Demand for Thermal Cameras, A Norm Post COVID19?

Mun Wong — Fri, 19 Jun 2020 14:03:14 +0000

The demand for thermal cameras has spiked in the U.S. after a rapid spread of COVID-19. Thermal cameras are more appealing than ever because they can read body temperature in real time. These cameras don’t require physical contact either. However, some companies are abusing this need when they give false information. These companies or individuals turn online to websites and social media to make false claims. For example, some articles claim that thermal cameras can stop the spread of the virus. A false claim is difficult to catch because most people turn to websites and social media for information. Let’s take a look at four common misconceptions and discuss their accuracy.

Do Thermal cameras stop the spread of Coronavirus?

Thermal cameras do not detect COVID-19 or any other viruses. The infrared cameras’ read body temperature to detect if its above normal levels. Companies can use this information to send an employee home. They can protect others from being close to someone who is contagious.

Are Thermal cameras 100% accurate?

Infrared cameras have existed for over 90 years. They are widely used in Asian countries. Depending on the brand and model, these cameras can read body temperature with close accuracy. The best results vary only by a half degree. They can also read body temperature simultaneously. Most thermal imaging devices don’t require the individual to stand still in front of the camera to read their temperature. Many airports have already adopted the use of thermal cameras because passengers’ temperatures can be measured as they walk.

Infrared cameras are high maintenance, right?

Unlike thermometers that need to be sanitized after every use, thermal cameras have only one user. The person who is handling the thermometer doesn’t need to get close to the person being measured. In fact, these cameras can detect a person’s temperature from 4-6 ft away. This is the recommended distance to practicing social distancing. After installation, these cameras require only minimal training to operate. They are also low maintenance and maintain better sanitation standards.

All cameras invade privacy.

Invasion of privacy is always open for discussion. Some people fear that their personal information will be stored. Many others believe that the risk that a pandemic poses to the public is greater and it should outweigh the invasion of privacy. However, thermal cameras do not store personal information other than body temperature. When COVID-19 cases decrease, quality of life improves. In the worst of scenarios, thermal cameras will store minimal information for less than 30 days.

Thermal cameras should not be advertised as an exclusive solution to stop the spread of COVID-19. Rather, businesses should use them in addition to other measures. High body temperature is not the only COVID-19 symptom. It can also mean that one of the many other viruses is present. Thermal cameras have proven to be useful in high traffic places like airports, schools, and large offices. The outlook of this pandemic will determine if thermal cameras are here to become the new norm of technology post covid-19. The better we respond to this pandemic, the better the outlook for the future will be.

Help your community fight the spread of viruses! Contact us today at 773-388-1208 to discover the benefits of adding thermal cameras in your property or business.

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5 Ways to Protect your Remote Access App

Mun Wong — Fri, 25 Oct 2019 15:47:04 +0000

Is there any other technology device as commonly used as the smartphone? Probably not. Smartphones have become a main source for social interactions, productivity, and entertainment. Because of this intimacy with its users, smartphones face the threat of compromising confidential information. If you are one of the many users who utilize their smartphone to view security cameras remotely, cyber-security awareness will help you implement the steps necessary to protect your remote access App from hackers.

1. Access your apps from a secure network

Many places provide free Wi-Fi to attract customers but when it comes to protecting your security, it’s best to toss this option out the window. Because public networks are more likely to be hacked, your remote viewing app along with passwords and confidential information could be compromised.

2. Identify if your app uses encryption

Most websites use HTTPS encryption to protect information and effectively secure communication but it doesn’t necessarily mean your app will use it too. If the mobile app you use doesn’t encrypt your information, you can use your phone’s internet browser to access your camera’s login page. Use protected websites that have https at the beginning of the website’s URL.

3. Update your App

Have you ever received an alert to update your phone or an app and ignored it? It might seem like its not a big deal but the reason this message is received it’s because an update is needed to fix newly discovered threats that make your device vulnerable. Of course, updates don’t always signify that something is wrong. Updating your remote access app regularly helps it run smoothly by adding new features. You don’t want to miss out on those either!

4. Use two-factor authentication (2FA)

Aside from having a strong password for your smartphone and your security app, consider using two-factor authentication. This type of identification improves security by not relying solely on a password. If 2FA is not for you, practice logging out every time you use this app to prevent others from accessing it in case your smartphone is lost or stolen.

5. Check your phone for malware

Google Play store has been recently under scrutiny for accidentally hosting unsafe apps. These apps might seem legitimate but hide malicious code that hackers can use to access information on your smartphone. It is possible to check for malware by installing an AVG antivirus. This antivirus can detect and remove malicious software. Additionally, if you suspect that you have downloaded an app from an unauthorized website, uninstall it immediately.

Would you like more tips to improve cyber-security in other devices? Check out the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies (NICCS) website to learn more about National Cyber-security Awareness Month.

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