Physical Security: Predictions and Insights for 2025
With 2024 behind us, it's worth reflecting on what we discussed and saw unfold throughout the year, and where physical security is heading in 2025.
Today we revisit the key topics that shaped 2024 and explore how some of these made headlines—while looking ahead at what’s next for 2025.
What We Covered and What Unfolded in 2024
January 2024: Safeguarding Public Assets
We began the year with a focus on critical infrastructure and public spaces. "Safeguarding Public Assets: Securing Bus Yards" explored the importance of protecting public transportation hubs like bus yards, which serve as vital arteries for economic activity and public safety.
Doug Dreher’s podcast, "AI's Role in Enhancing Physical Security for Critical Sites," provided insights into how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing security measures for high-risk infrastructure.
In May 2024, there was a surge in attacks on energy substations, reaching a decade-high level. These attacks raised concerns about the vulnerability of U.S. electricity infrastructure.
On November 15, 2024, a woman climbed onto a high-voltage substation in Salt Lake City, causing a power outage affecting 800 homes. She bypassed security fencing and damaged a control panel.
In November 2024, a 24-year-old Tennessee man, was arrested for attempting to use a drone packed with explosives to destroy a power station in Nashville.
Additionally, our article, "AI-Powered Physical Security," kicked off the year by showcasing how AI continues to transform the physical security industry with applications in threat detection, operational efficiency, and real-time analytics.
February 2024: Mobile Surveillance Units Take the Stage
In February, our article "How Mobile Surveillance Units Protect Construction Sites" highlighted the growing reliance on mobile surveillance units (MSUs) for securing construction sites. These edge based systems have proved invaluable in addressing theft and vandalism concerns at these locations.
On October 1, 2024, a violent robbery took place at a construction site in the Crestmoor Park neighborhood of Denver, Colorado.
On November 3, 2024, a theft occurred at a new home construction site in San Antonio, Texas
March 2024: AI Enhanced Radar and Perimeter Defense
March brought advancements in perimeter security with our coverage of "AI Enhanced Radar for Critical Infrastructure." Combining artificial intelligence with radar systems, this technology marked a new chapter in proactive threat detection and critical infrastructure protection.
April 2024: Multi-Directional Surveillance Cameras
Multi-directional surveillance cameras have redefined how organizations approach camera design by offering a more comprehensive and flexible field of view, enabling a reduction in blind spots and optimizing coverage areas for complex environments like parking lots, warehouses, and urban spaces.
May 2024: Cloud Video Surveillance Gains Momentum
Cloud-based video surveillance took center stage in May. In "Cloud Video Surveillance is Gaining Momentum," we examined the shift from traditional on-premise systems to VSaaS (Video Surveillance as a Service) solutions, which are streamlining security operations and reducing costs.
June 2024: Long-Distance Surveillance Challenges
A contributor article by Cliff Rogers, "Long-Distance Video Surveillance: Options and Solutions," tackled the complexities of extending surveillance reach without compromising on video quality. Topics like Cat6 cabling and edge computing were explored to address these technical hurdles.
We also covered "Tailgating & Piggybacking" within access control, examining how these common access control challenges can compromise facility security and the tools available to mitigate these risks effectively.
July 2024: Convergence of Cyber and Physical Security
In July, we explored the growing overlap between cyber and physical security. Articles like "The Growing Physical Security Industry and Its Convergence with Cybersecurity" emphasized the importance of integrative strategies.
In September 2024 we saw cyberattacks plague the healthcare sector, with 386 cyber-attacks reported in the first part of 2024. The attacks, including ransomware and data theft, have had profound impacts on patient care and healthcare operations
Additionally, we explored the rising demand for extended video surveillance retention in "The Growing Demand for Extended Video Surveillance Retention" and innovative advancements in visual intelligence with "Defender Podcast guest John Callahan: AXIS Communications on Visual Intelligence." Together, these pieces shed light on emerging trends reshaping the industry, such as longer retention policies driven by compliance and new video analytics tools advancing situational awareness.
August 2024: Securing Supply Chains and Parking Lots
August’s coverage was packed with insightful content across multiple domains of physical security.
Lee Odess’s "Defender Podcast" set the tone for innovation in access control, discussing its evolution and growing impact.
Honeywell completed the acquisition of Carrier's Global Access Solutions business for $4.95 billion. This major deal included three key brands: LenelS2, Onity, and Supra.
ASSA ABLOY acquired Level Lock in September 2024.
We also covered supply chain security with "Warehouse and Distribution Center Security Threats," exploring vulnerabilities and strategies for safeguarding these critical hubs.
The area within a 200-mile radius of the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, dubbed the "Southern California Red Zone," experienced a high concentration of cargo thefts. This zone accounted for 36% of all cargo thefts in the country, averaging 58.6 thefts per month.
On December 26, 2024, An employee was killed during a dispute at a Distribution Center in Memphis. The facility was shut down for four days for investigation, causing significant disruption.
Parking lot safety took the spotlight in "Safety Starts Here: Best Practices for Securing Parking Lots," addressing challenges like crime hotspots and mitigation strategies.
On November 30, 2024, two victims were robbed at gunpoint in the parking lot behind La Barca's restaurant in Los Angeles. The suspect pistol-whipped one of the victims before fleeing.
On December 12, 2024, a 79-year-old woman was physically assaulted and robbed in the parking lot outside Trader Joe's at Ward Parkway Shopping Center in Kansas City, Missouri.
The "Zero Trust Framework in Physical Security" article extended the cybersecurity principle to the physical realm, redefining trust and verification protocols.
Additionally, we covered the "DJI Drone Ban Debate in the NDAA," a timely discussion on drone regulations and their implications for security operations.
In October 2024, a drone crash occurred during a Boston Celtics event, injuring two people.
Since November 18, 2024, a series of mysterious drone sightings occurred across New Jersey and parts of the East Coast, raising significant concerns about airspace security.
September 2024: Hybrid Workspaces and Insider Threats
September featured in-depth discussions on two key topics: visitor management in hybrid work environments and mitigating insider threats.
Chuck Randolph’s podcast, "Building a Risk-Aware Culture and Fostering Collaboration," focused on the importance of protecting people, property, and information from insider threats, offering actionable strategies for security teams.
In December, we all saw the importance of executive protection with the high profile fatal shooting of the UnitedHealthcare CEO.
Additionally, our article, "Securing Hybrid Workspaces: The Importance of Visitor Management Systems," explored how streamlined visitor management enhances security while maintaining a positive impression in dynamic and evolving workplace environments.
October 2024: Insider Threats and Colocation Challenges
October showcased a diverse range of topics. Tyler Schmoker’s insights in "Unlocking LinkedIn's Potential" highlighted how security professionals can leverage LinkedIn for career growth and industry connections.
Insider risks took the spotlight with Chuck Randolph’s "Why Insider Threats Require a Converged Approach to Security," where he addressed vulnerabilities ranging from disgruntled employees to nation-state threats.
Additionally, Doug Dreher joined us on the podcast "Inside Colocation" to discuss the unique challenges faced by colocation facilities and the importance of implementing tailored security strategies for these critical infrastructures.
November 2024: AI Moves Security from Passive to Proactive
In November, our article "From Passive to Proactive Security with AI" highlighted how artificial intelligence is enabling organizations to transition from reactive monitoring to proactive threat detection, further solidifying AI as a cornerstone of modern security strategies.
We also explored how smarter security can drive business outcomes in "Beyond Protection: How Security Drives Profitability," emphasizing its role in optimizing space, boosting workplace satisfaction, and enhancing overall operational efficiency.
December 2024: Security Trailers for Edge Based Security
December’s coverage continued to highlight innovative approaches in physical security. Our article, "5G & Security Trailers," explored how advanced connectivity solutions are transforming edge-based security systems, enabling seamless video transmission in remote and challenging environments.
Looking Ahead to 2025
Here are just three areas poised to transform the physical security industry:
1. AI Integration Across All Levels of Security
While 2024 introduced AI as a game-changer, 2025 will witness substantial advancements across all aspects of security operations. Expect:
Autonomous AI systems reducing the burden on human resources.
AI-driven analytics enabling faster and more accurate threat detection.
Machine learning models tailoring responses to unique security environments.
AI won't just enhance existing systems—it will redefine them.
2. The Rise of Security Tech
Technology is shaking up the security industry, driving both disruption and opportunity. Key advancements to watch include:
Autonomous Technologies: Drones and robotics are leading the charge, offering scalable, flexible, and precise solutions.
Efficiency in Security Operation Centers (SOCs): New tools will streamline processes, enabling faster, autonomous driven responses to incidents.
Edge Computing in Security Devices: This will allow for real-time decision-making closer to the source of incidents.
3. Enhanced Perimeter Security
Emerging threats like drones and other aerial risks are making perimeter security a top priority. Developments include:
Advanced surveillance systems with AI-powered detection and tracking capabilities.
Innovative physical barriers designed to adapt to modern threats.
Hybrid solutions integrating traditional and digital security measures.
Opportunities and Challenges
The trends shaping 2025 aren’t just about advancements—they’re about redefining what’s possible in physical security. These shifts present immense opportunities to create safer, more efficient, and accessible security solutions:
Democratizing Video Monitoring: By significantly lowering costs with autonomous AI operators, organizations of all sizes can adopt advanced monitoring capabilities. This levels the playing field, ensuring even smaller businesses can leverage cutting-edge technology to protect lives and property.
Faster Incident Response: Autonomous systems and edge-based AI are transforming the way security teams respond to threats. These systems enable immediate detection and action, drastically reducing response times and preventing escalation.
Crime Prevention Over Recording: Edge-based technologies are shifting the paradigm from passive recording to active deterrence. By intervening before incidents occur, these systems mitigate risks in real time, protecting both people and assets.
But alongside these exciting opportunities come challenges:
Consensus and Collaboration: Transforming an industry built around safety requires unity. Historically, security has been slow to adopt change, often prioritizing caution over innovation. For the sector to evolve, stakeholders across the board—manufacturers, integrators, and end users—must align on driving progress.
Overcoming Resistance to Change: The adoption of disruptive technologies will require education, trust, and a shift in mindset. Security professionals must seek out innovative manufacturers that address challenges traditional solutions can’t, ensuring their operations stay ahead of evolving threats.
Bridging Innovation and Accessibility: While the technology exists to revolutionize the industry, ensuring it’s affordable and accessible to all will be key. Without this, the democratization of security risks becoming just another talking point.
Final Thoughts
2024 was a big year for the physical security industry, marked by advancements in technology, a deeper understanding of risks, and an ongoing commitment to innovation. As we step into 2025, we’re excited to continue exploring these trends and delivering insights that help security professionals navigate the landscape.
Through collaboration, we tap into collective wisdom, turning shared knowledge into proactive protection.