Global car theft decreasing... or is it?

With a fall in traditional theft and a rise in electronic theft through organised criminal activity are we at the start of the next vehicle theft pandemic?

There is no single profile to fit vehicle theft across the globe, and often not even across a single country or region.

SBD's Global Car Theft Guide identifies common themes and elements to help our clients start to better understand the bigger picture.

www.sbd.co.uk

Imtech Toegangstechniek fully implements Field Service Suite from ORTEC and Sigmax

Imtech Toegangstechniek (Access and Security) engineers have already been using a mobile software application on a handheld computer for the past two years, and recently Imtech also implemented the advanced Field Service Suite planning system from ORTEC and Sigmax.

This allows planners to monitor the current situation on the ground in real time via a seamless link between the planning system and mobile devices in the field.
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Security check firm said to have defrauded U.S.

The company that conducted a background investigation on the contractor Edward J. Snowden fraudulently signed off on hundreds of thousands of incomplete security checks in recent years, the U.S. Justice Department said last week, according to the New Yok Times.

The government said the company, U.S. Investigations Services, defrauded the government of millions of dollars by submitting more than 650,000 investigations that had not been completed. The government uses those reports to help make hiring decisions and decide who gets access to national security secrets.

5 guns a day confiscated from US airlines

The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has revealed some of the astonishing items confiscated at airports in 2013. Loaded guns, live ammunition, swords, throwing 'star' knives, dubious-looking containers of black powder, weapon replicas and even an 'inert' suicide bomber vest were all seized last year.

SALTO introduces new SALTO GEO electronic cylinder for cam locks

SALTO Systems has added a new SALTO GEO electronic cylinder for cam locks to its model range, offering an easy way to boost security of these commonly used locks.

Cam locks are typically used to secure cupboards, document cabinets, school lockers, electrical panels etc. and usually consist of a base, which contains a keyhole, and a long tailpiece or tongue known as a cam. Cam locks are one of the simplest of lock fastenings. .
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Nearly half of South Koreans have their bank details stolen (including the President) as anti-fraud worker arrested

The theft of personal information from more than 100million South Korean credit cards and accounts, reportedly including those of President Park Geun-hye and UN chief Ban Ki-moon, has ignited a storm of anger and litigation against credit firms.

Research report highlights Viscount - Microsoft revenues share agreement

SoundView Research, a leading independent research firm, recently published an updated report on Viscount Systems, Inc. a developer and manufacturer of IT-based solutions for physical security systems. The report is entitled, "Microsoft Partnership Deepens."
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Cryptovision starts product offensive against surveillance

Not a day passes without news of international and domestic surveillance activities of the so-called 'Five Eyes states' (the US, UK, New Zealand, Canada and Australia). Due to this threat, the demand for encryption technology has increased tremendously in recent months and German cryptology suppliers are uniquely positioned to profit from this development.
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PDC in Europe combines with BIG France, BIG UK and CIPI Europe into one Global People ID company

As part of Brady's continuing effort to streamline our businesses, work more efficiently and get closer to our customers, PDC in Europe are combining with BIG France, BIG UK and CIPI Europe to form one company.
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New product release from AKL - Counter Top Transponder Tester

The Advanced Keys TDB004 Counter Top Transponder Key Tester offers a simple check to ensure a key or remote control has a working transponder fitted and also a fast and easy way to check if the transponder is responding.
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The tale of the fake Rolex

By Victor Southern, Lockdecoders

Once upon a time there was a wonderful firm of Swiss watch-makers. So skilled were they that their watches became a symbol for quality.

Rolex! Who has not heard of them? Who has not desired one? So, it came to pass that in a land in the East men who had not acquired those skills found a way to make watches that looked like the wonderful Rolex.

The mechanisms were rougher and cheaper, the tick was louder, the hands moved erratically, the "gold" plate wore off but still the trademark Rolex would be on a wrist.

"See my Rolex" you could say, and "by the way can you tell me the right time?" A rusty "Bolex", not a trusty Rolex.
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Liberty access control - no control panels required

Viscount Systems has introduced Liberty, a scalable IP Access Control system that does not require control panels.

Each Liberty kit includes a Nano Cube web server, a 2 door IP Encryption Bridge, and 2 RFID readers. The system can be expanded at a low cost by simply adding additional IP encryption bridges and readers.

Optional accessories include input/output IP bridges for monitoring auxiliary doors, and IP bridges for controlling elevators.
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Kar Auction Services acquires high tech locksmiths

KAR Auction Services, Inc., a provider of used vehicle auction services, announce the acquisition of Miami, Fla.-based High Tech Locksmiths (HTL), which specializes in products for the automotive industry. HTL is the largest provider of transponder, remote, high-security and car smart keys in North America. KAR Auction Services, Inc. CEO Jim Hallett made the announcement.

"I am pleased to welcome Jay Wiener and his entire team to the KAR family," said Hallett. "High Tech Locksmiths utilizes technologically advanced equipment and processes that will benefit customers across the KAR business units. This acquisition allows us to provide a more consistent level of service to even more locations nationwide."

www.karauctionservices.com

Locksmiths' Exhibition latest. Win £100 just for visiting!

What would you do with £100? It could be yours - at the SHOW on the reception desk will be a container - just drop either a business card or a slip of paper with your name - address - phone and e-mail and on Sunday at 1500 one lucky winner will win £100 - Each day one of the days cards will win £20.

As promised we have asked for some menu changes and these are they - Exhibitors will be able to pre-order food to be delivered to their stands - Visitors will have the very restful lecture theatre set out for meals with an order point and refreshments. Bar drinks can be brought through to the tables if you wish although the small lounge opposite the bar will be open.
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Yale runs 'Trusted Faces' competition at Locksmiths' Exhibition

If yours is a face that customers can trust Yale is giving you the chance to star in one of its ads... and win a Samsung Galaxy tablet!

The company is calling all locksmiths to take part in its 'Trusted Faces' competition, which launches at the Locksmith Exhibition (8-9 March, East Midlands Conference Centre) and offers entrants the chance to star in a Yale advert as part of its wider 'In Yale We Trust' campaign.
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Call for property owners to be social media savvy

Security systems expert, Hadrian Technology, is reminding property owners to be cautious when it comes to social media and home security. Research carried out by Legal and General has revealed that 84% of 18 to 35 year olds share photos and information on Social Media sites like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, that could put their possessions and homes at risk from 'digital' criminals.

General Manager of Hadrian Technology, Gary Trotter, recommends that property owners take extra care when using social media. He says: "People often forget that just about anyone can view images, status updates and tweets online. I always worry when I see people publicising that they're going on holiday. Is it really wise to announce when you're leaving your house unoccupied to users of a global network?"
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PTS acquires CHQ

UK physical security consultancy CHQ has been acquired by global IT consultancy PTS. The merger allows PTS Consulting to provide physical security expertise as part of a combined offering that meets their customers' demand for converged IT, security and audio-visual solutions.

PTS operates in 10 countries across four continents and the merger underlines the company's aim of excelling with a holistic offering across complementary engineering disciplines. The combined offering will target opportunities across the world where security is of critical importance such as corporate estates, government, data centres, custodial, Critical National Infrastructure and transportation.
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Cyber security: Answering tomorrow's problems today

By Mark Brown Director of cyber resilience at Ernst & Young

In 2014 cyber security challenges will be the scourge of international business and its boardrooms. As businesses struggle to grow and prosper, their risk agenda remains in a constant flux caused by the rapid pace of technological innovation.

So how should UK companies respond to cybercrime?
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The Lock Charmer (El cerrajero)

One for our Spanish-language readers, El cerrajero is a new film by Natalia Smirnoff about an Argentinian locksmith who has surprising insights about his customers lives.

"The so-called "Smoke Days" that occurred for a couple of weeks in Buenos Aires in 2008, when the city was blanketed in a malodorous fog of unknown origin, are the perfect backdrop for Smirnoff's story, with its occasional touches of magical realism, though her small cast of characters finally emerges as recognizably human despite the somewhat unnatural twists and turns of the story. After a world premiere at Sundance, this humble, 75-minute tale will work its modest magic at other festivals and in niche release in the Hispanosphere."

The Hollywood Reporter

Tenant shot bailiff who was trying to evict him

A man has been found guilty of shooting at two people who came to evict him from his home. Andrew Stephenson, 49, of Strathleven Road, Brixton, opened fire at a housing association worker and a bailiff on the day he was supposed to be evicted from his home, a court has found.

A locksmith who opened the door for the bailiff was uninjured.

Allegion puts spotlight on hospitality sector with new appointment

Allegion has announced the appointment of Stefan Kobewka as Area Sales Manager for its CISA Hotel Locking Solutions brand, in a move which highlights the growing importance of the hospitality sector to the leading provider of safety and security products, formerly known as Ingersoll Rand Security Technologies.
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Locksmiths Exhibition 2014 - 63 exhibitors fill the show

This year's event will be the 5th annual Locksmiths Exhibition at the East Midlands Conference Centre, Nottingham and it's set to be the biggest and best ever.

Over the 8th and 9th of March we're preparing to welcome 63 exhibitors and over 1,000 visitors. This is a truly national and international exhibition with visitors arriving from all over the UK, Ireland, and beyond.
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Private investigators prosecuted for 'blagging'

Two men who ran a company that tricked people into revealing personal details about their customers were prosecuted by the ICO on 20 November. The pair will now be sentenced, along with five colleagues who previously pleaded guilty to the same offence, at a separate hearing on 24 January 2014.
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MOBOTIX announces agreement with NBM Distribution

Partnership between CCTV pioneer and specialist distributor brings innovative technology to cabling installers, IT professionals and end-users across the UK.

MOBOTIX AG, a leading manufacturer of digital high-resolution, network-based video security systems has signed a new UK distribution agreement with NBM Distribution Limited, a specialist supplier of data network cabling architecture solutions and security products which came into effect on December the 1st 2013.
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Locksmiths Exhibition 8/9th March EMCC - Nottingham

Sponsored By Advanced Access and SKS - the ONLY annual exhibition for the Locksmith industry

Hotel rooms at discount prices may still be available direct from the Orchard Hotel 011587 60862

60 exhibitors have confirmed their attendance and a couple 'thinking' they may be a bit late as the last 3 starter stand go and that leaves one big stand available.
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Individuals and businesses are encouraged to become 'Cyber Streetwise'

The UK government has launched a new campaign to change the way people protect themselves while shopping, banking or socialising online in order to avoid falling victim to cyber criminals...
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Criminals pilfer ATMs with malware infected USB drives

Robbing ATMs is nothing new. There's the everlasting stick-em-up, the bogus card scheme, ATM phishing, and more. But, it appears new ways are being invented to pull off successful cash machine heists. It was recently revealed that thieves were able to access loads of ATM money by injecting machines with malware using USB drives, according to the BBC.

These break-ins involved both low- and high-tech techniques. Apparently, the criminals manually cut holes in the machines to plug in USB sticks that then installed malware on the system. Once the machines were infected, the robbers would patch the holes on the dispensers.

Security men who not only monitor crime but stop it from happening

David and Niall set up Netwatch after a friend's bad experience - and turned it into a global success. Using the most advanced camera technology, the company can identify when intruders are attempting to break into a premises and, using leading-edge two-way communication software, they can speak directly to these intruders, shouting specific warnings such as "You in the red jacket, you are being watched by security cameras, please leave this premises immediately!"

Approximately 90 per cent of the company's customers are from the commercial sector and include factories, offices and warehouses, garages, golf courses, GAA and rugby clubs and a growing number of church buildings.