8 Top Physical Security Trends to Watch in 2025

The FBI’s crime data should give every business pause. Data from the most recent reporting year shows there has been a decrease in property crime, but the sheer number of incidents is staggering, with more than 6.4 million property crimes in 2023.

Organizations are adopting new strategies to enhance physical security and leveraging technology in new ways to combat threats. While security guards and security patrols continue to play an important role, hybrid security strategies are the future when it comes to dealing with physical security risks. Combining human intelligence and advanced technology enables you to scale and enhance your security.

We sat down for a discussion with Lemuel Blanco, President and Chief Technology Officer at ECAMSECURE, a GardaWorld Security company, to get his insights. Here are eight of the biggest security trends coming up in the year ahead.

1. AI-Powered Behavioral Analysis

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing video surveillance systems and eliminating two of building security’s greatest challenges: staffing and fatigue.

Think of CCTV cameras as a never-ending movie. As companies increasingly install more video cameras to watch over their physical assets, the job expands and it becomes more difficult to scale security operations, which requires additional human capital for monitoring.

Potential threats may require operators to search through video footage to investigate and document evidence. This is especially time-consuming when done after the fact. The future of physical security includes intelligent systems that provide real-time video surveillance and AI solutions that are able to analyze behavior by identifying potential threats and suspicious activity, and automatically alerting operators.

“So, the trend now in the industry is, how do we take the feed out of those cameras, and how do we identify bad behavior?” said Blanco. “I don't care if there's a person in front of the view of the camera, but I need to know when that person is about to do something bad.”

Operators often face an overwhelming number of nuisance alarms, which can desensitize them to genuine threats. By reducing irrelevant alerts, AI improves efficiency and allows you to scale your security operations.

2. Mobile Surveillance Units

Expect to see an increase in mobile surveillance units (MSUs). These portable towers, equipped with cameras, strobe lights, and audio announcements, act as visible deterrents. Studies show that the presence of an MSU can reduce crime by up to 92%.

"Think of police vehicles parked at intersections without an officer inside. Just the presence of a mobile unit with flashing lights acts as a deterrent," said Blanco.

Mobile units are a cost-effective alternative to on-site security guards, particularly in locations like parking lots and large facilities. “The industry is looking at this mobile surveillance unit as almost equal to having a guard that is standing post in that area,” he said.

3. Advanced Access Control Systems

As part of facility and building security systems, access control systems are incorporating multiple authentication methods that combine biometrics and traditional credentials. In the past, access control often relied on badges or security codes for access.

“We’re seeing companies adopt dual authentication methods, like combining badges with facial recognition, to improve security,” Blanco said. “A badge alone could be picked up in the parking lot, but biometric authentication ensures secure entry.”

One caveat to the integration of biometrics, however, is that it also introduces data privacy concerns. Organizations will need to navigate this aspect with care and ensure regulatory compliance. For example, the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) requires private companies to provide notice of biometric data collection and obtain written consent from individuals.

4. License Plate Recognition and Centralized Databases

License plate recognition (LPR) is gaining traction as a tool for monitoring and controlling vehicle access. Many cities now use LPR to track vehicles at intersections, and businesses are using it to distinguish between authorized and unauthorized vehicles as part of their building security system.

The next step is to integrate this data into centralized databases, which enables real-time sharing of information among organizations and law enforcement. This creates a comprehensive system for tracking vehicles, providing faster alerts to suspicious activity.

“License plate recognition is now integrated with national databases,” Blanco noted. “If a stolen or blacklisted vehicle enters a monitored area, an alert is generated, allowing authorities to act proactively.”

5. Virtual Gate Guards and Remote Monitoring

Worker shortages and rising labor costs are driving demand for remote monitoring solutions, such as virtual receptions or gate guards. These systems allow businesses to replace on-site personnel with devices that provide remote access control and communication. For instance, visitors can use a kiosk with a QR code scanner to check in or connect with an off-site agent for assistance.

Virtual gate guards offer scalability, enabling a single operator to manage multiple locations.

“This is all about efficiency — being able to manage multiple locations remotely while still providing customer service and a human touch,” Blanco said.

6. Sustainable Security Solutions

More than three-quarters of executives state that sustainability is central to their business strategy. The security industry is adopting greener technologies to help meet this need.

One example is the transition from diesel-powered generators to solar and methanol-powered units in mobile surveillance systems. These innovations align with environmental goals and are often eligible for federal rebates and incentives, reducing the cost burden on businesses.

“Some states are banning diesel generators,” said Blanco. “Security companies are transitioning to solar or methanol-powered units with zero carbon footprint.”

7. Drone Surveillance and Perimeter Monitoring

Drones are being deployed in remote and expansive areas such as oil fields and pipelines. Advances in autonomous flight technology have increased their utility, reducing the need for human pilots and making drone deployment more cost-effective.

“Perimeter protection is evolving, with self-contained systems using thermal cameras and intelligent sensors,” said Blanco. These tools enhance boundary protection by detecting intrusions in real-time, even in areas lacking power or internet connectivity. “This perimeter fence line is very costly,” he said. “A self-contained product can be placed within the perimeter without having to provide the infrastructure, and it can be quickly deployed a lot of times.”

Portable, self-contained units are becoming a preferred choice for businesses looking for rapid deployment without an extensive investment in infrastructure.

8. Economic Investments and Security in 2025

There are also some notable market shifts likely to impact physical security trends in 2025. Lower interest rates are spurring investment in infrastructure projects, which is likely to include investments in security overall. This is already evident in the construction industry with more building projects and buildouts scheduled for 2025. 

• Increase in building and civil engineering

  With more CapEx dollars available, there is more opportunity. Analysts are forecasting an 8% increase in non-residential building and civil engineering projects in 2025. Companies should remember to include security technology as part of their CapEx to protect their assets.

• Oil and gas investments

  Expect increased investment in oil and gas, especially with a change in policy as the incoming U.S. administration wants to focus on energy independence, drilling, and boosting oil and gas exports.

• Higher education

  Another area where spending is likely to grow is higher education. While the sector is reeling from enrollment declines and loss of funding, schools know they have to evolve to remain competitive. A study by Moody’s estimates that colleges and universities have deferred more than $950 billion in maintenance and capital needs over the past few years and they’ll need to accelerate investments starting in 2025 to remain viable.

Physical Security Trends: The Bottom Line

In 2025, the security industry will embrace transformative technologies as part of their efforts to improve physical security. By staying ahead of these trends, you can create a secure future while optimizing your resources.

Connect with GardaWorld Security today and see how a proactive strategy combining human intelligence and advanced technology can keep your physical assets secure.