Fraud-Detection-with-Video-Surveillance-Analytics.

Ways to Boost Fraud Detection with Video Surveillance & Analytics

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Frank Costa, President of NEXGEN Protections Services on Fraud Detection:

Fraud costs the financial sector billions of dollars each year. It’s a persistent challenge for banks globally, made more complex by increasingly sophisticated fraud tactics and methods.

To stay ahead of fraud, financial institutions must leverage every available tool to protect their customers and assets. One such tool is video surveillance and analytics. By integrating video technology with fraud detection systems, banks can gain real-time insights, spot patterns, and take a proactive approach to security. This not only helps detect fraud but also prevents it from escalating.

  1. Real-Time Fraud Alerts
    Fraud detection systems generate a massive amount of data, but not every alert indicates a genuine threat. Video surveillance adds a critical visual layer, helping differentiate between legitimate fraud and false alarms.
  2. License Plate Recognition
    Drive-up ATMs and tellers face unique security challenges, especially in suburban and rural areas. License Plate Recognition (LPR) technology, integrated with video systems, offers a powerful way to identify vehicles linked to fraudulent activities. This information can be used to flag repeat offenders or known fraudsters.
  3. Behavioral Analytics
    ATM skimming is one of the most persistent threats to banks. Video surveillance equipped with behavioral analytics can identify suspicious patterns, such as individuals loitering near ATMs without conducting transactions or using multiple cards in quick succession.
  4. Integrated Surveillance
    ATM jackpotting—where criminals manipulate ATMs to dispense large amounts of cash—is a growing global issue. Combining video surveillance with physical sensors offers an effective defense. Cameras can detect unusual activity, like tampering, suspicious vehicles parked near ATMs, or vehicles with no license plates, and trigger real-time alerts.
  5. Loitering Detection
    Ensuring customer safety, especially at ATMs after hours, is a top priority for banks. Video surveillance with loitering detection analytics can identify individuals lingering near ATMs for extended periods, enabling timely intervention.
  6. Video Storage with Hybrid Solutions
    Storing surveillance footage for extended periods can be expensive. Hybrid storage solutions, which combine on-premises and cloud-based video storage, offer a practical alternative. Banks can securely store critical footage without the need for large-scale on-site infrastructure.
  7. Camera-to-Cloud Solutions for Remote Monitoring
    In some areas, installing on-site recorders can be impractical due to space or connectivity issues. Camera-to-cloud solutions address this by streaming video directly to the cloud. This eliminates the need for on-site hardware while maintaining full surveillance capabilities.
  8. Disaster Preparedness for Video Data
    Natural disasters pose a significant challenge to video surveillance systems. To mitigate this risk, banks should ensure that critical footage is preserved, even when on-site systems are compromised. Centralized evidence archiving allows banks to offload important video data to secure locations before a disaster strikes.

Transforming Fraud Prevention with Video Analytics

Video surveillance and analytics are revolutionizing fraud prevention, equipping banks with powerful tools to detect threats in real-time, enhance customer safety, and streamline security operations. From preventing ATM skimming and jackpotting to addressing loitering and improving evidence management, integrating video technology with existing systems strengthens banks’ ability to combat financial crime.

Source:
Corral, J. (February 5, 2025). 8 Ways to Boost Fraud Detection with Video Surveillance and Analytics. Security Management Magazine.



Crises

Has Social Media-Based News Changed How People React to Crises?

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Frank Costa, President NEXGEN Protection Services —

Security professionals face an emerging challenge in how social media, particularly platforms popular with young adults, shapes public perception and reaction to global crises.

While the media’s ability to influence public opinion and even incite mass unrest is not new, the scale and immediacy of social media have significantly amplified this effect.

Within seconds of scrolling through Instagram, a student might encounter a variety of content: drone footage of devastated cities, an ad for a university holiday party, an image of a grieving Palestinian parent holding their deceased child, and a photo of their nephew at a family pumpkin patch. The boundaries between “international affairs” and “personal moments” have blurred. Information that once might have been compartmentalized—global news and private family photos—now coexist in the same space, on the same device, often just inches away from the user. This constant access creates a psychological burden, one that security professionals must consider when analyzing public sentiment and response.

The emotional impact of receiving this kind of information isn’t limited to the content itself. The speed and proximity of digital news delivery can distort perspectives, amplify emotional reactions, and prompt actions. Understanding these emotional triggers is essential to mitigating violence and fostering dialogue, cooperation, and mutual understanding.

In security management, it’s crucial to recognize the emotional context in which crises unfold. Approaching sensitive issues with empathy and open-mindedness may prevent situations from escalating, reducing the likelihood of conflict and resistance. By building trust between security personnel and the communities they serve, we can better address crises in ways that foster understanding and cooperation.

Source:
Bussewitz, Z. (January 28, 2025). Has Social Media-Based News Changed How People React to Crises? Security Management Magazine.



Lighting Standards

Lighting Standards for Parking Facilities

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Frank Costa, President of NEXGEN Protection Services:

While there have been several advancements in technology that can improve a facility’s physical security, simple and cost-efficient lighting upgrades can make a significant impact. Effective lighting in parking facilities can deter trespassers, reveal tripping hazards, and make properties feel safer.

For any owner or operator of a parking area, it’s important to understand the relevant lighting requirements. Although building codes can vary across jurisdictions and regions, at least two organizations have provided standards that all parking facilities can meet to help increase safety and security for users and staff as a baseline.

Parking structures. These areas are difficult to light since there are few vertical elements to reflect light or provide contrast to moving objects. In some municipalities, building codes require a bright white horizontal stripe on walls, at waist height, to improve contrast. The lack of ceiling clearance restricts the height of luminaires and requires the fixtures to spread the light horizontally. This is excellent for lighting vertical surfaces; however, if video cameras are used, the luminaire design should be selected to reduce glare at the camera lens. A horizontal illuminance level of 5 footcandles with a uniformity ratio of 4:1 provides an adequate level of security.

Open parking.  The height of luminaires is less restricted in open than in covered parking unless local codes and light trespass become factors. The higher light sources tend to provide horizontal illumination. Energy conservative, high-pressure sodium lighting has high efficiency, high lumens per watt, and is cost-effective for open parking. Recommended light levels range from a minimum of 0.2 footcandles in low-activity general parking and pedestrian areas to 2 footcandles in high-activity vehicle areas. Cash collection and vehicular access control areas should be maintained at a minimum of 5 footcandles.

 

Source:
Mosqueda, S. (January 13, 2025). Lighting Standards for Parking Facilities. Security Management Magazine.



Build a Security Mindset Up & Down the Organization

Build a Security Mindset Up & Down the Organization

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Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services

For security to be truly effective, everyone at your organization must be both informed and invested in safeguarding against external threats. Infusing a security mindset throughout the organization requires consistent prioritization and active engagement at all levels.

Security is constantly evolving, and staying ahead of emerging threats demands continuous knowledge-sharing and collaboration. Exceptional security processes arise from working together, learning from peers, and uplifting one another. Without this approach, organizations risk stagnation and vulnerability to new digital threats.

Given that security needs constantly change in response to unpredictable events and evolving threats, vigilance is essential. By maintaining strong partnerships with departments across the organization and encouraging innovative thinking, security professionals can help ensure business resilience and productivity.

 

Source:
Armer, M. (2020, Jun 24). 4 Ways to Always Be Improving Security. enterprisersproject.com.

Hashtags: #protectionservices #securitystandards #publicsafety #mobilesecurity #securitythreats


Security Protection: Conflict, Confusion & Chaos

Security Protection: Conflict, Confusion & Chaos

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Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services

By 2025, emerging “rogue actors” will operate with increasing impunity as countries fragment—geographically, ethnically, and ideologically. Established political parties, both left and right, are in systemic decline, steadily losing primary vote shares to insurgent candidates and parties across the political spectrum.

For security professionals, the message is clear: the landscape is becoming more complex. However, with the right tools and strategies, it’s still possible to manage risks and seize opportunities. Technology will play a crucial role in identifying incidents, delivering personalized risk information, and supporting the fieldwork, local knowledge, and analysis provided by risk professionals.

The most resilient organizations in this fragmenting world will combine advanced technology with “human-in-the-loop” strategies, enabling better decision-making in an increasingly unpredictable environment.

Source:
(2025, Jan 06). An Era of Conflict: Navigating a ‘Fragmenting World’ in 2025. Security & Business Resilience.

Hashtags: #protectionservices #securitystandards #publicsafety #mobilesecurity #securitythreats


Loss Prevention Strategies to Fight Shrink in the Retail Space

Loss Prevention Strategies to Fight Shrink in the Retail Space

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Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services

When grocers address loss prevention strategies to combat shrinkage, it is typically framed within the context of preventing theft.

Major Sources of Shrinkage

  • Employee Theft: Surprisingly, one of the biggest contributors to shrinkage is employee theft. This can range from stealing products directly to manipulating cash registers or other financial records.
  • Shoplifting: Another significant source of shrinkage is shoplifting. Despite advances in surveillance and security, shoplifters often find creative ways to steal products.
  • Administrative Errors: Mistakes in recording inventory, pricing errors, and other administrative mishaps can also contribute to shrinkage. While these errors might seem minor individually, they can add up over time.
  • Vendor Fraud: Sometimes, the problem lies with suppliers. Vendor fraud includes issues like short shipments, where the vendor delivers less than what was ordered but charges for the full amount.

Implementing a Comprehensive Loss Prevention Program

While individual strategies can make a difference, a comprehensive loss prevention program that combines multiple approaches is often the most effective. Here’s how retailers can implement such a program:

  1. Conduct a Risk Assessment:
    Start by assessing the specific risks and vulnerabilities in your retail operation. Identify areas where shrinkage is most likely to occur and prioritize them for intervention.
  2. Train Employees:
    Employee education is crucial in preventing shrinkage. Train your staff on loss prevention techniques, including how to spot suspicious behavior, handle inventory accurately, and report discrepancies promptly. Encourage a culture of honesty and accountability among employees.
  3. Implement Security Measures:
    Invest in security measures such as surveillance cameras, electronic article surveillance (EAS) systems, and security tags. These tools can act as deterrents to potential thieves and provide valuable evidence in case of theft.
  4. Monitor and Analyze Data:
    Regularly monitor and analyze inventory data to identify patterns or anomalies that may indicate shrinkage. Use data analytics tools to gain insights into your inventory management and pinpoint areas for improvement.
  5. Collaborate with Vendors:
    Work closely with your vendors to ensure transparency and accuracy in deliveries. Establish clear communication channels and conduct regular audits to verify the accuracy of shipments. Building strong relationships with vendors can help prevent fraud and discrepancies.

Source:
Smirles, J. (2023, July 13). How Supermarkets Can Reduce Fresh Food Shrink. Loss Prevention Magazine.

Hashtags: #protectionservices #securitystandards #publicsafety #mobilesecurity #securitythreats

 

Organized Retail Crime: Strategies for Mitigating Loss

Organized Retail Crime: Strategies for Mitigating Loss

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Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services

To effectively combat organized retail crime, retailers must establish strong partnerships with industry associations, law enforcement agencies, and other relevant stakeholders. Such collaboration enables the exchange of intelligence, best practices, and emerging trends, allowing for a proactive response to the evolving nature of organized crime.

Partnership with Law Enforcement:
Close collaboration with law enforcement is critical. Retailers should establish direct communication channels with local police departments and develop protocols for promptly reporting organized crime incidents.

Training Store Associates:
Education and awareness are key to preventing organized crime. Retail employees must receive comprehensive training on identifying organized crime indicators, understanding theft patterns, and implementing effective prevention techniques.

Source:
Brittain, J. (2025, January 14). Retail’s Dangerous Triangle: Trafficking, Trucking, & Organized Theft. Loss Prevention Magazine.

#protectionservices #securitystandards #publicsafety #mobilesecurity #securitythreats


How Security Is Shaping the Cannabis Industry

How Security Is Shaping the Cannabis Industry

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Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services

A surveillance system can help protect your business from theft, particularly employee theft, which is a widespread issue in the cannabis industry. For large outdoor growing operations, having a monitoring system in place provides peace of mind by securing your property from all angles at all times.

Source:
Baxter, K. (2025, January 13). How security is shaping the cannabis industry. Security InfoWatch.

#protectionservices #securitystandards #publicsafety #mobilesecurity #securitythreats



Security Protection to Ensure the Safety and Well-Being of Students

Security Protection to Ensure the Safety and Well-Being of Students

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Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services

To ensure the safety and well-being of students, security protection should encompass both physical measures—such as secured perimeters, surveillance systems, and controlled access points—and proactive approaches, including anti-bullying policies, mental health support, positive student-teacher relationships, and comprehensive emergency response plans. All of this should be implemented while fostering a safe and inclusive school environment.

Source:
Intelligent Security for Safer Schools. Security InfoWatch (January 2, 2025).

#protectionservices #securitystandards #publicsafety #mobilesecurity #securitythreats



Active Shooter Situations: Handling Conflicts & De-Escalation Tactics

Active Shooter Situations: Handling Conflicts & De-Escalation Tactics

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Active Shooter Situation

A violent altercation at an AutoZone auto parts store on Broadway in Newburgh, Orange County, left one man dead from a gunshot wound and another injured from stab wounds.

Frank Costa, NEXGEN Protection Services

NEXGEN Protection offers 24/7 security for your business with armed guards trained to protect and de-escalate conflicts. Our team of professional, armed guards is rigorously trained and experienced in handling complex security challenges, ensuring safety, peace of mind, and compliance with regulations.

Two men were injured—one sustained stab wounds, while the other was shot. Officers immediately rendered medical aid to both individuals. The man with stab wounds was treated for non-life-threatening injuries, while the man with the gunshot wound was pronounced dead at the scene.