Category: Maritime

Countdown Is On for U. S. Travelers To Be REAL ID Compliant by May 7, 2025

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) along with teach individual state’s Bureau of Motor Vehicles is reminding travelers to ensure they have a REAL ID-compliant form of identification as the federal enforcement deadline of May 7, 2025, draws closer. 

On May 7th, TSA will no longer accept state-issued identifications that are not REAL ID compliant at TSA security checkpoints. All airline passengers 18 years and older, including TSA PreCheck members, must present REAL ID-compliant identification or another acceptable ID, such as a passport, at TSA security checkpoints. Noncitizens illegally present in the U.S. who are voluntarily self-deporting on international flights will not be denied boarding under this requirement.

“As we approach a busy travel season, TSA’s focus is to enforce REAL ID effectively and efficiently,” said Jason Pinegar, TSA’s acting federal security director for Maine. “Passengers who present state-issued identification that is not REAL ID compliant can expect to face delays, additional screening and the possibility of not being permitted into the security checkpoint. We are committed to the traveling public by raising the security baseline nationwide and ensuring their safety.”  

“The federal mandates are causing Mainers real concerns, but the BMV is here to help ensure Mainers get to where they need to be,” said Shenna Bellows, Maine Secretary of State. “May 7 is only the date the TSA will begin requiring a passport or Real ID to fly domestically, it is not the deadline to get a Real ID. The BMV will be offering Real IDs long after May 7. If you don’t have upcoming travel plans, go online to make an appointment for later this summer – you’ll be in and out of the BMV quickly. But if you do have travel plans and don’t currently have a passport or other federal ID, check the BMV website for the list of documents you’ll need for a Real ID and plan to go to your local BMV as early in the day as you can.”

Everyone without a passport or any other acceptable form of ID is encouraged to upgrade to a REAL ID compliant license. A standard license without the star won’t be accepted for domestic flights and you will face delays, additional screening and the possibility of not being permitted into the secure area of the airport.

Real ID applicants must have their photograph taken and provide the following documentation (for a complete list download the REAL ID Checklist (PDF), copies of which will remain on file with the BMV:

  • One document that establishes identity*, date of birth, and proof of U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residence, or other lawful status in the U.S. (see below for additional requirements if your legal name has changed for any reason including marriage)
  • Provide Social Security Number (card not required) or evidence of Social Security Number ineligibility.
  • Two documents to establish proof of residence in the State of Maine, such as a utility bill, paycheck stub or mortgage statement (P.O. Box is not acceptable).

For more information and details about how to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, visit the Bureau of Motor Vehicles for the state of residence.

FaceTec Releases UR Codes Scan+Match Apps on iOS and Android

FaceTec announced the release of the Scan+Match Apps for its revolutionary UR Code identity verification protocol. The apps scan, validate, and match a face to the biometric data encoded in a UR Code, with no biometric data or personally identifiable data leaving the user’s device.

UR Codes are digitally-signed biometric barcodes that enable codeholders to prove their legal identity. The new Scan+Match Apps allow identity verification and access to associated privileges, whether in person or remotely, and are provided globally free of charge.

Available now in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store, the Scan+Match Apps allow users to match the encoded face data in the UR Code to another face, provide a Face Match Level, and validate the digital signature, proving the immutability of the personal info stored in the barcode.

“The Scan+Match App is very easy to use and provides free access to anyone who will use UR Codes to validate in-person identity, anywhere in the world, by biometrically and digitally linking the legitimate user to their identification documents, helping combat the growing threat of identity theft,” said Owen McShane, VP of Government Relations.

UR Codes are generated by legal identity issuing authorities by secure UR Encoder software running inside the issuing authority’s firewall. Using the issuing authority’s unique public/private encryption key pair, the UR Encoder software cryptographically signs each UR Code, making them provably immutable. UR Codes store each codeholder’s unique, digitally-signed face data, personal info, and legal identity data, empowering secure, low-cost, two-party identity verification at an unlimited scale. UR Codes can securely store data from driver licenses, passports, credit cards, contracts, and other official documents, which are then verifiably and biometrically bound to that individual.

Dallmeier To Unveil Innovations at Show

Dallmeier electronic, a manufacturer of video technology will present innovative solutions for more security and efficiency in logistics at the transport logistic 2025 in Munich. At the joint stand of the Mobility & Logistics Cluster (Hall B1, Stand 433/534) from 2 to 5 June 2025, the Dallmeier experts will demonstrate state-of-the-art camera systems and video analytics for the effective monitoring and protection of indoor / outdoor areas and perimeters.

Securing large areas – with less hardware and lower total cost of ownership
In addition to the flexible Domera camera systems, the focus is on Panomera multifocal sensor technology. This patented technology enables logistics companies to monitor large areas, such as warehouses or loading zones, with a minimum of hardware. Up to eight lenses and sensors ensure consistently high resolution, even in distant areas. With significantly fewer cameras required, infrastructure and personnel requirements are reduced. Operators benefit not only from an improved overview, but also from significantly lower total cost of ownership compared to conventional video technology.

Efficient claims management and TAPA-compliant security
By combining an overall view with any number of detailed images, Panomera technology significantly improves claims management. Damage or loss of goods in transit can be reliably documented and subsequently traced.

In addition, any part of the premises to be monitored can be easily covered in accordance with the international standard DIN EN 62676-4 for video surveillance systems, helping those responsible to meet TAPA requirements.

AI-based perimeter protection
For superior perimeter protection, Dallmeier is showcasing the Panomera S4 Perimeter. This system combines a specially developed perimeter AI for the reliable detection of intruders with the extended AI Tamper Detection for the detection of even advanced tampering attempts. The neural network detects people wearing camouflage as well as tampering attempts such as twisting, defocusing, spraying or blinding the camera. Even fogging of the detection area by pyrotechnics is reliably detected.

With a range of up to 200 meters at a resolution density above 125 pixels per meter, the Panomera S4 Perimeter offers a powerful solution for perimeter protection – with minimal false alarm rates.

Comprehensive security solutions for logistics companies
“Logistics companies today are faced with the challenge of increasing their security standards and at the same time improving the efficiency of their processes”, explains Christian Linthaler, CSO of Dallmeier electronic. “Our solutions not only provide protection against theft and vandalism but also offer real added value by optimizing logistics processes – from damage management to improving process security.

Tourist Boats Capsize in China Leaving 10 Dead and Dozens Hospitalized

Ten people have died and 70 others have been hospitalized after the boats they were riding in as tourists flipped in a southwestern China river. Reports say strong winds caused the four tourist boats to capsize in the Wu River in Qianxi City in Guizhou on Sunday, May 4.

This resulted in about 84 people falling into the water. Online videos posted by Chinese state broadcaster CCTV showed fire trucks and ambulances on the shore of the Wu River. A video shared by state media showed a man performing CPR on person after they were pulled out of the river. The winds came after sudden rain and a hailstorm.

Industry News

Smiths Detection Secures Deal to Supply SDX 6040 Systems to Major Cruise Lines

Smiths Detection, a leader in threat detection and security screening technologies and a business of Smiths Group, announced it is to supply SDX 6040 X-ray inspection systems to a number of major cruise lines.

With thousands of people and large quantities of cargo coming onboard, screening systems are vital in helping detect weapons, explosives, drugs, and other prohibited items hidden in luggage or supplies. The SDX 6040 offers the best image quality on the market, with unmatched clarity in detection that enables operators to quickly screen bags, ensuring that boarding the ship is safe and seamless for passengers.

The SDX 6040’s portable and flexible design makes it the perfect solution for cruise line operators seeking a mobile X-ray inspection system that delivers high protection and operational efficiency. Its compact footprint means it can be easily maneuvred onboard and conveniently stored within the vessel. It can also fit through a standard door, eliminating the need for complicated installations and concerns about fitting into tight spaces.

The system’s smart image display features, including organic stripping and enhancement modes, provide superior discrimination between organic and inorganic materials, critical for the precise detection of explosives, drugs, and other contraband — while its high throughput capability ensures that large volumes of luggage can be screened quickly and efficiently, minimizing delays and maintaining smooth operations.

The SDX 6040’s advanced detection system provides a complete 100% view of every item, eliminating blind spots and significantly enhancing security. Additionally, the scanner integrates seamlessly with iCMORE AI technology, offering automated threat detection for a wide array of prohibited items, including currency, weapons, lithium batteries, and other hazardous goods. The system’s algorithms can be updated as new threats emerge, ensuring it meets the evolving needs of the cruise industry.

“At Smiths Detection, we serve customers in a wide range of market sectors, with a significant focus on cruise lines,” Matthias Springer, VP of sales at Smiths Detection Inc., said of the sales. “The SDX 6040 is revolutionizing maritime security, providing our customers with the highest levels of safety and assurance while maintaining efficient throughput of passengers. With superior image quality, portability, and flexibility, it is an ideal solution for the dynamic environments of cruise ships.”

General Strike Hobbles Transportation in Greece

Public transportation in Greece was severely disrupted due to a nationwide strike April 9. Ferries remained docked at ports, flights were grounded and trains sat at a standstill. Public transportation was running only part time as labor unions press for an end to lingering austerity measures imposed on Greece by international creditors a decade ago. The general strike, which is part of a broader protest, was focused on demands for higher wages to address the rising cost of living.

Commercial flights to and from Greece and between domestic destinations were cancelled from midnight Wednesday until midnight Thursday, while in the Greek capital buses, trolleys, trains, trams and the subway system were operating only for part of the day.

SITA and NEC Collaborate to Drive Global Adoption of Digital Identities in Travel

 SITA and NEC Corporation (NEC) have signed an agreement to accelerate the adoption of digital identity technology in the travel industry. 

Through this collaboration, NEC joins SITA’s Digital Travel Ecosystem, an open, interoperable framework that connects various systems for real-time digital identity verification. Developed in partnership with Indicio, SITA’s ecosystem eliminates the need for direct integrations between issuers and verifiers, simplifying adoption for airports, airlines, and governments.  

At the core of the ecosystem is the Trust Network, which governs how digital credentials are shared securely around the world. Built with a privacy-by-design approach, it gives travelers control over their data, including when and with whom they share their credentials. Strong emphasis on data security and privacy means that personal information remains protected and in the hands of the traveler. 

With 28% of airlines and 43% of airports planning to implement biometric identity management solutions in the next 12 months (SITA Air Transport IT Insights 2024), demand for interoperable systems is growing. A lack of standardization has slowed widespread adoption, but the SITA-NEC collaboration addresses this challenge through a scalable framework for secure identity exchange.

“After years of investment, aviation and other travel stakeholders are now seeing the full potential of digital identities, and the industry is gearing up to scale,” said Jeremy Springall, senior vice president of Borders at SITA. “With NEC’s biometric expertise and SITA’s industry-leading footprint of biometric touchpoints around the world, we’re well-positioned to accelerate the transformation of Digital Travel worldwide.” 

“NEC brings more than 125 years of innovation and a global track record in trusted identity technologies,” said Nanaumi Nagamine, senior director of the DID Department at NEC. “With SITA, we’ve delivered proven biometric solutions at airports around the world, creating secure and seamless travel experiences for thousands of passengers every day. This expanded collaboration will accelerate global adoption and set a new standard for trusted digital identity in travel.” 

By addressing longstanding interoperability challenges, the SITA and NEC collaboration will increase the adoption of digital identities by passengers, helping the industry reduce bottlenecks, improve security, and enhance the passenger experience at every touchpoint.  

Access Management Firm Puts Product Up for Live Attack Testing at The Security Show

A leading access management company will demonstrate the durability of its latest key safe when it undergoes live attack testing at a prestigious trade show.

The Key Safe Company will pit its flagship ark Tamo Pro, billed as the world’s most secure mechanical key safe, against live attack tests in front of industry experts at The Security Event at the NEC.
The latest product to emerge from the Worcester company’s portfolio of police preferred key safes, the ark Tamo Pro will be scrutinised at the Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB) Live Testing Lab from 12pm to 12.30pm today and from 3.45pm to 4.05pm tomorrow.

The ark Tamo Pro is the only mechanical key safe in the world to achieve an LPS1175 Issue 8 B1 security rating from the LPCB. The B1 rating means every working element of the product is designed to resist a determined attacker using tools of a higher mechanical advantage – such as bolt cutters, a claw hammer or drill.

The ark Tamo Pro is also endorsed by Secured by Design, the official UK police security initiative which certifies products proven to reduce crime.

David Ogden, who set up the business in 1996, says the ark Tamo Pro is an unrivaled product of almost 30 years’ worth of customer feedback-led evolution.

“The ark Tamo Pro is our latest key safe, but you could say it’s been in the making for close to three decades,” said Ogden. “We have listened to our customers closely over the years and, as a result, have made subtle design changes to produce what you see today – the world’s most secure mechanical key safe. Because of the way it has been designed, and the components that have been used to piece it together, the ark Tamo Pro offers a level of extreme resilience like no other key safe on the market. It could not be breached when attack tested at a trade show in London late last year and we expect the same results at The Security Event. Industry experts are bound to be impressed when they see the ark Tamo Pro in action and learn a bit more about its many benefits.”

The Key Safe Company, which employs around 30 people at its Nunnery Park head office, began life as a value-added retailer, but has evolved into an original equipment manufacturer (OEM). The business now designs, makes and stocks a range of security products and has sold more than three million key safes worldwide.

In recent years, the business has taken steps to grow sales in several international markets across Europe and beyond. As part of this ambition, the business has rebranded as Wolflok in America.
Its new Wolflok Pro key safe, the American cousin of the ark Tamo Pro, was exhibited at major trade show ISC West in Las Vegas earlier this month to much fanfare and rave reviews.

Like the ark Tamo Pro, the Wolflok Pro boasts patented illuminated buttons and multi-push button technology that accommodates more than 9.7 million passcode combinations.

For more information about The Key Safe Company and its class-leading products, go to Stand 5/e110 at The Security Show or visit https://keysafe.co.uk/

Laser Photonics Receives Order Through Grainger for Use by Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority

Laser Photonics Corporation, developer of industrial laser systems for cleaning and material processing, announced that it has received an order for a CleanTech Industrial Roughening Laser 3040 (CTIR-3040) through W.W. Grainger, Inc. Grainger, a leading distributor of maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) products with operations in North America, Japan and the United Kingdom, will supply this laser to the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA).

MBTA is the public agency responsible for operating most public transportation services in Greater Boston, Mass., and parts of Rhode Island. The Authority manages subway, bus, commuter rail, ferry, and paratransit systems, along with their share of the 100 supporting parking lots and garages located near the subway, commuter rail and ferry stations that make up the MBTA transportation network.

“We are thrilled about working with MBTA and are happy to see our system continue to gain traction in the transportation market,” said Wayne Tupuola, CEO of LPC. “Our laser cleaning technology provides professionals with an efficient solution for corrosion control, coating removal and the preservation of critical infrastructure.”

The LPC CTIR-3040 will be delivered to one of MBTA’s Maintenance Facilities, from which it will be used on all that line’s stations, platforms, transit bridges, rail tunnels, elevators, vehicles, carriages, sidings, yards, maintenance “carhouses,” bus maintenance buildings, train layover facilities, rail crossings, parking gates, electronic signage systems, art exhibition display units and more. The system will be used for everything from construction and maintenance tool cleaning to removing rust and corrosion on all sorts of surfaces, including—when necessary—tracks themselves. The system will expedite and simplify cleaning, surface preparation, and surface conditioning while streamlining operations.

The CTIR-3040 is among LPC’s most robust handheld laser systems, designed for high-speed and efficient heavy-duty surface treatments. This sale strengthens LPC’s growing relationship with Grainger, which distributes a wide range of industrial products through its extensive global network.

Industry News

Motorola Solutions Expands Avigilon Enterprise Security Suite to Accelerate Response During Emergencies

Motorola Solutions announced several new advanced features in its Avigilon physical security suite, debuting Alta SOS this week at ISC West. The new features for Avigilon Alta and Avigilon Unity unify enterprises’ physical security solutions to better protect employees, visitors and service providers, and directly coordinate with public safety.

Alta SOS empowers users to share security data like emergency contacts, evacuation plans, floor plans, utility information, camera feeds and access details with 911, addressing the criticality for enterprises to seamlessly communicate and collaborate with first responders during emergencies.

Avigilon Alta is part of the company’s comprehensive enterprise security solution, which includes video security, access control, intercom system, 24/7 virtual monitoring, mailroom package management, wireless locks and visitor management. The unified solution, designed to help tackle rising security threats on people, operations and assets, will be showcased on the floor, including the newest acquisition* of cloud-based visitor management solution provider, InVisit.*

“In high-pressure situations, every second counts. Avigilon Alta SOS helps put vital information in the hands of first responders faster,” said Alex Kazerani, senior vice president, Cloud Video Security & Access Control, Motorola Solutions. “Businesses need security solutions that intelligently adapt to rapidly evolving situations at a moment’s notice.”

Avigilon Unity’s high-performance, on-premise physical security platform is engineered to meet the needs of large multi-site operations like critical infrastructure, hospitals and manufacturing facilities. The new Avigilon Unity feature enables users to detect complex events in video, based on rich user descriptions. For example, security operators can define complex events and highly specific scenarios, such as “alert me if you see smoke and people running.” The alert will continuously scan all cameras on the platform, enabling improved awareness and faster response.

“The security challenges of large enterprises are complex, but their security systems shouldn’t be,” said Hamish Dobson, corporate vice president, Avigilon Unity, Motorola Solutions. “Avigilon Unity uses large language models to transform raw security data into actionable alerts with the flexibility of natural language.”