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5 Top Physical Security Trends to Watch in 2025

Max Smith Picture

Max Smith

21st January 2025

As we enter 2025, the physical security landscape is evolving rapidly, driven by technological advancements and changing threat dynamics. There are so many new developments in security technology that will undoubtedly shape the market this year but to summarise what the top physcial security trends are in 2025, we’ve put together a list of the five top trends to watch out for: 

AI-Powered Video Surveillance

Artificial intelligence (AI) is certainly one of the hottest topics in the security industry and likely to be one of the most significant top physcial security trends in 2025. Including behavioural analysis, facial recognition and object/motion detection there are many key features of how AI solutions can improve the level of security cover at a given property. Real-time analysis of video feeds ensures that unusual or potentially threatening behaviours can be detected with ease. Advanced AI can identify individuals based on facial features to help track persons of interest, verifying identities and enhancing access control – all of which will take the level of security in place to a new level. AI algorithms recognize specific objects or suspicious movements as they can differentiate between normal and abnormal activities therefore minimizing false alarms.

The discussion on the impact AI could have in the physical security space has been around for a while but this year we’ll start to really understand and experience the benefits. In addition to real-time response, AI detects threats faster than human operators, enabling quicker interventions with scale. It also minimizes the need for contact manual monitoring which, although there is an upfront investment, reduces longer- term labour costs.  

Even though the benefits far out way the challenges, there are still concerns around privacy, algorithm bias and cybersecurity risk, however AI-powered video surveillance is redefining physical security, making it smarter, faster, and more responsive to emerging threats – something that shouldn’t be ignored!
 

High-Tech Access Control Systems

These types of solutions are revolutionizing physical security by combining cutting-edge technology with traditional methods to enhance safety and efficiency. Dual authentication methods, such as combining badges with biometrics, including fingerprints, facial recognition, iris scans, or voice recognition, ensure that only authorised individuals gain access to secure areas. This level of access control system undoubtedly increases the security level giving the ultimate peace of mind. 

In addition to an enhanced level of security, high-tech systems will also result in an improved user experience as it means that people will be able to gain access more efficiently and faster.

If deployed in conjunction with a wider access control roadmap, these solutions provide a highly scalable option as they are easily adaptable to growing or changing organisational needs. It also results in a reduced dependency on physical keys, which are prone to loss or duplication.  

Another significant benefit is that real time insights can be provided including real-time insights access logs and data analytics which provide valuable insights for security audits and compliance. Undoubtedly high-tech access control systems are reshaping how organisations safeguard their staff, data and assets emphasizing a balance between security and convenience.

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    ANPR and Centralised Databases

    Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems have become a vital tool in modern traffic management, law enforcement, and urban planning. When paired with centralised databases, they offer powerful capabilities but also raise concerns about data security, privacy, and ethical usage.

    Obviously the integration of ANPR with centralised databases allows for the swift identification of unauthorized or suspicious vehicles, enhancing perimeter security however there are many other advantages which is why it’s made the top 5 trends this year. Efficiency gains, including quick data retrieval and matching across locations is an attractive plus point as well as scalability (a lot of the new systems on the market offer easy integration between the ANPR system and centralized data sources). The level of data insights that can be retrieved are very comprehensive and easy to retrieve. 

    However there are some key considerations that could affect the deployment. The biggest concern is undoubtedly data privacy. Potential misuse or unauthorized access to sensitive information has high value consequences. A full access policy, which is secure, needs to be in place to offer protection. There are also concerns over mass surveillance and the erosion of public anonymity which have resulted in these solutions not being a ‘popular choice’. It is also important to note that data accuracy (which may lead to false matches or unwarranted penalties) and security should be addressed to ensure that data bases are protected and keep as up to date as possible.  

    Virtual Gate Guards and Remote Monitoring

    To address labour shortages and rising costs, organisations are adopting remote monitoring solutions. Virtual gate guards enable centralized management of multiple locations, maintaining security while reducing the need for on-site personnel. 

    There are many benefits of virtual gate guards and remote monitoring. In addition to a reduction in physical security staff costs, the solutions available are very scalable. Multiple locations can be covered from a single command centre offering 24/7 coverage (without staff fatigue). A single platform can manage the security across many sites and with the analytics that can be accessed an enhanced level of security can be achieved with increased detection accuracy. As the technology behind these systems continues to improve, they are now becoming viable options for consideration. 

    It is worth noting that the impact of virtual and remote solutions will rise this year technical failures, privacy concerns and cybersecurity risks are still a risk. A balanced approach, with a mix of solutions could be the best way to pilot these type of solutions.
     

    Sustainable Security Solutions 

    Some might argue that this has the potential to be the most significant trend to impact the industry in recent years. More than three-quarters of executives state that sustainability is central to their business strategy. The security industry is adopting greener technologies to help meet this need. One example is the transition from diesel-powered generators to solar and methanol-powered units in mobile surveillance systems. These innovations align with environmental goals and are often eligible for rebates and incentives, reducing the cost burden on businesses.

    Time will tell how the shift to sustainable solutions pans out, but it is certainly something that should be part of all new physical security solutions going forward.

    The top physcial security trends in 2025 that are highlighted in this post reflect a shift towards integrating advanced technologies with traditional security measures, aiming to create more efficient and responsive physical security systems in 2025. We are looking forward to seeing how things shape up over the coming 12 months.

    Why not drop us a line? If you are interested to see how SCS can improve your on-site security then drop us a line here.

    Max Smith Picture

    Max Smith

    21st January 2025

    From studying for a Politics degree, Max took the less than obvious path into the environs of Security as a Locksmith back in 1985! Thirty plus years later, it’s a journey that has seen the achievement of NSI Gold accreditation for Intruder Alarms, Access Control & CCTV, plus the introduction of a sister company specialising in Gate Automation Solutions. With a wealth of both Engineering and management experience, Max has an active interest in the evolution of the Security Industry and its future direction.

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