Cross Match Introduces New Seek Handheld Biometric System
Cross Match Technologies has introduced a new version of its SEEK handheld multi-modal biometric system, the Avenger, which is smaller and lighter than the current SEEK II system deployed by the Army. The company says the rugged three-pound unit is the only multi-biometric handheld device capable of capturing stand-off dual iris and fingerprint images in direct sunlight. The system also features a built-in contact card reader and optional Machine Readable Zone and e-Passport readers that enable users to configure their optimal credentialing solution. The device also has a 5 megapixel camera for 1D and 2D barcode reading, and photo and video capture. It also takes facial images utilizing auto-facial recognition. The SEEK Avenger can do onboard watchlist matching against 250,000 records and includes Bluetooth and Wi-Fi communications as a standard component. An optional communications cap can be added for LTE and 3G cellular networks.
Northrop Grumman, SAIC Seek Accreditation for DHS Cyber Sharing Program
Northrop Grumman [NOC] and Science Applications International Corp. [SAI] have signed agreements with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to each begin the process of becoming approved to receive classified cyber threat data from the department that in turn will enable the companies to offer customers improved services to protect their computer networks. Northrop Grumman and SAIC join Lockheed Martin [LMT] and Raytheon [RTN] within the defense industry in going through the accreditation process to become a commercial services provider under the DHS Enhanced Cybersecurity Services program. Telecommunications providers AT&T [T] and CenturyLink [CTL] have also signed agreements with DHS to become commercial services providers so that they can receive classified cyber threat signatures. Under the ECS program, commercial services providers can use the threat signatures to help protect their own computer networks as well as those of their customers. The program is being expanded at the direction of President Barack Obama’s executive order on cyber security that was issued in February. The ECS is a voluntary information sharing program.
EU Approves Smiths Detection’s Body Scanner for Threat Detection
Smiths Detection’s eqo millimeter wave body scanning system has passed the European Union (EU) European Civil Aviation Conference Standard 2 threat detection test, meaning the system can be used as the primary screening method for passengers passing through EU airports. The U.S. Transportation Security Administration last fall selected the eqo system under the second generation Advanced Imaging Technology program to compete for task orders to deploy the systems at U.S. airports for primary screening (HSR, Sept. 26, 2012). “Aviation operators are increasingly asking for people-screening solutions which fulfill both present and future security standards while also providing full privacy,” says Hans Zirwes, Smiths Detection’s vice president for International Sales. “Gaining Standard 2 approval provides the assurance of a future proof solution through the use of our innovative technology.” Eqo uses automated threat recognition software to ensure the privacy of a person being screened.
Southern Cal Joins Northrop Grumman Cyber Research Consortium
Adding skills in big data, Northrop Grumman [NOC] says that the Univ. of Southern California (USC) has joined the company’s Cybersecurity Research Consortium. Northrop Grumman says that USC’s leadership in big data, computer science and informatics will expand the consortium’s research capabilities to advance solutions to counter the newest and most pressing cyber threats facing the United States. “In today’s cyber environment, one of the biggest challenges our customers face is sifting through the enormous amounts of data flowing over their network, understanding its relevance and trustworthiness, and determining how it will affect their mission,” says Mike Papay, vice president and chief information security officer for Northrop Grumman. “When paired with Northrop Grumman’s deep domain knowledge and understanding of the global threat, USC’s long-term research in big data and analytics will help this industry/academic partnership transition inventive solutions to meet critical customer needs.” Other members of the consortium include Carnegie Mellon University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Purdue Univ.
Smiths Detection Offers X-Ray Customers 24/7 Bomb Technician Service
Smiths Detection is offering customers of its X-Ray scanner systems the option to select real-time access to specialist review and analysis of suspected threat images provide by MSA Security under an agreement between the two companies. Operators of Smiths Hi-Scan X-Ray systems will be able to use MSA SmartTech technology for access to certified bomb technicians for image evaluation and operational support. The service will be offered initially for U.S. customers. “With just a touch of a button, an X-Ray operator can now seek fast professional review of suspect images by MSA Security’s expert staff, improving security as well as reducing the chance of unnecessary evacuations,” says Jim Viscardi, vice president for US Critical Infrastructure and Emergency Response at Smiths Detection.