Revolutionizing Access Control: 8 Mobile Solutions Transforming Security

Access control has relied on cards, fobs, and gates/doors to restrict entry to specific areas of a building. With the rise of mobile devices like smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches, access control providers have adapted these technologies to offer enhanced flexibility and security. Mobile access control is an advanced solution for organizations seeking a more sophisticated access control system.

HID Signo Reader 2.0

The HID Signo Reader 2.0 is a cornerstone of the Signo platform, offering a cutting-edge solution for secure electronic access control. These readers are designed to be highly versatile, supporting a wide range of credential technologies, including HID Mobile Access via Bluetooth and NFC.

Ideal for narrow card reader applications, the HID Signo Reader 2.0 is compatible with a broad spectrum of credential technologies in various forms such as cards, fobs, and mobile devices.

Cons: Virtual access cards credits aren’t re-credited to your account once a virtual card is revoked.

The HID readers are known to have security breaches allowing attackers to crack and clone access cards, meaning that if your reader allows other methods of access than Bluetooth, your premises will be at risk.

Supplier: HID

Website: www.hidglobal.com

Linear Bluetooth Readers

The Linear BluePass Mobile Credential Management Ecosystem integrates mobile credentials and multi-technology Bluetooth/Prox readers, providing a more secure and user-friendly solution for credential management. Mobile credentials are managed through a cloud-based system.

BluePass is designed for ease of use and low ownership cost. The “Credentials-to-Go” feature allows administrators to quickly purchase additional credentials, making it a great option for small to medium-sized businesses.

Supplier: Nortek Security and Control

Website: www.nortekcontrol.com

Proxy Mobile Reader Pro

The Proxy Mobile Reader Pro is a mobile access solution compatible with all existing access control systems. It integrates directly with these systems, allowing administrators to manage both mobile access and key cards within their existing workflow.

This solution supports all common cards, fobs, and badges, giving administrators and employees the choice of using either mobile access or their current credentials.

Supplier: Proxy

Website: www.proxy.com

Hundure PXR-92MSL-BE

The Hundure PXR-92MSL-BE is a Bluetooth and NFC card reader that requires the Hundure mCard app to be installed on a smartphone to unlock doors using these functions.

This reader supports Mifare unique ID or Block read format and has a programmable key value. It can be installed at a distance using the RS-485 communication interface and has the ability to detect the connection status with the control panel, automatically switching modes when necessary. The Hundure PXR-92MSL-BE is suitable for educational, residential, and banking environments.

Supplier: Hundure

Website: www.hundure.com

ICT Mobile Solutions: tSec Black Mini 13.56MHz Card Reader with Bluetooth® Wireless Technology

ICT’s tSec readers and Protege Mobile app, along with mobile credentials and NFC capability, allow doors to be unlocked using a smartphone.

ICT offers both open and managed credentials. Open credentials provide additional security by tying the credential to the user’s profile. Managed credentials are administered by ICT and registered with a unique global site code. ICT mobile solutions are suitable for commercial, retail, financial, educational, and healthcare facilities.

Cons: ICT has no more distributor in Australia and requires integrators to pass their license, making it harder to find qualified security installers / integrators around Australia.

Supplier: ICT

Website: www.ict.co

The Gallagher Mobile Connect: T15 Multi Tech Reader

The Gallagher Mobile Connect App transforms your mobile device into a secure access credential by integrating directly with the Gallagher Command Centre through Bluetooth technology. The app eliminates the need for multiple access cards at different sites by storing access credentials from multiple locations on your smartphone. Enhanced security features such as fingerprint data and PINs ensure secure access to your credentials. Ideal for various settings such as healthcare, retail, residential, and offices.

Cons: Gallagher as a limited number of security integrators around Australia because they require integrators to pass their license, making it harder to find techs.

Their system was designed to be complicated from the start and they’re using a proprietary encryption that can be eventually cracked rendering all existing readers unsecured unlike with open source based encryptions.

Gallagher uses security through obscurity.

Supplier: Gallagher Security

URL: www.security.gallagher.com

STid Mobile ID

With STid Mobile ID, access cards are moved onto smartphones, providing the option to use them alongside or instead of traditional RFID cards. The app can store an unlimited number of virtual access cards on your mobile device and revoked cards are re-credited to your account unlike other manufacturers, so buy once and for ever.

STid Mobile ID offers 5 different identification modes, including badge mode (swipe your phone on the reader), slide mode (wave your hand above the reader to open the door), tap tap mode (double tap on your pocket where is located your phone to open the door), remote mode (press a virtual remote control on your phone to open the door or parking gate), and hands-free mode (just walk in without having to do anything), making it user-friendly. 

Data privacy is ensured through encryption and obfuscation methods using open-source encryption. With its intuitive identification modes and secure data protection, STid Mobile ID is suitable for use in healthcare, critical infrastructure sites, educational institutions, offices and residential buildings looking to stop overcrowding and short-term letting such as AirBnB.

Pros: STID offers a large choice of Bluetooth readers, from narrow readers to normal size but also with integrator scrambling pin pad and more.

Supplier: STid Security

URL: www.stid-security.com

How can mobile solutions improve security measures?

Mobile solutions have revolutionized the way organizations approach security.

With mobile solutions, security measures are more flexible, scalable, and accessible. For example, mobile devices can be used as authentication factors, enabling users to securely access systems and data. Mobile solutions also allow for real-time monitoring of security threats and enable security teams to respond quickly to mitigate risks. Additionally, mobile solutions provide new opportunities for data collection and analysis, enabling organizations to identify potential security threats and vulnerabilities before they become significant issues.

How can mobile solutions enhance identity and access management?

Mobile solutions can improve identity and access management by enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) and biometric authentication.

MFA requires users to provide two or more authentication factors, such as a password and a fingerprint, to access a system or application. Biometric authentication, such as facial recognition or fingerprint scanning, can also enhance security by providing a unique and difficult-to-replicate authentication factor.

Mobile solutions can also enable remote access management, allowing administrators to revoke or modify user access permissions in real-time, improving security and reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

How can mobile solutions help organizations comply with security regulations?

Mobile solutions can help organizations comply with security regulations by providing secure communication channels, enabling data encryption, and enforcing security policies.

For example, mobile solutions can ensure that data is encrypted in transit and at rest, protecting sensitive information from potential breaches.

Mobile solutions can also enforce security policies, such as password requirements and device restrictions, to ensure compliance with regulations. Additionally, mobile solutions can provide audit trails and logs, enabling organizations to track and monitor security events and demonstrate compliance with security regulations.

What are the best practices for implementing mobile security solutions?

Implementing mobile security solutions requires a holistic approach that addresses all aspects of security, from user education and training to technology solutions.

Best practices for implementing mobile security solutions include regularly updating software and firmware, implementing MFA and biometric authentication, using mobile device management (MDM) solutions to enforce security policies and manage devices, and regularly testing and auditing security measures.

Additionally, organizations should provide ongoing security training to employees, educating them on security risks and best practices for protecting sensitive information.

Misconception 3: Debunking Misconceptions About Mobile Access Impacting Performance

In our last article, we talked about how partnering with a reliable mobile access control systems provider can protect your company’s buildings, employees, and assets. These benefits include state-of-the-art technology, compliance with privacy laws like GDPR, and a range of features to suit your organization’s needs.
This article will address some common misconceptions about how mobile access control systems can impact mobile phone performance and battery life. People who use mobile access control apps on their phones might be concerned that the apps will use a lot of their phone’s memory or CPU, which could affect performance, or that the apps will drain their battery.
First, let’s talk about how mobile access control apps affect phone performance. Then, we’ll look at how they impact battery life.

Does Using a Mobile Access Control System App Impact the Performance of My Smartphone?

Mobile access control system apps are designed to be small, fast, and efficient. They don’t use much memory and don’t affect phone performance much. The app works in the background and doesn’t interfere with other phone functions.
When you use the app to gain access to a space, it uses minimal memory, CPU, and battery power. On a typical 64 GB iPhone, the app takes up only a tiny fraction of the phone’s storage space. The credential (the data that grants access) is even smaller.
STID Mobile is a trusted mobile access control provider. Working with thousands of customers in many countries to open tens of thousands of doors and entries. The app is designed to be efficient and minimize the impact on phone performance and processing time.

Does Using a Mobile Access Control System App Impact the Battery Life of My Smartphone?

Mobile access control system apps are designed to be energy efficient and use minimal memory and processing power. This means they don’t use much battery power. 
In tests, we saw as little as 0.0025% battery level consumption when using the app to access a door once a minute for two hours. This means you can use the app hundreds of times without a significant loss of battery power. 
You don’t have to worry that using mobile access control systems will drain your phone battery or affect device performance but if you do, you always welcome to turn off your Bluetooth and reactivate it before walking in the premises.
Think of the STID mobile access control system app as a high-end Bugatti. It’s efficient, agile, and fast, like a smartcard. It doesn’t use much energy as it quickly gets the job done. It’s not like a fat SUV that would burden the app’s efficiency. Our customers prefer the Bugatti.

Are you ready to learn more about STID Mobile Access?

Misconception 2: Personal Data in Mobile Access

Personal Data Misconceptions in Mobile Access​

In our last article, we talked about how mobile access control (using your smartphone to open doors) is better than traditional methods and how to restore access if your smartphone is lost or stolen. In this article, we will discuss how companies make sure mobile access apps on smartphones are secure while also protecting the owner’s personal information.
Before we start, here are some main points from the last article:
  • Smartphones are a popular choice for secure access control because they can replace keys and RFID credentials.
  • Mobile access is easy to adjust and cheaper to manage than traditional methods.
  • Mobile access allows employees to enter physical and digital spaces using their smartphone as a credential. It uses NFC or BLE technology to confirm permission.
  • If an employee’s smartphone is lost or stolen, their access can be immediately revoked to prevent unauthorized access to company properties.
  • It’s a good idea for companies to have two-step authentication to make sure only authorized people can use the mobile access app. For example, a PIN can be required before using the app.

Is Personal Data Vulnerable When Using Mobile Access Control?

Previously, we discussed what to do if your smartphone is lost or stolen. Now, let’s talk about how companies like Prox Access Security provide a secure mobile access application for your phone.
Some companies worry about their mobile access system being vulnerable if a smartphone is lost or stolen. To help protect against this risk, these companies can require users to unlock their phone and open the mobile access app before the app can be used. This means the user needs to use a PIN or biometric to open their phone, making it less likely that an unauthorized person will be able to use it.
This type of access control feature is especially helpful for “bring your own device” (BYOD) employees who need extra security. It works with corporate policies to provide a consistent experience and manage risk. Employees who bring their own phones to work should follow the same protection rules.
Some employees may be hesitant to install a corporate app on their phone because they think the company will be monitoring them and they want to protect their privacy. For example, they may ask why “location services” need to be enabled on the app. It’s important for them to understand that this is just to allow the app to easily use Bluetooth and provide the best phone performance.
If you have an iPhone, you may know about a feature that lets you locate your phone if it’s lost or stolen. One part of this feature is the ability to remotely erase app data, which will also delete the mobile access app. This works even if the phone is off or appears to be dead.
Access control companies always try to protect your company’s access control system and personal information. Reputable companies that provide mobile access apps are careful to protect all personal information stored on their platform. Make sure your chosen company has a public privacy policy that explains what limited information is collected, why it’s collected, and how it’s protected or made anonymous.
Look for compliance with security policies and laws, like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe, which protects individual privacy for all citizens. Trustworthy companies will be transparent about the information they collect on behalf of the individual and let their customers know what data is and isn’t collected. These companies can be trusted partners for developing a mobile access control policy and addressing mobile access issues.

The Advantages of Collaborating with a Mobile Access Provider

Ultimately, it’s the phone owner’s responsibility to protect both company access and personal information on the smartphone. If the phone is lost or stolen, the owner needs to tell the company’s system administrator. This is true for keys, traditional access control cards, fobs, or tokens.
The administrator will use tools in their system to prevent unauthorized access to the company’s buildings and systems, while also protecting personal and company data.
Mobile access providers should also help protect company access and employee personal data. They should make sure their mobile access platform has policies and workflows that support customers and all mobile access users.
You can trust global access control providers to help protect company access and personal data. They are partners who can help you solve any access control system problems. This collaboration is good for everyone.

Are you ready to learn more about STID Mobile Access?

“Misconception 1: A Stolen Phone Can Be Used to Gain Mobile Access”

Misconception 1: A Stolen Phone Can Be Used to Gain Mobile Access

Mobile access functionality is a new feature in access control that uses the trend of being able to go places easily with your phone or other device to make it easier for people to use access control. Let’s learn about this technology and how it works.

Understanding Mobile Access: How it Works

Mobile access is a feature that allows users to access physical locations or systems using their mobile devices, such as smartphones or tablets, as a form of identification and authentication. This can be used in a variety of settings, such as for unlocking doors, entering secure areas, or accessing systems and services.

Mobile access typically works by installing a mobile access app on the user’s device, which communicates with the access control system via Bluetooth or NFC (near field communication). The user can then use their device to unlock doors or access restricted areas by holding it up to a reader or scanning a QR code. The access control system verifies the user’s identity and grants or denies access based on the user’s permissions and the current security settings.

Comparing Mobile Access to Traditional Locking Systems and RFID Credentials

Mobile access is a newer technology that offers several advantages compared to traditional locking systems and RFID (radio-frequency identification) credentials.

One advantage of mobile access is convenience. With traditional locking systems, users typically need to carry a physical key or card to unlock doors, which can be easily lost or forgotten. RFID credentials have improved upon this by allowing users to unlock doors with a simple tap or wave of their credential, but they still require the user to carry an additional device. With mobile access, the user’s smartphone or other mobile device serves as both a communication device and a credential, eliminating the need to carry an additional device.

Another advantage of mobile access is that it is more secure than traditional keys, which can be copied, and RFID credentials, which can potentially be skimmed or cloned. Mobile access systems can incorporate additional security measures such as passcodes, biometric authentication, or dynamic security codes that change with each use, making it more difficult for unauthorized users to gain access.

Finally, mobile access is more flexible and scalable than traditional locking systems and RFID credentials. With traditional systems, adding or revoking access for a user requires physically issuing or collecting a key or card, which can be time-consuming and costly. With mobile access, access can be granted or revoked remotely and almost instantly, making it easier to manage and maintain access control.

What Happens to Mobile Access When a Phone is Stolen or Lost?

If a mobile phone with mobile access is lost or stolen, the first step is to report the loss or theft to the appropriate authorities and to the mobile access provider. The provider will then typically take steps to revoke access to the lost or stolen phone, making it impossible for anyone to use the phone to gain unauthorized access.

In addition to revoking access, with the STID Mobile Access system, only the owner of the phone can access to the premises, indeed the Bluetooth readers are forcing the phone to ask for fingerprints unlock, making it impossible for the thief to use your phone to enter the premises.

Additionally, it’s important for users to report the loss or theft of their mobile device as soon as possible to the building management or security manager to have your virtual card revoked from the system and a new one sends to you right away

By following some simple rules for managing mobile access, you can minimize the risk of losing access or having your personal information exposed. It is important to have a mobile access system that is secure, convenient, and offers options like multi-factor authentication and enterprise-wide credential rules. In our next blog, we will discuss the measures that mobile access companies take to protect your personal information and address concerns about privacy on smartphones.

Are you ready to learn more about STID Mobile Access?