Triad Security - Triad Security Blog

To Sign or Not to Sign...your credit card that is...

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 14:30:00 -0400

It’s likely you’ve already received the email from a friend or colleague warning you about identity theft and how dangerous it is to sign the back of your credit card. Instead of signing, one should write in “Ask for ID”. Why wouldn’t the credit card companies ask me to sign the card if I’m opening myself up to identify theft. What is the safe thing to do? I did some research and I’ve found what I believe to be an acceptable answer. Of course, if you want to know what is best for you, it is best to consult your bank or credit card company and make your own decision based on the information you gather.

Why can’t I just leave the space blank and wait for the clerk to ask me for ID? If your credit cards are ever stolen, the thief can simply put their own signature in on the back, and then the signatures will match perfectly.

What if I write “Ask for ID” on the back instead of signing my name? If a store clerk actually checks the signature panel on your credit cards, they will ask you for your ID. This could possibly help prevent identity theft.

Ok, so what’s wrong with just writing “Ask for ID”? Per the terms and conditions of every major credit card company, if you do not sign the back of your credit card, then the card is not valid. If merchants accept a credit card that is not signed, then they could be liable for the charges if your credit card is used fraudulently. If a clerk notices that the back of your card is unsigned, they are supposed to make you sign it in front of them, and then ask for your id.

Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover recommend that you sign the back of your credit card correctly. All companies have safeguards in place in the event your credit card or identity is stolen. If you have lost your credit card or believe they may have been stolen, call the credit card company right away.

Signing the back of your credit card and writing “See ID” This is probably the best option, since anyone who bothers to look at it might take the time to request your ID, or at least to check and see if the signatures match.

Why it doesn’t really matter one way or the other:

Have you detected the weak link here? It’s the store clerks. Nine out of ten clerks do not ever flip that card over to look at the signature panel. If they do, it’s very likely that they are new, not working during a busy time of day, or they’ve been ripped off before.

No use thinking those in-store digital signature panels actually compare your signature either – they don’t. The truth is, no one is out there checking the signature panel of our credit cards.

Chris Monteiro, spokesman for MasterCard, says, "Technically, a MasterCard is not valid unless signed by the authorized cardholder. If a person has not signed his card, the merchant technically should not complete the transaction." The merchant can only complete the transaction on an unsigned card if the cardholder signs the card in front of the employee and then produces valid identification proving their identity, Monteiro says. The cardholder then has nothing to gain by refusing to write anything but his signature on the signature panel.

Visa's policy is nearly identical to MasterCard's. Visa covers this topic in its "Rules for Merchants" handbook. There is a section entitled "See ID," which says: "See ID or Check for ID is not a valid substitute for a signature. The customer must sign the card, in your presence." And if the customer refuses? "A refusal to sign means the card is still invalid and cannot be accepted." The handbook then reminds merchants that if they ignore this mandate and accept an unsigned card anyway, they risk financial liability should the cardholder later dispute the charge.

In another section, the Visa handbook also prohibits merchants from demanding identification as a condition of the sale -- so if the merchant does accept your unsigned card, they technically cannot force you to show identification. The converse is true for signed cards as well: A merchant cannot refuse a transaction if you choose not to produce identification, and a merchant does not have to ask for additional identification when presented a signed credit card

What that signature really means

The card companies remind customers that the signature panel isn't just for verifying the signature. It's also used to validate the contract you have with the credit card company. By signing, you confirm that you agree to their terms. And even though you may choose not to sign the card but use it anyway, you still are bound to the terms and agreements set forth by the issuer.

For customers who still want to stick to their "See ID" ways, Nessa Feddis, vice president and senior counsel at the American Bankers Association, cites several downsides to this tactic. If you want to charge something and don't happen to have your identification with you, for example, you'll be out of luck. Forcing a merchant to check your identification will also slow down your transaction. Plus, there's the possibility that crooks who get their hands on your signature-free card could just sign it in front of a clerk, thereby making the card appear valid -- while also ensuring that the signature on the card will now match their own signature on the receipt. A solution offered to the extra-cautious: Sign the card AND write "See ID" on the signature panel. It won't guarantee your credit card won't ever be used by thieves, but if it makes you feel better, there's no harm in it.

Dan Clements, vice president of Affinion Group Inc., which specializes in helping companies secure personal data, agrees with the dual protection method. "It's a good practice to put 'Check ID' after your signature on the back of the credit card. This makes it harder for an in-store identity thief to run up charges on your credit or debit card. Even though you have limited liability on credit cards, maybe a bit more on debit, you can possibly avoid the hassle of filling out bank affidavit's to dispute fraudulent charges. These charges have been known to affect credit scores, so avoiding them is key."

What do I do if I become a victim of identity theft? www.justice.gov/criminal/fraud/websites/idtheft.html

How Video Surveillance Benefits Your Business

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 17:05:00 -0400

Visual tools against crime is easily one of the greatest deterrents to criminal activity as well as one of the best ways to catch criminals after the crime has been committed. Companies the world over have utilized surveillance cameras to prevent, stop, and recover from theft on a regular basis, making them one of the best investments a company can make to reduce shrinkage, maintain costs, and reduce the hassles that are associated with theft and illegal or unwanted activities.

Benefits of Using Security Cameras in Your Company

Deterring – Security cameras in businesses are designed to be seen. Cameras are placed in blatantly obvious locations, so that anyone that is thinking of committing a theft knows that they are very likely to be on camera. This will deter many individuals from performing the illegal act that they had been considering in your workplace.
Monitoring – Security cameras allow you to have someone watch the store/office at all times, to ensure that illegal or unwanted activities are not being conducted. Live feeds allow you to stop those in the process of committing the crime, before the items or information are lost.
Motivation – Cameras placed around the office motivate employees to be on their best behavior, knowing that any move they make may be caught on camera. Employees that try to sneak out early, talk to their neighbors, or play games on their computers are less likely to do so when the chances of them getting caught are high.
Reducing Losses – Employee theft is almost exactly as common as non-employee theft in many workplaces. It is estimated that as much as 50% of all store losses are a result of employee theft. There is also the risk of stealing information, as well as other things that may be valuable to your company.
Recovery – Security cameras inside your company allow you to easily identify anyone that has stolen items from your property, with visual evidence that helps the police and investigators find the people responsible. It is hard to recover stolen items, but visual evidence of the crime that was committed greatly increases those odds.

Security cameras are most often seen in busy retail stores and companies that have a great deal of security due to maintaining personal information or expensive items. But every store, of any size, can benefit from a surveillance camera. The mere act of setting up the camera reduces crime, and the value of being able to monitor your company as well as stop theft in the process of occurring is extremely high.

Even if you do not have many unknown individuals coming in and out of your office, theft can still occur. In fact, it is often internal theft that ends up causing companies to fail. Security cameras reduce the risk of both internal and external theft, reducing cost to your company. If nothing else, security cameras give you the opportunity to motivate your employees to work harder as well as monitor their actions over the course of the workday.

For 25 years, Triad Security Systems has offered security systems to commercial and industrial clients. Triad Security Systems offers state of the art security solutions for clients in a variety of industries. We can help your business reduce inventory loss and loss due to employee or vendor theft or error. Call us today at 908-964-5252 to have a security expert review your security plan and offer quality, technological solutions. Triad offers mechanical and electronic access control, video surveillance with analog or IP video cameras, licensed locksmith services such as key management, commercial lock maintenance and repair, intrusion alarm & fire alarm/detection and central station alarm monitoring and audio/video intercoms. Triad security experts can help you to deter criminals, prevent loss, detect illegal entry and report on daily activities in secured areas. Triad is a complete security solutions provider. Don’t hesitate to call us today! The investment you make today could not only help you save today but protect your assets, facility and employees in the future.

*Disclaimer

Preventing Identity Theft during the 2010 Census

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 13:37:00 -0400

As the 2010 census approaches, Triad Security Systems wants to ensure the safety of its clients and partners by reminding everyone to be vigilant when it comes to identity theft. The US Census is taken every 10 years and every ten years there is a bit of a spike in the amount if identity thefts. In order to protect your identity, you need to be aware of what to expect come census time.

Here are some tips from a public information officer about the 2010 census:

Census forms are first being mailed to each of the 134 million households in the US in March 2010. The best way to avoid a personal visit from a census worker is to complete the census form and return it by the April 1, 2010 deadline. Census workers are required to visit addresses that have not completed the census form and mailed it back by the deadline. Those who return the form by the deadline will most likely NOT receive a visit from a census worker, although census workers are visiting some households to perform quality checks. These checks require that some households be visited more than once. Additionally, if you returned your form late, your response might not be logged before a census worker is sent out. The Census Bureau assures that before your household receives a mailed form, a phone call or a visit from their representative, you will be given a few days notice with a letter from the Census Bureau Director.

The following is a list of tips to remember when talking with census workers or completing the census form:

Any request for census information from the Census Bureau will be clearly marked as coming from the U.S. Census Bureau and as OFFICIAL BUSINESS of the United States. An official census taker will have 4 items: an identity badge, a confidentiality statement, a canvas census bag, and a handheld device. NEVER let a stranger into your home.
All census workers carry official government badges marked with their name. You can also ask for a second identification to compare to the government badge. Never answer questions until you have seen the ID badges.
Currently census workers are only knocking on doors to verify address information. No other information should be asked of you until March 2010 when the census forms are mailed.
The Census Bureau will never ask for your Social Security number, bank account numbers, or credit card numbers.
Census workers will never under any circumstances ask to enter your home.
Census workers will never ask for any information to be submitted online or through email.

For more information about the 2010 Census, click here

How will changing to VOIP affect my alarm system?

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 11:25:00 -0400

Over the next few years, an estimated 24 million people will switch to VOIP telephone services. VOIP is an acronym for Voice Over Internet Protocol. It simply uses your broadband internet connection to place voice calls digitally over IP based networks. Generally, a customer will pay a flat monthly fee for local and long distance calls. This is an evolution from POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service) where calls are placed over an analog connection using telephone lines.

Switching to VOIP may put your older alarm system in danger because the system won’t be able to reliable report an alarm during an emergency.

An alarm system is designed to send its signals over an analog phone line. To transmit emergency signals properly using VOIP, the signal must be converted to digital then converted back again to analog. It is during this conversion that problems develop. Usually the signals arrive at the central monitoring station with errors, or not at all.

Your alarm panel comes equipped with a backup power supply in the event of a power failure. Because traditional phone lines will still work even if your power is out, your monitoring station will still receive the proper signals. With VOIP, your phone service (specifically your IP router and/or modem) will not operate during a power failure, preventing any kind of signal transmission from your alarm to the monitoring station. You can prevent this with the purchase of a UPS (Un-interruptible Power Supply) for your PC.

VOIP services tend to be more prone to “mysterious” technical issues and dropped calls. Your alarm panel may be communicating vital data to your monitoring station, and a dropped call will obviously interfere with this. Or, your alarm’s signal may go through without a problem on one attempt, but will fail on another for no apparent reason.

Similar to a land line, your VOIP line (specifically your cable connection) can be cut or disabled by a potential intruder, severing your link to the monitoring station.

It is important that if you are switching to VOIP that you notify Triad Security right away so that we may arrange to test your panel. It may be prudent to add an additional or alternative alarm transmission method such as a cellular or radio.* Please feel free to contact your account manager at (908) 964-5252 if you have any questions about your alarm panel or how your system may be affected by a change in your telephone service provider.

*Additional charges may apply

*Disclaimer

Survey: 75 Percent Of Homeland Security Professionals Expect 9/11-Type Of Attack In Next Five Years

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 11:45:00 -0400

Security Products Magazine - Nov 09, 2009

While a majority (57 percent) of Homeland Security professionals say America is safer now than it was before the September 11 attacks, 75 percent believe the country will experience a similar terrorist attack in the next five years -- and Americans aren’t prepared, according to a recent survey commissioned by the National Homeland Defense Foundation and Colorado Technical University.

The survey, which was conducted by Kelton Research, revealed that 94 percent of these professionals don’t think Americans know the appropriate steps to take if a terrorist attack were to happen in their hometown.

The full findings will be shared at the 2009 NHDF Homeland Defense, Homeland Security Symposium on Nov. 9-11 in Colorado Springs, Colo., where more than 600 security experts are gathering for the nation’s leading public forum for dialogue on homeland security and homeland defense-related topics.

Among survey findings from professionals within the field:

Even Homeland Security experts don’t feel safe. More than half of those surveyed (51 percent) do not personally feel safe from a terrorist attack.
Cyber-terrorism is an emerging threat. When asked which security issues the U.S. should invest more resources in over the next five years, computer networks or the Internet came out on top (58 percent), followed by homegrown or domestic terrorism inside the U.S. or infrastructure (49 percent), and U.S. coastlines and harbors (42 percent).
Public education needs to be increased. Fewer than three in 10 (27 percent) Homeland Security professionals believe the U.S. is doing a good enough job to educate the public on what to do if the U.S. experiences a terrorist attack.
Need for more qualified applicants. Only 17 percent of survey respondents believe there are enough qualified job applicants to fill key roles in Homeland Security.

“Since September 11, many aspects of national security have improved, but we still have progress to make in terms of education for the professionals serving our country and in improving communications between government agencies at all levels,” said Donald E. Addy, NHDF president. “Much more can be done to prepare our nation for attacks, especially as acts and threats of terrorism evolve.”

Nearly eight in 10 (77 percent) of Homeland Security professionals surveyed believe that the response of federal, state and local governments to a terrorist attack today would be more coordinated than it was in 2001. Moreover, almost three in four (74 percent) feel that communication on Homeland Security matters across all government levels has improved since 9/11.

Although the survey shows greater confidence in government coordination, the following findings suggest areas for improvement:

Almost nine in 10 (87 percent) feel that the field is fragmented, not cohesive, when it comes to communication or collaboration among agencies and departments.
As for terrorist threats, 58 percent think that Homeland Security in the U.S. is still generally reactive rather than proactive.

“This survey clearly shows we need to do a better job when it comes to helping the public understand how to be prepared should we experience another terrorist attack similar to 9/11,” said Capt. W. Andy Cain, USN (Ret.) a member of the CTU Homeland Security Advisory Board. “Professionals in the industry need preparation as well -- in the form of advanced education and training to meet the needs the career will demand in the future.”

In addition to better public education, the survey also demonstrates a potential need for better education within the field. Seventy-two percent of Homeland Security professionals surveyed think better trained or educated staff would make the most dramatic improvement in America’s Homeland Security. In addition, a majority (71 percent) who don’t already have graduate-level degrees in Homeland Security believe they could advance their own careers with this type of degree.

“This survey reinforces what we have long perceived as a need for advanced degrees in the Homeland Security field,” said Greg Mitchell, president of the CTU Colorado Springs campus. “It is for this reason that we developed both master’s and doctorate degrees in Homeland Security, to provide opportunities for current Homeland Security professionals to advance their career, as well as for those looking to enter this growing field.”

Those looking to make a difference with a career in Homeland Security may be well positioned to pursue success, with 69 percent of the Homeland Security professionals surveyed portraying their opinion of the job outlook in Homeland Security in the next five years as excellent or good. The following survey results also speak to their experiences within the field:

Based on their experiences in the Homeland Security field, an overwhelming majority of the professionals surveyed (89 percent) would recommend a career in the industry to others.
Almost one in two (47 percent) of those surveyed frequently, if not always, believe they are personally making a difference with their jobs.
Sixty-three percent of those surveyed feel the public values the services they perform.

*Disclaimer

Security Tips: Protect Your Business from Holiday Crime

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 11:29:00 -0400

Some say it is "the most wonderful time of the year,” yet statistics indicate that the holiday season is a popular time for crime, especially for businesses. Increased inventory and decreased hours of operation make it easier for unauthorized intruders to get access to your building and goods.

According to the FBI, more than 30 percent of businesses will experience a burglary this year. The holiday season can be an especially dangerous time for illegal intrusions as well as shoplifting, which tends to peak around this time. Shoplifting is estimated to account for between 30-40 percent of a retailer’s lost profit and only about 2 percent of these losses are ever recovered.

This year, take the time to install a few simple security features around your business property. This will help protect your inventory and employees. There are many quick and affordable solutions for securing one’s business during the holiday season. By simply improving existing security features and adding a few new ones you can protect yourself from being targeted before and after the holidays.

Here are a few suggestions to protect your busienss against theft, vandalism and property damage this season:

1. Motion Lights are relatively inexpensive and popular because they can fool burglars into thinking that someone is there when in fact the building is empty. They illuminate large outdoor areas when movement is detected which can scare away potential intruders before they get too close to your business.

2. Update Your Locks If you recently moved your business to a new location, updating your locks immediately increases the security of your property. This prevents previous owners from using their old keys to access all your goods. Make sure you consult a licensed locksmith like Triad Security Systems to inspect and replace your locks. This will ensure a level of quallity workmaship is maintained.

3. Video Monitoring Business owners interested in keeping a constant watch of their property should consider video monitoring. There are a number of solutions for businesses with a smaller budget. Some solutions don't even require the purchase of a DVR/NVR - just the cameras - and owners can view their live and recorded video by logging into a web site just for their business.

4. Be proactive about securing your business this season. Look for identification on delivery personnel and keep inventory well-organized. Also keep in mind that after Christmas, you are not in the clear as burglary rates spike in January. Continue to use your security features so you can stay protected the rest of the year.

For a free security assessment, contact Triad Security Systems today at (908) 964-5252 or sales@triadsecurity.com.

*Disclaimer

BBB Alerts Consumers about Census; Workers: Be Cooperative, but Cautious!

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 12:08:00 -0400

For years, Better Business Bureau has educated consumers about not giving out personal information over the telephone or to anyone who shows up at their front door. With the U.S. Census process beginning, BBB advises people to be cooperative, but cautious, so as not to become a victim of fraud or identity theft.

The first phase of the 2010 U.S. Census is under way as workers have begun verifying the addresses of households across the country. Eventually, more than 140,000 U.S. Census workers will count every person in the United States and will gather information about every person living at each address including name, age, gender, race and other relevant data.

The Census data will be used to allocate more than $300 billion in federal funds every year, as well as determine a State’s number of Congressional representatives. Households are actually required by law to respond to the Census Bureau’s request for information.

“You should always be cautious to avoid giving out personal information whenever an unknown person calls your home or knocks at the door, however assisting Census workers is an exception to that rule,” noted Tim Burns, Public Affairs Director for the Better Business Bureau Serving Detroit & Eastern Michigan. “Assisting with the U.S. Census is an important responsibility that people should cooperate with, but also keep your guard up.”

During the U.S. Census, households will be contacted by mail, telephone or visited by a U.S. Census worker who will inquire about the number of people living in the house. Unfortunately, people may also be contacted by scammers who are impersonating Census workers in order to gain access to sensitive financial information such as Social Security, bank account or credit card numbers. The BBB has started receiving information that scammers are already posing as Census Bureau employees and knocking on doors asking for donations and Social Security numbers.

“Scammers know that people will be more trusting about things associated with the Census and will be looking to take advantage of that,” added Burns. ”Watch out for e-mail scams involving the Census or people stopping by your house or calling you on the telephone posing as government employees attempting to solicit money or sensitive financial information.”

The big question is - how do you tell the difference between a U.S. Census worker and a con artist? BBB offers the following advice:

If a U.S. Census worker knocks on your door, they will have a badge, a handheld device, a Census Bureau canvas bag and a confidentiality notice. Ask to see their identification and their badge before answering their questions. However, you should never invite anyone you don’t know into your home.
Census workers are currently only knocking on doors to verify address information. Do not give your Social Security number, credit card or banking information to anyone, even if they claim they need it for the U.S. Census. While the Census Bureau might ask for basic financial information, such as a salary range, it will not ask for Social Security, bank account or credit card numbers nor will employees solicit donations.
Eventually, Census workers may contact you by telephone, mail or in person at home. However, they will not contact you by e-mail, so be on the lookout for e-mail scams impersonating the Census. Never click on a link or open any attachments in an e-mail that are supposedly from the U.S. Census Bureau.

For more advice on avoiding identity theft and fraud, visit www.bbb.org. The Better Business Bureau is a non-profit organization with the purpose of preventing fraud and unethical business practices and promoting trust in the marketplace. In addition to its recognized dispute resolution services, the BBB maintains reliability reports on the customer service history of more than hundreds of thousands of local businesses and provides consumer education materials on numerous topics. Local BBBs provide services freely to the public and has service areas across the country.

For 25 years, Triad Security Systems has offered security systems to commercial and industrial clients. Triad Security Systems offers state of the art security solutions for clients in a variety of industries. We can help your business reduce inventory loss and loss due to employee or vendor theft or error. Call us today at 908-964-5252 to have a security expert review your security plan and offer quality technological solutions. Triad offers mechanical and electronic access control, video surveillance with analog or IP video cameras, licensed locksmith services such as key management, commercial lock maintenance and repair, intrusion (burglar) alarm & fire alarm detection and central station alarm monitoring and audio/video intercoms. Triad security experts can help you to deter criminals, prevent loss, detect illegal entry and report on daily activities in secured areas. Triad is a complete security solutions provider. Don’t hesitate to call us today! The investment you make today could not only help you save today but the long run as you protect your facility and assets.

*Disclaimer

Bowling for Business - Team Triad's Time Out

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 12:31:00 -0400

The North Jersey Regional Chamber of Commerce's (NJRCC) "Bowling for Business" event was held on August 13 at Garden Palace located at 42 Lakeview Avenue, Clifton. Chamber members gathered for networking and entertainment, and the event proceeds benefitted the Chamber Foundation.

Triad employees had a blast! If we play half as hard as we work, it was a much needed break. In a recent newsletter, Triad employees were pictured enjoying their afterhours time off. (In photo L to R: Corinne (Service Administrator), Piotr (Senior Service Technician), John Ornowski (Regional Account Manager), Rachel Weygandt (Regional Account Manager) - Somehow Dave Rosen (Service & Installation Manager) and Steve Monek (Regional Account Manager) seemed to avoid being photographed - they must have been at the buffet!

Did you ever realize that you probably spend more time with your colleagues at the office than you do with your family and close friends? As a small business, Triad employees have become more than co-workers, we are a "work family". Most employees have been with the company for over 10 years. This not only speaks to our expertise and dedication to the customer, but it says alot about how we work as a team. Thankfully, it is not an office filled with drama and invasion of privacy. However, our office is very open in terms of layout and one can't help but to overhear what's going on in the cube or office next to them. Lunches together are common practice. In some cases it makes it easier to get things done because we are working with friends and don't have to sift through red tape to witness a flawless installation or quick resolution to a problem.

While we weren't all the greatest of bowlers (except for Steve who insisted on "practicing new techniques" instead of crushing the other team in defeat), we did hold our own. John and Dave were the dark horses and kept us from being humiliated by our opponent. I think Corinne, Piotr and I were there to reinforce that we were just there to have fun - or at least that's what we kept telling ourselves every time we got a gutter ball.

We all seem to have our own "thing" that we do outside of work that makes life fun and interesting. We're still waiting for a Triad sponsored "Johnnie O Karaoke Show" but I don't know if we really want everyone singing their hearts out in front of clients. However, NJRCC has regular networking events that Triad participates in and we are certainly looking forward to the next one where we can let our hair down a bit.

*Disclaimer

What to look for in a Security Vendor...

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 12:08:00 -0400

Longevity – How long has the company been in business? This will tell you how resourceful and resilient a business is. Good business practices are the foundation for a company’s longevity.

Triad is proudly celebrating 25 years of service this year!

Attitude – What is the company like to work with? The bottom line is we all work with people. A company’s attitude can make the difference between a project going well and it being a miserable experience for you.

Triad’s “Yes We Can!” attitude makes the implementation or service go swiftly and we respect that you have a business to run and do as much as possible to disrupt your daily business activities as little as possible.

Reputation – What do others say about the company? The company’s certifications, accreditations, awards and memberships are important to look at. More importantly, however, is what their customers say about them. Check references!

Wow! Get a load of the glowing references Triad has! Prestigious clients with household names, clients with complicated installations or requirements, clients who have been clients for all 25 years - they all say the same thing: Triad is a pleasure to work with!

Industry Experience – How well does the company understand the unique needs of your industry? This will tell you how well the company can adapt to the unique needs of your company within that industry.

Since Triad doesn’t specialize in any one industry, we have grown to understand the unique needs of several industries. Triad Account Managers have an average of 12 years of experience working at Triad. It today’s day and age, that’s unheard of and it’s refreshing to know there are still companies where people want to work for and retire from.

Technological Expertise – Do they know their stuff? Technology changes at an exponential rate. The technicians who install and service your system need to be current on the equipment. Manufacturers are regularly releasing updates and new versions. It’s important that the company you work with recognizes that continuing education is critical and invaluable. State licensing requirements are also vital for a job done right from the beginning.

Triad technicians are factory trained and keep their certifications current. They are also required to maintain CEUs with the state for their alarm technician license or locksmith license as it applies. Continuing education is encouraged because it makes our team better technicians and serves our clients better overall.

*Disclaimer

Loose Lips Sink Ships

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 10:46:00 -0400

...Isn't that how the saying goes? Well the same concept can be applied to messy desks and office security. Keeping a clean desk isn't only for those with OCD or who have a lot of time on their hands. Get into a simple routine and prevent things from getting lost, stolen or in the wrong hands. Keep in mind every day we all work with confidential client files and have our wallets or purses next to us...until we leave our office. We're not just talking about the secret recipe for Coca Cola - something a lot more personal, like your identity, could be stolen.

Here are a few ways to prevent these losses and keep your office area safe:

1. Lock up private papers. Store your day planner, PDA, Blackberry and notebooks in a locked drawer. Consider taking them home at night. Keep your personal items in a locked briefcase or cabinet. Ladies, keep your pocketbooks in a locked drawer or cabinet. Leaving it on the floor by your chair is not secure especially if you leave your desk for meetings during the day and don't wan to lug it with you.

2. Guard access tools. Keep cell phones and other handheld devices with you, along with keys and access cards. Notify security if access cards or keys go missing. In the event of an emergency evacuation, you may not have time to go back to your desk to get your keys and if the emergency is a big one, you'll be left looking for a ride home.

3. "PC" stands for Personal Computer. Close applications and turn off monitor when you walk away from your desk (if its' for a while, turn off the computer.) Keep portable media such as CDs and iPods out of sight when not in use. Use a password protected screen saver. Never write down passwords. If you have trouble remembering all your passwords for various programs, there are applications that can be downloaded or purchased where you only have to remember the password to access the password keeper. The application then keeps a record of all your logins and passwords to an unlimited number of programs...it can even help you remember all those PIN numbers for debit and credit cards!

4. Care for the fine printouts. Remove important printouts from printers before leaving the office. Shred sensitive documents when done. Regularly clear cache files from your computer and from memory devices such as printers.

5. Watch your back. Desks and other furniture should be positioned so sensitive information is not viewable from hallways or windows. Close blinds on office windows if you are working with sensitive materials. Lock your office door when you're gone for an extended period.

For 25 years, Triad Security Systems has offered security systems to commercial and industrial clients. Triad Security Systems offers state of the art security solutions for clients in a variety of industries. We can help your business reduce inventory loss and loss due to employee or vendor theft or error. Call us today at 908-964-5252 to have a security expert review your security plan and offer quality technological solutions. Triad offers mechanical and electronic access control, video surveillance with analog or IP video cameras, licensed locksmith services such as key management, commercial lock maintenance and repair, intrusion (burglar) alarm & fire alarm detection and central station alarm monitoring and audio/video intercoms. Triad security experts can help you to deter criminals, prevent loss, detect illegal entry and report on daily activities in secured areas. Triad is a complete security solutions provider. Don’t hesitate to call us today! The investment you make today could not only help you save today but the long run as you protect your facility and assets.

*Disclaimer

Is Your Access Control System Accessible?

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 18:16:00 -0400

Triad works with business of all sizes and in all industries. Many small and medium sized businesses will start with a basic fire alarm and/or intrusion alarm. These systems alert people inside the building when smoke or heat is detected and warm people to evacuate the building. Intrusion alarms are often armed when the last person leaves the office or building and alert the owner, security manager or other authorized persons of a situation where a person has entered the building after hours without permission or without disarming the intrusion alarm.

The next phase of security usually involves video surveillance and/or a card access system. These are great steps in monitoring the comings and goings of people in the building and deterring or preventing people from entering restricted areas (i.e. management only, employees only, etc.) In the case with access control, security is maintained by keeping doors locked and allowing only those with appropriate credentials to have an easy method of gaining entry.

An access control system can be simple or complex, depending on the requirements of that particular business. Systems range from one or two doors with very few users, to hundreds of doors with thousands of users. Systems can be administered by a workstation in one location or via the internet from any location where there is internet access. All systems, however, suffer from the same problem: while card access systems prevent unwanted visitors from gaining entry; those with legitimate needs have no way to request entry. Most of the time that person knocks or rings a doorbell until someone opens the door.

Unfortunately, opening the door for someone knocking or ringing the bell defeats the basic purpose of the card access system. The doors are secured and those who need access already have it. So who wants to get into your office? Someone who has forgotten or lost his credentials? A delivery? Or is it someone with the intent to harm? How can you be sure? Is the receptionist or office manager’s day disrupted frequently to answer open the door for deliveries and guests? How can they keep that responsibility and maintain their productivity? The answer is simple: install a video intercom.

Video intercoms provide a safe and convenient method of notifying those on the secured side of a door that someone is requesting entry. The built-in camera supplies a clear view, allowing people to see and talk with visitors before opening, unlocking or even disrupting their productivity by having to get up and go to the door. Individuals can be greeted while their identity, intention, and even their frame of mind is determined. After verifying the purpose behind the visit, the touch of a button “buzzes” them in.

Triad account managers can help you to complete your security system with the addition of a video intercom. Triad offers products from only leading manufacturers in the industry and Triad technicians are factory trained.

For 25 years, Triad Security Systems has offered security systems to commercial and industrial clients. Triad Security Systems offers state of the art security solutions for clients in a variety of industries. We can help your business reduce inventory loss and loss due to employee or vendor theft or error. Call us today at 908-964-5252 to have a security expert review your security plan and offer quality technological solutions. Triad offers mechanical and electronic access control, video surveillance with analog or IP video cameras, licensed locksmith services such as key management, commercial lock maintenance and repair, intrusion (burglar) alarm & fire alarm detection and central station alarm monitoring and audio/video intercoms. Triad security experts can help you to deter criminals, prevent loss, detect illegal entry and report on daily activities in secured areas. Triad is a complete security solutions provider. Don’t hesitate to call us today! The investment you make today could not only help you save today but the long run as you protect your facility and assets.

*Disclaimer

Getting Hinky About Nigerian Scams

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 11:18:00 -0400

Nigerian advance-fee fraud scams are alive and well. Ben Rothke looks at a series of emails for clues that should set off any recipient's sense of danger.

By Ben Rothke, CISSP

August 31, 2009 - CSO

The first generation of computer viruses was relatively easy to identify and quarantine. Get infected, run your favorite scanner, the scanner quarantined the virus—end of story. This process worked fine until the virus writers became more sophisticated. In the early 1990's, the world of computer viruses changed radically when polymorphic viruses came on to the scene. While early viruses were easy to indentify by their static signature, polymorphic viruses mutate and rendered the first-generation of virus scanners useless.

Similarly, the first generation of Nigerian advance-fee fraud scams was relatively easy to identify. But the real challenge was getting people not to fall for those scams. As far back as 1997, the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs of the United States Department of State wrote a 33-page document [PDF link] that detailed the Nigerian advance-fee fraud scheme and how to avoid being a victim.

Also see Mind Games: How Social Engineers Win Your Confidence

The classic advance fee-fraud was somewhat limited in its scalability given that there are only so many permutations of murdered/deposed mothers, fathers, uncles, brothers and brother-in-laws, from corrupt governments in Nigeria, Somalia, Senegal and surroundings, and that over time, people would eventually become suspicious.

In response to growing consumer awareness the scammers started to do what the polymorphic viruses did—they mutated. However, while the scams are morphing, the end result is the same; the scammers get their money, and the victim is out, with no recourse.

With the tactics changing, what can you do to protect yourself from these scams? Technology and spam filters generally can't identify these emails. Scammers often compose their emails to not get flagged, and are often written like a prospectus sent from a legitimate firm. The best thing you can do is get a feel for these scams. Use your common sense, and remember the adage that if something sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Finally and perhaps most importantly, develop your own sense of hinky.

What is hinky? In a fascinating article, BT Chief Security Technology Officer Bruce Schneier writes how terrorist Ahmed Ressam tried to enter the US from Canada with a suitcase bomb. Ressam was approached by U.S. Customs Agent Diana Dean, who asked him some routine questions and then decided he looked suspicious. Ressam was fidgeting, sweaty, jittery and avoided eye contact. In Dean's own words, he was acting hinky. Ressam's car was eventually searched, and he was finally discovered and detained.

Agent Dean did not use any fancy scanning technology; she used her experience and inner feelings to determine the hinky. And the rest is history.

Today's scammers require you to use your hinky to the maximum. Here is a recent scam where using hinky paid off.

Below are two screen shots from emails that initially, seem innocuous, but originate from scammers. For those without a well-developed sense of hinky, the invitation to the conference might be seem as complimentary or as a well-deserved honor. For those who reply without looking deeper, they are on their way to being scammed. This is unfortunate as these emails have a number of glaring aspects that help you recognize their fraudulent nature. (exhibit A & exhibit B)

Here are a few red flags. While a single red flag does not necessarily render something a scam, when they number more than three, you should be extremely suspicious:

Source is Africa based, and BusinessDay writes that Africa is in a league all of its own when corruption is the barometer.
Return email address domain is usa.com, which is a link for finding cheap travel in the USA.
Email states "We are accepting you to partake because you were recommended by one of our staff". Legitimate emails would likely state the name of the staff member.
Contacts to reply to have domains of gmail.com, and usa.com. Usually a conference organizer will have a web site or dedicated domain, but not so in this case.
The contact phone numbers which have U.S. area codes redirect to Africa. When asked, the answering party stated they were in Washington, DC. When asked, they couldn't say what the weather was like in Washington, DC or even give the name the street of their supposed office there. When called about an hour later, the same person claimed they were in New York City. The answering party was unable to provide any information about the conference, and said to register and book a hotel room, and then hung up.
The email lists the conference website as www.aayo.co.cc. But co.cc is simply free domain name registrar.

Those who are hinky-challenged may respond and set themselves up as bait—which is exactly what the scammers are counting on. The email asks the party to supply a significant amount of personal data -- no legitimate conference would require that kind of information, and certainly not at such an early stage.

The email ends with a few paragraphs of irrelevant items to give it a semblance of legitimacy. It ends with contact information, but no physical address. (exhibit C)

If someone is foolish to respond by sending the information to the scammers, the heat will soon be on them. The scammers then send a confirmation email and advise the party that they then need to book a hotel room for their stay as detailed in the following email:

The attached registration forms are used to garner some additional personal information and give it a further semblance of legitimacy and the impression of a real conference. Once again, notice the contact information -- both of them have generic addresses, not one tied to a hotel chain.

If you reply to those, you get the next email in the chain where the scam comes full circle. The scammers ask you to wire your hotel deposit to them. (exhibit D)

Scammers always want to string the victim along and will always mix fact and fiction. In the email, the hotel claims to be a branch hotel under Accor Resorts, which is a legitimate chain. But hinky tells us that you should be able to book directly from the web site and secure the reservation with a credit card; not a cash wire transfer.

The scammers offer the victim two options for payment, of which only one will actually work, and they claim that it is the best method—specifically, the Western Union money transfer. They state they can only send the Official Letter of Hotel Confirmation letter upon receipt of the money. No legitimate hotel would ever do that.

For those who have been scammed this far, they may unsuspectingly send the money via Western Union. Once the scammers pick up their money, the scam has come full-circle. The scammers have your money and you have absolutely no resource or way to get your money back.

The reason scammers like Western Union is that it is extremely quick and reliable. Once the transferred money is picked up by the scammer, the victim unfortunately has absolutely no chance of recovering the money from Western Union.

Conclusion

Scammers are very creative and getting more sophisticated every day. They know people's weaknesses and use them to manipulate. Scammers continue to devise a never-ending set of variants on their frauds. While you can't defeat them, you can use your hinky to identify them, to ensure you don't become a victim.

Perhaps the best advice about dealing with such scams comes from Lankester Merrin, when he warned Damien Karras in The Exorcist "The demon is a liar, he will lie to confuse us, but he will also mix lies with the truth to attack us. The attack is psychological, Damien, and powerful. So don't listen to him. Remember that - do not listen". Use your hinky, and don't listen to the scammers.

Ben Rothke CISSP, QSA (ben.rothke@bt.com) is a Senior Security Consultant with BT Professional Services and the author of Computer Security: 20 Things Every Employee Should Know (McGraw-Hill Professional Education).

*Disclaimer

Seven Deadly Sins of Social Networking

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 12:05:00 -0400

I have a professional Twitter account (follow me at Rachel4Triad) as well as a personal Facebook account and I know I am guilty of a few of these mistakes. I received this email “Seven Deadly Sins of Social Networking Security” from a co-worker and I thought I’d pass it along to you bloggers out there. It seems there is a fine line between keeping your personal information personal and secure and reconnecting or networking with others. I don’t know that I would say that I’m addicted to the social networking sites but I do make a point to check in with them at least once a day. In some cases, as with my college roommates, it’s the primary way we keep in touch. Sometimes even when I’m on the phone with my dad, he’ll refer to something I tweeted or posted on my facebook page and I’ll wonder, “how did he even know about that?” Then I’ll remember that other people do actually read my pages just as you are reading this blog. So as I’m writing it, I feel somewhat protected that my thoughts are my personal thoughts, I realize I am letting other people get to know who I am – some of those readers I know and some are otherwise complete strangers. I realize as I standing in line at the grocery store that I wouldn’t dream of telling the checker or the person standing behind me about the sale I just closed or about the fact that have a pile of laundry still because I was too busy this past holiday weekend to get to it but somehow if I type it here or on one of the social networking sites that’s essentially what I’m doing.

If I could tell you anything right now what would it be? Well I’d tell you that I’m enjoying my job as a sales person and ask you to introduce me to 5 people you know that you think might have a need for security in their business. Is there someone you know who works in an office building – perhaps they are a tenant in an office park? Do you know someone who recently complained at work that people were dumping furniture or household garbage into their company’s dumpster over the weekend? Is there a company that recently had layoffs and is concerned about former employees having access to the building after hours? I’d like to meet all these people.

Until then, however, surf safely. Don’t put yourself in a vulnerable position that may result in a dangerous circumstance. If you have any other tips on how to keep secure online, I’d love to hear about them. For example, I know on Facebook, you can set your level of security/privacy and only allow your friends to be able to see your posts. Twitter gives you the option of having to approve followers before they can see your Tweets. These are just a couple in the vast cyberspace where so many of us spend so much of our waking hours.

From: www.csoonline.com

Seven Deadly Sins of Social Networking Security

To users of LinkedIn, Facebook, Myspace, Twitter or all of the above: Are you guilty of one of these security oversights?

by Bill Brenner, Senior Editor, CSO

June 30, 2009

Admit it: You are currently addicted to social networking. Your drug of choice might be Facebook or Twitter, or maybe Myspace or LinkedIn. Some of you are using all of the above, and using them hard, even IT security practitioners who know better.

While it's impossible to escape every social networking threat out there, there are steps one can take to significantly reduce the risks. CSOonline recently checked in with dozens of IT security professionals (ironically, using more than one social networking platform to do so) to pinpoint seven typical security mistakes people make; and how to avoid them.

1. Over-sharing company activities
This is a sin of pride, when someone gets excited about something their company is working on and simply must tell everyone about it. Maybe you work for a drug company that is on the verge of developing the cure for cancer. Maybe the company is developing a new car that runs on curbside trash -- in other words, something everyone will want.

By sharing too much about your employer's intellectual property, you threaten to put it out of business by tipping off a competitor who could then find a way to duplicate the effort or find a way to spoil what they can't have by hiring a hacker to penetrate the network or by sneaking a spy into the building.

Then there are hackers controlling legions of botnets that could be programmed to scour a company's defenses and, upon finding a weakness, exploit it to access data on the intellectual property. With the data in hand, the hacker can then sell what they have to the highest bidder, which just might be your biggest competitor.

"Sharing this kind of information could lead to targeted attacks on specific technology-producing enterprises," says Souheil Mouhammad, a senior security expert at Altran Technologies.

This sin has sparked a debate in the security industry about whether companies need to revise their employee computer use policies with more specific language on what is/isn't allowed in the social networking arena.

To reign in the urge to share too much, it might be useful to repeat this saying, which has started to appear in the public domain: "Loose Tweets Sink Fleets."

2. Mixing personal with professional
This sin is closely related to the first, but extends beyond the mere disclosure of company data. This is the case where someone uses a social network for both business and pleasure, most commonly on Facebook, where one's friends include business associates, family members and friends.

The problem is that the language and images one shares with friends and family may be entirely inappropriate on the professional side. A prospective employer may choose to skip to the next candidate after seeing pictures of you drunk or showing off a little too much leg at someone's birthday party. In sharing such things, you also stand a good chance of making the company you represent look bad.

"In my view one of the major rules when engaging in social networking is to be aware that your words belong in the public domain," says Paul V. de Souza, chief security engineer at AT&T. "You may be quoted all over the Internet, so make sure to choose your words carefully. Be diplomatic and extremely professional."

In some cases, it's nearly impossible to separate business from the personal on a social networking site. Those who work for media companies, for example, are sometimes required to use all their social networking portals to proliferate content in an effort to boost page views which, in turn, attract potential advertisers. But wherever and whenever possible, security practitioners work to keep each locked in their respective boxes.

"You have to understand very clearly what the objective of your presence on any given social network is. If it is for work, keep it for work only. If it is for personal/fun use, keep it for personal use only," says Benjamin Fellows, a senior IT security and risk consultant at Ernst & Young. "I can't tell you how many times I have been invited to Facebook by a work colleague only to find things on their wall or profile that are definitely not politically correct or are downright offensive. I keep all my work friends in LinkedIn and my personal friends in Facebook. Even then, I am very careful what I say on either site. I guess you could also put this under the heading of know your audience."

3. Engaging in Tweet (or Facebook/LinkedIn/Myspace) rage
For the person who has just been laid off or had their professional integrity called into question online, the urge to fire back with a stream of vitriol can be irresistible. Call this a sin of wrath.

"You don't want to get into a flame war," says John Bruggeman, a Cincinnati-based IT director. "Be mindful of what you say and imagine you are at a party where everyone is listening, including your boss, spouse or future employer."

Scott Hayes, president and CEO of Database-Brothers Inc., agrees, saying, "Posting any content when angry is about as dangerous as sending flaming emails, if not more so. Think twice about clicking 'submit' because the world may be looking at your angry, immature rant for years."

4. Believing he/she who dies with the most connections wins
For some social networkers, it's all about accumulating as many connections as possible. Folks on LinkedIn are notorious for doing this, especially those in such LinkedIn groups as TopLinked and LION. This may seem harmless enough or, at the worst, just annoying. But when the name of the game is quantity over quality, it's easy to link or "friend" a scam artist, terrorist or identity thief.

"Always verify the person who wants to get in contact with you," says Ruud van den Bercken, a security specialist at XS4ALL Internet in the Netherlands. "Do you know him or her? If not, why is the person trying to connect with you? Check if the profile of the other person is secured. If you can't retrieve a list of that person's connections, you have to ask yourself" if you really want to go down that road.

As San Francisco-based network and security architect/engineer Jatinder Thukral puts it: "I'd rather have 50 relevant contacts than 500 unknowns."

5. Password sloth
Another common sin is one of laziness, in this case picking passwords for your social networks that you're least likely to forget. In many cases, that means using the same password for LinkedIn and Facebook that you're using for your online bank account or work machine. If someone with malicious intent figures out the password for one social network, that person can now go and access everything else.

"Using the same password on several sites is like trusting the weakest link in a chain to carry the same weight. Every site has vulnerabilities, plan for them to be exploited," says Daniel Philpott, information security engineer at OnPoint Consulting Inc.

6. Trigger finger (clicking everything, especially on Facebook)
Facebook in particular is notorious as a place where inboxes are stuffed with everything from drink requests to cause requests. For some social networkers, clicking on such requests is as natural as breathing. Unfortunately, the bad guys know this and will send you links that appear to be from legitimate friends. Open the link and you're inviting a piece of malware to infect your machine. Christophe Veltsos, president of Prudent Security, describes this as being "click-happy" and warns, "Don't click unless you're ready to deal with drive-by downloads and zero-day attacks."

7. Endangering yourself and others
All of the above tie into the seventh and perhaps most serious sin, which is that reckless social networking can literally put someone's life in danger. It could be a relative or co-worker. Or it could be yourself.

Security experts advise extreme caution when posting birthday information, too much detail on your spouse and children, etc. Otherwise, they could become the target of an identity thief or even a kidnapper.

For 25 years, Triad Security Systems has offered security systems to commercial and industrial clients. Triad Security Systems offers state of the art security solutions for clients in a variety of industries. We can help your business reduce inventory loss and loss due to employee or vendor theft or error. Call us today at 908-964-5252 to have a security expert review your security plan and offer quality technological solutions. Triad offers mechanical and electronic access control, video surveillance with analog or IP video cameras, licensed locksmith services such as key management, commercial lock maintenance and repair, intrusion (burglar) alarm & fire alarm detection and central station alarm monitoring and audio/video intercoms. Triad security experts can help you to deter criminals, prevent loss, detect illegal entry and report on daily activities in secured areas. Triad is a complete security solutions provider. Don’t hesitate to call us today! The investment you make today could not only help you save today but the long run as you protect your facility and assets.

*Disclaimer

Why Triad Understands YOU

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 13:09:00 -0400

I just returned from vacation. Ahhh… However, even when I’m on vacation I can’t help but to notice things that relate to my job. For example, I noticed every traffic camera on I-10 in Arizona not because they were stuck up on a poll blatantly in the middle of the highway but because one seemed to be pointed straight down and I wondered what the heck it was looking at. When I was at the spa in Scottsdale, I read a magazine about how to write effective blogs for your business. I apparently should be writing things that you want to know and not necessarily things that I want to tell you. I remember thinking as I sipped my ice water with lemon “well…duh!”.

The American economy now is a scary place. With major American car companies filing for bankruptcy, the end of an iconic era seems to be coming to an end. Companies that were at one time trend setters and leaders in their industries are begging for help and desperately trying to figure out how to keep their doors open. We all know someone or several people who have lost their jobs and finding a new one is rough.

So what are we supposed to do? It’s my opinion that we have to prioritize. Get back to basics. This certainly isn’t my proposal for how to fix the American economy but I know for myself, I’m doing simple things like turning lights off when I leave a room. Putting on a sweater if I’m cold or putting the air conditioner two or three degrees higher than I normally would. What does this mean for business? Well, I think small business owners especially are working their tails off to keep their employees in their jobs. Triad, for example, is not some big conglomerate who can save millions of dollars by laying off only 10% of its workforce. Yes, big business can keep their doors open and keep employing the other 90% of those people. At Triad, just like our customers, everyone has a name. There are 23 employees here. The company president says “good morning” personally to everyone in the office. The operations manager and the company vice president have had meetings to discuss policy and procedure changes that started with a simple exchange at the coffee pot.

It is the small business that is keeping our economy going. While I love the self-check out at Stop-n-Shop or the variety that I can experience at Lowes, I’m finding that I’m willing to pay just a little more for the produce at the local produce stand I pass on my way home because it tastes that much fresher. And I’m getting much more personal attention from the guy at the local hardware store when I need help with a DIY project. Don’t get me wrong. The big businesses have great people and I’ve had very good experiences there too. I just know in my world…everyone at my company, Triad, has a name. I think just about everyone in my company knew I was on vacation last week and not only that – they knew where I went and wanted to see some pictures! The same attention that we give to one another as co-workers we give ten fold to our clients. We enjoy being part of your lives. We love to be on the email list to your friends telling us that your daughter had a baby girl over the weekend. We share in your anxiety as your oldest child gets ready to go off to college. We’re regular guys (and gals) just like you. You are part of our world. The stories you share with us become part of our story.

Back to the economy…what do we do about it as a nation? Well, I can tell you that I’m really picky when it comes to service these days. Consumers, myself included, have a limited amount of disposable income and when I choose a vendor for something I do expect them to appreciate the fact that I chose them and treat me with respect and show their gratitude by being honest and thorough with the job they do for me. I expect the same things from my dry cleaner and mechanic and landscaper that I give freely to my own clients.

I’m looking for quality of workmanship and quality and attentiveness of service. Triad is celebrating 25 years of service in the security industry this year. That’s not because we’ve nickel and dimed every chump we’ve come across. When a vendor does a poor job, word definitely gets around. Looking for a security company? Did you know we are experts in access control, video surveillance (including IP camera and remote monitoring), intrusion and fire alarms and intercoms? Did you know Triad has licensed locksmiths on staff? Did you know that we really do understand if we can’t start that implementation next Wednesday because you have your son’s nursery school commencement ceremony? We are that company. We get it. If you haven’t done so already, call us today for a security assessment. Meet with one of our security experts and learn about how we can help you prevent losses and protect your employees, assets and facilities. (908) 964-5252

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Quality Isn't Expensive...It's Priceless

Thu, 21 May 2009 12:17:00 -0400

"This case clearly illustrates that the threat of terrorism in New York is persistent," Governor Paterson of New York said in a statement. Four men were arrested yesterday after being investigated for over a year. Their attempt to bomb a New York synagogues and a New York military base failed thank goodness. The scary part from my perspective is that 3 of the four men were American citizens (the other was of Haitian decent). These were people who were raised in American and whatever path their life took, they turned against the freedoms afforded to Americans and decided that America and certain people in our society were bad people. The First Amendment gives us the right to think and express ourselves freely so we don’t all have to get along necessarily – we don’t all have to get along. However, these four men not only wanted to express their disagreement with people of the Jewish faith, they wanted to kill them and cause mayhem.

I have to say that I am grateful that I work for a company that helps businesses, organizations and government buildings secure. Now is the time if your business doesn’t have any protections beyond a door lock and key to have a security consultation. I recently sat in on a webinar that listed the #1 reason why business owners do not have a video surveillance system is because they perceive them to be too expensive. First, this is not always the case and there are many solutions that are not exceptionally expensive. Is there a cost? Yes. Is it worth it? Absolutely. Now I’ve heard quite a few cliques - one says, “Quality isn’t cheap and cheap isn’t quality” and another “Quality isn’t expensive, it’s priceless.” It’s like that first aid kit I have in my trunk. It cost me $30 for the first aid kit in my trunk. When I bought it I remember thinking about how $30 seemed like a lot of money for just some band-aids and rubber gloves. I know, though, that even if I only use it once – the idea that I have this consortium of supplies like tweezers, an ice pack and antiseptic wipes – is going to be comforting and helpful to someone in a time of need – maybe even crisis. Apply that to having a security system. A business owner doesn’t need to go above and beyond what is needed but if it is at all affordable, I would strongly recommend doing it and doing it now before something happens and, after the fact, you find yourself saying, “if I had a camera or something, maybe I would have seen something or maybe we could have caught the guy.”

Second, if you are going to invest some of your budget dollars or make a capital investment into securing your facility, it’s worth doing it right. If you were diagnosed with a heart condition you wouldn’t get advice on your health from the waitress at the diner because her ex-husband’s father was a cardiologist, right? Of course not. You’d find the best cardiologist that you could afford and do what he/she tells you in order to prevent a heart attack. Just like if I wanted to secure my facility, I would want a quality system that I knew was reliable and I’d want to work with a company who could service my system when I needed it and was factory trained on the equipment they installed. I wouldn’t do it myself with only an 800 number to call for technical support. Let’s face it, my first aid kit and all the gauze in it isn’t going to be of any help to someone who is on the bottom of a massive car accident. I’m going to call professionals who know what they are doing and have been trained with the latest equipment to save that person’s life. So just because I can buy a 4 camera surveillance system from a big box store for $500 doesn’t mean it’s worth my money. You’ve got $500 for security? Great! Call an expert from Triad and talk to them about a plan for getting a quality security system installed. Maybe leasing a system would be a good option for you, maybe you can use better technology and not use 4 cameras – maybe two. The point is you don’t know until you talk to someone who knows the industry and has experience with your application and is familiar with all of the latest technology on the market.

Understand I’m not trying to scare you into buying a security system. I’m inviting you to use this news about these domestic terrorist as an opportunity to make a plan for securing your business, your assets and, most importantly, your employees. Sometimes it’s not equipment you’re trying to keep people from stealing or desks you’re trying to prevent from being vandalized – it’s people. You’re protecting and keeping safe the animal lover that sits on the other side of the cube wall who told you this morning about the neighbor’s new puppy she played with the night before or the manager whose wedding you attended last weekend or the account manager who’s desk is plastered with pictures of his family and who is looking forward to spending the weekend with his children down the shore. Thank God that no one was hurt in these attempts to bomb the synagogue. I’m sure there would be millions of dollars worth of damage and the community would come together and rebuild itself. Just consider that you may not need 150 cameras watching every square inch of your property and you don’t need to have your employees swipe their access card every time they walk into the restroom but maybe it would be helpful to put up a few cameras in the parking lot and a couple to monitor the entrances and exits of the office. Maybe being able to permit access to certain areas at certain times would be a good way of keeping everyone safe. What is peace of mind worth to you?

News Article: Four terror attack plotters nabbed

For 25 years, Triad Security Systems has offered security systems to commercial and industrial clients. Triad Security Systems offers state of the art security solutions for clients in a variety of industries. We can help your business reduce inventory loss and loss due to employee or vendor theft or error. Call us today at 908-964-5252 to have a security expert review your security plan and offer quality technological solutions. Triad offers mechanical and electronic access control, video surveillance with analog or IP video cameras, licensed locksmith services such as key management, commercial lock maintenance and repair, intrusion (burglar) alarm & fire alarm detection and central station alarm monitoring and audio/video intercoms. Triad security experts can help you to deter criminals, prevent loss, detect illegal entry and report on daily activities in secured areas. Triad is a complete security solutions provider. Don’t hesitate to call us today! The investment you make today could not only help you save today but the long run as you protect your facility and assets.

*Disclaimer