Category Archives: Security

SECURAM: From laser switches to biometric door locks @ CES 2024

February 9, 2024CES 2024, Gadgets, Home, Securityces2024, connected device, connected home, gadgets, lock, securityPLUGHITZ Live

SECURAM smarthome security SECURAM, a leading company in the security industry, recently announced the launch of its new suite of smart switch products. The Director of Marketing, Steve Davidson, shared insights about the unique features of these products.

Smart security switch with beam

The suite includes three types of switches, each designed with a specific focus on security. One of the standout features is a laser sensor located on the front of the switch. This sensor, which is thin and measures no more than three millimeters, can detect motion up to 15 feet away in both dark and bright settings.

The laser sensor is designed to trigger alarms or turn on lights when motion is detected. It is positioned at a height that is unlikely to be triggered by pets or children, ensuring that any motion detected is intentional.

Added security for emergencies

One of the key features of the smart security switch is its ability to make phone calls in case of emergencies. This means that users can set it up to automatically call emergency services if they do not respond to a notification. While there is no information about whether this service will be subscription-based, the company is considering different options.

One of the standout features of the smart security switch is its ability to function even without an internet connection. While certain features may not be available without internet access, the switch can still communicate with other devices within the house. This is made possible through the switches’ ability to talk to each other, creating a network of communication within the home.

The smart security switch also has programmable features. Users can program the up and down buttons to control multiple switches in their home. This allows for convenient control of lights and other devices throughout the house.

Using the switches together

While it is not necessary to have multiple switches, SECURAM recommends grouping them for optimal security. The company offers a regular switch without the laser sensor, a dimmer switch, and a programmable version of the security switch. These switches can be used to secure common entry points for intruders, such as front and back doors or patio doors.

Davidson confirmed that the ideal setup would include a switch near each door, but the final decision depends on the individual’s home layout and needs.

The switches are controlled through the SecureAMGuard app, which allows users to group and manage all their switches in one place. The app offers various scenes, automations, and triggers that can be set. Users can even set up the switch to notify the police or a specific person if motion is detected.

Simple installation for everyone

The installation process for the smart security switch is straightforward and can be done by anyone who is comfortable installing a regular switch. The switch simply pinches the wires, making it easy to install. However, it is important to turn off the breaker before installation to ensure safety. The company provides an installation video on Amazon to guide users through the process.

Biometric door lock with app

Another security product in the family is the EOS lock. This is a biometric door lock that offers a high level of security. It features a fingerprint reader and a durable aluminum metal housing. Users can also enter a passcode to unlock the door. The EOS lock is available in both Wi-Fi and standalone models. The standalone model does not require an internet connection and operates mechanically.

The EOS lock can be connected to the Guard app, which allows users to remotely open and close the door. This feature is particularly useful for granting access to guests when the homeowner is not at home. The app also provides a history of when the door was opened and closed, as well as alerts for when the door is left open.

What sets the EOS apart?

While there are competitors in the market offering similar products, SECURAM differentiates itself through its extensive experience in the lock industry. With over 30 years of experience in the lock and safe lock industries, SECURAM has established a high standard of quality and reliability. This expertise gives users confidence in the security and durability of the EOS lock.

Overall, the biometric door lock with app offered by SECURAM provides a convenient and secure solution for enhancing home security. With its programmable features, remote access capabilities, and high-quality construction, it is a reliable choice for homeowners looking to protect their property.

Conclusion: Unique security in an expensive package

The pricing for the smart security switch is reasonable, with the regular switch priced at $24.95 and the dimmer switch priced at $59.95. This makes it an affordable option for enhancing home security. The MSRP for the smart EOS lock is $269.

In conclusion, SECURAM’s smart security switch with a beam is designed to enhance home security by detecting motion and triggering alarms or lights. It can be grouped with other switches and controlled through the SecureAMGuard app, which offers a range of customization options. The SECURAM smart lock is a reliable and convenient solution for enhancing home security. With its biometric capabilities, remote access features, and solid construction, it offers homeowners peace of mind and ease of use.

To learn more about SECURAM and its product offerings, check out their website or Amazon store.

Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.

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YubiKey keeps your online data safe in an easy way @ CES 2023

February 24, 2023CES 2023, Computers, Mobile, Security2fa, ces2023, gadgets, mfa, multi-factor authentication, securityPLUGHITZ Live

YubiKey multi0factor authentication As time goes on, the internet gets to be a more dangerous place. It seems like every day we read another story about another data breach or ransomware attack because simple safety precautions were not taken by users or network administrators. And while you may never be able to change someone else’s behaviors to make yourself safer, you can make changes to your own security to help prevent others from putting you in harm’s way. Our favorite tactic to protect ourselves is by using a YubiKey by Yubico.

What is multi-factor authentication?

Before we can discuss the YubiKey itself, we need to discuss what multi-factor authentication is. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a method of confirming someone’s identity by using two or more independent pieces of evidence. The most common type of MFA is something you know and something you have. Something you know would be a password or PIN number, while something you have can be your phone, biometric identifiers like fingerprints, or the YubiKey itself.

The benefit of MFA is that it makes it much harder for someone to gain access to your accounts and information, as they now need two pieces of evidence, rather than just one. This significantly reduces the chance of someone being able to access your accounts and data without your consent.

What is a YubiKey?

A YubiKey is a physical key fob or USB device that serves as a second factor of authentication. It contains an embedded secure element that generates and stores cryptographic secrets used to generate one-time passwords (OTPs). When inserted into the computer or scanned using near-field communication (NFC), it sends the OTPs to the authentication backend. It is designed to be a very quick, easy, and secure way of authenticating yourself on your accounts or accessing data.

When combined with traditional username and password login credentials, a YubiKey provides an additional layer of security that makes it much harder for unauthorized individuals to gain access to your accounts and data. This highly secure form of two-factor authentication is becoming more popular due to its convenience and effectiveness in protecting user accounts. By adding a YubiKey to your security arsenal, you can be sure that the data stored on your online accounts are safe and secure from malicious actors. It’s an easy and effective way to protect yourself and your data.

How YubiKey is protecting the web

In addition to personal uses for a YubiKey, there are a lot of other places where the device can be used. For example, a lot of the corporate hacks we see could have been prevented by a secure MFA system. Even if a company uses text-based MFA, a SIM can be cloned by a determined hacker and access can still be granted. In addition, it prevents the terrible new trend of “zero trust” in corporate IT where they always assume that you’ve died unless you verify otherwise, destroying computers simply because you forgot to log into the VPN or some other process.

The company also puts a focus on global concerns. For example, they have provided devices to the Ukrainian government to help secure their governmental infrastructure. There was no requirement for them to do this, but they felt it was important enough to the country and the world to do what they could to help out.

Summary

YubiKey devices are available now for various uses, including USB-A, USB-C, NFC, and more. To learn more about the product line, check out the company’s website.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.

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ADT pairs the power of Google Nest and monitored security @ CES 2023

February 3, 2023CES 2023, Home, Securityadt, ces2023, connected device, connected home, gadgets, google, nest, smarthomePLUGHITZ Live

ADT Smart Home Security Home security is a top focus for a lot of people. The problem is that creating a safe and secure home can be challenging. You can buy pre-fabbed kits with connected sensors, but you end up locked into their ecosystem, but you’re required to monitor and respond to the alerts yourself. The other option is to go with an installed and monitored system, but you’re usually locked into their proprietary hardware, so if you ever want to change, you’re pretty much out of luck. Luckily, ADT has found an excellent middle-ground for consumers.

Who is ADT?

ADT is one of the biggest names in monitored home security. The company helps people to protect their homes without having to worry about installation, monitoring, or managing a home security system. The biggest advantage of one of the company’s systems is that emergency response is 8 times faster when managed by ADT as opposed to other competitors or even self-monitoring.

For those who are interested in their own installation, either for privacy reasons or a DIY spirit, ADT offers self-setup systems. Even if you install a system yourself, you had the ability to use the company’s monitoring services to improve peace of mind.

ADT’s connected home

In the spirit of self-installation and expanded options, ADT has begun offering connected home options. The company’s monitoring system can now be integrated with Google’s Nest product line. This means that Nest Cams, Nest Doorbells, Nest Thermostats, and even Nest Wi-Fi can be connected to ADT monitoring. In fact, you can use these connected devices while also having professional setup from the company’s installers.

One of the benefits of using consumer smart devices as part of your professional security setup is that you get all of the benefits of a smarthome while also getting all of the benefits of an ADT system. Using the Nest product line means that you can connect to your cameras, thermostat, and more while you are away. So, if someone rings your doorbell, you can see who is at the door even if you are on vacation. But, if there is a problem, an agent is able to respond and call the authorities if needed.

In addition, by using regular consumer hardware, you have the ability to make a change to your setup if needed. A change in life circumstances might mean you need to discontinue active monitoring. In that event, you are able to still access your Nest devices on your own and maintain security for your home on your own. This gives some flexibility in the hardware you have installed, as opposed to being stuck installing hardware that only works with the service provider that installed it. This gives owners more choices and reduces electronic waste in the event of a change.

Summary

ADT’s traditional security hardware and Google Nest integration are available for professional and self installation now. For more information about the company’s product and service offerings, you can head to their website or call (800) 750-0372.

Interview by Daniele Mendez of The New Product Launchpad.

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Apollo brings full automation to ADT’s commercial offerings @ CES 2023

February 2, 2023CES 2023, Robotics, Securityadt, ces2023, gadgets, robot, robotics, securityPLUGHITZ Live

ADT Commercial Apollo security robot It seems like every day we hear about another industry that AI, robotics, and automation are coming to improve. Fast food service has gotten better with more automation in the kitchen. Manufacturing has been helped immensely by robotics and automation, making the jobs in factories safer and less physically intensive. However, one place that we didn’t expect to see robotics, at least not today, is security. However, ADT Commercial has a new robot security guard called Apollo.

What is Apollo?

Apollo is a humanoid robot that is intended to augment traditional security guards in an office, retail space, or any other commercial property. It is part of the company’s new EvoGuard initiative, which seeks to infuse high-tech capabilities into ADT’s commercial security offerings.

A large part of a human security guard’s job is to observe their surroundings and report on what they see. This can be done by walking the premises and looking for things that are out of place, or by sitting with a wall of screens watching an entire property at once. If something out of the ordinary is observed, the correct people are alerted. This could be another member of security, the property owner, or even the police.

Apollo is capable of doing all of this, without any of the restrictions of a person. The robot can travel around a property easily looking for changes in the environment, or even recognizable issues. Once an issue is recognized, it can report back to a security supervisor and a human can take over control of the robot to go and investigate further. If warranted, the agent can then notify someone on the grounds, the property owner, or the local police.

One of the interesting features of Apollo is the virtual reality option. Using a VR headset, the supervisor is able to essentially become the robot. They are able to see through the perspective of the robot and manipulate it as if they were there. This includes moving its hands, opening or closing doors, checking windows, etc. However, if the supervisor is unable or unwilling to use the VR experience, the entire thing can also be controlled from the system’s computer-based dashboard.

This is actually the reason why Apollo is humanoid. If the purpose was merely to observe and report, then it could have been designed to look like a trash can. However, because it is intended to be able to be used remotely to accomplish goals, the company let it was important to make it with a wider range of motion. But, since all of our environments are designed for humans, it was decided that Apollo should be humanoid, as well.

Summary

Apollo is currently in use through partnerships with three test partners. Using their feedback, the company and its design partner are able to make adjustments before it becomes available for a wider audience, hopefully during quarter 1 of 2023. To learn more about Apollo or ADT’s other commercial security offerings, you can check out their website.

Interview by Daniele Mendez of The New Product Launchpad.

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The future for BenjiLock is secure and brighter than ever @ CES 2023

January 27, 2023Accessories, CES 2023, Gadgets, Securitybenjilock, biometric, ces2023, gadgets, lock, securityPLUGHITZ Live

BenjiLock Biometric Security Since we first encountered BenjiLock in Eureka Park in 2017, the company has changed a lot. Those early days were at a tiny booth with a non-functioning prototype. Before we got to see them again, the company had been on Shark Tank and partnered with Mr. Wonderful Kevin O’Leary. O’Leary put together a partnership to help Founder Robbie Cabral bring the product to market with manufacturing, sales, and more. Today, the company is looking at its next phase in life, including helping to support other startups at CES.

What is BenjiLock?

BenjiLock is the world’s first biometric padlock with a traditional key. The importance of having a biometric padlock allows you to go to the gym without having to carry anything with you. We’ve all had a phone fall out of our pocket or had to go look for our keys later on. With the BenjiLock, you can safely leave your items in a locker without having to carry a key.

The importance of having a physical key allows for a backup. Batteries die – and always at inopportune times. With other smart padlocks, if the battery dies, you’re possibly out of luck. You’ll have to cut the expensive lock off and throw it away. However, with the physical key, you’ve got a way to open the lock in that situation.

BenjiLock also now offers a wider range of products. The line now includes a biometric deadbolt and biometric bike lock, offering the convenience of unlocking your door or bike without keys. BenjiLock hopes to revolutionize home security, bike safety, and more with its innovative technology. By expanding the ecosystem, more people in more situations can go about their days without the need to carry as many keys.

BenjiLock at CES 2023

This year, the company took a different approach to CES. Rather than having its large blue booth on the show floor, Robbie spent his time helping to bring awareness to other startups exhibiting at the show in Eureka Park. BenjiLock sponsored the startup pitch event on the CTA Stage with Canon, allowing BenjiLock to help new startups get their start by giving them a platform at CES. BenjiLock was able to use its resources and experience from standing out in Eureka Park just six years ago to give back and help other startups get their big break.

This event was in partnership with the CTA Foundation, the non-profit arm of the Consumer Technology Association, the organization that oversees CES. The event was intended to showcase the best startups and entrepreneurs in technology, giving BenjiLock a chance to help out where they originally got started. Their support of the CTA Foundation really shows how far they’ve come since their first appearance at CES in 2017.

BenjiLock has gone from a small startup with big dreams to an established company ready to give back. The company is continuing to innovate, bringing biometric technology to the masses in a way we’ve never seen before. Robbie Cabral looks forward to what the future holds as the brand continues to grow and expand their product line. BenjiLock has come a long way since 2017, and with its support of other startups through initiatives like this partnership with the CTA Foundation, the company is setting itself up for even more success in the years to come.

Summary

The entirety of the BenjiLock product line is available now through the company’s website, as well as Amazon, Ace Hardware, and more.

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central and Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.

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ATBHASH is using blockchain to provide safety and security @ CES 2023

January 26, 2023Blockchain, CES 2023, Securityces2023, construction, domestic violence, gadgets, internet, safety, securityPLUGHITZ Live

Over the past few years, we’ve seen a lot of companies implement platforms based on blockchain technology. However, these platforms are often not enhanced by the permanent and unalterable nature of the technology. But, there are a lot of places where blockchain technology can be of use, and Parisian company ATBHASH is implementing them for safety and security purposes.

What is blockchain technology?

Blockchain technology is a revolutionary form of distributed ledger technology that enables secure and efficient transactions without the need for an intermediary. It is a decentralized system that keeps track of data across a network of computers, using cryptography to ensure the integrity and security of all transactions.

Put simply, blockchain is a digital ledger system where records or blocks are secured by cryptography and can be shared across a vast network of computers. Each block contains a timestamp, transaction data, and the digital signature of the previous block – creating an unchangeable chain. This makes it virtually impossible to modify or delete any data stored on the blockchain without having access to every node in the network.

The immutability of records stored on the blockchain provides a robust platform to store data securely and transparently. It is widely considered to be the most secure form of ledger technology, with potential applications in a vast range of industries from shipping and logistics to finance and healthcare. Blockchain technology has the potential to revolutionize how we do business by eliminating intermediaries, reducing transaction costs, increasing trust between parties, and streamlining the process of transferring assets.

ATBHASH for construction

The company began its blockchain journey in the construction space. By using blockchain technology, the company was able to produce a platform that creates a way to track a building project without the risks inherent in digital data. The platform is called CEERTIF. As the project proceeds, all steps are logged into the system. This gives auditors and inspectors a detailed and step-by-step insight into the building project.

Because of the blockchain backend, everyone involved can be assured that the data has not been changed within the CEERTIF platform. However, if it has been changed, then an audit log is available to show every change and when it happened. This way there are no questions about the integrity of the data being presented – a problem that happens normally in construction.

ATBHASH for domestic violence victims

Using the same core technology that made CEERTIF possible, ATBHASH has launched another blockchain product called NANSHE. This product focuses on the victims of domestic abuse rather than the construction industry. Using NANSHE, victims can safely and securely present evidence of domestic abuse.

The safety and security of the platform is the most important part in this case, as victims are often scared to come forward because of the potential backlash from reporting the crime. The platform, however, allows them to do so in a way that the abuser cannot find out about, and therefore cannot respond to.

In addition, because of the blockchain technology, there is no way for someone to hack in and change the data or delete it entirely. This is because blockchain data is immutable. This protects the victim’s safety and ensures the authorities can pursue the case without fear of loss.

Summary

Both platforms – CEERTIF and NANSHE – are available t use now. To learn more about the company and its products, head over to their website.

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central.

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LapLok protects your laptop when you work on-the-go @ CES 2023

January 25, 2023Accessories, CES 2023, Computers, Securityces2023, gadgets, laptop, security, travel, workspacePLUGHITZ Live

LapLok Tech Security If you travel as often as our team does, you know there are a number of issues that pop up regularly. For example, one day you could be working in a hotel office and the next you’re sitting at a table in a coffee bar. But, one thing always remains the same – how do you secure your computer? There are Kensington-style locks, but so many laptops today don’t have a lock port (including the one I’m using to write this). This is the space that LapLok is looking to fill.

What is LapLok?

LapLok is a near pocket-sized security system for anyone who uses their laptop out in public. This could be writers who need to be seen writing at Starbucks or travelers trying to get work done at the airport. Wherever you are, so long as you’ve got a flat surface, you can secure your laptop.

The device works fairly simply. You attach a mounting bracket to the back of your laptop, ideally before you go out. The bracket goes on with a strong 3M adhesive that will hold it in place in nearly all situations. Then, when you’re ready to lock the computer, you attach the base to the bracket and clamp it to the table. Once locked in place, it will only open with the PIN you’ve programmed.

In addition to the base locking system, there are other security accessories that can be added. The most prominent add-on that we saw was to also secure your purse or laptop bag to the underside of the table. Now, with a single device, you can deter the casual grab-and-go thief.

But, what happens if someone does grab the laptop and tries to get away? The LapLok has a built-in alarm that sounds. The alarm is loud and annoying enough that they didn’t want to demonstrate it at the show. Obviously, the idea of the alarm is to deter the theft, but also to alert everyone around in the event it happens.

Who is LapLok for?

With the increase in work-from-home and work-from-anywhere mentality, many people are working while out of the office. Because of this, companies have been issuing laptops to employees who previously may not have had one. So, with working from anywhere growing in popularity, the LapLok is really for anyone.

The most common use case is for people who travel a lot. Travelers often find themselves working in strange places. But, these days, many of us do. Even around town, I find myself working from restaurants and coffee shops – even gaming centers. Being able to secure your laptop to go to the bathroom is a great ability, but securing it while you’re sitting there is just as important – possibly more important.

Summary

LapLok is in a late prototype phase and TechLok, the company behind the product, is taking pre-orders now. The expected retail price of the device is $80, but in pre-order, you can get the whole productivity bundle for $7, though quantities are limited. To learn more or pre-order your own, head to the company’s website.

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central.

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