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Increased mobility and digitalization transform customs and border control: Abloy's adaptive security and access solutions lead the way

A woman standing in front. Behind her are blurred people.A woman standing in front. Behind her are blurred people.

Security in customs and border control is crucial for maintaining national security, facilitating international trade, and protecting public health. The field is constantly evolving, driven by geopolitical changes, technological advancements, and increasing mobility of people. From a locking and access management perspective, this evolution involves the adoption of more secure, adaptable, and integrated systems to ensure efficient and effective border security. Let’s have a closer look at these trends, challenges, and innovations to address them and prepare for the future.

The most significant changes in the industry are increased mobility and digitalization. With more people traveling internationally, there is a greater demand for efficient and secure customs and border control. At the same time, the industry is experiencing significant digital transformation, with various systems being updated and new solutions offered. To find the best and most useful practices in this development, ABLOY collaborates closely with customs and border control operators to design tailored and future-proof security solutions.

Enhancing efficiency and security with advanced software and real-time access management 

New software and system integrations are enhancing operational efficiency, with a focus on automated alerts and red-flag systems for suspicious activities. In addition, the ability to adjust security solutions with real-time modifications and expansions of access rights is critical to ensure dynamic and secure access. For example, during a special operation, access rights can be adjusted immediately so that the necessary persons can quickly access the required areas. Abloy’s high-security solutions with role-based access rights and audit trail allows only authorized personnel to access restricted areas, recording each access event, including the identity of the keyholder, the time of access, and the location. This provides comprehensive monitoring and accountability, which are critical for customs and border control.

Collaborative border security: interoperable solutions for seamless agency integration

Effective border security often requires collaboration with various agencies, including customs, immigration, law enforcement, and international partners. Field operations security, especially in collaboration with border guards and police, is paramount. ABLOY solutions are designed to be interoperable, allowing seamless access across different authorities. For instance, police can access interrogation rooms directly using mobile keys, without needing a customs officer. ABLOY solutions combine high security and flexible adaptability, enabling integrated workflow with access management and other security systems such as surveillance, alarms, and workforce management , creating a seamless and efficient operational environment. 

Ensuring security: quality, reliability, and long-term partnership 

In addition to operational efficiency, customs and border agencies must ensure detainees are securely held, emphasizing the quality and reliability of security products. Our products, tested against both physical and cyber threats, have been a staple in Finland and worldwide for over 115 years. Instead of just delivering products, our goal is to work together on a long-term and purposeful basis developing solutions for every customer’s individual needs. As a trusted advisor, we understand the clients’ needs and operations, developing solutions and services that enhance and secure your business.

Conclusion

The needs of border control and customs  security are ever-changing. Geopolitical shifts, increased travel, economic factors, public health considerations, and technological advancements all play a role. With global support and know-how,  ABLOY offers a comprehensive, customizable, and future-proof total solution to meet these challenges effectively and securely. 

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Teemu Saarikko

Segment Development Manager

Segment Development Manager at Abloy and a seasoned security expert with 30 years in the industry, has held various roles including security consultant, manager, and specialist across multiple sectors. Teemu's experience includes working at airports and collaborating with multiple different governmental authorities during his career. Teemu is specialized in asset protection, protecting the organization's operations, people and physical materials, such as customs laboratories.

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