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IP video systems are a core element for modern perimeter and building protection today. However, to ensure that the networked cameras deliver the required images, there is a number of things to consider during installation. In addition, the networked video solutions are part of the corporate network and are therefore always in the focus of cybercriminals. In order to not become a victim of a hacker attack, appropriate security measures are therefore required.
Author: Christian Jourdan, Video Security Expert, Konica Minolta Business Solutions Deutschland GmbH
Companies often install video systems without being aware of their impact on the corporate network. This is because a camera with a high resolution produces a very large amount of data. If the corporate network is not designed for this, performance or stability problems can quickly occur because the performance is insufficient. At the latest when several video cameras are integrated, the existing network often reaches its limits.
What are my goals? For this reason, companies should first consider very carefully what goals they are pursuing with the integration of security cameras. Do I really need high-resolution images that can be used later in court, to identify a license plate, or to automatically control access to the company premises? Or is a lower image resolution completely sufficient to provide the necessary information with sufficient quality under the ambient and lighting conditions both day and night? In such an application, an IP camera with a resolution of 4K would be overkill.
Video solution is part of the overall system At the same time, organizations must be aware that an IP video system is part of the overall system and must be integrated into the corporate network, especially if the information generated is to be used within the production systems. Therefore, before integrating a video solution, it should be checked whether the productive network is designed for the implementation, including the associated new specific requirements. Otherwise, a parallel network must be set up that ensures both network separation and the required performance.
Protecting video infrastructure from unwanted access All video systems must also be installed in such a way as to not be in the direct access area of outsiders. Otherwise it would be easy for criminals to switch the camera off or manipulate it. The same of course applies to digital remote access. Therefore, the video systems should have integrated backup and configuration tools. This includes end-to-end data encryption during transmission. Video data is often inadequately protected. Especially low-cost systems usually have no basic protection or serious security gaps in their operating system. As a result, cybercriminals are able to penetrate the Local Area Network (LAN) with simple means and access data. This can have far-reaching consequences. This allows the cameras to be deactivated or other settings to be made via remote control. This endangers all users working in the corporate network. In addition, the devices themselves can be compromised and made part of a botnet, as in the case of Mirai or IoTroop*.
GDPR-compliant data storage When setting up video security, data protection aspects must also be taken into account. Which areas should and may be monitored? How long is data stored? Who has access to the data? The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) provides very clear rules for action here. Companies are required to delete data that is no longer relevant. This archiving process can be automatically controlled with a high-quality IP video solution. As soon as a previously defined point in time is reached, the recordings are then automatically overwritten. At the same time, organizations must protect all data by assigning individual access rights. For example, the gatekeeper only needs access to live images, while other employees also need access to archived recordings.
Specialized IT service providers deliver tailor-made solutions Since there are many aspects to creating and implementing the right concept, companies should seek the support of specialized IT service providers such as Konica Minolta. They use consulting workshops to show their customers the options offered by IP video systems. In addition, they work with them to develop operational requirements and acceptance criteria, as well as an appropriate concept. Such specialists take over all necessary operational tasks as well as maintenance and ensure the video security system’s continuous availability. With custom-fit cameras, integrated backup and configuration tools and some basic security measures, companies ensure that they reliably get exactly the images they need. And at the same time, they reduce the attack surface for hackers.
* https://www.heise.de/security/meldung/Neues-Botnetz-ueber-IoT-Geraete-3867237.html
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About Konica Minolta Business Solutions Europe
Konica Minolta Business Solutions Europe GmbH, based in Langenhagen, Germany, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Konica Minolta Inc., Tokyo, Japan. With its unique expertise in imaging, data processing and data-based decision making, Konica Minolta creates relevant solutions for its customers - small and medium-sized businesses, large enterprises and public sector - and solves issues faced by society.
As a digital workplace solution provider, Konica Minolta helps its clients to identify and unlock the potential digitalisation holds and reach the next level in the digital maturity of their organisation by rethinking the workplace. In support of an ‘Intelligent connected workplace’, Konica Minolta offers cloud, IT, managed print and video solution services for remote working, collaboration, workflow management and automation and security. The company’s success in driving transformation is also confirmed by IDC, since the ‘IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Print Transformation 2023 Vendor Assessment’ has named Konica Minolta a “Leader” in print transformation. Konica Minolta has been a Microsoft Global Managed Partner since 2021.
Konica Minolta's Igniting Print Possibilities offering helps printers, converters and brand owners maximise workflow automation to increase efficiency. The company delivers consultancy in all communication matters as well as top-of-the-line production, packaging as well as label printers. Its finishing devices create print products that stand out and create added value. Konica Minolta has established itself as the production printing market leader for more than a decade in Europe (InfoSource).
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The company has been repeatedly recognised for its rich history of social contribution as well as for working towards achieving the SDGs throughout its business and supply chain. Konica Minolta received a GOLD Level Recognition Medal in the EcoVadis sustainability ratings for 2024.
For its remote services, Konica Minolta was awarded the prestigious ‘Buyers Lab (BLI) 2023-2024 Pacesetter Award in Remote Service for the Western European market’ from Keypoint Intelligence.
Konica Minolta Business Solutions Europe is represented by subsidiaries and distributors in more than 80 countries in Europe, Central Asia, the Middle East and Africa. With more than 8,700 employees (as of April 2023), Konica Minolta Europe earned net sales of over EUR 2.26 billion in financial year 2022/2023.
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