Curbing terrorism requires staying ahead of the curve and thinking about security technologies in new, responsive ways.
As security technology and our approaches towards keeping the world safe continue to develop and change, so too do the efforts of terrorists worldwide to circumvent them. When we talk about terrorism threats, it’s hard to compare some of the attacks between different countries with varying levels of security infrastructure, though one thing is clear: investing in terrorist screening technology has become a necessity. Understanding what is currently going on in the world of terrorism aids us in better understanding how we can address these vulnerabilities and what technologies or approaches may be useful.
A Reliance on Improvisation
We tend to think of terrorist attacks being held out by AK-47 wielding masked men, but many terror attacks are being performed with alternate means of destruction. Between 2015 and 2016, the use of firearms in terror attacks actually dropped from 57 to 6. This is because terrorists have been looking into improvisational methods of destruction that are easier to access, such as explosives or the use of vehicles. While the conversation on firearm legislation will likely never cease, it’s important that we do not forget about vehicle inspection or building access to prevent the use of improvised explosive devices.
Targeting Disarray
Situations that are difficult to secure have become some of the most prominent targets for terrorism. This includes the 2015 Paris attacks, where a popular rock and roll concert was targeted, or the 2017 Barcelona attacks, where a van was used to hit pedestrians on La Rambla, a popular tourist attraction street. In either instance, a location was picked based on its vulnerability. Implementing comprehensive security technology won’t get rid of these vulnerabilities, but by looking at areas that may specifically attract attacks, we can be better prepared to put the necessary features in place.
Increased Lethality
The number of terror attacks tends to shift annually but there has been an increase in the actual lethality of those attacks. According to The New Yorker, “between 1970 and 2014, there were no fatalities in fifty-three percent of terrorist attacks worldwide. In 2015, the number of lethal attacks increased by eight percent.” This coincides with an increase in the number of people actually killed, as well. As terrorism continues to adapt and embrace new social or technological ideas, so too does our approach towards defeating terrorist threats.
Intelligent Systems With Gatekeeper
Gatekeeper Security’s suite of intelligent optical technologies provides security personnel with the tool to detect today’s threats. Our systems help those in the energy, transportation, commercial, and government sectors protect their people and their valuables by detecting threats in time to take action. From automatic under vehicle inspection systems, automatic license plate reader systems, to on the move automatic vehicle occupant identifier, we offer full 360-degree vehicle scanning to ensure any threat is found. Throughout 30 countries around the globe, Gatekeeper Security’s technology is trusted to help protect critical infrastructure. Follow us on Facebook, Google+, and LinkedIn for updates about our technology and company.