Securis

Background

Founded in 2003 and headquartered in Chantilly, Virginia, Securis is a leading provider of information technology asset disposal (ITAD) services. The company offers ultra-secure electronics recycling, auditing, hard drive shredding, and other data destruction services for a wide range of electronics, including PCs, laptops, mobile phones, servers, monitors, and more. Specializing in both on-site and off-site electronic media shredding, classified data destruction, degaussing, and IT recycling, Securis is committed to environmental responsibility and rigorous data security standards. The company holds certifications from the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), NAID AAA (i-SIGMA), R2v3 (SERI) and the U.S. Defense Logistics Agency (DLA).

The Challenge

Securis needed a comprehensive security system to protect sensitive data, ensure compliance with stringent industry standards, and maintain operational efficiency. The company had several key priorities:

• Monitoring access to their facilities and safeguarding data-bearing devices.

• Providing real-time alerts for critical events to enable quick responses.

• Supporting extensive audit requirements with reliable and high-quality video footage.

• Reducing false alarms and improving overall operational efficiency.

Why Verkada?

Securis chose Verkada for its integrated, cloud-based security platform, which includes high-resolution cameras, advanced access control, integrated alarms, and efficient intercom solutions. Key differentiators that made Verkada the preferred choice included:

• Proactive Alerts: Real-time notifications for critical events, allowing immediate action.

• Advanced Analytics: AI-powered tools for intelligent video analysis, such as object detection and people counting.

• Privacy and Security Features: Multi-factor authentication, automatic software and firmware updates, SOC2 compliance, a range of NDAA compliant products, encryption in transit and at rest

• Efficient Access Control: Mobile-enabled access control, allowing employees to use their phones instead of badges.

• High-Quality Video: Clear and detailed footage to help identify individuals and resolve incidents quickly.

• Reliable Performance: Minimal downtime and consistent system operation.

Comprehensive Visibility

Securis deployed Verkada cameras at key locations, including entrances, dock doors, and within the warehouse and ITAD areas. These cameras provide clear, high-resolution video footage that meets the company’s compliance requirements. In addition to unlimited cloud-based archiving, hybrid cloud cameras retain up to 365 days of footage onboard the device itself.

From the integrated Command platform, Koreen Brown, Director of HR and Compliance, was able to confirm the identity an employee over a weekend and manage an access control alert remotely. She verified the situation and disarmed the alarm from her mobile phone – while out of state. "With the high-quality video footage, I can access the situation in a timely manner. Recently, over a weekend I received an access control alert about an intrusion. I was able to view the cameras and the People Analytics provided employee identification," Koreen shared.

Koreen also highlighted the system's utility in resolving a recent incident where an employee lost a valuable piece of equipment. "I had an employee lose a valuable piece of equipment used to process material. I was able to identify the employee with People Analytics and track their location with our camera system and find the missing piece of equipment."

Line of Sight and Control Over Doors

The access control system allows employees to use their phones for entry, streamlining access management and enhancing security. Koreen can remotely grant access to employees who need to work outside their usual hours, verifying their identity through People Analytics.

"Employees love the mobile app. They always carry their phone and opening the door with a phone is preferred to having to use a badge. Securis has a small IT staff. A security system that is cloud-based, uses artificial intelligence, and is simple to maintain lowers our total cost of ownership," said Kurt Greening, EVP of Sales and Marketing.

Reducing False Alarms and After-Hours Protection

The alarms and professional monitoring services help reduce false alarms and provide timely notifications for any suspicious activities. Koreen received notifications about unidentified visitors or persons of interest and was able to disarm the alarm after verifying the situation through integrated cameras, saving time and avoiding unnecessary investigations. The BZ11 horn speaker connected to the alarm system serves both as a deterrent for potential intruders and a communication tool within the warehouse. It allows for immediate announcements or warnings, enhancing both security and operational efficiency.

Koreen explained, "The alarms have been very effective. I get real-time notifications for critical events, and the mobile app allows me to quickly view and respond. This has significantly reduced the time spent on false alarms and unnecessary investigations."

24/7 Buzz-to-Enter Building Security

The video intercom at the front door allows Securis to buzz in visitors remotely, ensuring only authorized individuals enter the facility. The intercom system enabled Koreen to communicate with visitors, verify their purpose, and notify the relevant employee to meet them at the door, maintaining security without physical presence.

"Even if we're not there, we can communicate with visitors and verify their purpose. This ensures that no one enters the secure facility without authorization," Koreen stated.

Efficiency and Audit Compliance

The integration of Verkada’s solutions has streamlined Securis’s audit processes significantly. Koreen shared that what used to take hours or even days now takes minutes. "With Verkada, I can find and analyze footage in about five minutes. Previously, it would take me at least an hour or two to gather the necessary video for audits," Koreen noted. This improvement has been crucial for Securis, as they perform daily, weekly, and monthly audits, with external audits occurring three times a year.

Koreen also mentioned how Verkada's solutions have supported compliance: "I have used the Verkada system to verify inbound shipments of data-bearing devices and provide customers with location tracking to ensure security protocols have been followed until equipment was sanitized. As the Director of Compliance, I have helped with incident reports for a number of employees involved in motor accidents in our parking lots. I was able to provide camera footage to auto insurance companies to verify no fault of our employees."

Looking Ahead

Future plans include further integration of Verkada’s advanced analytics, AI capabilities, ongoing product updates, and new features that address their evolving needs. By implementing an all-in-one security system, Securis has strengthened its ability to safeguard sensitive information, comply with rigorous industry standards, and improve operational efficiency. The collaboration with Verkada supports Securis’s commitment to both security and sustainability, ensuring their clients' needs are met with professionalism and reliability.