AI Is Transforming Security. Here’s Why It’s Good for Business.

by Michael Miller

AI-enabled security systems are reshaping how businesses approach security, from which threats to focus on to how early they can be detected. In this article, we look at four AI-assisted applications being deployed by organizations big and small to protect themselves and save critical time and money in the process.

Today’s businesses face no shortage or variety of possible security threats. From espionage drones to concealed weapons to vehicle-based attacks, risks and their vectors are getting harder to predict. Making matters worse, traditional security systems struggle to keep up—at least by themselves.

AI is reshaping what we look for

AI is changing how businesses approach traditional security measures, such as surveillance and monitoring, by dramatically improving our ability to respond to environmental dangers. For example, AI-enabled analytics, embedded within a video surveillance software system and trained to recognize the outline of a concealed weapon in someone’s jacket, can allow rapid detection and mitigation of a serious threat—much faster and more accurately than a human.

Sadly, as such threats become more common and sophisticated, leveraging AI-enabled security is no longer optional. So, what can a business do? And what does it look like in the real world?

AI-enabled security in the real world

Combining advanced analytics with real-time processing gives AI unprecedented capabilities to detect, assess, and respond to threats. Here are some of the most impactful ways it’s being implemented.

Video surveillance

Unlike traditional surveillance, which relies heavily on manual observation or pre-set motion triggers, AI systems can analyze live video feeds continuously and autonomously. These systems use advanced algorithms to identify suspicious behaviors, such as loitering, erratic movements, or unauthorized access to restricted areas, allowing security teams to respond to potential issues proactively rather than waiting for incidents to occur.

Weapons detection

AI systems can also detect weapons with exceptional accuracy. By analyzing visual data, AI systems can recognize firearms, knives, or other dangerous objects, even ones partially concealed. This enables faster, more precise responses in critical situations, potentially saving lives. For example, in environments like schools or hospitals, these systems can alert security personnel immediately when a threat is identified, reducing response times and mitigating risks before they escalate.

Drone detection

AI-powered detection systems can analyze radar, thermal sensors, and video feed data to identify and classify drones based on their size, movement, and flight patterns. This enables early detection, for example, before a drone enters restricted airspace. Once detected, AI systems can automatically trigger alerts to security teams or deploy countermeasures like signal jamming or automated tracking. Taken together, such a system can help a business such as an airport or hospital mitigate an aerial threat more rapidly.

License plate recognition (LPR)

AI-enhanced LPR systems are being used to improve perimeter security by automating the process of identifying and logging vehicle information. These systems capture and analyze images of license plates as vehicles enter or exit a parking lot or specific area, automatically comparing the data against pre-approved lists. This allows businesses to flag unauthorized vehicles and prevent unauthorized access quickly.

Small businesses are using AI, too.

AI-powered security isn’t just a tool for large companies with big budgets. SMBs are finding their own use cases as well. LPR, for example, can help a small business simplify things like parking management—ensuring only authorized vehicles park in allocated spaces—and delivery tracking—recording details like vehicle characteristics and timestamps to avoid misplaced or delayed deliveries.

Such capabilities allow all businesses to increase security without increasing manual effort, boosting safety without adding operational expense.

Test drive before you buy

AI-driven systems are the next generation of security. However, not all systems are created equal, and moreover, not all security integrators have done their homework. That’s why the first step is to schedule an onsite consultation and, if possible, a demonstration of a system’s capabilities with a security integrator you trust. Only then can you ensure the solution you ultimately end up with is tailored to your needs and environment.

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