Category: company security blog

When we think of scams, many different images may come to mind — senior citizens being swindled out of their retirement savings, predatory loans or pyramid schemes. But did you know that there are numerous scams that target business owners — particularly operators of smaller establishments? Newer small businesses are especially vulnerable, as the owners are often unaware of the various schemes that criminals frequently employ to acquire cash or business capital from unsuspecting victims.

Examples of business-targeted scams include:

• Vanity scams: These schemes appeal to business owners’ pride by informing them they will get a prestigious award — as long as they are willing to pay the “small fee” associated with receiving the award. Of course, the award does not exist and the scammer gladly pockets the fee and disappears.

• Phishing scams: Phishing is an email-based scam where the crook sends an enticing email to get the recipient to enter personal information such as their SSN, bank account number or credit card data. The scammer uses the information to steal the victims’ identity and gain access to their money.

• Phony business opportunities: Small business owners typically possess a strong entrepreneurial spirt, which can make them as easy target for a bogus business opportunity. A skilled scammer can make an offer that sounds too good to be true — because it is!

• Billing scams: Enterprise scammers can get hold of a bill that the small business owner owes, then make contact posing as the company’s representative or a bill collector and demand immediate payment. The most brazen billing scammers may even show up in person to collect.

• Fake business directory listings: Scammers sometimes contact small business owners asking for payment to list the company in their non-existent directory, with the promise that the listing will attract new customers. The scammer ends up with some of the business owner’s money, and possibly some personal information. The business owner receives nothing in return.

How to Avoid Business-Targeted Scams

There are several steps you can take to avoid becoming the next victim of a business-targeted scam:

• Conduct thorough research on any individual, organization or company that is requesting money from your business. A quick online search can be helpful when attempting to identify potential scammers.

• Never provide details or sensitive information regarding your business to anyone without being able to verify their identity.

• Maintain tight control over who has access to your company’s financial information, especially employees who are responsible for paying bills or dealing with suppliers.

• Do not open emails from individuals or organizations you’re not familiar with and avoid clicking on questionable links.

• When in doubt, hang up the phone or ask suspicious individuals to leave your establishment.

Contact Titan Alarm to Learn More About Protecting Your Small Business From Scammers

Titan Alarm, Inc. is a leading provider of business security solutions in the Phoenix, AZ area. Contact us for more helpful advice regarding how to avoid business-targeted scams.

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Updated by Titan Alarm on November 2, 2018.

Security is a top priority for any responsible business owner these days. When you consider that one business burglary occurs approximately every 10 seconds in the U.S., it’s not hard to imagine why preventing break-ins garners so much attention.

Here are a few steps you can implement right now to protect your business from burglary, vandalism and other common security threats:

• Take a layered approach to business security: The harder a burglar must work to gain access to your facility and valuables, the better the chance that he or she will give up and move on to the next target. Implementing a series of exterior and interior security measures for businesses provides the most effective protection from burglars.

• Shore up doors and windows: Burglars will look for vulnerable doors and windows to gain entry to your building. Make sure all exterior doors are constructed from solid wood or metal materials and equip them with heavy-duty deadbolt locks. Cover exterior windows with shatter-resistant glazing and replace simple latches with secure window locks.

• Install floodlights: Installing bright lighting at entrances, windows and vents will deter most nighttime burglars. Well-placed exterior lighting will also help to prevent business vandalism.

• Replace keys with an access control system: If you hand out keys to your employees, you can never be sure they won’t end up in the wrong hands. Installing a keyless electronic access control system makes it easier to monitor your staff’s comings and goings — and you won’t have to worry about changing the locks every time an employee leaves.

• Increase Safe Safety: If you store money or valuables in a safe, consider placing it near the front of your facility, so it is more visible from the street at night, and be sure to bolt it to the floor or wall. Try to keep the safe as empty as possible, especially when no one is there.

• Install alarms: A reliable burglar alarm system is a tried-and-true way to protect a business from burglary. A monitored alarm system ensures the prompt dispatching of law enforcement should a break-in occur.

• Video surveillance: Visible security cameras serve as effective deterrents to burglars and vandals, as well as enabling 24/7 monitoring of the premises. A robust video surveillance system with recording capabilities can also provide reliable visual evidence in criminal prosecutions.

• Keep an eye on your employees: Internal theft poses as much of, and in some cases, a greater business security risk than burglary and vandalism. Review your internal monitoring and control methods frequently and make upgrades where needed.

Contact Titan Alarm, Inc. for Your Business Security Requirements in Phoenix, AZ

At Titan Alarm, we have many years of experience in preventing burglary for businesses in Phoenix and throughout Maricopa County. We can work with you to develop and implement a fully integrated security system that will provide an effective defense against internal and external theft, vandalism and other common business threats. Contact us for more information and to schedule a free on-site security consultation today.

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Updated by Titan Alarm on November 2, 2018.

Why do restaurants need video surveillance? A strategically positioned camera system can help to control internal theft that is a major issue in many restaurants. You can also more closely monitor your kitchen staff to ensure they are adhering to safe food handling and preparation procedures.

Other restaurant video surveillance benefits include increased security by being able to see who is entering and leaving the facility, greater protection against false injury liability claims, enhanced employee training opportunities and the ability for owners and managers to spend less time on security issues and more time on running the business.

How to Choose the Right Type of Video Surveillance System for Your Restaurant

The following tips can help you select and install the best surveillance camera system for your facility:

1. Covering your biggest troubles spots – To deliver the maximum effects, restaurant video surveillance systems must provide clear visual images of the most vulnerable areas. Consider placing cameras in the kitchen, at POS stations or cash registers, in bar areas, at entrances and exits and in offices. You should also install outdoor cameras that monitor your parking lot, especially during the nighttime hours. And a surveillance camera is essential at drive-thru windows or order pick-up areas, as these spots pose a high risk for assaults and robberies.
2. Recording capabilities – In addition to providing live camera feeds, your surveillance system should include recording capabilities. This allows you to review previous transactions and events at any time and can provide valuable video evidence whenever you suspect misconduct or criminal activity.
3. Flexibility – You may find that your restaurant’s security needs change over time. A wireless surveillance system allows you to easily relocate the cameras without having to deal with tangled wires, while also providing maximum placement flexibility. You can also easily add more cameras if you expand or remodel your facility.
4. Remote monitoring – Even the most “hands-on” restaurant owners must leave the facility at some point. One of the biggest pros of restaurant video surveillance systems is the remote accessibility. You can use your smartphone, tablet or laptop to monitor live and recorded camera feeds while you’re running errands, picking up supplies or — on those rare occasions — relaxing at home.
5. Seamless integration with other security devices – Video surveillance represents only one component of a comprehensive restaurant security solution. Your system should also include the integration of devices such as burglar and fire alarms and access control products, along with 24/7 professional monitoring to ensure a prompt response of emergency personnel and minimize the likelihood of false alarms.

Contact Titan Alarm, Inc. for Your Restaurant Security Needs in Phoenix

If you own or operate a Phoenix, AZ area restaurant, Titan Alarm, Inc. can design and install a fully integrated security system that will provide the reliable, around-the-clock protection your facility needs. Get in touch with us to learn more about why restaurants need video surveillance to keep customers and employees safe and maximize profitability.

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Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

If you’re like many small business owners in the Phoenix area, you need to find ways to keep your costs under control. Consequently, you might view the installation of a security system as an additional expense that you simply cannot afford. However, a video surveillance system can prove to be a wise long-term investment that will save you money and make a positive contribution to your business’s profitability.

The benefits of video surveillance in a small workplace include:

• Minimizing theft loss – Companies throughout the U.S. lose a total of approximately $400 billion to theft each year. While much of the theft results from shoplifting and burglary, internal theft is a serious issue for many small businesses. Strategically placed small business security cameras can deter external and employee theft and catch perpetrators in the act.
• Lower insurance premiums – Are you fed up with escalating premiums for your business insurance? Many insurers offer a discount to companies that install a small business video surveillance system, as the enhanced protection reduces the likelihood of filing a claim.
• Increasing productivity – While it may seem “Big Brotherish,” video surveillance systems can boost small business productivity. Employees who know they’re being watched tend to work harder and spend less time at the watercooler or gossiping with coworkers.
• Monitoring shopping patterns – In addition to offering protection against shoplifting, video surveillance for small businesses enables you to monitor customer shopping activity throughout the day. This can help you gain valuable insight into what attracts customers — and what turns them off.
• Creating a safer work environment – Even small businesses are not immune to workplace violence and sexual harassment. Video surveillance enables you to detect signs of inappropriate behavior before it can escalate into a serious or even tragic event. This can also have a positive effect on employee morale and productivity.
• Balancing your staffing needs – If you operate a retail store, restaurant or other small business that involves heavy customer interaction, a surveillance system can help you reduce costs and increase customer satisfaction by ensuring sufficient staffing. For instance, you can view your live and recorded camera feeds to determine if your service staff is overwhelmed or has little to do during specific times of the day, and then adjust your scheduling accordingly.
• Greater peace of mind – Your employees and customers will have greater peace of mind knowing that you’ve installed a small business video surveillance system. Your workers can focus on doing their jobs, while your customers can peruse your goods and move about the premises without concern for their personal safety.
• Remote monitoring capabilities – Small business surveillance systems now include remote monitoring so you can keep an eye on your establishment with your smartphone or tablet, even when you’re running errands or at home.

Titan Alarm, Inc. Offers the Best Security Systems for Small Business Use

Titan Alarm is your one-stop headquarters for state-of-the-art security systems for small business use in the Phoenix area. Contact us for more information or to schedule a no-obligation on-site security consultation today.

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Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

Parents and educators understand the importance of creating a safe environment in a school setting. The increase in violent acts occurring at institutions ranging from elementary schools to college campuses has made school safety a higher priority than ever.

Many school systems are turning to video surveillance to deter crime, prevent bullying, thwart sexual predators and create a safer, more secure environment for teachers, students and administrators.

Do Schools Need Video Surveillance?

If there’s one thing we’ve learned from tragic events such as the Sandy Hook and Columbine shootings, as well as the widespread bullying that seems to impact every school system, the problem of school violence isn’t likely to disappear anytime soon. The implementation of video surveillance and other security measures such as access control systems and intrusion detection devices is essential for mounting an effective defense against dangerous behavior.

What Are the Benefits of Video Surveillance in Schools?

The pros of school video surveillance include:

Immediate intrusion detection: Cameras enable school officials to remotely monitor all building entrances to determine if unauthorized individuals are attempting to slip in undetected. They also enable a fast response to catch intruders in the act.

Monitoring “trouble spots”: Video surveillance allows for the monitoring of hidden areas on the property where students may engage in inappropriate behavior.

Visual evidence: Recorded video from camera feeds can serve as evidence when apprehending and prosecuting child predators, burglars and others who commit or attempt to commit crimes on school property.

Parking lot security: Visible cameras in school parking lots protect teachers’ and administrators’ vehicles and provide additional security for parents and students when attending nighttime school events.

Monitoring student behavior: Cameras help administrators watch for signs of bullying, fighting and general misconduct.

Cost savings: A video security camera system can provide a more cost-effective alternative to hiring human security guards, an important consideration for school systems operating on tight budgets.

Greater peace of mind: An unseen but equally important school video surveillance benefit is that it can help frightened students feel better about going to school each day, while giving parents and educators the peace of mind of knowing that the schools are as safe as possible.

School Video Surveillance Effects on Student Learning

Video surveillance can also contribute to a more productive educational setting. Teachers and students can focus on learning instead of worrying about whether an act of violence is about to occur.

Cameras also help to minimize fighting, bullying and other distractions that create a challenging learning environment. Some school systems place video cameras in classrooms so they can monitor teachers’ attitudes and instructional methodologies.

Contact Titan Alarm, Inc. to Learn More About the Benefits of Video Surveillance in Schools

Titan Alarm is a professional security system solutions provider serving the Phoenix, AZ area. We can help you design and implement a state-of-the-art video surveillance system that will help you create a safer, more secure environment throughout your school system. Contact us to schedule a no-obligation security consultation today.

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Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

These days, businesses rely on video surveillance for much more than protection against shoplifters and burglars. According to a recent Harris poll, approximately two-thirds of small business owners indicated they believe that video surveillance is one of their most valuable business security tools for keeping an eye on their workers. Camera systems now play a key role in the monitoring of employees as a means of boosting productivity and improving overall performance.

Employee surveillance techniques aren’t limited to the use of video cameras. Other forms of electronic surveillance in the workplace also include monitoring employees’ Internet use, storing and reviewing emails, reviewing computer files and storing and reviewing voicemail messages.

The Link Between Video Surveillance and Employee Performance

So, what is the impact of all the increased scrutiny on employee performance? A study conducted by behavioral scientist Devasheesh P. Bhave of Concordia University determined that employees who knew they were being monitored performed better, and the more frequently they were checked, the greater the performance improvement.

Electronic monitoring appears to have the same effect as when a supervisor is physically present — the workers don’t know exactly when they’re being monitored, which motivates them to do their best at all times.

The Pros and Cons of Employee Monitoring

Employee performance is only one area impacted by electronic monitoring. The process introduces an assortment of pros and cons into the workplace:

• Business Surveillance Positives

  • Useful training tool: One of the biggest pros of video surveillance for employers is that they can use recorded videos of employees while on the job to detect deficiencies that can often be corrected by additional training.
  • Minimizing waste: Employers can use electronic monitoring to determine if workers are using company time for engaging in unproductive activities such as playing video games, sending personal emails or aimlessly surfing the Web.
  • Identifying inappropriate behavior: Video surveillance can spot signs of harassment and other unacceptable behaviors that can contribute to a hostile work environment.
  • Earning employer trust: A business surveillance positive for employees is that it helps employers identify and place their trust in the productive workers who prove to be an asset to the organization.

• Business Surveillance Negatives

  • Employee resistance: Workers typically view video and electronic surveillance as an intrusion, believing that “Big Brother” is needlessly watching their every move.
  • Reducing motivation: While monitoring will increase motivation in some workers, it can have the opposite effect on others who may feel compelled to seek employment elsewhere.
  • Privacy issues: Many states have laws restricting the use of video surveillance in the workplace — companies could be held legally liable if they violate these privacy laws.
  • Increased cost: Implementing electronic monitoring techniques requires an additional investment in technology and equipment, which is a cost that organizations already operating with tight budgets may not wish to bear.

Titan Alarm, Inc. offers advanced video surveillance solutions to companies throughout the Phoenix, AZ area. Contact us to learn more about the pros and cons of employee monitoring in your workplace.

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Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

No business is immune to crime. While heavy cash-handling operations such as retail stores and banks continue to be prime targets for robberies and break-ins, just about any business is vulnerable to theft, vandalism or even acts of violence perpetrated by disgruntled workers or former employees. If you haven’t made business security a top priority, you could easily be the next crime victim.

Fortunately, if you operate any type of business in the Phoenix, AZ area, Titan Alarm, Inc. is ready to help. We’re a leading designer and installer of customized business security systems that will significantly reduce your vulnerability to criminal activity.

Titan security system solutions for businesses include:

• Video surveillance: The effective use of cameras for business surveillance enables you to monitor the premises on a 24/7 basis and can also serve as a reliable crime deterrent. We feature high-quality wireless IP cameras that deliver crystal-clear HD images of the most vulnerable areas on your property. The recorded video capabilities of our security cameras can also provide valuable evidence when apprehending and prosecuting criminals.

• Intrusion protection: Titan security solutions also include cutting-edge intrusion detection devices such as motion detectors, door contacts, glass-breakage detectors and hold-up buttons. These devices trigger monitored alarms that enable the prompt dispatching of first responders to the scene. They provide an extremely reliable around-the-clock business security solution that is especially useful for safeguarding your property when no one is there.

• Access control: Access control systems offer a significant upgrade from traditional lock-and-key solutions. Keys can easily be duplicated or stolen, and you might not get them back when an employee is terminated or quits. An electronic access control system gives you full control over who enters and exits your property at all times. It’s also an effective tool for protecting areas containing sensitive data or confidential proprietary information.

• Alarm systems: The Titan Alarm offerings include monitored fire and burglar alarm systems that provide the dual benefit of protecting your property and providing the early warning that is essential for preventing injury — and saving lives. Our high-quality alarm system design and installation services also ensure compliance with all applicable commercial building and fire codes.

• Video verification: Our video verification systems will significantly reduce the likelihood of false alarms that result in a needless waste of law enforcement’s time and resources. Our video verification systems allow your burglar and fire alarms to trigger a priority response from police, fire departments and other first responders, which can make the difference between a minor issue and a catastrophic event resulting in major property damage and serious injury.

Titan Alarm: a Full-Service Business Security Solutions Provider

Whether your primary goal is theft prevention, fire detection or vandalism protection, we can work with you to develop and implement a customized security solution that meets your needs. Titan Alarm’s services also include reliable maintenance and repair work to keep your system in peak operating condition. Contact us to schedule a no-obligation on-site business security consultation today.

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Updated by Titan Alarm on November 2, 2018.