Nothing ruins a vacation faster than theft: There is no getting past the sense of violation and loss of trust, plus there has also been an increase in the number of assaults in hotels, as well as incidences of cybercrime.
The hospitality industry has been making strides in this area, with new security technology that is meant to help reduce incidences of theft, assault, and data breaches involving sensitive information.
1. Hotel security goes mobile
The whole world has gone mobile, and this trend has made its way into hotel security. The use of key cards is coming to an end. Mobile keys are making an entrance, and this means added security for guests. In some instances, the technology can alert guests and hotel management when someone has entered the room or tried to get in.
Security can also be upgraded for hotels that still use card key systems. If a key card has been used several times unsuccessfully, or if a door has been left open, management can be notified.
In many cases, theft in a hotel is not committed by an outsider, but by an employee. New technology can monitor employee cards as well, keeping track whenever anyone from housekeeping, security, or maintenance enters a guest’s room.
2. Hotel security monitoring systems get an upgrade
In the past, hotel security has mostly consisted of cameras placed in public spaces such as the lobby and hallways. Of course, storing and recording information can be unreliable. However, hotel tech has seen measurable improvement in this area.
The key is to have a reliable security system that can record and store data more efficiently. Many properties are expanding the number and locations of cameras, upgrading hardware, and using better software to run and monitor the cameras. Some of the more advanced systems offer low-light vision, facial recognition, and movement and color recognition analysis software.
Today’s cameras are also smaller and more unobtrusive, allowing them to be placed at eye level rather shoved high in a corner. This allows for a better view of faces, which can help police identify and catch culprits.
3. Hotel security and cybercrime
When we talk about security in the hospitality industry, we can’t stop at theft or assault. Cybercrime is a huge problem in every industry. Hackers are more sophisticated, but so is the software meant to protect sensitive data.
To combat cybercrime, hotels are taking steps to incorporate more advanced firewalls, limiting who has access to data, and securing mobile devices of employees. Data breaches can occur when employees use their personal cellphone to access the company’s sensitive information.
Hotel security is vital for guests to stay safe. New technology, such as mobile key cards, advanced monitoring systems, and cybercrime initiatives are working to protect property and personal information, so travelers can always feel more secure.
The Beachwood Custom team has been immersed in the hospitality industry since 1992 with a range of experience including design, purchasing, manufacturing and installation – the art of opening a hotel. Our passion is providing bespoke service to three to five-star hotel customers, serving our clients with a combined 100+ years of international experience. We travel the world in search of top quality furniture and finishes to offer the best custom furniture solutions for our boutique and premier hotel clients.
Learn more about how Beachwood Custom uses its expertise in design, purchasing, manufacturing and installation to help hotels worldwide connect with their guests. Contact us today