Entries by Andrew Ciccone

Executive Protection Spending Hits New High Amid Growing Security Concerns

Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services Companies are investing record amounts to protect their top executives as security threats rise. Firms involved in controversial issues or with public-facing founders are especially boosting their executive protection measures — many offering these services for the first time. But while physical security helps leaders feel safer, it doesn’t […]

When Is It Time to Bring in Professional Armed Security?

Deciding to enlist armed security is a critical step for any business. Some clear signs include: Handling large amounts of cash Operating in high-crime areas Experiencing past theft or vandalism Hosting frequent visitors or high-profile events Addressing employee concerns about workplace safety Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services Taking proactive security measures protects your assets […]

The Security Industry Is Changing — Private security isn’t what it used to be.

Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services In the last decade, the industry has transformed. Gone are the days of simply watching a door or walking a site with a notepad. Today’s security demands are more complex, technical, and community-focused than ever before. Technology is reshaping security. From real-time reporting and remote surveillance to AI-driven analytics […]

As demand for contract security rises, governments and businesses face critical challenges.

As demand for contract security rises, governments and businesses face critical challenges: Defining clear roles and expectations for security personnel Enhancing training and oversight to boost professionalism and accountability Balancing private security investments with public safety to ensure equitable policing Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services Private security can support law enforcement—but it’s not a […]

FCRA compliance isn’t a one-and-done checkbox—it’s an ongoing commitment.

Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services Every background check should follow a consistent, up-to-date process that evolves with changing laws. To stay compliant: • Train HR and hiring managers on FCRA requirements • Regularly review your disclosure and consent forms • Keep pace with local and federal legal updates • Partner with a trusted screening […]

The future of public safety is integration, not isolation.

Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services A hybrid model where police and private security collaborate—not compete—can strengthen communities. But this partnership must be built on fairness, oversight, and accountability. Equity is key. If private security only serves wealthy areas, it worsens divides. Instead, private patrols should contribute to public safety across all neighborhoods. With clear […]

Real safety isn’t about cameras or security guards—it’s about trust.

Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services When communities trust their institutions, they feel safe. Without that trust, walls go up—physically and socially. Private security can’t replace public trust or collective safety. True security comes from shared responsibility, connection, and investing in public systems like mental health, housing, and community programs. We can build safer communities—if […]

Smarter Hiring in Security: Why AI and People Must Work Together

Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services In the security industry, hiring the right talent is mission-critical. AI offers speed, scale, and data-driven insights that help streamline recruiting — especially for technical and high-volume roles. But security isn’t just about efficiency. It’s about trust, integrity, and cultural fit — qualities that algorithms alone can’t fully capture. […]

In the AI era, data is power — and a prime target.

Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection ServicesBy Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services To protect data, security and development teams must break silos and work together from day one. Secure-by-design is no longer optional — it’s essential. #CyberSecurity #AI #DevSecOps #DataProtection #SecureByDesign #InfoSec #AIethics #SecurityFirst #AppSec #HigherEdTech #DigitalTransformation   Source: Reiter,R.Security and Development Teams Should Work […]

Universities are increasingly in the crosshairs of hacktivist groups.

By Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services Driven by political or social agendas, these cyberattacks go beyond defacing websites — they now threaten research data, infrastructure, and campus operations. No longer limited to protests or digital graffiti, hacktivists are increasingly targeting critical infrastructure — putting public safety and national security at risk. Awareness and resilience […]