Threat modelling is widely in use, whether knowingly or not, across every walk of life – and has been used since time immemorial to prioritise security defences. The only difference between the well-known risk assessments carried out by everyone and threat modelling in cyber security is the attempt to document and systemise it. I am hoping that this idea of formal threat modelling will be a useful tool for you to use in your future arsenal of available resources as a CP operator.
Keeping Your Edge: Building a Solid Foundation
Longevity, consistency and remaining relevant are some primary goals of all protectors. These factors are important when establishing a new contract and providing services for a new client. But what is equally important is the mindset that goes into those first days and weeks on the assignment. As such, I wanted to get the personal perspective of Vantrell Wilson, a close protection agent who I have trained with and worked alongside of for years now.
Leveraging Technology in Industry Hiring
Increased global connectedness through technology is fast becoming the norm these days. Video conferencing and “face to face” meetings are happening daily in real-time across the world. As an industry that prides itself on having the edge over our adversaries, we are falling below our own standards when it comes to utilizing the technological resources at our availability to their fullest potential.
The Shotgun
I would say the firearm I have encountered the most in the security business internationally is the shotgun. I would say the firearm I have encountered the most in the security business internationally is the shotgun. I have heard many supposed experts within the close protection industry dismiss shotguns as be “cowboy” and “overkill” and […]
Careering-Ending Accident Turns Tragedy into Triumph
Sometimes you have a plan, and then the universe has something different in mind. After almost seventeen years in the private security industry, a little over 3 years ago I decided to start my own security company UPPER ECHELON SERVICES. I was making great progress building the company. Then in June of 2017, I was involved in a motorcycle accident that would change my life forever. I ended up suffering from an irreparable compound break on my right foot and ultimately blowing my heel to dust.
Kidnap & Ransom – Part two
In the previous issue we walked through what happens in the first hours after a kidnapping, we considered the critical factors relating to the initial contact, and we took a close look at the role of the communicator (see Issue 49). Now, we’re going to move on and look at the financial implications of ransom demands and what factors might impact it.
Drone Technology and the Paradigm Shift in Security
Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) colloquially known as “drones” are expected to become ubiquitous in the short to medium term as the world’s advanced economies inevitably grow and converge with the complexity of everyday life. As a result, society is facing a technological wave that will change the way business and security is done.
No Cutting: Get To The Back Of The Line
Having traveled to over 30 countries, building executive protection and estate teams, embarking on 10 major worldwide tours and transitioning from field agent to Director of Security. Despite my successes, I’ve still felt like a student at best, but now finally considering myself a Specialist. Naively, many young protectors are eager to consider themselves “specialists” without undergoing the proper mentorship and gaining the practical experience needed to hold this title.
Keeping Your Edge: What’s the End Game?
I’m sipping a Pina Colada (virgin) and staring at the ocean with the waves cresting about 10 feet from my cabana. I don’t write that to brag, but instead give a peek into an environment that’s a little different for me as I jump into the backstory.
Tactical Pistol Training: Cross draw!
The most favored method is to carry the handgun on the same side as the dominant/strong hand (strong side). It is believed that this is the safest method of carry, because when the handgun is drawn from the holster, it points in a straight line directly at the target. The Cross draw is where the gun is on the opposite side of the body to the dominant hand, so you have to reach across the body to draw the handgun.
Russian Wagner Group’s Role in Sudan’s Power Struggle and Gold Industry
The Wagner Group, a Russian paramilitary organization, has been implicated in Sudan’s recent conflict, operating a gold processing plant and maintaining strong ties with General Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti) and his Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group.
Ugandan Minister Killed by Bodyguard in Apparent Wage Dispute
A Ugandan government minister, Charles Engola, was shot and killed by his bodyguard early Tuesday in an apparent private dispute over wages, according to the army and local media. Engola, a retired army colonel, served as the junior minister in charge of labor in President Yoweri Museveni’s government.
Bodyguard Saves Japanese PM from Pipe Bomb Attack
A bodyguard has been hailed as a hero for his quick-thinking actions during a suspected pipe-bomb attack on Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. Video footage captured the bodyguard kicking away a metal object as it landed near Kishida
before positioning himself between the Prime Minister and the device, shielding him with a collapsible, handheld ballistics shield.
AlertEnterprise Reveals First-Ever Guardian AI Chatbot Powered by OpenAI ChatGPT
AlertEnterprise has unveiled its first-ever Guardian AI Chatbot powered by OpenAI ChatGPT. The chatbot will make its global debut at the ASIS Europe and ISC West trade events. Built on OpenAI’s GPT-3 platform, the Guardian AI Chatbot aims to provide security operators with instant access to critical physical access and security insights through quick questions and prompts.
Cash App Founder Bob Lee Fatally Stabbed in San Francisco
Tech executive Bob Lee, the founder of Cash App and former chief technology officer of Square, was tragically stabbed to death in San Francisco. The 43-year-old was attacked in the early hours of Tuesday morning on Main Street. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Lee succumbed to his life-threatening injuries.
U.S., U.K., and Germany Rank Top in Ransomware Attacks
A recent report by Black Kite analyzed 2,708 ransomware victims from April 2022 to March 2023, revealing a significant resurgence in ransomware attacks. The number of victims in March was nearly double that of last April and 1.6 times higher than the peak month in 2022.
National Guardsman Charged Over Classified Documents Leak
A 21-year-old Air National Guardsman, Jack Teixeira, has been arrested by the FBI for allegedly leaking highly classified documents, including maps, intelligence updates, and assessments of Russia’s war in Ukraine.
Chinese Operatives Arrested for Running Covert Police Station in New York
New York City residents Lu Jianwang and Chen Jinping were arrested for opening and operating an undeclared overseas police station in Manhattan’s Chinatown on behalf of China’s Ministry of Public Security (MPS).
New Horizons
The truth is, the simulated communications you just read were not with a helicopter, but instead were between an Executive Protection team, and it’s FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) Licensed and experienced UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) Pilot. Executive Protection is evolving every day, and one of the areas out front is technology. Developing are new forms of detection, tactical hearing and visual aids, vehicle security and transport, radio systems, and now UAV’S.
How did Russian woman whose family had links to the Kremlin get a role in an British security body?
Anastasia Spiridonova, 23, who speaks six languages and is described by several colleagues as ‘exceptionally charming’, is connected to the Putin regime through members of her family. Her grandfather was an MP in Putin’s United Russia party, while her mother Marina worked at the Kremlin in a department running resort hotels and presidential retreats around Russia.
