Real-time monitoring, remote surveillance, and advanced technologies can protect critical infrastructure from threats and disruptions.
There is nothing in our everyday lives that isn’t touched by or reliant on critical infrastructure. Everything from national security and our ability to travel and communicate, to our capacity to access healthcare, utilities, and human services is dependent on the reliability of critical infrastructure.
These vital infrastructure systems are the pillars that keep our country safe, assist us in our daily lives, and stabilize our economy. Due to the interdependent nature of critical infrastructure systems, not only would a breach or disruption to a single system be problematic, but it could have far-reaching ripple effects.
The significant and interconnected role that critical infrastructure plays in our ability to function and stay safe is precisely why it must be kept secure. And yet, research and consultancy firm Gartner predicts that 30% of critical infrastructure organizations will experience a disruptive security breach by 2025.
One reason critical infrastructure is frequently targeted for vandalism and theft is that it is often located in remote, sprawling areas that are largely isolated and challenging to monitor. In addition, critical infrastructure often contains valuable technology, equipment, and natural resources that are lucrative targets for potential bad actors.
Many believe critical infrastructure is solely governmental responsibility. However, most critical infrastructure is privately owned and operated. The truth of the matter is that it takes a comprehensive, all-hands-on-deck approach utilizing key strategies to keep critical infrastructure secure.
Real-time monitoring is essential when it comes to surveillance. The ability to see what is happening as it happens is vital for effective and efficient responses. Real-time monitoring eliminates any potential lag or delay in video, ensuring that detection is instantaneous and the responses to security threats are handled expeditiously.
False alarms can instantly be checked and disregarded without having to deploy additional personnel to investigate. Not only does this save time, but it can also save money. As a result, resources can be allocated to other areas where they are needed.
For breaches or criminal incidents, real-time monitoring is invaluable as it improves situational awareness. It enables security teams to assess events accurately and communicate effectively with colleagues in the field. This enhanced preparedness ensures teams are better equipped to handle situations. It also helps reduce response times by enabling the quick dispatch of emergency services or law enforcement agencies when every minute counts.
Real-time surveillance can also be a powerful tool to ensure protocols, regulations, and processes are met. Many critical infrastructure sites have stringent processes to ensure quality control and safety measures are met. Cameras provide another layer of checks to make sure those policies and standard operating procedures are being followed and satisfactory.
Remote monitoring allows users to see what is happening in real time from wherever they may be. It allows any number of authorized users to access the surveillance system through any computer or smart device with an internet connection. This is particularly helpful when critical infrastructure is in remote hard-to-reach areas.
Having multiple users also creates more fail-safes. The more people who have access to the system, the more layers of watchful eyes are present. Furthermore, if a computer or device malfunctions, you can easily access the system from another connected device.
Security cameras provide around-the-clock surveillance, which means there are no gaps in coverage. Real-time monitoring coupled with video recording and playback capabilities allows for incidents to be repeatedly reviewed for evidence gathering or investigations.
Advanced technologies like AI and motion detection can decipher when someone has entered a high-security zone and send an automatic alert to users. These real-time alerts can be triggered by movement, an open gate, or even when any authorized user disarms the alarm with their code. Not only does this provide another layer of protection, but the alerts can also activate an automatic response like an audible alarm, flashing lights, or a warning message.
Pairing real-time monitoring with remote surveillance can assist with access control. The ability to monitor and limit who can access a facility or premises is key to protecting critical infrastructure. It ensures that secure locations are off-limits to unauthorized personnel while creating a record of those who are cleared for entry and documenting the duration of their stay. Additionally, authentication can be performed using cameras, keycards, or biometric systems. Access control systems are invaluable for safeguarding sensitive information and preventing disruptions to critical infrastructure.
Protecting critical infrastructure demands a multi-faceted approach by both government and private sectors. A multi-layered plan will include traditional physical security measures integrated with advancements in technologies like real-time video and remote monitoring, access control systems, and cutting-edge artificial intelligence features.
LVT can help fortify your critical infrastructure monitoring and security efforts. From state-of-the-art cameras to mobile surveillance units that can be integrated with other systems, LVT helps teams create a robust, scalable system that meets a variety of needs. Two-way communication, audible alerts, and flood lights paired with automated responses and AI create a 360-degree approach to ensure maximum coverage to safeguard your property or business. Furthermore, LVT is designed to work in the harshest of conditions, whether it be extreme weather or even natural disasters.
Contact LVT to see how we can be a partner for your security needs and help safeguard your business.
