Is Your Business Security System Really Protecting You?

As a small business owner, you work hard to build and protect your livelihood. But what if the very system you rely on for security is letting you down?

Recently, I met with a client who learned this lesson the hard way. Their business had been using a burglar/fire alarm panel that hadn’t functioned properly for two years. The wake-up call? A break-in that went undetected.

Picture this: You arrive at work one morning to find your back door battered and your storefront’s glass door shattered. Merchandise is missing, and your sense of security is shaken. Worse yet, you discover that the monitoring company you’ve been paying monthly hasn’t alerted the police. Why? The alarm communicator had silently failed months ago.

This isn’t an isolated incident. In another case, a local gun shop fell victim to a similar situation. Thieves broke in, stole firearms, and disappeared into the night – all while the “active” alarm system stood silent. (Police referred the business owner to me to audit and repair the panel..and we took over monitoring)

These scenarios raise a critical question: Is your security system actually secure?

Here’s what every business owner needs to know:

  1. Your alarm system should communicate with the monitoring station at least once every 24 hours.
  2. If this communication fails, your security company should notify you immediately and investigate.
  3. Continuing to collect fees for a non-functioning system isn’t just poor service – it’s unethical.

Don’t let your business become another cautionary tale. Take action now:

  1. Schedule a comprehensive system check.
  2. If you’re experiencing ongoing issues, don’t ignore them.
  3. Consider getting a second opinion from a reputable security provider.

Remember, a truly effective security system does more than just collect monthly fees – it provides peace of mind and real protection for your business.

Are you confident in your current security setup? If not, it’s time for a change. Contact us today for a free security assessment and discover how we can help safeguard your business with reliable, cutting-edge alarm solutions.

Protect what you’ve built. Because your business deserves better than a false sense of security.

Access Control

Access Control is a means to control access to: doors, gates, medicine cabinets, tool cribs, firearms. At the most primitive state, “access control” can be a log of serialized traditional keys for a door and you keep a written log of who physically has that key at what date/time.

Keyless Entry means getting into doors or secure areas without having to have a bunch of keys to keep track of. Smart Locks are a means of keyless entry and can use: number password, keyfob, ID card, QRcode, your mobile phone ID..even you face to unlock the door. Most of the smart locks you see on the market are direct drop in replacements for your deadbolt or passage handle. They are quick to install, come in a variety of colors and finishes, and run on batteries. (depending on model and which batteries you choose, you can get 1 year to 3 years of use before replacing batteries). Many of these models also integrate into your alarm system, meaning you can control the lock from your cell phone or manage as part of a routine on your security system.

Some of the downsides to having a Smart Lock: limited codes you can assign, no log of who accessed when, no schedules for access, they are also slower to operate (taking longer than using a physical key).

An Access Control System, would refer to a centralized system where you manage: users, schedules, access to resources with reporting and lockout capabilities. Access Control systems can also tie to fire panels to unlock doors in event of emergency; conversely, the entire property can be locked-down with a push of a button to secure everyone and everything in place. Contact sensor tied into your access control can notify you when doors were propped open or never fully closed.

The modes of access are: facial recognition, QR codes, ID badges, key fobs, or codes. Unlike keyless entry systems, most commercial grade access systems have unlatch times between 0.6 seconds and 3 seconds. For businesses, they allow much more efficient flow of traffic, while still maintaining secure access to the facility. The systems can tie into elevators too, so that only allowed floors can be accessed by your visitors. From turnstiles to door strikes and panic bars, there are many ways to control flow of personnel and public in buildings or outdoor spaces.

The solutions for say an AirBnB rental are not the same we put into government facilities. That’s why we use the right technology for the project. Contact us for how we can help you address your physical security needs with the right access control solution.

Security Cameras-CCTV-Video Surveillance

The cameras today are simply amazing. Literally, I am amazed. Now to put that in perspective, understand that I have a strong technical background spanning decades. From learning to write computer code in the 1980s to developing eCommerce initiatives in 1995, working through corporate IT, teaching Computer Science at University and Colleges, then building several tech companies (the latest being TPG Security Technologies); I still am amazed at what mainstream surveillance offerings have to offer.

It wasn’t that long ago that CCTV (closed circuit television…aka security cameras) relied on physical tapes and media. (yes, I actually have first-hand experience with those). The resolution was terrible, and you had to search for things after they happened.

But the cameras we have today have excellent pictures, even in low-light conditions. The cameras can detect humans, vehicles, packages. Using those analytics, you can do actions like set off lights, send alert to your mobile phone, or have monitoring center dispatch emergency services. We even have systems that do facial recognition and license plate reading.

Recorded footage is no longer on clunky tapes. It’s been more than 20 years that the tape systems went away. We use onsite hard drives, solid state storage, SD cards and/or cloud based storage. It’s easy to review footage from your mobile phone or a computer.. even with multiple properties and systems.

On the small scale? Your home doorbell notifies you that a package was left on your porch. Or that a vehicle pulled into your driveway.

Beyond safety and security, camera systems can streamline your life and business. We also have camera systems that are used for quality control or business management. Besides watching for theft or damage, retail stores can detect customers waiting in lines (to automatically page additional personnel). Congested warehouses use surveillance analytics used to rearrange inventory locations and work areas.

Don’t get overwhelmed by the options! Let use at TPG Security Tech help come up with a solution that is right for you and right within your budget. We have success stories in: pharmacies, dispensaries, manufacturing, retail, small business, residential and government.

Alarm Systems

In the broadest definition, alarm systems are electronic systems that monitor for conditions and then report when things change. That could be a simple single freezer sensor that lets off a siren when the temperature goes above 20 degrees F. Or that could be a complete alarm system that detects when windows get opened, doors opened, glass breaks, or motion sensors pick up movement. Those events are forwarded to a Central Monitoring station and then police/fire/EMT will be dispatched as necessary.

Alarm systems are typically called “burg panels” or “security systems”. I often hear people refer to their cameras as “security systems”, but most camera systems (especially DiY systems) do not fit that bill. Why? Camera systems (typically) only record things that have happened. That’s great for seeing events after they happened. They are missing that component of “reporting”, which is critical to catch events in realtime. Camera systems also do not typically dispatch police through Central Monitoring (yes, we have cameras that do..but they are extensions of an actual monitored security system).

While camera systems and security systems are different, they can integrate to work together. Security systems can also integrate with your home audio system or heating and air conditioning (but we don’t refer to your air conditioning as a security system).

The Heart of the Modern Security System: the panel

Traditional hardwired panels still exist (and we often use in commercial space). But modern wireless solutions work reliably (and are certified for life safety use). They are fast to deploy without messy wiring to fish through the building. The batteries in the sensors typically last for 3-5 years before needing replaced. Keep in mind traditional wired systems are NOT without maintenance, you should replace sensors every 10 years (smokes, PIR).

The panels that we install are easy-to-use and packed full of features:

  • The ability to disarm a home security system with face recognition. 
  • Quick, easy programming and installation. 
  • Increased security and data privacy, keeping a home and personal information safe. 
  • Full smart home integration with touch panel and voice controls through Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant.
  • Garage Door: check status, open/close, auto-close (and alert if you leave and forget to close)
  • Smart thermostat: change temperature, get alerts on conditions, make a routine (eg turn down heat when you leave for the day and turn back on 1 hour before getting home)
  • Smart locks: use wireless key fob to unlock, private code at keypad, or even the mobile app.
  • Notification sensors: smart gun locks, stove and grill guard sensors, water leaks
  • Intrusion sensors: glass break, motion, door/window contacts
  • Life safety sensors: bed sensors, personal safety pendant (with fall detection), carbon monoxide, smoke, heat.

Smart Home Solutions

Revolutionizing Home Security: Smart Home Solutions from TPG Security Technologies

In an era where technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, smart home solutions have become an integral part of modern living. TPG Security Technologies stands at the forefront of this revolution, offering a comprehensive suite of smart home solutions designed to enhance security, convenience, and energy efficiency. In this blog post, we explore the innovative smart home solutions provided by TPG Security Technologies and how they can transform your home into a safer, smarter, and more efficient living space.

Integrated Security Systems

At the heart of TPG Security Technologies’ smart home solutions is a robust and integrated security system. This system brings together a variety of advanced devices and technologies to ensure your home is protected around the clock.

  • Smart Cameras: High-definition cameras equipped with AI analytics provide real-time monitoring and alerts. Features include motion detection, facial recognition, and night vision, ensuring comprehensive surveillance day and night.
  • Smart Locks: Control and monitor your door locks remotely. Smart locks can be programmed to lock and unlock at specific times, or triggered by specific events, providing both security and convenience.
  • Intrusion Sensors: Door and window sensors, along with glass break detectors, alert you immediately in case of a breach. These sensors are integrated with the overall security system to provide a coordinated response to any threat.

Home Automation

TPG Security Technologies offers a range of home automation solutions that make managing your home easier and more efficient.

  • Smart Thermostats: Adjust the temperature of your home remotely, or let the smart thermostat learn your preferences and adjust automatically. This not only provides comfort but also helps in reducing energy bills.
  • Smart Lighting: Control your lights from anywhere using your smartphone. Schedule lights to turn on or off at specific times, or set them to respond to motion sensors for added security.
  • Voice Control Integration: Seamlessly integrate with popular voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing you to control various aspects of your smart home with simple voice commands.

Environmental Monitoring

Beyond security and automation, TPG Security Technologies provides solutions to monitor and protect against environmental hazards.

  • Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Smart detectors alert you instantly in case of smoke or carbon monoxide, even if you’re not at home. These detectors are integrated with your security system for a coordinated emergency response.
  • Water Leak Sensors: Early detection of leaks can prevent costly water damage. Water sensors placed in vulnerable areas like basements, kitchens, and bathrooms send alerts at the first sign of trouble.

Energy Management

TPG Security Technologies’ smart home solutions include energy management features that help you save money and reduce your carbon footprint.

  • Energy Usage Monitoring: Track and analyze the energy consumption of various devices in your home. Identify energy hogs and find ways to reduce usage.
  • Automated Energy Savings: Smart devices can be programmed to operate during off-peak hours, or to turn off when not in use, ensuring efficient energy use without compromising on convenience.

Comprehensive Mobile App

All of TPG Security Technologies’ smart home solutions are managed through a comprehensive mobile app, providing you with control and insight no matter where you are.

  • Remote Monitoring and Control: Monitor your home in real-time, receive alerts, and control devices from anywhere using your smartphone.
  • Customizable Alerts: Set up personalized notifications for different events, such as doors opening, motion detected, or changes in temperature.
  • User-Friendly Interface: The app is designed to be intuitive and easy to use, allowing you to manage your smart home solutions effortlessly.

Conclusion

TPG Security Technologies is dedicated to making your home not just smarter, but safer and more efficient. Their smart home solutions integrate advanced security features with convenient home automation, comprehensive environmental monitoring, and effective energy management. Whether you’re looking to enhance your home’s security, simplify your daily routines, or save on energy costs, TPG Security Technologies offers the innovative solutions you need to transform your home into a state-of-the-art smart home. Embrace the future of living with TPG Security Technologies and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a smarter, safer home.

Business Analytics

Business Analytics Used by TPG Security Technologies: Enhancing Security and Operational Efficiency

TPG Security Technologies is a leading provider of cloud-based security and smart home solutions, leveraging advanced business analytics to enhance their service offerings. These analytics help transform raw data from security systems into actionable insights, improving both security outcomes and operational efficiency for businesses and homeowners alike. Here’s a closer look at how TPG Security Technologies utilizes business analytics:

Data Collection and Integration

TPG Security Technologies integrates data from a wide range of sources, including security cameras, alarm systems, sensors, and smart devices. This comprehensive data collection forms the foundation for robust analytics.

  • Multi-Sensor Integration: Combining data from motion detectors, door/window sensors, glass break sensors, and more to create a holistic view of the security environment.
  • Smart Device Data: Incorporating data from smart thermostats, locks, lights, and other devices to enhance home automation and security measures.

Real-Time Monitoring and Alerts

One of the key features of TPG Security Technologies’ analytics is real-time monitoring. By analyzing data continuously, the system can detect anomalies and potential security threats promptly.

  • Intrusion Detection: Monitoring entry points and motion sensors to detect unauthorized access and trigger alerts.
  • Environmental Monitoring: Using sensors to detect environmental hazards such as smoke, carbon monoxide, and water leaks, alerting users to potential dangers immediately.

Predictive Analytics

TPG Security Technologies employs predictive analytics to anticipate potential security incidents before they occur. This proactive approach enhances the effectiveness of security measures.

  • Behavioral Patterns: Analyzing patterns of activity within the premises to identify unusual behavior that could indicate a security threat.
  • Maintenance Predictions: Predicting when security devices might fail or require maintenance, ensuring systems are always operational.

Video Analytics

Advanced video analytics play a crucial role in TPG Security Technologies’ offerings, providing detailed insights and enhancing surveillance capabilities.

  • Object Detection and Tracking: Identifying and tracking objects or individuals in real-time, distinguishing between humans, animals, and other moving objects to reduce false alarms.
  • Facial Recognition: Using AI to recognize familiar faces and alerting users when an unknown person is detected.
  • Video Summarization: Creating short video clips of significant events, making it easier for users to review footage.

User Behavior and Engagement Analytics

TPG Security Technologies also uses analytics to understand how users interact with their systems, optimizing the user experience and increasing engagement.

  • Usage Patterns: Tracking how frequently and in what ways users interact with their security systems to identify areas for improvement.
  • Customized Alerts: Analyzing user preferences to provide personalized alerts and notifications that are most relevant to individual needs.

Business Intelligence and Reporting

For commercial clients, TPG Security Technologies provides detailed business intelligence and reporting capabilities, helping organizations make informed decisions based on data.

  • Operational Insights: Offering insights into daily operations, such as peak activity times, to optimize staffing and resource allocation.
  • Compliance Reporting: Generating reports to ensure compliance with industry regulations and internal policies.
  • Energy Management: Analyzing energy consumption patterns to identify opportunities for cost savings and sustainability improvements.

Privacy and Data Security

TPG Security Technologies places a strong emphasis on data security and privacy, ensuring that analytics are conducted in a manner that protects user information.

  • Data Encryption: Employing robust encryption methods to protect data at rest and in transit.
  • Access Controls: Implementing strict access controls to ensure that only authorized personnel can access sensitive information.
  • Compliance: Adhering to industry standards and regulations regarding data privacy and security, providing users with peace of mind.

Conclusion

By leveraging advanced business analytics, TPG Security Technologies enhances the effectiveness and efficiency of their security and smart home solutions. These analytics enable real-time monitoring, predictive insights, detailed video analysis, and comprehensive reporting, all while maintaining a strong focus on data security and privacy. As a result, TPG Security Technologies not only improves security outcomes but also delivers a superior user experience, helping businesses and homeowners protect what matters most.

Deter Crime with Artificial Intelligence

The evolution of surveillance technology has been remarkable, with AI analytics revolutionizing camera systems. These advancements offer numerous benefits, enhancing security, efficiency, and data management in various sectors. In this article, we explore the capabilities of AI-powered surveillance cameras and their transformative impact.

Enhanced Security and Threat Detection

One of the primary benefits of AI analytics in surveillance cameras is the enhancement of security. Traditional surveillance systems rely heavily on human monitoring, which can be prone to errors and oversight. AI analytics, however, can continuously monitor video feeds in real-time, identifying and flagging suspicious activities that might be missed by human operators.

  • Intrusion Detection: AI algorithms can accurately detect unauthorized entry into restricted areas, reducing false alarms that are common with traditional motion detection systems.
  • Object Detection: vehicle and human detection are basic CV objects that have been detected with our AI cameras (directly on devices) since 2019. Object Detection now can refine types of vehicle (truck vs bus vs bicycle) and colors. This information is used to quickly retrieve relevant footage. For example, you can query the surveillance system to retrieve thumbnails of every person wearing a red hat and yellow shirt..and then bring up all footage off every camera for that profile.
  • License Plate Reading: Also known as LPR cameras, use Optical Character Recognition (onboard or through the NVR/VMS) and log the license plate numbers into a database. You can retrieve date/time of any time that vehicle has visited the property.
  • Behavior Analysis: AI can analyze patterns of behavior, identifying potential threats based on unusual or suspicious activities. For example, loitering in a restricted zone or unusual movement patterns can trigger alerts.
  • Facial Recognition: Advanced facial recognition technology can identify known criminals or unauthorized individuals, alerting security personnel immediately. Facial recognition can be used to confirm that John Doe just badged in using fob belonging to John Doe. (or send alert/alarm when someone else tries using the badge).

Operational Efficiency

AI analytics significantly improve the efficiency of surveillance operations. By automating routine tasks and providing actionable insights, AI allows security teams to focus on critical incidents and decision-making.

  • Automated Alerts and Notifications: AI-powered systems can send real-time alerts to security personnel when specific conditions are met, ensuring prompt responses to potential threats.
  • Resource Allocation: By analyzing data from various cameras, AI can help optimize the deployment of security resources, ensuring that high-risk areas receive appropriate attention.
  • Data Management: AI systems can index and categorize video footage, making it easier to retrieve and analyze data. This capability is particularly useful for forensic investigations and compliance audits.

Advanced Analytics and Insights

Beyond security, AI analytics offer a wealth of insights that can benefit various industries, from retail to transportation.

  • Customer Behavior Analysis: In retail environments, AI-powered cameras can analyze customer behavior, providing valuable data on foot traffic patterns, dwell times, and product interactions. This information can be used to optimize store layouts and marketing strategies.
  • Traffic Management: In transportation, AI can monitor traffic flow, identify congestion points, and suggest optimal routes for vehicles. This leads to improved traffic management and reduced travel times.
  • Workplace Safety: In industrial settings, AI analytics can monitor compliance with safety protocols, detect hazards, and prevent accidents by alerting supervisors to potential risks.

Privacy and Ethical Considerations

While AI analytics in surveillance offer numerous benefits, they also raise important privacy and ethical considerations. It is crucial to balance the need for security with the protection of individual privacy rights.

  • Data Privacy: Surveillance systems must comply with data protection regulations, ensuring that personal data is handled responsibly and transparently.
  • Bias and Fairness: AI algorithms should be designed to minimize bias and ensure fair treatment of all individuals. This involves rigorous testing and validation to prevent discrimination based on race, gender, or other characteristics.
  • Transparency: Organizations should be transparent about their use of AI in surveillance, informing the public about how data is collected, used, and protected.

Active Deterrence

Using the intelligence of the what the camera can detect (say a human) in a masked area (dangerous construction zone), you can execute rules (sound siren, broadcast message “This is a secured site! Please leave immediately!”). The response is immediate and can actively deter crime.

Conclusion
AI analytics are transforming surveillance camera systems, offering enhanced security, operational efficiency, and valuable insights across various sectors. At TPG Security Technologies, we work with several big names in the camera AI space, and can help you use the appropriate technology solution for your specific mission.

South Bend Grant Program

In an effort to make the city of South Bend, Indiana a safer place; the city has implemented a new program. Rather than just put more physical police on patrol, the city has involved the community businesses. This approach is better with community involvement, and saves money in the long run.

The program invests grant monies into small businesses to shore up their security presence.

We at TPG Security Technologies are proud to be a part of that process. Under the program, we have already audited 28 businesses for security concerns. We have implemented surveillance cameras for the businesses and tied many outside cam views into the RealTime Crime Center at the South Bend Police Department.