Navigating the Future: Trends in Security Technology
Special thanks to Victor Wainwright, CEO, Security 101 (CISSP) for a great presentation on technology trends the will play a prominent role in the future of security.
Victor identified the following technology trends that are expected to have the highest impact:
- Artificial Intelligence / Predictive Analytics
- Internet of Things (IoT) in Security
- Quantum Cryptography and Zero Trust
- Robotics
The international forum on security has identified the following as key risk factors over the next two years:
- Misinformation
- Censorship (which used to combat misinformation will have negative consequences on behaviors)
- Increased Cost of Living – driving up crime
Artificial Intelligence (AI) / Machine Learning (ML)
For purposes of discussion, Victor separated AI into two groups: Authoritative and Agent.
Authoritative is based on a given set of human-defined objectives which leads to making predictions, commendations, or decisions. Facial recognition is an example of authoritative AI. Agent based is giving the AI system a mission (rather than specific objectives) and letting it determine and build the outputs. These AI systems will continue to improve in ability to be predictive and proactive rather than today’s traditional security model of reacting to events and incidents.
Internet of Things
Camera devices have already changed significantly in the last five years – with most having edge analytics built in. Newer devices have even more sensing capability e.g. sensing humidity and other conditions that provide more information. This allows device platforms to deliver more value. However more data doesn’t automatically translate to more value – thresholds and triggers need to be in place to take advantage of the data and provide or lead to appropriate actions.
Crypto Security
Victor pointed out that with Shor’s algorithm and quantum computers, nearly all Public Key Cryptography systems are vulnerable and most in a matter of seconds. Much of IT and Security technology is based on this public key infrastructure. This scenario leads to a Zero Trust – never trust, always verify. Security management will need to incorporate the Zero Trust concept into future systems and processes. This will affect access control systems with most credentials rendered unsafe. The recent introduction of Elite Key Cryptography may buy some additional time, but base credentials today such as Prox or first generation Smart Cards are quite vulnerable.
Robotics
Robots have been used in many industries, however the Security industry has been slow to adopt this technology. However, with imminent future staff shortages, the use of robots to augment humans will become more prevalent. Victor mentioned the recent work of Neurallink to embed chips in humans as a massive development (not without concerns). Trial in humans are starting to occur. BCI – brain computer interfaces will be developed in the future and will impact the ability to expand the capabilities of individuals. Robots have been used for bomb detection and now starting to help with wide-spread surveillance.
Victor concluded his presentation offering the following guidance under the theme – "Embrace technology change or be replaced by it".
- Expand integration between and with non-security systems
- More reliance in AI/ML in security to automate
- Convergence of IT and Physical Security
- Robotics become more ubiquitous
- Leveraging system for other application, i.e. Virtualized Patient Observation
- Remote Monitoring – scale functionality with specialized resources
- Adoption of specialized standards (ASIS offers many) and best practices; learn from manufacturer roadmaps.
