By its conclusion, attendees will walk away knowing how a technology-centric solution like remote guarding can make their organization’s security program more effective and efficient, and with a high return on investment (ROI). For more information, go to gsx.com.

DMP Releases the Next Generation of Teller Machine Security

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Digital Monitoring Products (DMP) announced the release of the TMSentry™. This new control panel represents the latest alarm system technology designed specifically for monitoring automated teller machines (ATMs) and interactive teller machines (ITMs). As banking teller machines become more compact, interior space becomes a premium and the technology to protect them must become more robust.

“This new product’s smaller form factor is perfect for space-restricted applications,” said Jon Adams, vice president of sales at DMP. “With TMSentry, the ATM owner can now go back to placing this security solution inside the chest of the machine. It is so small in fact, that it will fit inside the safe in many teller machines, delivering an additional layer of security. This compact product is also ideal for the privately-owned ATM market, which features smaller machines inside tight retail locations.”

High security features are built into this panel, with the specific needs of the financial industry in mind.

Benefits include:

  • Compact Size – Easily accommodates new, slimmer ATMs and ITMs, as well as existing machines needing enhanced security measures.
  • Free Network – Dealers receive free network communication, offering the ability to easily increase RMR.
  • Built-in Encryption – Signals to the monitoring center and Dealer Admin use industry-standard AES encryption to protect data from being intercepted by third parties.
  • Adaptive Technology™ – If the primary communication path is disrupted, Adaptive Technology seamlessly switches to the panel’s secondary path, ensuring constant communication.
  • Streamlined Audit Reporting – Inactive User auditing and Inactive Zone auditing make compliance reports easy.
  • Comprehensive Security – Six fully supervised alarm zones allow for the addition of security devices such as seismic detectors, door contacts and heat detectors.
  • S. Made – Designed, engineered and manufactured in the U.S. with U.S. and global components.

Teller machine use and design has changed over the years. Today’s consumers prefer simpler digital solutions and closer-to-home convenience. Teller machine robbery and machine theft is becoming more frequent. As this industry continues to grow and ATMs become even more prevalent, the need for effective security solutions grows with it. Provide your financial customers with the highest level of protection in the most compact size available on the market.

Learn more at DMP.com/TMSentry

Verkada Achieves FedRAMP Ready Status

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Verkada has achieved another important milestone on its journey to becoming FedRAMP Authorized. Verkada Command in AWS GovCloud was designated FedRAMP Moderate Ready by the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP) and is now listed on the FedRAMP Marketplace. The FedRAMP Ready status makes it easier and faster for government agencies to approve and implement Verkada’s video security and visitor management solutions.

In February, Verkada announced the launch of Verkada Command in AWS GovCloud, supporting two key product lines: video security with FIPS-validated cameras and Verkada Guest, the company’s visitor management solution. The achievement of FedRAMP Ready status further underscores Verkada’s commitment to making secure and reliable solutions accessible to public sector customers.

What is FedRAMP?

The Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP) is a U.S. government initiative that sets rigorous security standards for cloud service providers. These standards include security assessment, authorization, and continuous monitoring to help ensure high levels of data protection and compliance.

To achieve FedRAMP Ready status, Verkada collaborated with a third-party assessment organization (3PAO) to complete a comprehensive Readiness Assessment Report. This report demonstrated Verkada’s adherence to key security controls, representing a significant step toward full authorization.

Next Steps for Verkada and FedRAMP

Verkada’s journey toward FedRAMP Authorization continues with the next phase: achieving “In Process” status. This phase involves a more detailed security assessment conducted with a sponsoring federal agency. Success at this stage will lead to an evaluation for full authorization.

“We are thrilled to reach this important milestone, which reflects our dedication to making advanced security solutions accessible to the public sector,” said Jon Andersen, Federal Chief Information Security Officer, at Verkada. “We look forward to continuing our progress toward full FedRAMP Authorization and expanding our offerings to meet the needs of government agencies.”

For more information about Verkada’s FedRAMP Ready products and upcoming government-grade solutions, please visit https://www.verkada.com/solutions/government-grade.

North Carolina’s Buncombe County ECC goes live with ASAP Service

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The Buncombe County Public Safety Communications Center (BCPSC) became the 145th Emergency Communications Center (ECC) in the United States and the 13th ECC in the state of North Carolina to implement the Automated Secure Alarm Protocol (ASAP).

Buncombe County went live on June 21st & 22nd, 2024 with the following companies: Rapid Response Monitoring, Vector Security, Alert360, Securitas, Quick Response, Brinks Home Security, Dynamark Monitoring, ADT, Protection One, Guardian Protection, National Monitoring Center, Vivint, Johnson Controls (Tyco), Security Central, United Central Control, CPI Security, and Affiliated Monitoring.

Learn more about TMA’s ASAP Service at https://tma.us/programs/asap/

 

TMA Members Contribute to ASAP 3.0 Next Generation Fund

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TMA announced on Wed., June 26th it had signed a a multi-year managed services agreement with Mission Critical Partners (MCP) to power the future growth of its Automated Secure Alarm Protocol (ASAP) Service.

The partnership with MCP will expedite the rollout of the next-generation of the ASAP Service and drive the development of a new, cloud-based solution. The next-generation solution will allow for the real-time sharing of rich data, including camera video streams, live location, health information, photos, and interior blueprints, dramatically improving situational awareness for emergency responders.

The primary goal for the Service is to achieve 80% coverage of the populating by 2028.

This partnership and technological advancements have been made possible by the generous support and commitment of TMA members that contributed to our ASAP 3.0 Next Generation funding program. TMA extends its gratitude to the following donors:

  • ADT, LLC
  • Affiliated Monitoring
  • Alarm Detection Systems, Inc.
  • Alert360
  • AvantGuard Monitoring Centers
  • COPS Monitoring
  • CPI Security Systems
  • Doyle Security Systems, Inc.
  • Dynamark Monitoring, Inc.
  • Holmes Electric Security Systems
  • National Monitoring Center
  • Per Mar Security Services
  • Quick Response
  • Rapid Response
  • Securitas
  • Security Central
  • United Central Control
  • Vector Security, Inc.
  • Vivint Smart Home
  • Washington Alarm, Inc.

Learn more about the new partnership and goals for enhancements to the Service by reading the full public announcement HERE.

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Elite Interactive Solutions announced the company was recognized this month as runner-up for the 2024 Police Dispatch Quality Award (PDQ). The prestigious honor, which is organized by the Security Industry Alarm Coalition (SIAC), was presented during a ceremony at the recent Electronic Security Expo (ESX) held in Louisville.

Since 2005, the PDQ program promoted security companies and law enforcement agencies working together as partners, sharing information and communicating frequently to protect public safety and serve their communities. It identifies providers that exemplify cooperative best practices to reduce unnecessary dispatches that drain precious resources and give officers the most complete information when responding to security incidents.

Elite, which has now twice been named PDQ runner-up and won the award in 2020, is the first provider to have completely eliminated false alarms and false dispatches to law enforcement.

“There are many security systems and monitoring providers in the industry that talk about more effectively managing and stopping false alarms, and many do an admirable job, but many also fail to put teeth into that talk or stop at lip service only,” says Elite Founder and CEO Aria Kozak, who earlier this year was named to the Industry Hall of Fame. “Elite has developed the most proven and effective mitigation of false alarms and dispatches the industry has ever seen. Our revolutionary remote video guarding service reports zero false alarms to responding law enforcement, which is unheard of.”

During the 2023 evaluation period, Elite accomplished zero false alarms while also assisting police in achieving more than 1,000 arrests and detainments. In addition, the company registered nearly 73,000 crime interventions through the swift, expert actions of its command center agents, who are all former military or former law enforcement. With forensically designed systems on customer sites and using a custom calibrated technology stack that filters out most of the “noise,” Elite agents address any suspicious activity with a live voice-down in an average time of 7 seconds.

As for building police relationships, Elite may be the only provider that has an in-house Law Enforcement Advisory Board (LEAB) comprised of active and former LE command staff and executives. They are fully engaged in the daily activities of Elite’s subterranean, UL-Listed command center. The LEAB trains Elite agents, reviews and ensures calls for dispatch follow best protocols, and routinely communicates and meets with agencies around the country to facilitate optimal support and collaboration.

A 2023 letter of commendation from Peace Officers Association of Los Angeles County Board President Anthony Miranda states: “During the years of our association with Elite, we have witnessed the evolution of procedures and technology where your company went from significantly reducing to now virtually eliminating false alarm calls. The impact on reducing unnecessary police response to alarms, enhancing officer safety when response is merited and the prevention of losses at your protected premises is extraordinary.”

Parks Associates New Research Reveals MDU Property Interests

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Parks Associates’ latest research finds a high interest in energy systems and services among MDU property owners and managers.

Parks Associates will present multifamily housing research at two upcoming events, including this week at Apartmentalize, hosted by the National Apartment Association, following by the Smart Spaces virtual session “Smart Living: Attracting and Retaining Residents” on July 23.

  • At Apartmentalize, Jennifer Kent, VP, Research, Parks Associates, is speaking on the session “Seamless Connectivity: Where in the WiFi is Waldo?” on June 21, in Philadelphia, PA, starting at 1 PM.
  • Kent and Kristen Hanich, Director of Research, Parks Associates, will host the virtual session “Smart Living: Attracting and Retaining Residents” on July 23, 11 AM CT, featuring a visionary keynote from Thomas Stanchak, Managing Director of Sustainability, Stoneweg US. Then a panel discussion will cover smart living solutions, from automated home systems to AI-driven amenities, and their impact on resident satisfaction and loyalty.

Parks Associates’ latest research finds a high interest in energy systems and services among MDU property owners and managers, with 69% showing interest in a backup power service and 56% showing a high interest in a generator for backup power during outages.

“Smart building solutions can create innumerable benefits to multifamily properties, provided the deployment and ongoing support are planned correctly for each property,” said Elizabeth Parks, President and CMO, Parks Associates. “These discussions with key executives and stakeholders at Apartmentalize and Smart Spaces are key to share case studies, consumer research, and best practices so that we can maximize the potential for smart solutions in the MDU space.”

Parks Associates recently released the white paper “Smart Tech for Multifamily Properties: Understanding ROI,” in partnership with SKBM, with insights from interviews with leading multifamily owners, operators, and management companies. In this white paper, properties report a 20% efficiency boost and 10% fewer maintenance requests after installing smart door locks and electronic access control systems.

Parks Associates will host sessions for the second annual Smart Spaces: Apartments, Hospitality, and Community Living throughout 2024. The in-person conference takes place September 24-25, 2024, at the Renaissance Dallas Richardson Hotel in Richardson, Texas, with virtual sessions on March 21, July 23, and December 12. Smart Spaces sponsors include ADT Multifamily, Vantiva, Nice, Cox Communities, Xfinity Communities, Kwikset, Homebase, Calix, Dojo Networks, and Salto.

To schedule an interview with an analyst or to request specific data, please contact Mindi Sue Sternblitz-Rubenstein at mindi.sue@parksassociates.com or 972-490-1113.

Now Available! Marks USA High-Quality Panic & Fire-Rated Door Hardware Newly Featuring M99LD with Visual Lockdown Indicator for Enhanced Security

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NAPCO Security Technologies, Inc., is pleased to announce the availability of the latest in its full line of high-quality panic & fire-rated door hardware for single & double doors from  Marks USA. Now readily available for commercial locking requirements of all kinds and backdoor applications, from single to double doors, Marks cost-saving Grade 1 lineup now features  M99LD Series LockDown models in choice of finishes, including popular US 19 Matte Black.

Building on the success of the full-door M9900 panic exit bar, the M99LD Series is engineered for high-impact applications, such as schools, universities, and other critical infrastructure. The M99LD Series distinguishes itself with a clear view visual lockdown indicator on the inside, ensuring swift and unmistakable identification of the lock status, featuring a red or green indicator, providing a clear confirmation of whether the handle is open or locked-down, significantly enhancing safety and response times during emergencies.

“With the increasing need for robust security measures in educational and commercial environments, the M99LD Series represents a significant advancement in our product line,” said Bill Sporre, SVP Sales of Marks USA. “This new model not only maintains the superior value, performance and reliability of the M9900 but also introduces an intuitive visual indicator system that improves safety and security protocols.”

Key features of the M99LD Series include:

  • Visual Lockdown Indicator: Easy-to-read clear view visual Lockdown Indicator on inside, red or green, confirms outside handle is open or in locked-down status
  • High-Impact Design & Durability: Engineered for demanding environments, providing consistent performance under stress.
  • Field-reversible for easy stock and field application retrofitting all popular preps w/ choice of trims and finishes (or IC core). Key or T-Turn on inside toggles the outside trim (included)
  • Marks USA Lifetime Mechanical Warranty, an industry first.

Marks USA continues to set industry standards with extremely cost-competitive innovative locking hardware solutions, often less than 40% of competitive Grade 1 product, all tailored to the low-maintenance needs of modern institutions in compliance with ANSI BHMA A156.3 Grade 1, ANSI/UL305 panic hardware and 2013 CA Building Code 11B-309.4, etc. The M99LD LockDown model,shown, is now available through authorized distributors nationwide. Contact Bill Sporre, SVP Marks Sales, Ray Krispin, Marks Sales Director, or call your Marks Rep or NAPCO 1.800.645.9445 for more info. or ordering assistance. See the Marks USA Panic & Fire Rated Door Hardware Line in the new full line brochure or visit NAPCO at ALOA Las Vegas, next month Booth 712.

Adams to Serve as DMP’s Vice President of Sales

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Jon Adams has returned to DMP as the vice president of sales. He will oversee the Sales Department and direct initiatives to continue growth and development. “Jon brings a strong sales skill set, but most importantly, the ability to create sales strategy and develop a strong sales team to meet our goals,” said Rick Britton, DMP CEO.

“I’m extremely passionate about our salespeople, about creating a culture of coaching, helping them achieve their goals, giving them the resources they need,” said Adams. “I’m excited about finding new ways to make it even easier for our dealers to do business with us and helping them incorporate products into their sales offerings in a way that helps them grow their revenue.”

With a deep history in the security industry, and longstanding ties to DMP, Adams brings a special blend of experience to this role. His early career began in central station management at Atlas Security. From there, he moved on to building central stations with other companies. With this foundation, he transitioned into sales for DMP, representing territories in California for many years. During this time, he also worked in product management, product marketing and business development.

For the past three years, Adams has taken advantage of additional opportunities, such as building a central station in Richmond, VA, and most recently, serving as CEO of Level Up. He continued growing his expertise, but missed working with dealers, and is excited about reuniting with DMP.  “Of the ten people I know who’ve had the biggest impact in my life that I respect the most, five of them worked at DMP,” said Adams.

Contact Information:

Jon Adams | Vice President of Sales
Email: JAdams@DMP.com

Valdez Named Vice President of Sales by Elite Interactive

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Elite Interactive Solutions (EIS), a remote video guarding pioneer using proprietary intelligence and integration to achieve proven crime prevention, has named John Valdez as the company’s new Vice President of Sales. A senior leader with 25 years’ experience working for Fortune 500 companies and start-up ventures, Valdez’s responsibilities include heading up Elite’s sales department with oversight of business development representatives and a lead generation call center.

“John Valdez brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in sales leadership to Elite. His strategic vision, combined with his relentless drive for success, will propel our sales team to new heights,” says Elite President Michael Zatulov. “We are thrilled to welcome him aboard and confident that, under his guidance, Elite will reach unprecedented levels of growth and success.”

Valdez has sat on multiple executive boards, including serving as Chairman of the Board at SIMGAD Solar. He began his career at Enterprise Holdings, where he spent 19 years, ascending to the position of Executive Officer.

Valdez’s 12+ years of security industry experience kicked off with Allied Universal in 2012 as a V.P. of Business Development. Other security roles include Chief Development Officer during an earlier stint at Elite, and CEO at JEV Security Consultants. An expert in threat assessment and active shooter response, he has participated in speaking engagements at several security conferences and seminars.

“It is rare to come across an organization like Elite with disruptive innovation that positively impacts the world,” says Valdez. “I’m honored to work alongside Michael Zatulov and Aria Kozak [Founder, known as ‘The Father of Remote Guarding’] as I lead our sales division to new heights. Elite’s crime prevention solution is world class and unparalleled in the security industry. I look forward to developing my team and exponentially growing our marketplace.”

Originally from Barstow, Calif., Valdez grew up in the iconic neighborhood of Tortilla Flats. He went on to earn an undergraduate degree in Business Administration from Cal State San Bernardino and is currently an MBA candidate in Business Management at Purdue University. Valdez is married to his high school sweetheart, Toni, of 31 years and has two adult daughters (Isabelle and Eliana).