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Closing-the-Influence-Gap-Why-Security-Professionals-Must-Be-Heard.

Closing the Influence Gap: Why Security Professionals Must Be Heard

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By Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services

New research highlights a concerning trend: security professionals often lack the influence they need, and many organizations are struggling to perform even the most basic security risk management functions effectively. (ISACA, 2025)

For enterprises navigating increasingly complex threat landscapes, this is a critical wake-up call. Without strong influence and integration at the executive level, security teams risk being reactive rather than strategic, and organizations leave themselves exposed to avoidable risks.

The Influence Gap
 Consultants found that security professionals frequently aren’t included in key business decisions, limiting their ability to align risk management with organizational objectives. This misalignment can lead to gaps in policies, insufficient resource allocation, and fragmented incident response strategies.

Challenges in Risk Management
 The research also revealed weaknesses in core security functions:

  • Inconsistent risk assessments and prioritization

  • Limited integration with enterprise governance frameworks

  • Insufficient monitoring and reporting of key security metrics

Why This Matters
Security isn’t just an IT concern — it’s enterprise risk management. Organizations that fail to empower security professionals risk operational disruptions, regulatory noncompliance, reputational damage, and financial loss.

Steps Forward

  1. Elevate Security Leadership — Ensure CSOs or security leads have a seat at the executive table.

  2. Integrate Security into Strategy — Align risk management with business goals and decision-making processes.

  3. Invest in Training & Metrics — Equip teams with the skills, tools, and KPIs needed to measure and communicate risk effectively.

  4. Foster a Culture of Awareness — Make security a shared responsibility, not an isolated function.

In today’s environment, visibility, influence, and strategic alignment are just as important as technical capability. Organizations that empower their security teams gain a competitive advantage — protecting assets, maintaining trust, and mitigating risks before they escalate.

#CyberSecurity #EnterpriseRiskManagement #CSO #SecurityLeadership #RiskMitigation #CorporateSecurity #Governance #InformationSecurity #StrategicSecurity

Reference
ISACA. (2025). State of security leadership and risk management research report. ISACA. (https://www.isaca.org/resources/news-and-trends/newsroom)

In today’s complex business environment, Chief Security Officers (CSOs) face a growing array of challenges.

Turning Intelligence Into Action — How CSOs Can Drive Smarter Risk Management

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By Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services

In today’s complex business environment, Chief Security Officers (CSOs) face a growing array of challenges: emerging threats, competing priorities, and rapidly evolving operational landscapes. Research abounds on these risks, but how can CSOs transform information into actionable strategies that drive both security and business outcomes?

Leverage Threat Intelligence
CSOs can turn raw data into foresight by integrating threat intelligence from industry reports, government advisories, and internal incident trends. This enables proactive risk mitigation rather than reactive responses.

Prioritize Risks Strategically
Not all threats carry the same weight. By combining intelligence with business impact analysis, CSOs can focus resources on the vulnerabilities that matter most — protecting critical assets, employees, and operations without overextending budgets.

Align Security With Business Objectives
 Security decisions shouldn’t exist in isolation. CSOs who communicate risk in business terms — linking security investments to operational continuity, regulatory compliance, or reputational protection — ensure that leadership understands and supports their initiatives.

Drive Data-Driven Decision Making
 Digital tools and analytics platforms allow CSOs to quantify risk, measure mitigation effectiveness, and continuously refine strategies. Evidence-based decisions foster confidence from executives, investors, and stakeholders alike.

Foster a Culture of Awareness
 Security is not just a function; it’s a mindset. CSOs can leverage intelligence to inform training, shape policies, and build organizational resilience from the ground up.

In an era of uncertainty, the CSO’s role is evolving from protector to strategic advisor. By leveraging emerging research and actionable intelligence, CSOs can reduce risk, optimize resources, and make decisions that support both security and business growth.

#CyberSecurity #RiskManagement #BusinessContinuity #CSOLeadership #ThreatIntelligence #DataDrivenDecisions #CorporateSecurity #EnterpriseRisk #SecurityStrategy

Reference
Gartner, Inc. (2024). Emerging risks and strategic security priorities for chief security officers. Gartner Research. (gartner.com)

 

United-in-Resolve-—-Standing-With-Our-West-Virginia-National-Guard-After-a-Senseless-Attack

United in Resolve — Standing With Our West Virginia National Guard After a Senseless Attack

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By Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services

Two members of the Air National Guard — heroically serving with the West Virginia National Guard — were viciously attacked while answering our nation’s call. The shooting near Washington, D.C. was senseless and brutal. https://www.wsaz.com+2West Virginia National Guard+2

As quoted by Duke Pirak, Acting Director of the Air National Guard: “Our hearts are with the family and friends of these brave Guardsmen… this heinous attack will not prevent our brave men and women from continuing our unwavering commitment to the safety and security of our great Nation.” https://www.wsaz.com

In moments like this, we are reminded of the courage and sacrifice demanded of those who wear the uniform — and the heavy burden they carry every day to protect our freedoms.

We must honor these service members — and ensure our support for them is more than words. That means standing with their families, offering solidarity, and reinforcing our collective resolve to uphold the values they defend.

To the Guardsmen, their loved ones, and every person who rises each day ready to serve: we see you. We thank you. We stand with you.

#NationalGuard #SupportOurTroops #ServiceAndSacrifice #CommunitySolidarity #PublicSafety #DutyAndHonor #ProtectAndServe #Gratitude

Reference
Associated Press. (2025, November 26). Two WV National Guard members critical after D.C. shooting; victims identified. WSAZ. 

 

Security-Guard-Stops-Violence-in-Its-Tracks-—-Knife-Wielding-Attacker-Shot-at-Hospital-

Security Guard Stops Violence in Its Tracks — Knife-Wielding Attacker Shot at Hospital ER

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By Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services

A serious incident at Montefiore St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital in Newburgh highlights the urgent role private security plays when public safety resources are strained. On the night of November 13, a 45-year-old man allegedly pulled a fire alarm in the hospital’s emergency-room lobby, then brandished a knife and attacked a security guard. In response, an armed guard fired one round — the attacker was pronounced dead. A bystander was also wounded, though her injuries are reportedly non-life-threatening. NBC New York+2CBS News+2

This tragic event underscores a larger reality: with police shortages and increasing demands on public safety, hospitals and institutions are increasingly reliant on private security. But while private guards can bridge critical safety gaps — especially in high-risk settings like emergency rooms — this incident raises important questions about training, protocols, accountability, and the burden placed on private security personnel.

As communities explore public–private safety partnerships, several priorities must guide decision-makers and security leaders:

  • Rigorous training & scenario preparedness — private officers may face life-and-death situations; proper training matters.

  • Clear rules of engagement and oversight — even justified force demands transparency and clarity.

  • Support systems for bystanders and staff — collateral trauma, as seen when a bystander was injured, must be addressed.

  • Collaboration with public safety & health institutions — coordination ensures that private security augments, not replaces, public-safety infrastructure.

Institutions can no longer assume security is a “nice to have.” As police staffing challenges persist, private security is becoming a frontline defense — especially in environments where lives, health, and community safety intersect.

It’s vital that we approach this shift with responsibility, structure, and accountability. When done right, public–private security collaboration can help protect communities — but only if standards are high and oversight is uncompromising.

#PublicSafety #PrivateSecurity #HospitalSecurity #SecurityLeadership #SafetyStandards #CommunitySafety #LawEnforcementPartnership #CrisisManagement

Reference
 NBC New York. (2025, November 14). Hospital fire alarm puller shot dead in ER lobby after attacking security guard. City of Newburgh Police Department.

The-New-Front-Line-How-Private-Security-Is-Filling-the-Gap-in-Americas-Police-Shortage.

The New Front Line: How Private Security Is Filling the Gap in America’s Police Shortage

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By Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services

As police departments across the U.S. struggle with record staffing shortages, private security is stepping in — but not without raising serious questions about training, trust, and accountability.

With fewer sworn officers available, many cities and institutions are turning to private security firms to help fill the gap. In fact, private security personnel now outnumber public police officers in many areas. Governing+2TIME+2

This growing reliance brings both promise and concern — especially around how those private forces are trained, overseen, and integrated into public-safety strategies. Police1+2Facit Data Systems+2

That’s why a growing number of cities are exploring collaborative public–private safety models — combining the reach and flexibility of private security with the authority and oversight of public law enforcement. Police1+2Duke Law School+2

What’s driving the shift?

  • Many municipal police departments are operating well below fully staffed levels — leaving gaps in patrols, property protection, and non-emergency response. Police1+1

  • Private firms offer scalable, flexible solutions and often deploy technology (surveillance, rapid deployment, analytics) that budget-constrained departments may lack. Police1+1

What’s at stake?

  • Training and oversight standards for private security vary widely; many officers receive far less preparation than sworn police. Police1+1

  • Without clear legal frameworks and transparency, public trust can erode — especially if private guards handle sensitive tasks like deterrence or intervention. Police1+1

A path forward — thoughtful collaboration
 For private security to complement police effectively, communities need structured agreements, clear role definitions, shared oversight and accountability, and equitable deployment across neighborhoods. When done right, collaboration can bolster safety — without compromising fairness or public trust.

The question isn’t if private security should help — but how we integrate it responsibly and transparently for the benefit of all.

#PublicSafety #PrivateSecurity #CommunitySafety #PoliceShortage #SecurityPartnership #LawEnforcement #UrbanSafety #PolicyInnovation

Reference
Altorfer, E. J. (2025). Can private security help solve the police staffing crisis? Police1.

Retail-theft-isnt-just-being-recorded-anymore-—-its-being-stopped-in-real-time.

Retail theft isn’t just being recorded anymore — it’s being stopped in real time.

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By Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services

Today’s smart video systems use AI to detect suspicious behavior, unusual audio, and even loitering before a retail theft occurs. Retail Insider

For retailers, that translates into less shrinkage, safer stores, and smarter operations. This is the future of loss prevention — and it’s already here.

From passive to proactive surveillance


 Modern video-intelligence systems go beyond recording. By analyzing live video and audio feeds, they can spot concealment, loitering in high-value zones, or suspicious vocal stress in real time — triggering alerts as potential theft is underway. Retail Insider+1

Intervention before loss


 Once suspicious behavior is detected, stores can respond immediately — deploying staff, triggering warnings, or using deterrent messages — rather than waiting for manual video review after a shrink event. Retail Insider+2CDW+2

Better for customers — and stores


 Because these systems are integrated into existing IP cameras and analytics platforms, retailers don’t need to lock up merchandise or create friction for genuine customers. The shopping experience stays smooth, while risk zones gain “smart surveillance eyes.” Retail Insider+1

Operational uplift beyond security


 When theft is disrupted in real time, stores also gain data: which areas are high risk, when theft attempts most often happen, and how to deploy staff more efficiently. That insight can feed into smarter store-layout and staffing decisions — driving both security and business performance. CDW+1

Retailers don’t have to choose between protecting their bottom line and offering a seamless customer experience. With AI-powered video intelligence, they can achieve both — securing merchandise before it walks out the door while preserving a welcoming store atmosphere for real shoppers.

#RetailTech #LossPrevention #AIinRetail #StoreSecurity #ShrinkReduction #SmartVideo #RetailInnovation #CustomerExperience

Reference
Retail Insider. (2025, May). Retailers turn to smart video to reduce crime and liability.

 

Retail Theft: Electronics Remain Among The Most Frequently Stolen And Costliest

Retail Theft: Electronics Remain Among The Most Frequently Stolen And Costliest

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Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services

Sources estimate the average retail theft incident carries a loss of approximately US $1,200.

So how can retailers monitor high-risk products without introducing friction for legitimate customers? The key is combining smart, discreet loss-prevention technologies with thoughtful customer experience design.

Real-time, location-aware monitoring


 Modern tools — such as RFID, smart shelves, or Bluetooth LE tracking — give retailers subtle, continuous visibility into product movement. Associates receive instant alerts if items leave a protected zone or head toward exits, but customers can still browse freely.

Data-driven risk scoring


 Not all SKUs require equal vigilance. By analyzing transaction data, shrink trends, and store-level patterns, retailers can identify which electronics are truly high-risk. This allows targeted monitoring, avoiding blanket security measures that disrupt the shopping experience.

Assisted-selling rather than locked-away merchandise


 Instead of locking items behind glass, stores can use digital request buttons, associate call systems, or demo-unit check-out procedures. That gives customers access with minimal delay — and avoids the “locked-away” frustration many shoppers dislike.

Subtle, customer-centric triggers


 Sensors can gently prompt helpful touchpoints (e.g., product information, service offers, or an associate greeting) when a high-value item is moved — creating moments of customer service, not surveillance.

Empowered employees as deterrents


 Staff trained to offer friendly engagement and timely assistance — especially in zones flagged by technology — remain among the most effective theft deterrents.

Retailers don’t have to choose between security and customer experience. With the right mix of technology, data, and human touch, it’s possible to protect high-risk electronics while keeping the checkout path intuitive, welcoming, and friction-free.

#RetailTech #LossPrevention #RetailSecurity #CustomerExperience #ShrinkReduction #SmartShelves #RFID #StoreOperations

Reference
 Jack L. Hayes International. (2022). Annual Retail Theft Survey — average theft reported at nearly US$1,200 per incident for external theft. CDW

Artificial Intelligence in Security: Leadership Matters

Artificial Intelligence in Security: Leadership Matters

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By Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services

While artificial intelligence offers security teams cutting-edge advantages, GSX 2025 keynote speaker Sol Rashidi emphasizes that security must take a leadership role in guiding how AI is deployed across organizations (ASIS International, 2025).

It’s not just about adopting technology—it’s about setting ethical boundaries, defining risk parameters, and ensuring AI supports business objectives safely. Security leaders who step up shape not only protection strategies but organizational trust.

#SecurityLeadership #AI #RiskManagement #Innovation #ThoughtLeadership #CyberSecurity #OrganizationalResilience #ASISGSX

Citation:
 ASIS International. (2025). AI in security: Leadership roles in guiding organizational adoption. Security Management. Retrieved from https://www.asisonline.org/security-management-magazine/articles/2025/10/

 

Navigating Travel Disruptions Amid the Government Shutdown

Navigating Travel Disruptions Amid the Government Shutdown

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By Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services

The ongoing U.S. government shutdown is impacting air travel, with air traffic controller shortages leading to increased flight delays and cancellations. Approximately 13,000 controllers and 50,000 TSA officers continue working without pay, exacerbating staffing challenges and operational strain at major airports like Dallas, Chicago, Atlanta, and Newark Reuters.

For travelers, it’s crucial to:

  • Arrive early at airports due to potential longer wait times

  • Monitor flight statuses regularly

  • Stay informed about potential service disruptions

Adaptability and preparedness are key to navigating these turbulent skies.

#TravelSecurity #AirTravelDisruptions #GovernmentShutdown #FlightDelays #TSA #AirTrafficControl #TravelTips #RiskManagement

Citation:

ASIS International. (2025). Travel platforms must evolve from reactive fraud blocking to proactive management. Security Management. Retrieved from https://www.asisonline.org/security-management-magazine/articles/2025/10/

 

Preventing Violence During Employee Terminations

Preventing Violence During Employee Terminations

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By Frank Costa, President, Nexgen Protection Services

“Firing an employee is already disruptive… but it can also escalate from a disruption into violence” (ASIS International, 2025).

Leaders and HR professionals can reduce risk by:

  • Planning terminations carefully with clear procedures

  • Ensuring security presence when needed

  • Training managers to spot warning signs

  • Protecting staff and the organization without compromising professionalism

Terminations are never easy—but with preparation, they can remain safe and controlled.

#HRLeadership #WorkplaceSafety #RiskManagement #EmployeeTermination #SecurityManagement #Leadership #OrganizationalResilience

Source:
 ASIS International. (2025). When employee terminations escalate: Managing disruption and preventing violence. Security Management. Retrieved from https://www.asisonline.org/security-management-magazine/articles/2025/10/