SEC GLOBAL Newsletter 'Security Technology + Management'

EMEA Edition

Issue 4-26 - 30 JAN 2026

Euralarm: New Guidance on Protecting Europe’s Vital Installations; ECJ Sets Clear Rules for Body Cameras Across Europe; Global RFID Market Set to More Than Double by 2034; Why Cybersecurity Is Essential for Smart Access Systems in Europe; Verkada Valued at $5.8 Billion Following New Financing Round; OPTEX White Paper: Enhancing Tunnel Safety with Intelligent Detection

Access Control

Why Cybersecurity Is Essential for Smart Access Systems in Europe

As physical access systems become increasingly digital and cloud-based, cybersecurity is now a core element of modern security architectures. In the European context, rising regulatory pressure from NIS2 and GDPR highlights the need for integrated protection concepts. Salto Systems demonstrates how security-by-design enables resilient, compliant and future-proof smart access solutions for critical infrastructures and organisations. [Read more]

Body Cameras

ECJ Sets Clear Rules for Body Cameras Across Europe

In its landmark ruling of 18 December 2025, the European Court of Justice clarifies the data protection rules for body cameras in public spaces. The Court confirms that Article 13 GDPR applies, requiring immediate and transparent information at the moment of recording. The decision strengthens fundamental rights while providing legal certainty for transport operators, security services and public authorities across Europe. [Read more]

Company News

WinGuard Certified to VdS 3534: Proven Quality for Modern SOCs

Advancis’ WinGuard X5 PSIM has been certified to VdS 3534, confirming compliance with stringent requirements for security operation centers and safety-critical infrastructures. The certification highlights reliable alarm processing, high system availability, and long-term investment security—meeting insurer, regulatory and DIN EN 50518 expectations. [Read more]

Verkada Valued at $5.8 Billion Following New Financing Round

Verkada’s valuation rises to $5.8B after new funding. Its AI-driven platform unites security and operations, highlighting growing demand for integrated, compliant solutions globally and in Europe. [Read more]

OPTEX White Paper: Enhancing Tunnel Safety with Intelligent Detection

Europe’s tunnels are growing longer, deeper and more complex—making safety, resilience and cost control critical. OPTEX’s white paper explores modern tunnel safety strategies, from EU standards and real-world risks to LiDAR-based intrusion detection and TIDS solutions that work reliably where CCTV fails, protecting people, infrastructure and operations. [Read more]

Critical Infrastructure

New Guidance on Protecting Europe’s Vital Installations

Euralarm has published a new guidance document on precautionary measures to protect vital installations across Europe. It offers practical recommendations to enhance physical security and resilience in line with the CER Directive, highlighting risk analysis, cross-sector cooperation, and integrated strategies to safeguard critical infrastructures against evolving threats. [Read more]

SMARTair and CLIQ Integration Gives Full Control Over Every Access Point

ASSA ABLOY’s SMARTair system now integrates CLIQ smart keys and cylinders, unifying wireless digital access and programmable key management. Facilities managers gain full oversight of all doors and remote sites via one software interface, with real-time monitoring, traceability, and flexible credential options—streamlining security while maintaining maximum control and compliance. [Read more]

Apstec Introduces Merlin: 
AI-Powered Contactless Metal Screening

At Intersec 2026 in Dubai, Apstec Systems unveiled Merlin, a new AI-driven walk-through metal screening system. Merlin enables contactless detection of weapons while distinguishing harmless everyday items, eliminating the need to empty pockets. Designed for high-traffic environments, the solution combines high throughput, user comfort and precise threat detection for modern security operations. [Read more]

AI-Based Visual Weapon Detection: Preventive Security in the European Context

As Europe moves from reactive surveillance to preventive security, AI-based visual weapon detection is gaining momentum. Object-focused video analytics, multi-layer AI models and human oversight allow early threat identification while aligning with GDPR and the EU AI Act—enhancing situational awareness without undermining fundamental rights. [Read more]

Market reports

Global RFID Market Set to More Than Double by 2034

The global RFID market is entering a strong growth phase, with market volume expected to rise from USD 14.58 billion in 2025 to USD 30.47 billion by 2034, reflecting a CAGR of 8.5%. Driven by supply chain transparency, automation and IoT integration, RFID adoption is accelerating across retail, logistics, industry and healthcare, with Asia-Pacific leading regional growth. [Read more]

Czech Companies Expand in Germany Through Strategic Acquisitions

Czech firms are increasingly acquiring German companies, leveraging new market opportunities amid structural challenges. These cross-border moves provide Czech investors with access to customers, technology and supply chains, while stabilising German businesses. The trend signals growing economic maturity and deeper Central European integration, set to continue in the coming years. [Read more]

2026: The Year of Convergence in Smart Buildings

In 2026, smart buildings merge AI, sustainability and security, turning real estate into strategic assets with optimised operations, energy efficiency and integrated cyber protection. [Read more]