In light of recent incidents of violence in schools, security teams are looking to implement innovative technologies to strengthen their postures.
Global security manufacturer IDIS has suggested that many current systems utilised by the education sector are becoming a cost liability as a result of non-compliance.
Compliance is key, reports IDIS
According to the company, many school districts may be unaware of the full implications and details of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA 2019) that went into effect in August 2020.
IDIS has claimed that without being fully aware of the details of the Act, there could be a significant impact on future investment in the form of federal loans and funding.
Moreover, continued use of banned products or their components can leave schools at risk of cyber-attacks.
IDIS is therefore encouraging schools and universities to act and upgrade their video surveillance infrastructure to meet NDAA requirements and standards.
“They may not be aware that the NDAA extends to their subcontractors”
“From speaking to end users and integrators at recent tradeshows and working with our partners, we’ve uncovered several reasons for the lack of understanding, particularly across the K-12 sector,” notes Jason Burrows, Sales Director, IDIS America.
“Spotting non-compliant equipment is often difficult and many schools have well-functioning albeit non-compliant surveillance systems.
“It’s not until cameras need replacing or entire systems need an upgrade that security managers and associated stakeholders conduct due diligence.”
“In addition, schools often use local systems integrators that aren’t involved in corporate or large scale federal projects where NDAA compliance is non-negotiable,” Burrows added.
“As a result, many integrators aren’t yet familiar with the finer details of the NDAA.
“And, they may not be aware that the NDAA extends to their subcontractors or that Section 889 not only applies to government facilities, but to any federally funded organisation and that includes a significant number of schools and universities.”
“Take NDAA compliance seriously”
“Non-compliance with NDAA regulations, as well as the more recent Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Secure Equipment Act of 2021 for surveillance cameras and recording equipment, can have some serious consequences,” cautioned Burrows.
“It’s important for schools to take NDAA compliance seriously and ensure that their systems are secure, reliable, and in line with current regulations. IDIS is here to help them every step of the way.”
