New Zealand Security Magazine - February-March 2023

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LEADING A REVOLUTION IN CCTV CYBER SECURITY

In a world where cyber threats are constantly evolving, you no longer need to compromise on the cyber security of your CCTV.

Provision-ISR and Check Point are leading a revolution in the CCTV industry with high-end CCTV systems featuring true embedded cyber security.

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Welcome to the February – March 2023 issue of New Zealand Security Magazine!

Time flies… the dust has barely settled on 2022 and we’re already a month into 2023! By all accounts we’re in for a bit of a roller coaster this year, giving the risk managers among us plenty of variables to work with!

It’s a topic that NZSA CEO Gary Morrison engages with in his update, noting that the unexpected resignation of Jacinda Ardern as Prime Minister will only heighten some of the market’s concerns and uncertainty.

On the topic of industry organisations, we’re delighted to be featuring three ASIS International-focused articles, including thoughts from Chapter Chair Johan van Rensburg CPP and Regional Vice President Ngaire Kelaher CPP PSP, and some insights on being part of the global ASIS International network from Chapter Deputy Chair Chris Proctor.

Also featuring heavily in this issue of NZSM is a focus on the recently published report of the Coordinated Review of the management of the LynnMall supermarket attacker. The report makes for sobering reading with its conclusions pointing to significant gaps relating to the attacker’s reintegration and rehabilitation,

On CCTV matters, we feature a Q&A with Ami Finer, Sales Director at Provision-ISR, and Gil Israeli, Head of Product Incubation at Check Point Software, about a partnership embedding high-end CCTV systems with worldleading cybersecurity. The cybersecurity of physical security matters!

Also in this issue of NZSM, we’re excited to be – in collaboration with the New Zealand Security Sector Network (NZSSN) – announcing the category winners and highly commended finalists of Women in Security Awards Aotearoa 2022!

Lastly, we’re delighted to be featuring the announcement by NZSA CEO Gary Morrison of the launch of the Saved a Life Medal to recognise security workers who have saved a life through their actions. This is a wonderful development that acknowledges the critical actions that frontline security officers are sometimes called to make in the line of duty, and we look forward to sharing stories of medal recipients in upcoming issues of the magazine.

There’s plenty more in this February-March issue of NZSM! To ensure you don’t miss out on any of the news and analysis we publish, subscribe to our email newsletters via our website, and follow us on LinkedIn via the address listed on this page.

As always, feel free to get in touch to find out about how your business can benefit by being part of New Zealand’s premier security, risk and resilience publication in 2023!

Stay safe!

NZ S M

New Zealand Security Magazine

Nicholas Dynon Auckland

Upcoming Issue

April / May 23 Government, Transport, Tourism, Access Management, IT security threats

Nick Dynon Chief Editor

Nick has written for NZSM since 2013. He writes on all things security, but is particularly fascinated with the fault lines between security and privacy, and between individual, enterprise and national security.

Prior to NZSM he clocked up over 20 years experience in various border security and military roles.

Disclaimer:

Contact Details:

Chief Editor, Nick Dynon

Phone: + 64 (0) 223 663 691

Email: nick@defsec.net.nz

Publisher, Craig Flint

Phone: + 64 (0)274 597 621

Email: craig@defsec.net.nz

Postal and delivery address: 27 West Crescent, Te Puru 3575, Thames, RD5, New Zealand

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The information contained in this publication is given in good faith and has been derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, neither the publishers nor any person involved in the preparation of this publication accept any form of liability whatsoever for its contents including advertisements, editorials, opinions, advice or information or for any consequences from its use.

Copyright: No article or part thereof may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

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The big security trends for 2023 according to ChatGPT

Sick of the annual lists of security trends that populate your LinkedIn feed each New Year? Tired of seeing so-called ‘disruptors’ making the list year after year? Well, this year we’ve bypassed the experts and asked AI what are the key security trends for 2023! the web, which makes them no better… and probably no worse! It may be an even more interesting exercise to run the same query again in early 2024 to gauge how much the chatbot has learned over the course of 12 months.

Launched free to the public on 30 November 2022 by San Francisco-based OpenAI, ChatGPT has literally taken the world by surprise. By 04 December it was estimated that ChatGPT already had over one million users.

The AI-enabled chatbot has gained instant attention for its ability to create lucid and detailed content on any manner of topics based on user queries, and at the same time it’s drawn quick criticism over its accuracy and pandora’s box of ethical implications.

Given the press generated by ChatGPT, we at NZSM decided to put the chatbot through its paces by seeking responses to four securityrelated questions:

1. What are the five key trends for physical security in 2023?

2. What the five key things that customers of physical security services will be looking for in 2023?

3. What are the five key challenges facing private security companies in 2023?

4. What are the five key characteristics customers will be looking for in private security guards in 2023?

The answers are, well, questionable, but it was nevertheless impressive to witness how quickly the system was able to pull its responses together. Ultimately, ChatGPT’s answers are only as good as the information on the topic that’s already been published on

Note: the remainder of this article is unedited text from ChatGPT

What are the five key trends for physical security in 2023?

1. Intelligent Video Analytics: As cameras continue to become more and more advanced, intelligent video analytics is becoming increasingly important in physical security operations. These systems leverage the power of AI to detect and analyse patterns, making it possible to identify potential security issues in real-time.

2. Remote Suveillance: With the rise of mobile devices and broadband networks, remote surveillance technologies are becoming more accessible and prevalent. This allows for facility and personnel surveillance from anywhere, making it easier for security personnel to stay up-todate on what’s going on.

3. Biometric Authentication: This is becoming increasingly important for physical security in 2023. Use of biometric authentication technologies (such as fingerprint, eye scanning, and facial recognition) is growing in order to heighten security and reduce false alarms.

4. Automation of Security-Related Processes: Automation of securityrelated processes is becoming

increasingly important as more systems become connected to the internet. Automation can help to quickly detect and respond to security threats as they arise.

5. Cybersecurity: Cybersecurity is becoming increasingly important as physical security systems become more connected. Ensuring data and networks remain secure is key in 2023, as it’s likely that more security systems will be connected to the internet. Cybersecurity technologies such as advanced encryption and firewalls are becoming more and more common.

What the five key things that customers of physical security services will be looking for in 2023?

1. Enhanced Security: Customers of physical security services will increasingly look for advanced security measures such as biometric authentication, encryption, and intrusion detection & prevention technologies.

2. Proactive Security: Customers will be looking for companies that offer proactive security systems that are capable of detecting and responding to security threats in real-time, before they become a problem.

3. Scalability & Usability: As physical security systems become

more connected, customers will look for systems that offer scalability and usability in order to meet their specific needs.

4. Reliability: Customers want to make sure that their systems are reliable, so they can trust that the security measures they have in place will work when they need it.

5. Cost-Effectiveness: Customers are always looking for costeffective solutions and will increasingly demand more bang for their buck from physical security providers.

What are the five key challenges facing private security companies in 2023?

1. Cybersecurity: Private security firms must ensure they have the necessary cybersecurity measures in place in order to protect their systems and customers’ data from malicious actors.

2. Regulatory Compliance: Private security companies must remain compliant with various regulations and standards in order to avoid fines, lawsuits, and other legal repercussions.

3. Security Personnel Training & Retention: Private security firms will need to ensure their personnel are properly trained and certified

in order to maintain a high level of security and safety. Additionally, retaining experienced personnel can be difficult due to a competitive job market.

4. Balancing New Technologies & Cost Effectiveness: Private security companies must balance the implementation of new technologies (such as AI) with cost effectiveness in order to remain competitive.

5. Data Integration: Private security firms often need to integrate data from disparate sources in order to provide realtime situational awareness. This can be a difficult challenge, and requires the correct tools and systems.

What are the five key characteristics customers will be looking for in private security guards in 2023?

1. Professionalism : Private security guards must demonstrate a professional and courteous demeanor at all times.

2. Verbal Communication : Good verbal communication skills will be essential, as they will need to be able to effectively communicate with clients, personnel, and other security personnel.

3. Knowledge & Experience : Private security guards will need to have a good understanding of security procedures, technology, and policies in order to effectively create and maintain an effective security plan.

4. Physical Ability : Security guards should also be physically fit and able to swiftly respond to security threats.

5. Flexibility : As technology advances and physical security needs evolve, private security guards should be able to quickly adapt and respond to changing scenarios

Will AI make us more or less secure?

In the short term, AI will expose cyber vulnerabilities, but there are positives long term, writes Monica Oravcova, COO and Co-founder of cyber security firm Naoris Protocol. code, with developers instructing AI to write, generate and audit code.

AI that writes and hacks code could spell trouble for enterprises, systems and networks. Current cybersecurity is already failing with exponential rises in hacks across every sector, with 2022 reportedly already 50% up on 2021.

With AI maturing, the use cases can be positive for the enterprise security and development workflow, which will increase the defence capabilities above the current (existing) security standards.

AI can help organisations improve their cybersecurity defences by enabling them to better detect, understand and respond to potential threats. AI can also help organisations respond to and recover from cyberattacks more quickly and effectively by automating tasks such as incident response and investigation, freeing up human resources to focus on more high-level, strategic tasks.

By analysing large volumes of data and using advanced machine learning algorithms, AI could (in the future) identify patterns and trends that may indicate a cyberattack is imminent, allowing organisations to take preventative measures before an attack occurs, minimising the risk of data breaches and other cyber incidents.

The adoption of AI could help organisations stay one step ahead of potential attacks by integrating AI into an organisation’s production pipeline to create smarter and more robust

AI will positively impact the CISO and IT team’s ability to monitor in real time. Security budgets will be reduced, cybersecurity teams will also reduce in numbers. Only those who can work with and interpret AI will be in demand.

However, bad actors can increase the attack vector, working smarter and a lot quicker by instructing AI to look for exploits and vulnerabilities within existing code infrastructure. The cold hard truth could mean that thousands of platforms and smart contracts could suddenly become exposed leading to a short term rise in cyber breaches.

As ChatGPT and LaMDA are reliant on large amounts of data to function effectively, if the data used to train these technologies is biased or incomplete, it could lead to inaccurate or flawed results.

Another issue is that AI is not fool proof and can still be vulnerable to cyberattacks or other forms of manipulation. This means that organisations need to have robust security measures in place to protect these technologies and ensure their integrity.

It is also important to consider the potential ethical implications of using ChatGPT and LaMDA for cybersecurity. For example, there may be concerns about privacy and the use of personal data to train these technologies, or about the potential for them to be used for malicious purposes.

Conclusion

AI will require enterprises to up their game. They will have to implement and use AI services within their security QA workflow processes prior to launching any new code / programmes.

With regulation working several years behind technology, we need organisations to implement a cyber secure mentality across their workforces in order to combat the increasing number of evolving hacks. The genie is now out of the bottle and if one side isn’t using the latest technology, they’re going to be in a losing position.

So if there’s an offensive AI out there, enterprises will need the best AI tool to defend themselves with. It’s an arms race as to who’s got the best tool.

Monica Oravcova, COO and Cofounder of cyber security firm Naoris Protocol.

CCTV Security Standards Will Never Be The Same Again

In a world where cyber threats are constantly evolving, Provision-ISR and Check Point Software are leading a revolution in the CCTV industry with high-end CCTV systems featuring true embedded cybersecurity

Q&A with Mr. Ami Finer (Provision-ISR Sales Director) and Mr. Gil Israeli (Head of Product Incubation at Check Point Software).

What is this partnership about and why was it needed?

Ami Finer: As we know, CCTV products are installed in sensitive locations, from private homes and small offices to large enterprises, including high-risk government buildings. Each of these devices has the potential to transfer sensitive information via video and audio streams - a fact that makes them “sexy” in the eyes of skilled hackers looking to show off their abilities.

However, the situation gets worse knowing that most CCTV products fitted by professional installers or by the end users, remain with the default username and password: a perfect ground for any cyber-attack action. Our goal at Provision, is to lead from the front with the most secured CCTV devices that give users peace of mind. With this partnership and through Check Point’s expertise in cybersecurity, Provision-ISR CCTV devices will gain the best-of-class security protection against sophisticated threats, right out-of-the-box.

Gil Israeli: Interconnected IoT smart devices, like IoT cameras, present multiple opportunities for cybercriminals to disrupt operations, yield financial gain, and get access into sensitive networks. These Internet-connected devices are inherently vulnerable and provide access to corporate networks thus becoming a prime target for ransomware and Denial of Service (DoS) attacks. Protecting these devices against exploitation is of critical importance.

If you build embedded consumer and Internet-ofThings (IoT) devices, like Provision´s CCTV cameras, the expanding threat landscape requires you to protect your customers from cyber attacks with out-of-the-box firmware security. Check Point’s solution for firmware cyber security empowers Provision-ISR to secure its IoT camera devices by enabling them to uncover firmware security flaws and harden its products with on- device runtime protection.

Ami Finer : Provision-ISR decided to take a unique approach when it comes to cybersecurity for CCTV. We have decided to entrust the cybersecurity management of our CCTV devices to Check Point Software, a leading provider of cybersecurity solutions to corporate enterprises and governments globally. By joining forces, we believe we have set a new standard for cybersecurity in CCTV. An end-toend cybersecurity solution on all Provision-ISR devices.

Can you dive a little deeper into the solution? What exactly is it and what is it called?

Gil Israeli : Check Point Quantum IoT Protect Nano Agent is an embedded runtime protection for IoT devices, such as IP CCTV systems, with on-device runtime protection, preventing zero-day attacks regardless of where they are or how they are deployed. Should such an attack be detected, the nano agent can either block the attack entirely or alert the organization’s security team, with minimal impact of device performance. Additionally, this solution does not require signature updates, an essential feature for IoT devices.

The Nano Agent provides out-of-the-box threat prevention capacities even in offline scenarios. Important for enterprises, the Nano Agent has built-in integrations with Check Point Infinity NEXT, providing users with easy and consolidated management, visibility, and logging for IoT and OT devices in a variety of deployment scenarios. The nano agent can also be deployed in standalone mode in isolated environments with no network or Internet connectivity.

You can find a detailed list of capabilities on our website.

On how many Provision-ISR cameras will be deployed this security solution?

Ami Finer : The Check Point nano agent will be on all Provision-ISR devices: cameras, recorders, and servers. This process will take around 1 year to achieve in full since it requires some hardware changes to some product lines.

Is it possible to upgrade older/existing CCTV cameras (retrofitting) or would people have to buy brand new ones?

Ami Finer : Some yes and some no. For items with hardware that can carry the Check Point nano agent, a version upgrade will be possible, and users will be able to enjoy this new feature. For other items, we must change the hardware to support the Check Point nano agent.

Why are Internet of Things (IoT) devices, like CCTV cameras so vulnerable? Can you share examples of real attacks using CCTV cameras?

Gil Israeli : IoT devices come with a few intrinsic flaws that make them susceptible to a hack:

• Lack of standardization creates a hodgepodge of devices

• Weak security approach, including flimsy or nonexistent passwords

• Outdated and unpatchable architecture, firmware, software

• Larger number of devices expands the attack surface and opens up the possibility of a botnet campaign

As a result, it is all too easy for hackers to gain access to these devices and either wreak havoc with the IoT devices themselves or move laterally to harm mission-critical systems and steal the personally identifiable information (PII) of customers or employees, intellectual property, or other assets. Hackers may also gain control over the network and hold it for ransom. We see that in general, vendors build and sell IoT solutions based on functionality and ease of use, often rushing products to market to beat the competition— without looking at the security big picture.

Ami Finer : The Verkada breach was a real example of hacked surveillance cameras. The IoT building- security startup was hacked in 2021, exposing footage from over 150,000 connected surveillance cameras belonging to 95 customers. It gave the attackers inside views of facilities including prisons, schools, companies, and even car manufacturer Tesla. The Verkada breach is nothing unique; in fact, too many situations like this have recently come to light.

Why should device manufacturers invest more in building IoT security into their devices?

Gil Israeli: While there are no standards and regulations yet, more secured devices are of essence to us all from consumers to enterprises and nations. Take the US for example, which in December 2020, passed the IoT Cybersecurity Improvement Act demanding better, tighter standards for IoT devices. This is an important step, acknowledging the serious threat these devices pose. One study showed that customers are worried by IoT security and would be willing to pay 22% more and buy 70% more of secured IoT devices.

Ami Finer : even important legislative actions like these are too late for most enterprises, as they are already using IoT from unregulated vendors. They may not even be aware of what IoT devices are in their environment. Obviously, when buying new devices, it is essential to choose vendors that are trustable and that are known for putting security first, like Provision-ISR.

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2022 Women in Security Awards Aotearoa: The Winners

The category winners and highly commended finalists of the 2022 Women in Security Awards Aotearoa were announced online just prior to Christmas. In case you missed it, here are the details!

In its third year, the Women in Security Awards Aotearoa (WiSAA) again proved a challenge for its expert judging panel, with a high quality field of nominees from across New Zealand’s security and resilience sector.

“In our third year it is extremely encouraging to see continued recognition of inspirational professionals from across the broader security and resilience sector,” said WiSAA cofounder Andrew Thorburn. “It is becoming more evident that as the sector matures it is characterised by increasing levels of inclusiveness and diversity.”

Organised by the New Zealand Security Sector Network (NZSSN) and supported by the international Women in Security & Resilience Alliance (WISECRA), the WiSAA initiative was established in 2020 to recognise women who have advanced the New Zealand security and resilience sectors.

Nominees must be women, or identify as women, and possess more than three years of experience in

either the physical security, personnel security, information security, or resilience disciplines, and be actively practising in Aotearoa New Zealand.

This year’s WiSAAs included ten categories:

• Consultant – A professional who provides advice and expertise to (or in) organisations to help them improve their security and/or resilience performance.

• Investigator – A professional who examines a crime, problem, statement, etc. in order to discover the facts.

• Analyst – A professional who collects, processes, and/or analyses security information.

• Engineer – A professional working within software or hardware engineering that supports the security sector.

• Executive – A professional who develops and implements security strategies, policies, protocols and procedures, and controls budgets for security and/or resilience operations.

• Leader – A professional who leads a team or teams, such as a team leader involved in the recruiting, training and supervising of security officers, or an operations manager.

• Educator – A professional who teaches, informs or inspires others.

• Thought Leader – A professional who has expertise, insight, and a valuable perspective; one that

challenges thinking, encourages colleagues and supports change.

• Indigenous Advocate – A professional supporting grassroots Indigenous movements to protect, respect, and fulfil the rights of their communities.

• Rising Star – An early career professional who is expected to achieve great things in the security and resilience sector.

WiSAA organisers were this year honoured to be joined by an expert judging panel reflecting the skills, experience and diversity of the sector, including nternational risk management, organisational resilience, and extreme events specialist Dr Bridgette Sullivan-Taylor; former New Zealand Defence Industry Association (NZDIA) CEO, IFSEC Global Influencer in Security, and 2021 WiSAA alumna Jennie Vickers; and ASIS International New Zealand Chapter Chair, respected security educator and 2020 WiSAA alumna Ngaire Kelaher CPP PSP.

And the winners are…

• Investigator: Kavita Chetty, New Zealand Automobile Association (AA New Zealand)

• Consultant: Natasha Pennell, FIRST Security

• Analyst: Aya Hashad, Auckland University of Technology (AUT)

• Engineer: Kirsten Nel, Gallagher Security

New Zealand Security Sector Network

• Educator: Karoline Jacobs, Civil Aviation Authority & Aviation Security Service New Zealand

• Leader: Su Kaur, FIRST Security

• Executive: Meredith Palmer, Gallagher Security

• Indigenous Advocate: Denise Carter-Bennett, Datacom

• Thought Leader: Hilary Walton, Microsoft

• Rising Star: Abby Zhang, Kordia

In addition to the category winners, the WiSAA organisers also recognised the following select group of particularly highly performing finalists

with Highly Commended citations:

• Consultant: Sandra Whitehead, Lotto NZ

• Leader: Angela Paul, Monitor New Zealand

• Thought Leader: Jeannette Mudge, 2 Degrees

• Indigenous Advocate: Tina Bautista, ZX Security

• Rising Star: Justina Koh, ZX Security

According to the organisers, this year’s WiSAA category winners and highly commended finalists will each receive award certificates and award logos and badges that can be used in social media, signature blocks, and other stationery.

The winners will also be featured in an upcoming series of Women in Security Award Aotearoa articles that will kick off in the upcoming April issue of NZSM. Stay tuned!

Meredith Palmer, Gallagher Security

Hilary Walton, Microsoft

US Secret Service publishes behavioural threat assessment report covering five years of attacks

New report on attacks on public and semi-public places is tragically timely as the US rings in a new year marred by mass shooting after mass shooting, writes chief editor Nicholas Dynon.

The 70-page report Mass Attacks in Public Spaces: 2016 – 2020 published in January by the United States Secret Service National Threat Assessment Center (NTAC) analyses 173 targeted attacks in public or semi-public locations in the US, including businesses, schools, houses of worship, open spaces, and other locations.

With attacks in public places in the US already making international headlines in January, the report is as timely as ever.

In a shooting in California’s Monterey Park on Saturday 20 January, a 72-year-old man is accused of killing 11 people while they were celebrating the lunar new year at a dance hall. It’s the deadliest of the dozens of mass shootings that have occurred in the US since January 1st.

According to the US-based Gun Violence Archive (GVA), the US witnessed a staggering 39 mass shootings in the first three weeks of 2023 alone. These resulted in 73 deaths and 165 injured. The GVA’s records indicate that over the five years of 2016-2020 the annual number of mass shootings in the US increased from 382 in 2016 to 611 in 2020.

“The report is the latest entry in a series of reports that examine attacks during which three or more individuals were injured or killed,” wrote Kimberly A. Cheatle, Director of the US Secret Service in her foreword. “By applying NTAC’s unique behavioural analysis to incidents of targeted violence occurring over a five-year period, Mass Attacks in Public Spaces: 2016 - 2020. represents NTAC’s most comprehensive examination to date of mass violence and its perpetrators.”

Perhaps somewhat ambitiously, the report claims that its examination of the attacks indicates that “targeted violence is preventable when communities are equipped with the appropriate tools, training, and resources to intervene before violence occurs.” In doing so it points to the importance of behavioural threat assessment programs in community violence prevention efforts.

These programs, state the report’s authors, “are not designed to predict who will become violent, but rather to identify, assess, and intervene with individuals who display threatening or other concerning behaviours that indicate they may pose a risk of harm to themselves or others.”

The 173 attacks studied by the report impacted a variety of locations, including workplaces, schools, houses of worship, military bases, non-profit

services, residential complexes, public transport, and open spaces, and in many cases, the attacker had a known affiliation with the site of the attack.

The two most common locations types (by a long way) were businesses/ workplaces (88) and open spaces (60), with education sites (13) a distant third. The two most common workplace types were restaurant/bar (25) and retail (21).

Key findings of the report include:

• Most of the attackers had exhibited behaviour that elicited concern in family members, friends, neighbours, classmates, co-workers, and others. In many cases, those individuals feared for the safety of themselves or others.

• Many attackers had a history of physically aggressive or intimidating behaviours, evidenced by prior violent criminal arrests/charges, domestic violence, or other acts of violence toward others.

• Half of the attackers were motivated by grievances, and were retaliating for perceived wrongs related to personal, domestic, or workplace issues.

• Most of the attackers used firearms, and many of those firearms were possessed illegally at the time of the attack.

• One-quarter of the attackers subscribed to a belief system

involving conspiracies or hateful ideologies, including antigovernment, anti-Semitic, and misogynistic views.

• Many attackers experienced stressful events across various life domains, including family/ romantic relationships, personal issues, employment, and legal issues. In some of these cases, attackers experienced a specific triggering event prior to perpetrating the attack.

• Over half of the attackers experienced mental health symptoms prior to or at the time of their attacks, including depression, psychotic symptoms, and suicidal thoughts.

In their concluding remarks, the report’s authors state that “the background and behaviours of the attackers demonstrate a continued need for public safety resources to be directed toward addressing threatening behaviour, stalking, harassment, domestic violence, violent extremism, and violence in general. The findings further emphasise the increased need for community resources to address mental health needs, social isolation, substance abuse, and individuals in crisis.”

Based on its analysis, NTAC highlights several operational

implications that should be considered when developing community violence prevention programs:

• Communities must encourage and facilitate bystander reporting and be prepared to respond when reports of concern are received.

• Communities should not wait for a direct and specific threat before taking action.

• Individuals displaying an unusual interest in violent topics, especially past attackers, should elicit concern.

• Businesses should consider establishing workplace violence prevention plans to identify, assess, and intervene with current employees, former employees, and customers who may pose a risk of violence.

• Public safety, school, workplace, and community service professionals should consider strategies for resolving interpersonal grievances.

• Individuals tasked with community violence prevention must understand the impact of violent and hateful rhetoric while protecting the constitutional right to free speech.

• Misogyny and domestic violence deserve increased attention from those tasked with mass violence prevention.

• Online platforms may be utilised by individuals to make violent

communications and to share violent rhetoric and ideas.

• Individuals sharing final communications or engaging in other final acts may warrant immediate intervention.

• Community violence prevention efforts require identifying and promoting appropriate resources for individuals who are managing stressful life circumstances, experiencing mental health issues, or facing a personal crisis.

• Mass shootings have been perpetrated by those who were legally prohibited from possessing firearms.

“The prevention of mass violence in America remains as critical as ever. Far too often, communities and families have been devastated by the impact of these tragedies, and public safety professionals continue to work toward preventing future attacks,” said Director Cheatle. “We encourage our public safety partners to review the information within this report and apply it to their own practices for providing a safe environment in communities across the country.”

The report is available at https:// www.secretservice.gov/sites/default/ files/reports/2023-01/usss-ntacmaps-2016-2020.pdf.

Coordinated Review of the management of the LynnMall supermarket attacker highlights lack of mental health focus

Independent review finds that among the significant deficiencies in the management of the person responsible for the LynnMall attack is missed opportunities for his redirection and rehabilitation, writes Nicholas Dynon.

Conducted by the Independent Police Conduct Authority, the Office of the Inspectorate for the Department of Corrections and the Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security, the Coordinated Review report was released on 14 December.

The report looked at the actions of Police, Corrections and the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) in managing Ahamed Aathill Mohamed Samsudeen prior to the

incident that saw the 32-year-old ISIS sympathiser stab six people before being shot dead by police at LynnMall in west Auckland on 03 September last year.

The government was quick to welcome the Coordinated Review, announcing on the same day as the report’s release that it accepted its findings.

“While no recommendations were made in the review report, we’re committed to working through the findings to ensure improvements can

Nicholas Dynon is chief editor of NZSM, and a widely published commentator on New Zealand’s defence, national security and private security sectors.

continue to be delivered across the system,” stated Lead Coordination Minister for the Government’s Response to the Royal Commission’s Report into the Terrorist Attack on the Christchurch Mosques, Andrew Little.

“This was a complex, unique and long running case that required national security and social sector agencies to work closely together,” he said. “The report recognises the system did its best in what was a very difficult and resource-intensive situation.”

While the report did indeed concluded that “the relevant agencies and individuals were generally doing their best to work together and manage the risk Mr Samsudeen posed,” it nevertheless found that there were four related areas where the response fell short.

Mr Samsudeen was well known to the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service, Police and Corrections. These agencies had all dealt with Mr Samsudeen at various times after his online activity supporting ISIL terror attacks and violent extremism came to the attention of the NZSIS in September 2015 and Police in March 2016.

Arrested for possession of violent objectionable material in May 2017, he was again arrested in August 2018 for possession of an offensive weapon and remanded in custody until July 2021 –almost three years.

Given his stated his intention to commit a domestic terror attack on multiple occasions, the Coordinated Review found that Mr Samsudeen presented as a real threat to New Zealand’s security and was justifiably under surveillance. Nevertheless, the Review report found a number of other deficiencies in the way in which his risk was responded to, which it grouped into four categories:

1. Missed opportunities for rehabilitation and reintegration

There were missed opportunities for Mr Samsudeen to be supported and directed away from violent extremism from 2016 when he came to the attention of Police and during his first period in custody (from May 2017 to June 2018). Equally, there were inadequate, fragmented and

ad hoc plans for his releases from prison in both 2018 and 2021.

2. Inadequate inter-agency arrangements

The inter-agency arrangements that exist as part of the National Security System did not always work well. In the absence of an appropriate lead agency, preventive measures for countering violent extremism were ad hoc, Policeinitiated and Police-run. There was no long-term plan involving social agencies and the community, that would have been required to address Mr Samsudeen’s needs and begin the process of disengaging him from violent extremist behaviour.

3.

Insufficient information sharing

In some instances, there was reluctance by Police and Corrections to share all relevant information with frontline staff and the community who were dealing with him on release. Programmes to counter violent extremism depend upon community support and must be undertaken as a partnership between government agencies and relevant community groups. There must therefore be a greater willingness to trust those groups with the information they need to participate effectively.

4. Unduly lengthy period on remand in custody

In total, Mr Samsudeen spent more than four years on remand in custody for two separate sets of offences between 2017 and his eventual release on bail in 2021. This was primarily caused by delays resulting from the legislative process of determining whether his online postings were objectionable, and the effects of the Covid-19 lockdown on the operation of the courts. This was an unduly lengthy remand period, which magnified Mr Samsudeen’s sense of grievance against the system, and greatly increased his alienation and radicalisation. We cannot say whether his attack would have occurred anyway, but his period in custody without the appropriate and necessary interventions and support enhanced the risk that he would.

Mental health blind spot

While the Coordinated Review found

that Mr Samsudeen’s risk justified his arrest and prosecution, it stated that “this took precedence over, and in the event largely precluded, attempts to guide him down a pro-social path.” This led to missed opportunities to develop a rehabilitative and reintegrative plan for him in 2016 and 2017.

“Overall, not enough effort was made at an early stage to provide Mr Samsudeen with wraparound support to address his complex needs and reduce his susceptibility to violent extremist ideology,” states the Review report. “Although the agencies said disengagement (withdrawal from violent extremism) was the preferred outcome, very little was done to achieve this.”

In coming to this conclusion, the report rebuked assertions that opportunities for engagement with Mr Samsudeen were limited or nonexistent, because of his hostility to the authorities and refusals to talk to them. According to the report, there “were occasions when Mr Samsudeen did engage with people, and times when he sought cultural and religious support, but it was not provided to him.”

Interestingly, the Coordinated Review expressed surprise “that there was no attempt to communicate with his family overseas, and in particular his sister with whom he was known to have been in frequent telephone contact.”

One of the reasons why opportunities to attempt rehabilitation and reintegration were missed, states the report, was that there was no agreed integrated basis for assessing a person’s level of risk. “Each agency had their own system. There was also no inter-agency process for determining the time at which, and the extent to which, some intervention was needed in response to the risk posed by a person’s violent extremist beliefs.”

The Coordinated Review noted suggestions that there should be a “more systematic process” along the lines of Fixated Threat Assessment Centres (FTAC) that assess and develop appropriate interventions for ‘fixated’ people who threaten public figures.

Following the earlier establishment of FTACs in other jurisdictions, including in the UK and Australia, the New Zealand Fixated Threat Assessment Centre was established in 2019 (following a 2017 pilot) as a collaboration between Health and Police and the Parliamentary Service to focus on threats directed at Members of Parliament.

FTACs comprise Police and mental health staff, including psychiatrists, who work together to assess a person’s level of risk, and share information to implement

appropriate interventions, which are often focused on mental health.

“We were told that this approach could be expanded to include people at risk of ‘lone-actor grievance-fuelled violence’ such as Mr Samsudeen,” states the Review report, “because both groups:

• have a high rate of grievance;

• tend to suffer significant mental health difficulties;

• usually show warning signs; and

• need a multi-agency response with efficient intelligence-sharing networks.

Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism

In his response to the release of the report, Minister Little commented that improvements to be made by the Government will include a focus on what it can do to address signs of radicalisation to violent extremism earlier. This includes work already done to develop the Police-led He Aranga Ake programme, a multiagency disengagement framework for delivering targeted intervention and support to disengage individuals

identified as being at risk of radicalisation and deemed to be on a journey towards violent extremism.

But the Review report was critical of He Aranga Ake on several fronts, commenting that the programme is still in its infancy, lacks significant involvement by social sector agencies, and is not intended for high risk persons – or those well down the road to violent extremism – like Mr Samsudeen.

“We are also of the view that it is inappropriate for Police to lead such an

intervention programme,” stated the report, noting that police are inevitably perceived to be oriented towards law enforcement (as opposed to prevention) and “therefore likely to be viewed with distrust by those who require intervention.”

Another improvement listed by Minister Little is Aotearoa Katoa: A Strategic Framework for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism , which is due for release early this year.

According to the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet website,

the Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE) Strategic Framework “will set out a wholeof-society approach to prevention of radicalisation to violence and building resilience to violent extremism.”

This includes identifying a “shared path” for government, public sector agencies, research, civil society and communities, providing priority outcome areas for design and delivery of a PCVE Grants Fund to civil society and community organisations to deliver initiatives in preventing radicalisation to violence and building resilience to violent extremism.

This is promising, but the already published New Zealand’s Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism Strategy sets a precedent that almost neglects the issue of intervention in relation to persons demonstrating advanced tendencies towards violent extremism.

The Strategy is big on the role of government agencies in assessing national security threats, promoting a cohesive society and responding to and recovering from terror incidents. By contrast, however, apart from listing an objective to “support those in need and promote the disengagement and rehabilitation of people engaged with violent extremist ideologies”, it says nothing about roles or responsibilities for intervention.

It’s concerning that a strategy focused on countering violent extremism would fall silent on how issues of intervention and rehabilitation might be approached. Despite the significant focus on countering violent extremism in New Zealand following the 2019 Christchurch mosque attacks, it’s a relatively new space for our policy makers and practitioners. One of the areas where we lack experience and require a mindset change is in relation to the role mental health plays in violent extremism – and specifically the role of mental health approaches in the management and rehabilitation of persons well progressed along the road to violent extremism.

Government accepts findings of LynnMall supermarket terror attack review

The Government welcomes the release of a coordinated review of the management of the person who carried out the LynnMall attack in Auckland on 3 September 2021.

The review by the Independent Police Conduct Authority, Office of the Inspectorate for the Department of Corrections and the Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security looked at the actions of Police, Corrections and the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS).

“We acknowledge the survivors and recognise the devastating effect this event had on them, their families, witnesses, emergency responders and the community,” said Andrew Little, the Lead Coordination Minister for the Government’s Response to the Royal Commission’s Report into the Terrorist Attack on the Christchurch Mosques.

“This was a complex, unique and long running case that required national security and social sector agencies to work closely together. The report recognises the system did its best in what was a very difficult and resource-intensive situation.

“While no recommendations were made in the review report, we’re committed to working through the findings to ensure improvements can continue to be delivered across the system.

“This will include a focus on what we can do to address signs of radicalisation to violent extremism earlier. Work has already been undertaken in development of the He Aranga Ake programme led by Police.”

Minister Little stated that the

Government has already taken a number of steps to improve counterterrorism efforts in response to the Royal Commission into the Christchurch attacks, including:

• Counter-Terrorism Legislation: Changes made through the CounterTerrorism Legislation Act 2021 to improve the clarity of the Terrorism Suppression Act and provide law enforcement agencies with the means and clear legal authority to intervene early.

• Classifications Act: Amendments to the Films, Videos, and Publications Classification Act 1993 to allow for urgent prevention and mitigation of harms caused by objectionable publications.

• Engagement with communities: Kāpuia, the Ministerial Advisory Group, was established to provide advice and links to communities on the Government’s Response to the Royal Commission of Inquiry.

• Social Cohesion: The Te Korowai Whetū Social Cohesion work programme launched by the Ministry of Social Development in June 2021 is a response to the

recommendations from the Royal Commission, including a $2 million community fund to support local, community-led initiatives that promote social cohesion.

• Addressing Violent Extremism: Police is leading the development of He Aranga Ake, a multi-agency preventative approach to identifying persons of concern to reduce the likelihood of violent extremism.

• Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism: Aotearoa Katoa: A Strategic Framework for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism will be released in 2023 following public and external engagement.

• Improved services for remand prisoners: Corrections is exploring new options for the treatment of people on remand and conducting a needs analysis across the prison estate to determine where and what treatment and interventions are needed.

• National Security System functions: Changes to the National Security System functions are being considered to ensure a stronger system.

Human nature can steer people away from new things – and that can blind them to novel threats

Professors Sam Hunter and Gina Scott Ligon write that we’re more resistant to new things than we think, and that makes us more vulnerable than we assume.

There’s a military aphorism that generals are always fighting the last war. It’s a natural human tendency to focus on the kinds of threats you’re used to while playing down the likelihood or importance of some new sort of attack.

Sam Hunter Professor of Organizational Psychology, University of Nebraska Omaha

Of course novel threats can crop up anytime and anywhere. An assassin killed former Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe with an improvised firearm in a country largely unfamiliar with gun violence. Dozens of cases of Havana Syndrome, a health condition some have speculated is caused by

directed energy or microwave weapons, remain unexplained. Unless you are a science fiction fan or obsess over spy novels, these kinds of attacks aren’t top of mind when anticipating what dangers are out there.

As psychologists and counterterrorism scholars, we’re interested in malevolent creativity. Novelty is not solely the purview of the “good guys” – those who seek to cause harm are as capable of generating creative ideas as everyone else.

So why do people tend to dismiss these types of novel threats, leaving themselves less protected? What

Director the National Counterterrorism Innovation, Technolology, and Education (NCITE) Center, University of Nebraska Omaha

Gina Scott Ligon

social scientists call “the originality bias” provides insight into why it’s so easy to forget that adversaries may be developing new tactics in pursuit of their malevolent goals.

What makes a novel threat easy to miss?

Although many people report a desire for new things and fresh ideas, studies find most are surprisingly resistant to novel thinking.

People often show a preference for the unoriginal. You can see it in the popularity of entertainment options like the ninth “Fast and Furious” movie or the latest Marvel Cinematic Universe offering. Gadgets are often designated by variant numbers – think iPhone 13 – emphasizing they’re an iteration of the familiar. And people tend to make mistakes when assessing the most novel ideas.

Such biases may have served humans well over the course of evolution, limiting the inclination to grab an unknown berry or trudge off into an ominous, freshly discovered cave. Although neutral or even helpful in many scenarios, this originality bias also has more worrisome implications if it means missing novel threats. Here’s how it can happen.

To start, novel ideas by definition are difficult for people to assess based on previous experience. A bullet, for

example, causes a wound. But a novel weapon may not leave as clear an indicator of harm. The impact of novel ideas can be harder to see and so easier to dismiss.

Evaluating novel ideas is also more cognitively demanding. There’s a lot more to figure out around an emerging or even theoretical technology like a microwave weapon compared with a well-known explosive compound.

And because a novel threat is by definition unknown, no one is scanning the horizon for it specifically. Before the terrorist attacks on 9/11, for example, there were fewer security checkpoints. Before Abe’s assassination, most in his circle were not scanning for makeshift guns, since Japan has few firearms and makeshift guns were often dismissed as a viable threat.

There are also social or interpersonal reasons for ignoring or missing original ideas. Fresh ideas often threaten the status quo and may put some people at a disadvantage. Consider a security company that sells bulletproof glass. If a novel threat can travel through the glass, that company may be reluctant to tell others that their product is of limited use against it. People may prefer to set aside the risk from a novel threat to protect the current way of operating.

Finally, it can be uncomfortable or embarrassing to discuss novel ideas and your views of them. A researcher may be reluctant to write about Havana Syndrome because of a fear of losing credibility if their take on what’s going on turns out to be wrong. Being wrong can diminish your view of yourself as well as how others see you, and it’s more common with novel ideas precisely because less is known about them.

Seeing past the originality bias

For all these reasons, people are often less well defended against novel threats, even though such threats have the potential to do great harm. How can those who work in law enforcement and the broader homeland security enterprise guard against the originality bias while guarding against threats? Work in organisational psychology and design thinking offers a few potential avenues to support breaking natural tendencies toward the predictable.

• Support a climate that seeks creative solutions.

• Promote leadership that supports and encourages viewing things differently.

• Seek diversity of expertise and a range of ways to frame problems.

• Conduct after-action discussions when a novel threat was missed and make changes to address weaknesses.

These ideas are aimed in particular at organisations and people who focus on countering violent extremism. But they provide some guidance for anyone else who also wants to work on the cognitive blind spot created by the originality bias.

And remember, it’s important not to equate novelty with danger. New ideas may be boring and rightly dismissed. They can also be first steps toward amazing innovations that should be pursued. In many respects, failure to grapple with the originality bias can come at significant cost.

This article was originally published in The Conversation on 24 August 2022.

Frontline workers to receive COVID-19 Response Award

In a 31 December media release, Jacinda Ardern announced the groups of frontline workers eligible for the COVID-19 Response Recognition Award.

The government has confirmed the groups of frontline workers to receive a COVID-19 Response Recognition Award in acknowledgement of the service given by them to New Zealand during the pandemic.

“All New Zealanders, at home and abroad, played a part in our successful response to COVID-19, and I thank them for that. But we also want to acknowledge those New Zealanders whose roles were particularly critical,” Jacinda Ardern said.

“Earlier this year I announced this award to recognise particular people who contributed to New Zealand’s COVID-19 response, with MIQ workers the first confirmed recipients.

We have subsequently considered other workforces who delivered key parts of the COVID-19 response and as a result further recipients of the award will be the border, testing, contact tracing and vaccination workforces along with the doctors and nurses who cared for patients with COVID-19.

Their efforts were vital to our national response, and this award is one way we can recognise and thank them for stepping up during our most challenging days.

Collectively these individuals made an enormous contribution, whether it was through containing and stamping out COVID-19, putting protections in

place to keep people safe, or caring for those who caught the virus.

The award has been designed to be in keeping with the likes of military service, and takes the form of a lapel pin with up to 80,000 pins to be given to individuals in the workforce groups identified.

There will also be an organisational award to recognise the collective efforts of people working for nongovernmental organisations that provided social service support as part of the national COVID-19 response.

The COVID-19 Response Recognition Award is for sustained and significant service in the following areas:

• Managed Isolation and Quarantine Facilities (MIQ)

• International Border workforce

• COVID-19 Testing workforce

• COVID-19 Contact Tracing workforce

• Doctors, Nurses, and healthcare staff caring for patients with COVID-19

• COVID-19 Vaccination workforce

The COVID-19 Response Recognition Award has a focus on frontline workers in these workforce groups, and also includes people who provided sustained commitment to these workforces in a direct operational support role.

Recognition of the MIQ workforce will include, MIQ facility teams, MIQ regional offices, MIQ head office, transport providers, community groups, iwi partnerships, and private providers.

It will also include personnel from New Zealand Police, healthcare staff and the Aviation Security Service (Avsec), and those members of the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) who were deployed to OPERATION PROTECT.

Recognition of the Border workforce will include workers from the New Zealand Customs Service, Immigration New Zealand, the Ministry for Primary Industries, healthcare staff, NZDF, Maritime New Zealand and Avsec.

Distribution of the individual awards will begin in late January 2023.

Being Better Together –Joining the Global Security Team

Teams have been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I can still recall the excitement AND anticipation of standing in the school corridor as the sports teacher pinned up the rugby team list on the board and the stampede to get to see it once he disappeared around the corner. The exhilaration of seeing my name alongside 14 of my mates; I was in the team!

I knew nothing about improved productivity, fresh perspectives or any of the other benefits of team working that we are familiar with now. I just knew that I was part of a team who shared a common goal – to win as many games as we could. The fact that my subsequent rugby career was somewhat muted, languishing back down in the second and third teams didn’t matter, I was still a member of a team.

My security career has also seen me working in teams although their size and composition has varied tremendously. Security was never on my horizon, however, an unexpected change in direction saw me joining the British Army with the fantastic job title of Operator Intelligence and Security.

Across almost three decades of service, I worked in and led teams of security practitioners both on operations and in the home base. Now, being the Army, we used terms like Sections, Companies, Battalions, or Corps but regardless of their size and complexity, they were all teams; groups of professionals with interconnected roles, complimentary skills, a synergy in how we worked and a common purpose.

I am now a member of two equally high performing teams. The first of those is Beca, and I could spend time expounding on the innovative, enterprise level security audit, advice

Joining ASIS International means joining a team of 34,000 security professionals spread across the globe, writes the professional organisation’s New Zealand Chapter Deputy Chair Chris Proctor.

Chris Proctor is Deputy Chair of the ASIS International New Zealand Chapter and a security consultant at Beca.

Military team.

is

and assurance services that myself and my colleagues (all deep security experts with a bewildering range of expertise and experience) provide to our clients

but this is not the place for that. If you do want to know more, I’m always up for a coffee and a chat – after all, life is a business development opportunity.

The other security team that I want to discuss is ASIS.

Founded in the US in 1955 with the aim of professionalising the field of

Chris

in the back row, third from the left.

Rugby team dreams. Chris is in the back row, fifth from the left.

security, ASIS has grown to be a global community of security professionals. Today ASIS is the largest professional security membership organisation in the world, comprising a diverse mix of practitioners, academics, consultants, and others dedicated to the advancement of security worldwide.

When I first heard about ASIS, I did ask myself ‘why bother?’ I thought that it was just another ‘clique’, focused solely on US security issues. However, I paid my fees and joined what I have now discovered to be an outstanding team of 34,000 security professionals located across the globe.

Benefits of Teams Benefits of ASIS

Builds trust

Builds understanding

Increases innovation

Provides fresh

perspectives

Overcomes obstacles

Engages members

And I do mean ‘team’. When you look at how teams operate and what benefits they provide, ASIS fits neatly into almost every criterion. So, in a thinly disguised attempt to promote the virtues of ASIS and to convince you that it really is a team worth joining, let’s do that comparison:

Leveraging the reputation of a world-renowned security organisation and its globally recognized certification standards brings with it an increased confidence and trust in your security credentials within your networks and with your clients.

We all know that ‘every day is a school day’ and ASIS is a real advocate of this. Learning programs, webinars, a learning exchange, mentoring opportunities, case studies, annual events and the certification courses provide a plethora of learning opportunities.

Through its publications, blogs, member’s fora, special interest groups and interaction between members worldwide, ASIS seeks to share best practice and to explore new and innovative ways of doing this security ‘thing’ we’re all involved with.

Harnessing the power of over 34k professionals results in new ways of thinking. Members reach out and challenge the status quo or request insight from a huge panel of experts. ASIS provides thought leadership and innovation through a host of educational opportunities and a range of publications and online resources to really get you thinking differently.

Using the ASIS network can help you in overcoming knotty security problems that you are facing. It is highly unlikely that the issue is unique to you so, by sharing and inviting insight from the ASIS team, you will receive expert advice and suggestions.

Conducting regular local meetings where expert speakers provide deep insight into emerging security issues coupled with great networking opportunities with fellow chapter members. The opportunities for professional development, involvement in specific interest groups and the availability of a huge range of resources to support you in your work all represent engagement touch points that make belonging to this team an exciting, active and engaging experience.

I have used ASIS to benefit my career by:

• Using the network to develop innovative ways of working.

• Contributing to discussions and providing insights to help others.

• Maintaining my knowledge of the market

• Making and engaging with new contacts at home and internationally.

• Learning from informative speakers at chapter meetings

In short, I’m as excited to be a member of the ASIS team as I was

standing in that draughty corridor waiting for the rugby team list to be posted!

So, have I whetted your appetite? If so, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch at chris.proctor@beca.com. Come along to one of the next ASIS meetings and see for yourself. I’d be happy to host you and do all the introductions.

If you’re not quite convinced, consider the benefits of growing your network, navigating global industry trends, and advancing your career through globally renowned professional development that ASIS

offers. You are more than welcome to come along to an ASIS meeting and check it out for yourself.

You might want to review the ASIS website at https://www.asisonline. org/.

Have a look at what ASIS offers and then reach out for a chat.

NZSA launches the Saved a Life Medal

New Zealand Security Association CEO Gary Morrison announces the launch of the Saved a Life Medal to recognise security workers who have saved a life through their actions.

January saw the launch of the new award initiative by the NZSA. The Saved a Life Medal will recognise and celebrate those workers within the security industry who have saved a life, or lives, through their actions.

The initiative, notes Gary, builds on the well-received and very successful Covid Guardian award programme that the NZSA ran during the lockdown periods.

“The medal will be specific to either an individual security worker or a team, where their actions have directly saved a life, or lives,” he said. Examples include:

• Assisting or removing a person, or persons, from life threatening situations

• Providing care to a person, or persons, that has resulting in their surviving life-threatening injuries

• Preventing a person, or persons, from causing life threatening harm to others

• Preventing a person, or persons from causing life threatening harm to themselves

• Identifying and removing risks that if unmitigated, could have caused life threatening harm to others

Security personnel are often first responders to emergency incidents and the actions that they take can directly lead to the saving of lives.

“Whilst these professionals don’t seek accolades or recognition, the Saved a Life Medal programme provides a way in which the community can support and recognise those who demonstrate the very best in security professionalism,” states the NZSA website. “The award programme will also help to recognise our industry’s security personnel who face the daily potential of making critical decisions or taking action to save a life or property.”

Nominations for the Saved a Life Medal may be submitted online via the NZSA website (www.security.org. nz).

The nomination process is very straight forward with qualification criteria outlined on the website. Nominations can be for an individual or a team and can be submitted by employers, colleagues, customers or the general public.

Nominations must be received within four months of the incident and be supported by evidence such as media reporting, letters of acknowledgement or witness statements.

All winners will be presented with an attractive medal (which they get to keep) and a certificate, and their actions will be profiled within the bi-monthly NZSA Newsletter and on NZSA social media platforms.

Recipients will also be recognised in a roll call at the Annual Security Awards event and will automatically be nominated in the appropriate award category for each year.

In his January monthly update to NZSA members, Gary encouraged security providers to support the new initiative “and ensure that we get the opportunity to recognise the often-unsung heroic work performed by many security workers.”

NZSA CEO’s January Report

NZSA

Launch of NZSA online learning platform, Fair Pay Agreements, Privacy Commissioner’s biometrics review, and Withdrawal of the Targeted Training and Apprenticeship Fund (TTAF).

I trust that your Christmas and New Year went well and that 2023 has started well. Unfortunately, the weather failed to play ball for those of us living in the North Island and our thoughts are with those on the East Coast who have suffered flooding and storm damage.

As we look at the year ahead, perhaps the only certainty is that it will be another challenging year for many.

Vocational Education). It can only be assumed the unexpected resignation of Jacinda Ardern as Prime Minister will only heighten some of these concerns and uncertainty.

Whilst these issues require careful planning and management, they also provide a number of opportunities for well managed businesses to grow and thrive and we have no doubt that many of our members can look forward to a successful year ahead.

Gary Morrison is CEO of the New Zealand Security Association (NZSA). A qualified accountant, Gary was GM of Armourguard Security for New Zealand and Fiji prior to establishing Icon Security Group.

Over the last few years, the security industry has demonstrated its resilience and ability to readily adopt to the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, including the introduction of new services and labour resource pressures. For those who thought however that we may now be looking at some return to normality, the reality is that 2023 will almost certainly be one of the most difficult and challenging that business, and the public in general, have had to face.

The recently released Business Confidence Survey highlighted that approximately 75% of business owners and managers are expecting a significant downturn in the economy this year and close to 20% are currently planning for staff lay-offs or reduced hiring.

Factors driving the loss of confidence include continued high inflation, the impacts of the Russia/ Ukraine war, government-imposed cost increases for business and the uncertainty of government policy around areas such as Three Waters, Fair Pay Agreements and ROVE (Review of

From an NZSA perspective, we recognise that members may be facing operational and cost pressures and it is important that we continue to strive to provide the best possible value to our members. This includes effective representation with government agencies, providing strong leadership and guidance in further lifting standards, positive promotion of the industry and ensuring that our benefit programmes are targeted at member needs.

As you will see from the following commentary, the NZSA is starting the year with a number of new initiatives that specifically target membership value and we look forward to further launches in coming months.

Launch of NZSA online learning platform

The NZSA recognises the importance of providing a package of learning materials for the security industry that supplement the NZQA training delivered by training providers and can be found in a single repository.

In the coming weeks we will launch the NZSA online training platform for the use of our members and the wider industry.

CEO Gary Morrison talks

Initial learning and training materials to be hosted on the platform include:

• Literacy and Numeracy Modules. Free access for all.

• Electronic Security Good Practice. Preferential rates for members.

• Entry Level Security Technician Foundation Training. Preferential rates for members.

Look out for our formal launch in early February.

Fair Pay Agreements (FPAs)

As you will be aware, the legislation supporting FPAs came into effect on 1 December 2022.

To date, four applications for FPAs have been lodged by unions with MBIE. These are:

• Hospitality (General) Unite Union

• Bus and Coach Drivers (2 separate applications) Amalgamated Workers Union

• Supermarket and Grocery Store Workers First Union

You can check the status of proposed FPAs and see who the employee and employer bargaining parties are, via the Fair Pay Agreement dashboard on the MBIE website.

It is our expectation that Etu will submit an application with MBIE towards the end of February covering the security industry. From the date of submission, MBIE must respond as soon as practicable, but the period is likely to be in excess of 30 working days, particularly if multiple applications are received.

Once approved, MBIE will publicly notify its decision and request public submissions.

Following approval to initiate, the initiating union must identify which unions and employers are likely to be covered by the proposed FPA and use best endeavours to notify them of the initiation of bargaining. There is an obligation on the union to provide a form to every employer who is likely to be covered by the application, which they in turn must issue to every covered employee.

Whilst the timelines for the process are specified within the FPA legislation, there is some uncertainty with regards to MBIE’s ability to meet the defined timing and even assuming dates are achieved, we believe it will be mid-year at the earliest that the industry (through the NZSA) are effectively required to become involved in the process.

As the peak body for the security industry, the NZSA has sought expert guidance on these matters and we are very confident that we can provide our members, and all industry employers, with the necessary governance, systems and processes to meet the obligations of the Employer Bargaining Party.

We will continue to keep our members briefed on all further FPA developments.

Biometrics review

The Privacy Commissioner has announced he will be exploring a code of practice under the Privacy Act as a way to provide better protection for biometric information and greater clarity about regulatory requirements

for organisations that collect and use biometric information.

This will impact onto a number of electronic security providers who utilise biometrics within their security solutions.

The NZSA has been involved in initial discussions on this matter and during the current year will be part of the targeted engagement with organisations and experts with a particular interest in biometrics. We will actively engage with our membership leading into the consultation process to ensure that we have appropriate representation and an understanding of the industry views.

Withdrawal of Targeted Training and Apprenticeship Fund (TTAF)

In July 2020 the government introduced a new training fund designed to help New Zealand recover from the impacts of Covid-19. The fund supplemented the existing Fees Free policy and targeted trainees in high demand industry sectors.

Through this fund, the government has effectively covered the cost of those trainees undertaking the New Zealand Certificate in Electrotechnology (Level 3) and New Zealand Certificate in Electronic Security (Level 4) through E-tec (our industry training provider) over the last two and a half years.

Unfortunately, the TTAF was withdrawn at the end of 2022 and trainees (or their employer) will now need to pay E-tec directly for their training. The weekly cost for both Level 3 and Level 4 has been set at $49.90 per week, including GST.

It should be noted that the Apprenticeship Boost payment of $500 per month can still be claimed by qualifying employers through MSD and used to offset the training cost. Similarly, the Fees Free policy remains in place and trainees should check their eligibility through the government website Eligibility Criteria feesfree.govt.nz.

We recommend that employers with trainees currently enrolled in the Level 3 and Level 4 programmes should contact E-tec on 0800 030500 or lafos@etec.ac.nz and ensure that arrangements are in place and to ensure continuity of training.

Results of international research on diversity, equity and inclusion in corporate security released

A just-released report ‘Empowering Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Corporate Security’ gives a glimpse into the challenges and opportunities faced within the security profession.

The US-based ASIS Foundation in partnership with UK-based research firm The Clarity Factory last month launched its first-ever Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) report, Empowering Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Corporate Security 2022.

The report highlights DEI challenges within corporate security and suggestions towards building a culture that respects and celebrates the diversity of its workforce; recruiting, developing, and retaining diverse talent necessary to address the challenges faced by the security profession.

In addition to an extensive literature review of latest thinking and best practice on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), the Clarity Factory conducted:

• Informal interviews and discussions with 32 professionals across the security industry, along with participation in a number of informal industry networks on DEI.

• Structured interviews with 16 Chief Security Officers from multinational companies based in the UK, US, Australia, the Netherlands, Switzerland and Germany.

• An anonymous survey, which

received 474 responses, which were concentrated in the US, the UK, Canada, and Europe.

Survey respondents were 38 percent women, 11 percent LGBTQIA+, 6 percent had a physical disability and 11 percent were neurodiverse. 21 percent of respondents residing in the US, Canada, the UK, Europe, Australia and New Zealand were non-Caucasian.

Researchers also received data from SMR Group, a small, womanand veteran-owned recruitment firm working across 75 countries, whose sole focus is security, risk and resiliency. They analysed data from the last five years of job searches, which included over 5,000

records, providing anonymised numbers to The Clarity Factory.

“Valuing and leveraging a diverse workforce, and developing and retaining talent with different life experiences, will undoubtedly bring better and more strategic solutions to the world of security,” said Maria Teresa Septien CPP, Chair of the ASIS Foundation Board of Trustees.

“We embarked on this research effort to better understand the current state of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) within corporate security: the nature and extent of diversity, the experience of diverse professionals within the industry, the thinking of corporate security leaders and the types of initiatives they are spearheading, the role of membership organizations, and outstanding challenges,” she continued. “Organisations like ASIS International have a key role to play in progressing DEI efforts now and in the years to come.”

The research points to the following practices for corporate security functions:

• Use of metrics to track progress and hold managers accountable.

• Provide training for managers in conducting reviews and promotions.

• Offer equal access to career development enhancing opportunities.

• Identify routes for progression for the intelligence function to transition – it is a diverse cohort but struggles to transition into mainstream security roles.

“According to the study’s findings, corporate security departments have recently placed more focus on DEI work,” said Rachel Briggs OBE, co-founder and CEO of The Clarity Factory.

“Corporate leaders acknowledge the importance of DEI but also voice their displeasure that more hasn’t been done,” she said. “Security isn’t the only sector suffering with it. Although there is still much to learn about the strategies that will work best for corporate security, this study gives us a glimpse into the most urgent problems now present in corporate security settings.”

Nearly all of the CSOs participating in the research placed a great emphasis on broadening the diversity of their teams, improving equity via the work, and fostering inclusive workplaces. Their work across the three areas of DEI was documented and fell into the following three categories:

1. Collective Wisdom: Getting more diverse talent into corporate security – diversity.

2. Rewarding Talent: Ensuring all talent can rise equitably through the function – equity.

3. Unlocking the Diversity Dividend: Inclusive work environments –inclusion.

The research cites that corporate security starts from a much lower diversity base than most other areas of the business. For example, data from SMR Group showed that 94 percent

of their candidates for security, risk and resiliency roles globally were men, and 70 percent came from a former government background – generally military, police or intelligence. Additionally, it also points to the following practices for security industry membership organisations to further their role as change agents as their access and reach is significant. Those practices include:

• Collecting data to understand their members and gather input and feedback on DE&I efforts.

• Revising talent spotting and selection processes to ensure diversity within boards and leadership.

• Using programming to enhance DE&I within the industry, including diversity of speakers, rules on entertainment at events, instigating and implementing codes of conduct, offering safe spaces for discussions about DE&I, ensuring fair approaches to awards, running programs for members on reverse mentoring, and promoting and supporting DE&I networks.

• Playing an active role in wider industry branding efforts, such as campaigns and career pathways.

The ASIS Foundation was founded as an affiliate of ASIS International in 1966 to serve the security industry through education and research. The Foundation awards more than 100 grants and scholarships annually to support security professionals.

ASIS International’s New Zealand Chapter sets sights on membership drive

The ASIS International New Zealand Chapter’s November AGM saw the election of a new executive committee and a firm commitment to grow membership to new heights in 2023.

With a mix of experience and fresh faces, the New Zealand Chapter of ASIS International has announced its new executive committee and volunteer line-up for 2023.

While Johan van Rensburg CPP continues his tenure as Chairperson, Chris Proctor joins the executive as Deputy Chair, while last year’s Secretary Dee Wakelin moves to the Treasurer role and Nicholas Dynon moves in as Secretary.

In other key volunteer roles, Andrew Thorburn continues as Next Gen Liaison, with Jennie Vickers as Military Liaison and Rehan du Toit CPP PSP as Certification Liaison.

Focusing on Membership

“In 2023, the main goal of the Chapter’s Executive Committee is to grow chapter membership by providing a value-added benefit to our members both continuing and new, and to also give formermembers good reason to consider reengaging,” Chapter Chairperson Johan van Rensburg told NZSM.

“Our members represent almost every industry across the public and private sectors and include entry-level security professionals to veterans, consultants, CSOs and CEOs,” he said.

“We strive to provide our members with value and opportunities by providing the best in industry education, information, and networking opportunities to help members thrive professionally, whether they are NextGen (early career) professionals or industry veterans.”

These opportunities include our monthly in-person and virtual chapter meetings featuring quality, relevant guest speakers (both local and international) and regular events such as our certification dinners, OSPAs, Women in Security event. Other benefits include reduced associated membership fees with the NZSA and access to members-only educational resources.

In addition to Johan’s continuing leadership of the body’s New Zealand Chapter, Ngaire Kelaher (immediate past Chapter Chairperson) continues in her role as Regional vice president for ASIS International’s Region 15a (which also includes the South Pacific and Papua New Guinea) and takes on a new role as Assistant Regional Vice President for Learning and Certification (Region 15).

“With regional and local support we are excited for what 2023 brings us!” Ngaire told NZSM. “My ARVP

focus will be to help grow certification for both New Zealand and Australia so if you’ve been thinking about itconsidering it - wondering about it - then get in with your local chapter certification liaison or contact me to answer any questions you may have.”

“The chapter will continue with its monthly Certification Round up meetings where those interested can ‘drop in’ on the last Thursday of each month and ask questions and share support, encouragement and strategies for those looking at achieving any of the ASIS International certifications,” she said.

“In my Regional Vice President role, I will be supporting the chapter in every aspect to grow membership, and professional development and networking opportunities. I would also love any contact leads for the beautiful countries that fall under Region 15A, so get ready to receive a call from me!”

Meet the Executive Committee

Chairperson – Johan van Rensburg

CPP

Johan is an ASIS International Certified Protection Professional (CPP) with extensive experience in electronic security, physical security, risk management and security framework implementation.

Currently Security Manager at Caldwell Levesque (part of the Horizon Energy Group), he was until recently Security Risk Advisor

at Kiwibank. In a security career spanning over 23 years, he has worked for a range of security providers in New Zealand and in high risk locations internationally across close protection, risk management, risk assessment, security advisory services, asset transportation, cash in transit, and electronic security consultancy.

Deputy Chair – Chris Proctor Chris is Associate Security Consultant at Beca. Following a 28-year career in the British Army (Intelligence

Corps), Chris has worked in a range of security consultancy and management roles across private and public sectors, including with Deloitte, Regional Facilities Auckland (Head of Visitor Safety), Rocket Lab (Security Manager), and the Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment (Principal Advisor Protective Security).

A vocal proponent of converged security approaches, Chris is passionate about breaking down the traditional silos of the corporate security environment in favour of coherent and collaborative approaches.

Secretary – Nicholas Dynon

Nick will be known to readers of NZSM as the magazine’s chief editor, and he is concurrently Enterprise Security Risk Manager at Optic Security Group. In a 28-year security career spanning the government (immigration and border security), military and private sectors, Nick has worked in a range of operational, advisory and corporate roles.

In addition to his ASIS NZ chapter role, Nick is also a member of ASIS International’s Enterprise Security Risk Management Steering Committee and Extremism and Political Instability Steering Committee. He is currently studying for the CPP certification examination and is confident that this year’s the year!

Treasurer – Dee Wakelin

Dee is a Director and Senior Account Relationship Manager at security guarding and event security provider Red Badge Group. Prior to joining Red Badge, Dee was a Market Manager and Account Manager at cleaning and hygiene solutions provider Jasol New Zealand where she managed a national customer base of approximately 250 accounts.

An experienced and visionary sales manager and leader, Dee has developed sales and market strategies and developed and led high performing sales teams in a professional journey that has seen her work across the security, tourism, manufacturing, cosmetics and chemical industries.

Gallagher predicts championing the customer in 2023 will drive access control innovations

Gallagher predicts global market will remain difficult for businesses throughout 2023 but believes that its customer-centric strategy will help the company innovate its way to delivering outstanding value to customers.

“As a company, we strongly believe that championing the customer will drive access control innovations,” said Chief Architect of Gallagher Security, Andrew Scothern.

“Our long-term plan is to deliver a fully cloud-based enterprise solution, and we feel it’s important to work closely with customers as they make the transition to an enhanced security software ecosystem.

“We believe security technology players need to take the customer on the journey of product development in order to truly meet their complex access control needs. Therefore, at Gallagher Security, we’ll be focused on upgrading and maintaining systems using a hybrid approach of both on-premise and cloud-based systems”.

Key to Gallagher’s customer-centric approach is recognising that customers want choice, which means ensuring the company never takes away the option for customers to be able to host their access control software themselves.

In addition, Gallagher aims to provide compelling value through a series of flexible, scalable cloud-based services - for those that are comfortable taking that step.

“Along with choice, customers also want ease of deployment with a rich set of integration points,” Andrew explains.

“The commitment to building rich Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) and integration points ensures that customers can extend the site management software ecosystem in ways that suit the way they work, and ensures Gallagher builds a comprehensive collection of partners to meet the complex needs that customers have.”

This approach requires more work and a longer development time for Gallagher; however, the payoff is being able to offer a solution that is truly customized to customers’ business needs, and the ability to react quickly to adjust the Gallagher product based on their feedback.

Source of Truth

As a result of its customer relationships, Gallagher has been able to recognise the developing trend of access control products being used as a source of truth for information in customers’ wider processes and ecosystems.

“With more focus on health and safety and knowing how building spaces are being utilised, the importance of having first-class integrations to get information in and out of the access control system is becoming increasingly important,” said Andrew.

“This is another reason why our ongoing investment into our integration capabilities is so crucial to being able to evolve with our customers, design for limitless scale for growing organizations, and regularly deliver value.”

REACH NEW HEIGHTS in Professional Excellence

ASIS accredited certifications can help you reach your career goals.

“PCI is an important element in the ASIS C ertification programme, dovetailing into both CPP a nd PSP for a comprehensive understanding of broader security industry objectives. An effective and reliable investigation depends on objectivity, thoroughness, relevance, accuracy and timeliness. PCI helps identify critical investigative outcomes, including evidence collection, case management, and the process of offender detection, iden tification, interview and prosecution. Good physic al security designs, together with robust policies and procedures are key elements in a successful investigation. The PCI certification p rov ides an insight into how these pieces interrelate."

- D avi d H orsburgh, MSc CPP PSP PCI

WH Y EARN THE PCI DESIGNATION?

• Provides independent confirmation of your specialized skills in security investigations

• Gain global recognition by your peers and industry

• Get a competitive edge in the marketplace

• Enhance your career and earnings potential

• Enjoy personal satisfaction and professional achievement

Be one of the many ASIS board certified practitioners who are leaders, mentors, and trusted strategic partners, serving both their organizations and the profession.

Validates your ability to conduct security investigations through the effective use of surveillance, interviews, and interrogations. Designed for those with 5 years of related experience. Visit

WHY SHOULD AN EMPLOYER HIRE ASIS CERTIFIED PROFESSIONALS?

• Build a strong, dedicated team committed to high standards and continuing professional development

• Promote ongoing education of critical job knowledge and skills

• Feel confident that your staff are using best practices

• Recruit the most qualified professionals

• Reinforce or elevate your organization’s reputation and credibility

Increase the competency level of your staff by supporting your security professionals in their certification journey.

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