Protection via security systems: implementation and experience

IP Security Roundtable

Participants:

Jonas Andersson
Director, Business Development, Axis Communications AB

Robert Wint
Marketing Director, EMEA, Verint

Krishna Baboelal
Policy Adviser, RET, Public Transport Company of Rotterdam

Jens Puls
Chief Security Officer, Deutsche Bahn AG

Following the success of Intelligent Transport’s Public Transport Security 2008 conference, held in Berlin in March 2008, we have given two vendors of security equipment and two end users implementing security in their transport networks, the opportunity to answer some questions relating to their operations and how security is impacting their business and their performance.

First of all, we put five questions to Mr. Andersson and Mr. Wint, from two of the leading industry vendors of security equipment, to gain an insight into what they feel are the main benefits of their systems and how they can help public transport operators.

Question 1: What are the main benefits to transport network operators, regarding the implementation of IP security systems?

Andersson: Network cameras offer higher resolution than analog cameras, allowing for a higher level of detail and the use of progressive scan technology provides sharper images of moving persons and objects. As a result, transport operators benefit from improved image quality, which facilitates identification of persons and objects.

The overall advantages of going digital are increased flexibility, scalability, cost-efficiency and multiple integration possibilities, which are all highly appreciated by our transportation customers. They are impressed by how easy it is to expand an existing system, and that live and stored video can be immediately accessed by any authorised, network-connected computer in the world. Adherence to open IP standards makes it a future-proof solution.

Several network cameras have built-in intelligence that makes life easier for the operators. One example is the Active Tampering Alarm, which automatically detects and alerts if someone is tampering with the camera. Another example is the Motion Detection feature that can be used in rail systems to give an automatic alarm if a person is walking on the tracks or in other restricted areas.

Additionally, Power over Ethernet (PoE) saves cable and installation costs by enabling the cameras to communicate video and receive power over the same cable.

Wint: European transport operators are facing a number of challenges, but IP-based security systems are offering more than just a simple security solution. IP offers considerable value-added benefits including scalability of the system, accessibility to recorded images and the possibility of an integrated system for station security and surveillance on stock through the use of a wireless network.

IP video surveillance offers scalability in a way that has not been experienced before. It allows operators to future proof their security system because equipment can be added/removed or changed with ease, and without affecting the entire design of the monitoring systems.

In terms of the day-to-day operation of the system, IP allows instant replay and greater accessibility when searching recorded images, and this accessibility allows the operator to quickly share information with law enforcement agencies in case of an incident, criminal act or terrorist threat – exactly at the time when speed is paramount.

Wireless networks are becoming a reality with encouraging results. The wireless network allows the security system to be deployed across all areas of the transport infrastructure, not just on the station platforms but also on the trains themselves, as well as buses and trams to deliver 100% network coverage on one platform.

In the future, we expect to see IP-based solutions being used more and more – not in the way of stand-alone IP cameras or DVRs, but rather with technologies fully integrated within the train’s existing IP backbone. We expect the security system to interface with existing onboard information systems integrating, for example, with the Multi Media Interface (MMI) displays or Train Management Control Systems (TMCS) in the driver’s cab so that he can see not only information from the PIS or seat reservation systems, but also live video in the event of an emergency.

Question 2: What do you see is the main factor inhibiting transport operators from implementing total IP surveillance systems?

Andersson: There is a long and strong tradition of using analog CCTV solutions within the transportation segment. It is likely that many operators are not fully aware of the many advantages of an IP-based system and how easy it is to implement and maintain such a system.

We also receive questions from operators with recent investments in traditional CCTV solutions. Contrary to their belief, analog cameras can easily become an integrated part of an IP-based surveillance system using video encoders. The transition can be made in small steps, protecting investment already made.

In addition, not everyone is aware that a lot of large, IP-based surveillance systems are already in operation in various transportation applications around the world. Over the last few years, we have delivered more than 20,000 network cameras to different transportation projects, including Moscow Metro in Russia, Oslo Intercity Trains in Norway, Stockholm subway stations, subway trains and local buses in Sweden and Sydney Airport in Australia.

Wint: In basic systems there can be a lack of IT infrastructure to support the IP network. However, resistance to adopt a total IP surveillance system most commonly comes from a fear that IP video will dominate the network infrastructure and restrict or compromise other IT applications. And the concept of IP also seems to manifest an irrational fear that IP surveillance systems can be breached. These are all fears that we are working to alleviate using successful projects as reference sites. Operators across Europe are moving over to IP and are reaping the rewards so we can demonstrate that IP is a reality and worth embracing.

Question 3: What do you see as the main demands from an IP system for the transport operators?

Andersson: There are mainly three different aspects: total cost of ownership, fit for purpose and proof of concept.

The system must be easy and cost-efficient to implement and maintain. It should follow open IP standards and integrate with available IP infrastructure and systems, thus offering maximum flexibility for the operator. Furthermore, the system should be scalable and allow for cost-efficient upgrades, both when it comes to product functionality and system size. In modernisation projects, integration with existing CCTV solutions is often a requirement.

When it comes to ‘fit for purpose’, it is all about delivering what’s expected by the transport operator. High-quality images with a high level of detail (sometimes with megapixel requirements), easy search functions, event handling, automatic alarms, and a video management software that is easy to manage and overview. In mobile applications, for example on buses and trains, the equipment must withstand the harsh conditions onboard.

Finally, we are often asked to provide references from installations within the transportation segment that are up and running. Depending on whom we’re talking to, they would like to evaluate an existing installation on an airport, train station, bus terminal, or onboard buses and trains.

Wint: Transport operators are demanding a cost effective security solution and one that adds value. While the law enforcement agencies need access to the images from a transit authority or collection of authorities handling a cities transit networks.

What nearly all transport operators are looking for today from their video solutions is more added value, for example a value beyond that of simple ‘security’. This is where the issue of Open versus Closed Protocols comes into play, and also adds a key benefit for access by law enforcement agencies. Systems of the future will need to be Open Protocol so that their full value can be exploited. Take, for example, the opportunities offered by technology that can already integrate with an on-board PIS or GPRS. It means that video can now be captured, retained and retrieved, based on the information these systems provide, for example a train’s speed or geographical co-ordinates, or even a search by a named railway station. Such solutions are only available by adopting an Open Protocol philosophy.

In terms of cost effective systems, IP can greatly reduce costs, for example, a wireless system requires significantly less cabling; IP networks have much lower maintenance costs and the ability to scale the system if it needs to be extended means it can be done at a much lower cost than system redesigns.

Question 4: How is your company able to offer transport sector specific solutions?

Andersson: Axis has the experience, partners and products to offer a complete IP surveillance solution for any transportation application.

We already have the experience of many large-scale installations globally, including buses, trains, airports and train stations. Some have been new installations, others are upgrades of available CCTV systems. Several projects have included thousands of cameras.

Our large network of local and global partners within integration, video management software and infrastructure solutions ensure that we can provide complete IP surveillance solutions to transport operators, all over the world.

As the world leader within network video, Axis offers a complete range of network video cameras. The product range includes everything from standard fixed cameras to megapixel cameras and the most advanced pan-tilt-zoom dome cameras.

We also offer cameras that have been developed especially for use on buses and trains. They are designed to withstand vibrations, dust and moisture, and they automatically alert if they are being manipulated or tampered with. One of them offers megapixel resolution. Other appreciated features are the compact design, PoE for easy and cost-efficient installation, and a built-in heater to ensure full functionality at low temperatures.

Wint: Verint’s solutions are being deployed across all areas of the transport infrastructure, and its award winning Nextiva Transit solutions are specifically tailored around the needs of the transport sector. For example, our onboard analogue and IP solutions for buses, tramways, metro and trains (using vandal resistant cameras, mobile digital video recorder and monitors), integrate with passenger information systems and other onboard computer information.

Our powerful video content analysis solutions mean that potential security threats or incidents at critical areas such as level crossings, depots, tunnels, can be detected more easily. And the integrated video management software solutions enable transport operators to manage extensive systems across multiple sites. Due to our open platform, operators can integrate our technology with third party systems.

Uniquely, Verint can provide both fixed and mobile security, delivering security and operational solutions for depot’s, trackside, tunnels, stations, platforms, car parks and onboard. No other global vendor offers this total transit security solution.

Question 5: What do you see is the best transition strategy for transport operators who already have existing CCTV surveillance systems?

Andersson: A first step is to evaluate the existing system for strengths and weaknesses. If there are analog cameras delivering images of sufficient quality, keep them. Connect these cameras to an IP network via video encoders to enable digital handling of the data. As a result you will benefit from the flexibility, openness and scalability of a digital surveillance solution, still utilising existing equipment.

If there are parts of the existing CCTV system that fall short, or if the system needs to be extended, there are – as mentioned in previous answers – several good reasons to get familiar with network video cameras. The new world of video surveillance.

Wint: IP networks allow for very cost effective migration strategies.

IP networks support analogue technology so migration can be gradual. Operators with existing CCTV surveillance systems can keep their analogue equipment (cameras/ monitors) and migrate them onto the IP network using encoders for both their stations and onboard equipment. Our technology operates on an ‘open’ standard IP video management software so that all video surveillance can be reviewed and recorded on regular servers. The ‘open’ nature of the technology offers the greatest flexibility in terms of both the maintenance of the system and accessibility of the video.

Secondly, to gain an end user perspective on security applications, we asked Mr. Puls and Ms. Baboelal four questions to understand how important security is for transport network operators.

Question 1: How important do you see the implementation of IP Security to the overall development of your network?

Puls: Further development of the technology is needed, as the current status is not yet reliable enough to have it widely implemented within our security structure.

Baboelal: The RET finds this a very important aspect in our operations. Each and every unlocking of the total network security plays a very important and pivotal role.

Question 2: What level of IP Security does your network currently have?

Baboelal: The network of the RET is a closed private network with private connections. Within this network, the RET does not use IP security. Whenever there is contact with external networks, we use VPN connections. VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. These connections are supported by SSL or IPSEC and are strong authentically.

Question 3: How important do you see CCTV based security to the general feel and safety of your customers?

Puls: CCTV security is a central part of our security structure – which is based on three pillars: technology, human resources and processes.

There is a fine line between people feeling secure because of CCTV being in place, and them feeling observed in a “Big Brother is watching you” style. So, here at DB we have CCTV in those stations where we feel it is necessary to support our security staff with further observation facilities. We have started to introduce CCTV systems on trains, but have yet to receive first results on the effectiveness of its use for us.

What we will not do is simply increase the number of cameras, but they will always be part of the overall security concept.

Baboelal: In the opinion of RET, CCTV contributes a great deal to the general positive feel of passenger safety. However, CCTV doesn’t work without a good and adequate follow-up system consisting of personnel that will react immediately when incidents occur. For this, live CCTV is essential.

RET CCTV contributes also to police investigations (passenger or no passenger cases) and also efficiently contributes and collaborates with other partners.

Question 4: How do you see the development of onboard and station facility surveillance in tomorrow’s transport network?

Puls: There is still much room for further development, as a reliable wireless transmission will highly increase its uses for operators like us.

Hoping that culprits will be deterred from their actions when seeing CCTV in place is obviously not enough. We have to also ask ourselves if we need the cameras to record the images. This would support possible investigations afterwards, but data and privacy protection this is a sensitive issue in Germany.

Regarding onboard surveillance; it all boils down to a cost-benefit analysis. The costs are those of putting the required infrastructure in place, which will be a rather large amount. The benefits have two sides to them though: on the one hand, our passengers might feel more secure, but on the other hand, we would evoke a high level of expectations as well: having CCTV in place is one step, but the security response-processes have to be adapted along with it (who is going to react how, when and where?), as the passengers will expect fast and noticeable reactions to criminal incidents.

Regarding station facility surveillance, it would again be useful for us to have more flexible systems, so that they don’t have to be necessarily fixed installations, but can be employed at certain areas of “high risk”.

Baboelal: Currently, there is live CCTV on our stations. The RET has approximately 1,300 station cameras. There are already cameras in our vehicles, but this is not live. We compensate this by placing personnel in the vehicles. The RET will eventually upgrade this by placing live CCTV in our vehicles. But for this to be successful there should be a good reliable transport network, because the transmission of the pictures should go through a secure network (WiFi system). This should be researched very well.