Today, CCTV is becoming an integral part of corporate life. This is particularly true of what are known as Critical Entities and Important Entities (critical infrastructures described by the NIS2 standard, such as power stations, transport systems and communications networks). In a world where these infrastructures are under threat from cyber-attack, sabotage or even intrusion, it is crucial to adopt enhanced security measures. Video protection could therefore be a serious option for securing these infrastructures.
CCTV in securing critical infrastructures: what role can it play?
CCTV provides real-time surveillance. It can immediately detect any suspicious activity or intrusion. As a result, the response to incidents can be more perceptive, but above all quicker, guaranteeing greater responsiveness. For example, a surveillance camera at a power station detects an intrusion in a restricted area, triggering an immediate alert. The security team can intervene very quickly, preventing any malicious acts thanks to real-time SCADA.
This type of protection can influence the decisions of ill-intentioned people by deterring malicious behaviour. Indeed, the visible presence of cameras can discourage criminal action. These same cameras can also be useful for gathering evidence following events such as break-ins or burglaries. These recordings can be used by the relevant authorities for analysis and legal action.
Integration of CCTV with SCADA systems
With this in mind, Panorama Suite offers a number of advantageous functions for the protection of critical infrastructures, such as the management of CCTV and management of security systems. Real-time integration of video streams enables anomalies to be detected. The Integrated SCADA solution offers a single interface for cameras, sensors and access control systems. Messaging and voice interface functions provide an effective response in terms of system monitoring. Finally, customisable interfaces mean that dashboards can be adapted to the specific needs of each user or critical infrastructure.
The advantages of using Panorama Suite in a SCADA context are considerable:
- Centralised SCADA of security systems: integration of video feeds, intrusion detector alarms and a global view of installations for fast, efficient decision-making.
- Interoperability: compatibility with a wide range of security systems, including cameras, sensors and access systems.
- Advanced alarm management: identification of incidents in real time, enabling proactive monitoring.
- Robust cybersecurity: protection of sensitive data thanks to ANSSI (French Cybersecurity national agency ) certification and qualification.
- Scalability: adapting to the changing requirements of critical infrastructures and the possibility of integrating new devices or systems in the future.
Challenges and prospects for CCTV integrated into a centralised SCADA system
As these protection systems are frequent targets of cyber-attacks (intrusion, data theft, sabotage), it is vital to devise a reinforced cybersecurity strategy. Encryption mechanisms, integrity checks and meticulous management of access rights are all serious ways of ensuring optimum security.
Panorama Suite can also centralise feeds from third-party systems such as cameras, sensors or alarms. This provides a global view of installations via a single interface, coordinating alerts and ensuring consistent prioritisation of incidents.
It is essential that CCTV systems keep pace with technological developments and new regulations. Panorama Suite ensures compatibility with technological innovations such as IoT systems and intelligent cameras. When it comes to regulations, Panorama Suite guarantees absolute compliance with standards on the management of sensitive data.
CCTV plays a key role in protecting critical infrastructures. As part of a centralised, secure SCADA system, any structure equipped with this technology will be armed to deal with the various threats. With continuous monitoring, rapid detection of anomalies and deterrence of malicious behaviour, maximum protection is guaranteed. Finally, by integrating tools such as Panorama Suite, it will be possible to ensure optimum management of alerts and strengthen the cybersecurity of critical infrastructures. By guaranteeing proactive monitoring tailored to the requirements of the most sensitive environments, you’ll be able to ensure security that meets the challenges of today.
