Encryption technology keeps CSIs on the front line

Merseyside Police has deployed new encryption and secure remote access technology to enable all members of its crime scene investigation (CSI) unit to record and access restricted case information quickly, remotely and securely.

Since installing the ‘Trusted Client’ solution from cyber security specialist Becrypt, Merseyside Police Authority has realised significant cost and time savings that will ultimately deliver better frontline services to 1.5 million people living in the region.

Previously, CSIs at Merseyside Police had to return to the office after each job to complete incident-related paperwork, which meant a significant part of their day was spent travelling to and from the office.

The ability to complete paperwork remotely online using the new Becrypt encrypted laptops means the CSIs are far more efficient and able to complete more jobs per day.

In addition, the portability of laptops supports the 24/7 mobile nature of the department. Not only do the laptops provide a more secure environment with two factor authentication and a smart card reader but they facilitate faster access with a simple, two-step process that takes just 90 seconds.

Merseyside Police plans to gradually equip users in other parts of the organisation with the encrypted laptop, which offers greater benefits in security, cost and ease of maintenance over the traditional virtual private network (VPN).

•Panasonic Toughbook has launched a four-in-one mobile identity checking solution. The person identification mini-dock (PIMD) includes a new smartcard reader for user authentication, as well as an optical character recognition (OCR) and radio-frequency identification (RFID) reader and fingerprint scanner. The PIMD can connect to a laptop PC for use in mobile ID security checks.