Pro-Vigil, a provider of AI-enabled remote video monitoring, management and crime deterrence solutions, published its “The State of Physical Security Entering 2024” research report. The fourth annual report revealed that despite a quarter of businesses reporting increased physical security incidents in 2023, security strategies continue to remain outdated. The report states this is especially evident when it comes to the adoption of and education in artificial intelligence (AI) as a component of physical security strategies. 

To better understand the physical security threats businesses are facing today, and what they’re doing to combat them, Pro-Vigil polled operations leaders across a range of industries including construction, dealerships (car/truck/boat/RV), retail, and manufacturing, among others. Key findings from the survey include:

Businesses Slow to Adopt AI in Security Strategies

  • While businesses reported a slight uptick in the adoption of remote video monitoring (RVM) services in 2023, 71 percent have not integrated AI into their security strategy. 23 percent don’t know if they’re using AI.
  • 29 percent believe AI can be a helpful tool in the fight against crime, while 57 percent aren’t sure.
  • Yet, 72 percent said they aren’t concerned about using AI.

Physical Security Incidents Impact Businesses’ Bottom Line

  • 25 percent of respondents saw an increase in physical security incidents in 2023, close to the 28 percent reported in 2022 and 2021, up from just 20 percent in 2020.
  • 26 percent believe increased incidents can be attributed to a rise in local crime, while 23 percent say the economy is to blame.
  • 32 percent of businesses said they experienced project delays because of physical security incidents, with 30 percent reporting damage to assets.

Perceptions of Crime in the Year Ahead

  • 55 percent of respondents are more worried about crime than a year ago.
  • 87 percent predict the number of physical security incidents will increase or stay the same in 2024, with 27 percent believing that number will rise.

To download the full report, go here.