News

As we look back on 2021, the one thing we won’t talk about is COVID. It’s a topic we’ve covered throughout the pandemic and though it was certainly the defining feature of the year, we’re sure you’re as tired of reading about it as we are. Instead, let’s talk about everything else and some of our triumphs. We launched Threat Evolution, a new cyber security division After years of planning, 2021 was our moment to expand into cyber security. Magenta […]

As we shake off the dust from 2021 and dig in for what the next year has in store, we sit down with Abbey Petkar, Managing Director of Magenta Security, to reflect on the ups, downs and lessons learned from running a security company during yet another historic year. Looking back on 2021, how would you summarise Magenta Security’s year in business? It’s been a busy year and a difficult year due to COVID, but it hasn’t stopped us achieving […]

Theft of building materials, tools and machinery costs the construction industry between £400-800 million per year, depending on which research and methodology we refer to. Either end is likely to be a low estimate as the studies only take reported crimes into account. Unfortunately, the recovery rate for stolen construction site equipment and materials is so low that much goes unreported. It’s also common. So common, in fact, that theft and vandalism are often simply considered inevitable costs of running […]

As we reflect on the past 12 months, it is hard to know where to begin and if it is even appropriate to take on a celebratory tone. But at Magenta Security, planning for the worst and hoping for the best is part of our profession, so we know the value of a silver lining and positivity even in the darkest times. Here are a few moments of positivity that we managed to enjoy amongst the pandemic. We celebrated our […]

Facial recognition technology has numerous harmless applications. You may use it every day to unlock your phone or gain access to secure areas. But facial recognition can also be used for surveillance purposes, a usage that has gathered plenty of excitement in the security industry and those who provide products to it. However, we should balance our excitement with caution. As with all surveillance, facial recognition must be used responsibly and with restraint to protect the privacy and rights of […]

Winter is here, which means it is time again to remind our readers that these next few months are when businesses are at the highest risk of vandalism and theft from winter crime. Studies have shown seasonal surges of crime in winter, with a 22.8% increase in business robberies (The Office for National Statistics) and 35% more home insurance claims for burglary (Lloyds Bank) in the winter months. In addition, there is ample evidence that, historically, crime has increased in […]

Throughout the entirety of Magenta Security’s 25 years in business, security has been a growth industry, and there is no sign that it is slowing. Innovations in technology, overwhelmed police forces and increased demand for private security have continued to fuel security industry growth to this day. But despite the health of the industry as a whole, very few security companies survive 10 years, let alone 25. Why is the security industry so tough for companies trying to establish themselves? […]

Security Fears Heightened as Thousands of Businesses Remain Closed Thousands of businesses up and down the country remain closed and with no clear indication of when they might re-open criminals are taking advantage of vulnerable premises and finding new ways to conduct criminal activity. Whilst the media are reporting a decrease in shoplifting, serious assaults, and car crime during the lockdown, what they’re failing to report to the same extent is a nationwide increase in theft from unattended business premises. In […]

COVID-19 continues to challenge life for all of us, but I am on the whole proud of the way people are reacting, supporting each other and coming together as communities. One such community is the private security sector. It was an incredibly important moment when the BSIA and SIA came together to lobby and ensure that security guards are recognised as key workers. They have stood up for us as an industry at a time when it truly matters Though […]

We depend upon care homes to look after those who are most vulnerable. This includes making sure that residents and staff are protected from security threats such as vandalism, theft and abuse. While security guards still have a role in care homes, especially for main entrances and exterior patrols, residents and staff typically prefer less visible forms of security such as CCTV and access control. The benefits of CCTV in care homes Care home security must be designed to protect […]