How AI, facial recognition technologies are revolutionising physical security in Asia
- Advances in security and surveillance technologies mean the days of elderly guards at establishments are numbered
The elderly man inside the doorway of the residential building, tucked in a tiny corner with his cup of tea, crumpled newspaper and transistor radio, is a common sight for residents in Hong Kong’s many high-rise flats.
Usually in his 60s or 70s, he is sometimes the doorman, sometimes gives directions, almost always gruff, and is generally tasked with ensuring security for the building. He is also an endangered species.
“Young people won’t want to sit there reading a newspaper all day, or even play with their smartphone, they’ll be bored to death,” said Paul Chong, chief executive of Certis Group, the Singapore-based security company that started off as a division within the country’s police force.
With high-definition video surveillance cameras, facial recognition and remote sensors feeding tonnes of data into artificial intelligence algorithms to analyse in real time, technology has advanced to the point where the “old uncle” is no longer needed, according to Chong.
Like other sectors buffeted by the winds of technological change, the concept of physical security is also being redefined by the new tools being used to ensure safety and deter crime.
