Emerging Physical Security Trends to Watch in 2025

As we look ahead to 2025, several key trends continue to shape the physical security landscape. These technologies highlight changing threats, the use of artificial intelligence, biometrics, intelligent surveillance systems, and an increased focus on cybersecurity in physical security.

AI Integration  

According to Securityinfowatch.com, only 22% of end users use AI to enhance the accuracy of threat detection and prediction in their security programs. Organizations can anticipate and respond to threats with fewer false alarms by adding AI to existing security systems. AI-driven analytics can process vast amounts of data collected from sensors, cameras, access control, and other security system elements, identifying patterns and anomalies that may indicate potential security breaches. AI enables security teams to focus on high-risk areas and respond to incidents more quickly and effectively. AI can also automate routine surveillance tasks and minimize false alarms, freeing human resources for more strategic and complex decision-making.¹

New data enhances and refines their models by integrating machine learning algorithms into physical security systems. This dynamic learning process keeps security measures robust and adaptable in the face of evolving threats. Organizations can be proactive, reducing security vulnerabilities.  

IoT Integration

Integrating IoT with security devices is increasingly being used.  Sophisticated IoT sensors can monitor environmental shifts and unauthorized access, sending data to analytics platforms. Intelligent IoT sensors can detect poor air quality, carbon dioxide, and nitrous oxide and help determine building emissions. In addition, the IoT sensor can also provide actionable intelligence to a building's software system or VMS platform (Ganz CORTROL Global VMS), which initiates pre-programmed mitigation or corrective actions.

Biometric Access Control

Fingerprint, facial recognition, palm vein, and iris scanning technologies will become standard for secure access to sensitive areas. Their integration with AI will continue to improve their accuracy and adaptability. AI algorithms continuously learn and improve from the data they process, providing robust protection against identity fraud or spoofing attempts.

AI-Powered Surveillance with Responsible Usage  

Privacy concerns, ethics, and the risk of biased data remain significant in 2025. Businesses increasingly focus on adopting AI responsibly, partnering with organizations emphasizing ethical AI development and upholding transparent governance practices. Responsible AI practices involve monitoring for bias, ensuring data integrity, and complying with relevant data privacy regulations. Organizations continue to seek tools that operate transparently and emphasize data protection. This commitment to responsible AI practices will be crucial in gaining public trust and support as these technologies become more integrated into everyday life.²

Cloud-Based Security Systems

Cloud technology provides scalable, flexible, and cost-effective solutions for managing security infrastructure remotely. By leveraging the cloud, organizations can streamline their operations, enabling centralized management and monitoring of security systems from virtually anywhere and ensuring that updates and maintenance are performed with minimal disruption.

Cloud-based security systems like Ganz Cloud also integrate with other technologies, such as VMS and IoT, creating a complete security network that is both adaptable and resilient. As data is stored and processed in the cloud, security teams can access real-time analytics and insights, allowing rapid response to incidents and informed decision-making. ²

Cyber-Physical Security Convergence

As cyber threats increasingly target physical systems, a growing focus will be on integrating cybersecurity measures with physical security protocols. This convergence creates a unified defense mechanism that addresses vulnerabilities across digital and tangible domains. By implementing layered security strategies, organizations can protect against cyber intrusions that may compromise physical systems, such as access control or surveillance networks.

Advanced threat detection and response tools leverage AI and machine learning to detect anomalies that could indicate a cyber-attack on physical systems, enabling swift and coordinated responses to mitigate potential damage. Additionally, cybersecurity measures will be embedded into the design and operation of physical security devices, ensuring they are resilient against hacking attempts and data breaches.

Drone Surveillance

Drones for perimeter security can provide aerial views and access to hard-to-reach areas, enhancing overall surveillance capabilities. These autonomous devices can patrol large areas efficiently, offering real-time data and video feeds. With advanced sensors and cameras, drones can detect movement, monitor potential threats, and track intruders. AUVs can be deployed quickly in response to alarms or suspicious activities, providing a bird's-eye view that complements other security surveillance measures.

Drones can also be programmed to follow pre-defined paths or respond to specific triggers, ensuring consistent coverage and reducing the need for human intervention. Drones can improve the efficiency of security operations and minimize personnel risks.

Augmented Reality Used for Training

AR will continue to be used for immersive training experiences, allowing security personnel to practice scenarios in a realistic yet controlled environment. By simulating various situations, augmented reality (AR) can provide trainees with hands-on experience in managing incidents without the associated risks of real-world exposure. This innovative approach enables security teams to hone their skills in threat assessment, decision-making, and tactical responses, all within a virtual setting that mirrors actual environments.

Video Management Systems (VMS)

Video surveillance and video management systems (VMS) will continue to play a crucial role in 2025. A powerful video management system (VMS) like Ganz CORTROL is the core command center of security installations, unifying video surveillance, access control, video analytics, IoT sensors, license plate recognition, intercom communications, biometrics, and other IP systems to provide real-time situational awareness. A VMS can easily monitor and manage security footage by integrating AI, IoT, and cloud-based systems.

In 2025, physical security will evolve thanks to how we integrate AI, IoT, and other cutting-edge tech. These advancements will provide better tools for predicting threats, spotting issues in real-time, and detecting security challenges. The advancements will enhance protection and redefine the roles of security personnel, who will increasingly rely on technology to improve their capabilities. As systems evolve, the collaboration between human intuition and technological precision will be crucial in 2025. ³

By fostering a culture of innovation and adaptation, the security industry will remain at the forefront of technological advancements, setting new standards for safety and efficiency in various environments. As we move into 2025, collaboration between technology developers, security experts, and policymakers will be key to navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by this new era of physical security.

Sources:

1.  https://www.securityinfowatch.com
2.  https://facilitiesmanagementadvisor.blr.com/security/five-physical-security-trends-for-2025/
3. https://www.securityinfowatch.com/ai/article/55245588/strategies-in-preparing-for-advanced-ai