Circuit Magazine #8

SUMMER

2010 £4.50/$8

Circuit The

The Magazine for Security Professionals

Cover: THE BODYGUARD DIARY 6 days in the life of a bodyguard WISE WORDS FROM CINDY SOMMER GIL BOYD IS HOME ALONE HEALTH MATTERS WITH RYAN NAISH BRITISH CONTRACTOR JAILED FOR BRIBERY IN AFGHAN COURT HOW TO SAFELY RETRIEVE A CASUALTY WE’RE STILL PENETRATION TESTING IN pt. 5 OF THIS SERIES and the final instalment of THE HISTORY OF SNIPING

A Quarterly publication from the British and North American Bodyguard Association

We aim to unite and support both trained and aspiring bodyguards worldwide via our membership and information program.

Whether you are a seasoned security professional, or just setting out on a new exciting career path, the BBA will provide you with the most up to date information on current training providers, equipment suppliers, employment vacancies, a message forum and the great networking facility BBA Chat. No other close protection organisation offers so much for so little.

AUTUMN

2009 £4.50

SPRING

2010 £4.50/$8

Circuit The

The Magazine for Security Professionals

The Magazine for Security Professionals

THE ROLE OF Cover: FIREARMS IN SECURITY INCLOSE PROTECTION THE MEDITERRANEAN SO YOU LOW LIGHT WANT TO BE PHOTOGRAPHY WITH A PENETRATION DIGITAL SLR’S TESTER PT.2 JACQUIE DAVIS PLUS: STARTS HER NEW REGULAR FEATURE Course Reviews, Finance Advice and EXPLOSIVE DETECTION Physical Fitness DOG TEAMS Should it be part of SECURITY & EXECUTIVE the CP Course PROTECTION DRIVING

Since its initial formation in early 2007, The BBA has grown rapidly - in fact we are probably the fastest growing association of its kind.

MANAGEMENT OF TRAUMATIC AMPUTATION

We are now attracting membership not just from the UK but worldwide.

Annual individual membership to the BBA includes:

and pt. 3 of our series THE HISTORY

A Quarterly publication from the British Bodyguard Association OF SNIPING Also inside: Your Comments, Boyz Zone Book Reviews and Tech Talk

A Quarterly publication from the British and North American Bodyguard Association

• Regular updates on job and contract opportunities worldwide • Daily industry news • Weekly updates on international terrorism and global hot spots • Extensive global networking • Exclusive access to various industry experts • Special offers and discounts on services and products • Use of our logo on your letterheads, business cards and website (conditions apply) • Personal one-to-one advice with C.V. and job applications • Certificate of membership • Subscription to “The Circuit” Magazine

Circuit_Mag_2010-01.indd 1

• BBA Lapel Badge

Personal, Business and Corporate Packages Available

www.the-bba.org.uk The British Bodyguard Association is represented globally in: -

Afghanistan : Australia : Austria : Belize, Brazil : Canada : Cayman Isles : Cyprus : Czech Republic : Denmark : France : Germany : Greece : Hungary : Iraq : Israel : Italy : Jamaica : Latvia : New Zealand : Portugal : Slovakia : South Africa : Spain : Sweden : UK & the USA

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Cover: SPORTING STARS – DO THEY REALLY REQUIRE SECURITY?

08/03/2010 12:46:21

CONTENTS FOREWORD � Foreword by Shaun West � ReadersWrites 4] Your Comms to HQ � OnTheJob 8] Home Alone 10] Casualty Retrieval 11] Marketing Your Business 12] The Role of Firearms in Executive Protection 14] Healthy in Body and Mind 16] The Benefits of Low Level PSD’s in High Threat Areas � TechTalk 18] So you want to be a Penetration Tester � ShopTalk 21] Marathon Des Sables 2010 - The Finish 22]

SUMMER

2010 £4.50/$8

Circuit The

The Bodyguard Diary

by Shaun

West

Hi All Welcome to issue number eight of The Circuit Magazine.

It doesn’t seem like two minutes since we produced the last issue, time seems to pass so quickly these days. I’m certainly not complaining as I’m sure we would all choose being busy over the quiet times any day of the week!

The World Cup South Africa 2010 is almost upon us; I wish all of our members and readers who are lucky enough to be out there the best of luck whilst working in this very interesting and challenging environment. It would be great to hear any and all thoughts and lessons learnt from the guys/girls who are out there operating on the ground in time for the next issue. If you are not out there operating but as a spectator then pay close attention to

The Magazine for Security Professionals

Cover: THE BODYGUARD DIARY 6 days in the life of WISE WORDS FROM CINDY SOMMER GIL BOYD IS HOME ALONE HEALTH MATTERS WITH RYAN NAISH BRITISH CONTRACTOR JAILED FOR BRIBERY IN AFGHAN COURT

the various CP Team out there observe how they go about their business……..you will no doubt observe good practice as well as some not so good!

HOW TO SAFELY RETRIEVE A CASUALTY WE’RE STILL PENETRATION TESTING IN pt. 5 OF THIS SERIES and the final installment of THE HISTORY OF SNIPING

A Quarterly publication from the British and North American Bodyguard Association

26] Speaking Words of Wisdom 28] The History of Sniping pt.3 30] British Contractor Jailed For Bribery In Afghan Court 32] Professionalism Before, During And After The Assignment 34] Top Ten App’s for the Circuit 36] Regimental Associations � BoyZone 38] Get Your Kit On � Features 6] Focus on Nikida Sherman 7] Working Girl with Jacquie Davis 25] Keeping Your Edge with Elijah Shaw 33] BooKlub 35] Financial Q&A Session with Mitchells

The Circuit is compiled, edited and published quarterly by: The British Bodyguard Association. www.The-BBA.org.uk :: Info@The-BBA.org.uk ::Tel: 0845 519 2538

I’m currently in Paris waiting to fly on to West Africa on an exciting new project with a great company. This is the reason I love the security industry, the opportunities that arise are so diverse, you never know what is around the corner and where you will be next. Each and every job is different so you are constantly learning new things and being faced with new challenges.

When good opportunities arise make sure you grasp them with both hands, work hard, produce the goods and the world can be your oyster.

To a degree doing the ‘good’ and ‘interesting’ jobs is easy as motivation is naturally high as they are extremely challenging tasks but we must remember to do the less exciting and seemingly less taxing jobs to that same high standard or the ‘Gucci’ offers may never come along.

I’d like to end by saying thanks once again to all who are currently reading this magazine as without your support and that of our contributors and sponsors the magazine would not exist.

Enjoy!

Shaun West, The BBA Team

Circuit : : 3

Circuit :: ReadersWrites

Your Comm’s to I am really enjoying the CQC articles by Jason Dorn – good information, well written and easy to follow pictures with no testosterone at all.

Garry, via e-mail CM Yeah Jason seems to be getting a lot of compliments from members and subscribers alike. From our point of view he is just what you want –gets his articles in on time, with good imagery and they are well received. Perfect!

Good to see the Circuit Magazine covering various areas of the security industry and not just CP. The article written by Collin Singer last time out was really informative and something that I previously knew nothing about and just shows how diverse the whole thing is.

Lisa, BBA member via message board PM CM For sure it was a good read and like you say something where a lot of people have little experience. Covering areas like this opens up our industry to more and more businesses as they become aware of the huge amount of skills that we posses.

Great to see a ‘Circuit Legend’ like Robin Horsfall contributing…kudos to you guys!

Sam, BBA member via PM CM Thanks Sam. The book ‘My life in the shadows’ that you reviewed in the last issue has to have the worst cover of any book I have ever, ever seen.

JM via answer phone message!

CM Here we go again with covers??? What is

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this? I’m tempted to just say ‘india tango’ to be honest. Listen up, it’s a great read – the cover is irrelevant and in my opinion not that bad at all…..jeeez!

The Mediterranean Circuit overview was extremely informative. I have a friend who works a similar area over the summer months and she said that it pretty much described her summer job down to the button.

Very interesting.

Stevie B, BBA member vai PM CM Joes’s article was a great piece that is for sure. If you want to work in this area then keep it as an aide memoir and you will not go far wrong.

Great to see Help for Heroes’ feature somewhere in the production. Lest we forget.

Mark, BBA member CM Totally agree Mark – check out the follow up article in this issue………well done Jim Mac! Picked up the Circuit Magazine at my place of work and just wanted to say what a great idea you have. I have now subscribed. Great to be able to pick up something and be totally interested and not just something full of adverts.

RO, subscriber CM Thanks RO, yes we are pleased with it so far but never satisfied. We do not intend to ever be full of adverts although of course we do accept the right sort of advertising!

As someone new to the industry I am somewhat in awe of some of

the articles that get printed within your magazine but also find them a little intimidating!

I do not have a background as a top-level government operator and am currently working as a door supervisor although I would like to break in to the CP/ Surveillance side of things. Any hope for us civilians?

Anon via e-mail CM Anon, in a word yes of course there is hope, of course there is and this is one of our main focuses. We would like the magazine to be a part of our reader’s continual professional development; many of the articles are written by top guys and girls in their fields and we hope that they inform, inspire and motivate you guys to get to the point where you are the ones writing these articles!

Having a ‘formal’ background is great but it is not everything, not at all. Many of our contributors started off their careers much as you have done and have not looked back since. Ground up knowledge underpins much of what you will do in the future and is vital to you future success. You can do it.

I am seeing lots of debate recently on the BBA’s message board as well as others on social networking within the security industry. I’m not at all sure if I should do it or not? What do you advise?

Anon via e-mail CM We firmly believe in getting yourself out there but it is essential that it is done in the correct fashion. Clearly in our industry there has to be a line drawn with what you say and how you say it. OPSEC & PERSEC must be observed at ALL costs.

So, marketing yourself effectively is the key. Do you think that the people who write articles for us see it as ‘good business’? It is and is of course a way of networking, social or otherwise.

Do you have anything that you like or dislike about The Circuit? We are always looking for feedback so that we may improve the product; all feedback will be taken seriously and actions taken to remedy any points where we feel they are valid and can improve the magazine.

We will publish as much or as little of your name as you wish: feedback@circuit-magazine.com

Circuit :: News

World News Africa:

Darfur rebel stronghold occupied by the Sudan Military!

Sudan’s military says it has seized control of a key rebel stronghold in the western region of Darfur. An army spokesman said more than 100 rebels from the Justice and Equality Movement (Jem) had been killed in the Jebel Moon area.

A counter claim by the rebels say they left the area last month to avoid civilian casualties. The insurgents signed a preliminary peace deal and ceasefire with Khartoum in February, but then pulled out after accusing the government of acts of war.

UK flagged tanker freed after ransom is paid to Somali Pirates

Somali pirates have released a British-flagged ship with 26 crew on board after a ransom was paid.

A statement says the ransom was dropped to the pirates holding the St James Park chemical tanker at Somalia’s port of Garacaad on Thursday. This can only send out a BAD signal to the pirates that crime does pay. This action is likely to fuel the fire more even though the statement did not say how much money was paid.

James Ibor ‘freed on bail’

Nigerian political power broker James Ibori has reportedly been freed on bail in Dubai, where he was arrested on corruption charges. The former governor of oil-rich Delta state is accused of stealing $290m (£196m) by Nigeria’s EFCC anticorruption agency. He has had to surrender his passport to ensure he

does not leave the country, officials say. The UK and Nigeria want to try him on corruption charges, which he denies.

Russia free Somali pirates captured in GOA

Russia has released Somali pirates captured during the dramatic rescue of a Russian oil tanker. The Russian defence ministry said the gang was freed because of “imperfections” in international law. Russia initially said the 10 pirates would be taken to Moscow to face criminal charges over the hijacking. Russian forces boarded the ship a day later, freeing the 23 Russian crew who had locked themselves in a safe room after disabling their ship. One pirate was killed during the gun battle that ensued. One cannot help but think that Russia’s stance on Piracy is a good thing and that it will ward of potential attack’s on their vessels in the future…….maybe other nations should take note of the stance and examine their own response to such incidents!

Americas:

Gunmen ambush security official’s convoy in Mexico

Gunmen in Mexico have attacked a convoy with the top security official in the western state of Michoacan, killing four people and wounding 10.

Officials say Public Safety Secretary Minerva Bautista was among the injured, but is now recovering. It is believed that some 20 people with assault rifles and grenades carried out the attack.

Caribbean drugtrafficking - US pledges help to fight US Defence Secretary Robert Gates

has expressed concern that drugs traffickers will begin using routes into the US through the Caribbean.

He has told leaders in Barbados he wanted to work more closely with the region as pressure on Mexican routes was likely to make smugglers shift their efforts. Caribbean leaders say drug traffic in the region is already increasing. The Caribbean leaders believe the drug trade through the islands is already increasing as the US pours hundreds of millions of dollars into the fight in Mexico.

Asia-Pacific:

Warning shots fired in Korean navy boarder skirmish

South Korea’s navy has fired warning shots at a patrol boat from the North, the most serious skirmish since a Southern ship was sunk on 26 March. Two vessels had violated a disputed border known as the Northern Limit Line – a report said “Two patrol boats crossed on two separate occasions and warning shots were fired,”. Tensions have been high since a South Korean warship mysteriously sank on March 26, killing 46 sailors and it is thought that difficulties will remain in this area due to the difficult political situation that exists.

Attacks on school in China?

A series of incidents have hit China over recent times, most recently five young children have been hurt at a school in north-eastern China after a man attacked them with a hammer before killing himself. The man grabbed two children before setting himself on fire at the preschool in Shandong province’s Weifang city.

China is reeling from a spate of apparent copy-cat attacks in schools in what is a most un China like spate of attacks.

Circuit : : 5

Circuit :: Focus Every issue we focus on various companies and operatives from within the industry and reveal a little more about them

Member Spotlight ______________________________

N

Nikida Sherman ______________________________

ikida has been in the security industry since 1993. He is a proud member of the British Bodyguard Association and a firm believer that networking, staying on top of your training and being operational are among the best ways to achieve a successful career in this industry.

A former united States Army Veteran, Nikida served on an elite quick reaction force for the United Nation Command Whilst stationed in Korea. Since leaving the United States Army and becoming a commerical operator Nikida founded and became the President of “Second Shadow Close Protection Services” and is himself a trained and experienced Close Protection Specialist.

In terms of training Nikida has completed executive protection bodyguard courses from several accredited schools and is a graduate of the ‘Global School of Private Investigations.” Additional training has also been carried out with the “ International Academy of Executive Protection Agents,” this course being headed up by Professor Leonard C. Holifield and his experienced colleagues.

In the future Nikida hopes to attend a course run by the renowned “ICON”

Training School to future to further his knowledge of Executive Protection.

Nikida also considers Close Quarter Battle skills a must for all Executive Protection agents operating in the United States and so to further enhance his resume Nikida achieved a certificate in “Close Quarter Defensive Handgun Enhancement,” under certified Firearms Instructor Mr. Mark James, Georgia Board of Private Detectives & Security Agencies.

Nikida is also a fourth degree black belt and a World Class Master Martial Arts Instructor, certified by the WTF. “World Tae-kwon-do Federation, Korea,” He has several different styles under his belt is an ex-professional full-contact Mauy Thai kick boxer. Thus he believe that being physical fit is a must just as that to continuous learning in this industry.

You can learn more about Nikida Sherman and his business by visiting: www.secondshadowcpp.com Nikida Sherman SSCPO-SJ1/EPS Certification #6624300 INAEPA EPS Code:73942 Security: R0092784 British Bodyguards Association

If you you would like yourself or you company included in the Member Spotlight of the magazine please email us: admin@circuit-magazine.com

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Thailand rejects protesters’’ UNbacked talks plan Thai officials have ruled out UNbacked mediation in an increasingly violent dispute with anti-government protesters on the streets of Bangkok. A protest leader suggested the talks, but a government spokesman was quick to rebuff the offer, saying outside groups should not interfere. Scores of people have died since the situation became inflamed over recent weeks. The protesters, known as red-shirts, have been camped in Bangkok for months now and look set to remain.

Ideally they want Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva to resign and call a new election but this seems extremely likely top happen! A redshirt leader said protesters were willing to hold UN moderated talks to end the stand-off, providing that the army withdrew from the area around the red-shirt camp.

A government spokesman insisted that no outside help was needed and that they reject demands for UN mediation. As far as we are aware no Thai government has ever let anyone intervene with internal affairs and it is not thought that this will be the 1st time that it does!

Europe:

Leading Russian judge gunned down A leading Russian federal judge has been shot dead as he was leaving his apartment building in central Moscow. Eduard Chuvashov was leaving for work on Monday morning when he was shot by an unknown gunman who fled the scene.

Mr Chuvasho had presided over several cases involving nationalist organisations and had received death threats. In February, he sentenced nine members of a neo-Nazi skinhead group called the White Wolves to up to 23 years in jail.

Circuit :: Feature

Working Girl by

JACQUIE DAVIS

How many of you belong to online forums?

I read several and take part in maybe one, what shocks me is how people are happy to put on open forums personal information and how they are happy to berate someone they have never met.

W

e all know the circuit is a small place where someone knows someone who knows you, and if a newbie comes along they can be given good advice on a forum or they can be pulled to pieces.

First of all before you post think of OPSEC and PERSEC, then think to your self would I really like to be shredded by an anonymous person on the end of a computer who I have never met and know nothing about?

Once written and the send button pushed it can be hard work trying to get that post deleted.

You may have a valid opinion which is great, but if you are challenging someone’s credentials on a forum make sure you have the evidence, we should not have conclusion central, but hard evidence that the person who has posted is lying or maybe just stretching the truth.

I am often on the CPW forum and recently attended their open day where I gave a talk on what to put on your CV and where to put it, it was lovely to meet so many people whom I have only spoken to through forums, and a shock at what some people looked like, you build up a picture in your mind of whom you think they are, and can then be way off base when you meet them face to face.

The Circuit has been very quiet over the last few months but seems to be picking up now, I have noticed that per day rates are either the same as last year or lower, this is because there are now so many licensed CPO’s who are desperate to get their first job that they will work for below the average daily rate. It’s not good and is only sending the quality of people down because they are working for such for low rates, this in turns means the clients are not getting the best CPO for the job.

Security companies all want to make money but, they also want to keep their clients happy so they should be fitting the right CPO into the task at hand, not who will work for the lowest rate and bugger the consequences. If you are new to the industry you are not going to get a job as the principal bodyguard, you should be on a team, probably doing RST so you can see how it all works, doing a CP course does not make you a good operator, experience does and if you listen, watch and learn then you will get your turn to move up the team ladder.

If you can’t get a CP job straight away then do events, the experience of working with a team and listening to briefings will stand you in good stead.

I wish you all a great CP season

Jacquie Davis is Director of Protective Services at Greymans Inc. www.greymans.com Circuit : : 7

Circuit :: OnTheJob

HOME ALON e In the last 15 years the security industry generally, has made massive changes within its ranks to accommodate the lucrative market abroad, protecting assets for clients in an armed role.

by GIL BOYD

S

ince the end of Gulf War one in 1991, all Governments found that they themselves could not provide that individual protection for overseas assets, and protect those very same people charged with maintaining them in war torn areas of crisis. They then had to look hard and fast at what they could do in the long term to try and resolve the issues raised by leading international companies that required that protection.

At the time, just to utter the word ‘Mercenary’ within Government circles would have sent shivers down their spines, as it was heavily frowned upon. The issue was basically, that how could individuals and uncontrolled organisations make money on the back of providing an unregulated force to trouble spots around the world to cure a military issue. Perhaps to fully understand what these men did, you have to first look at the definition and see whether it still fits the role carried out today in the sandpit!

Definition: A mercenary is a professional soldier hired by a foreign army, as opposed to a soldier enlisted in the armed forces of the sovereign state of which he is a citizen. He takes part in armed conflict on many different scales, and is “motivated to take part in the hostilities essentially by the desire for private gain and, in fact, is promised, by or on behalf of a party to the conflict, material compensation substantially in excess of that promised or paid to combatants of similar ranks and functions in the armed forces of that Party” One has to apply this definition to the work carried out today in the conflict areas of Iraq, Afghanistan and Sierra Leone by individuals working for security companies, and analyse it in some depth to see if it does

8 : : Circuit

Gil Boyd BEM is currently the Technical Director for NASP (National Association of Security Professionals).

He served initially with the Second Battalion The Parachute Regiment and latterly the Royal Military Police (V) attaining the rank of WO1 (RSM) at ARRC. He served with Cambridgeshire Police for 30 years and in the last 15 years was the Principal Technical Officer CID Covert Operations. He is personally responsible for designing many technical innovations which are still in use today, for which he has received numerous awards including the Inventor of the Year award BBC Televisions Tomorrows World 2000.

He formed the Hostage Siege and Hijack Technical Requirements Group at the Home Office in 1988.

On retirement in 2004 he formed his own company www.goodmanbentley.com manufacturing and producing specialist equipment primarily for the Military/ Law Enforcement /Prisons and Immigration & Border Agencies.

really apply anymore.

My personal view is that Governments turned a blind eye to the needs of International companies, and allowed “private” individuals to be hired and undergo selective and specific training, which included the training on specific robust weapons systems that they needed to carry to perform their specific role in the theatre of operations that they had been employed for.

So, in short, the term Mercenary in my view does not fit this role, as individuals are not working for any Army or Government, but a privately owned International organisation.

Many of those applying and holding down these new armed roles within the security industry abroad, are inevitably ex Military men and women, who have been trained to varying standards.

Some had clearly attained great heights when they served their country in elite units ,where selection and casting stood side by side, where the weak had no place within an Esprit de Corps, in such units like the Special Forces, The Parachute Regiment or The Royal Marines.

It therefore goes without saying that some units within the Army, like The Royal Mili-

Circuit :: OnTheJob tary Police for example, would be better trained to perform this role anyway, as their training ethos, is protection of individuals, carried out even today in trouble spots around the world, usually around Ambassadorial assets!!

Clearly, this small Corps could never deliver, the numbers required and sustain a credible force on the ground, so other units were sought to fill the ranks.

The standards of training have vastly improved from those early days of the 90’s, but there are some weak links still out there, that could break the chain.

Clearly, standards have to be attained, and rightly or wrongly the SIA accreditation was a good “weeding” source at the time of recruitment for these demanding roles. Still not essential, as often many companies, use the “Old boy network” to seek out and retain those highly sought after men and women to conduct this work abroad at elevated salaries to those offered by HM Forces, who have not joined the SIA. Of course, a Government may have an interest in protecting these very same assets abroad, in oil for example, to ensure stability at home on the political front, in protecting the price of a barrel of oil for the tax payer, however, they are in themselves hypocritical, when 19 years ago, a privately paid individual doing this role as an armed security guard would have been pilloried beyond redemption, and totally frowned upon by his peers.

FAMILIES

It therefore follows, that when these individuals are deployed abroad they leave their wives, children and loved ones behind in carrying out these demanding jobs.

The first consideration on being employed by the vast numbers of security companies now working in theatre, was one of finance, where the dreams of families was to pay off mortgages early, or to purchase luxury items ,and support their children by taking on these often dangerous and demanding roles.

Money being the first consideration to achieve these goals, bringing prosperity and resilience to the family unit back home, and certainly, the knowledge that if the worst was to occur, that the family unit would remain intact supported by a solid and robust Insurance Policy.

Insurance cover is an unwieldy and an uncontrollable beast, due primarily on occasions, due to small print, and their ability to find exits and avoidance in paying out when claims are made.

It is to this end, that every operator fulfilling this role abroad, must cut his cloth accordingly, and tailor the policy to suit!!

Every family is completely different, in

“So you have flown the nest and left your loved ones behind, or as a single person you have left property unmanned for the period up to your first rest back home on R&R.”

numbers , ages and personal assets they wish to protect when they are away from home, so proceed with caution, and never go down the road of copying your peers policies, as each and every one of them will have missed something that does or does not apply to your personal family circumstances.

That last wave goodbye, must never be one of doubt, asking yourself “have I covered all my bases, is there any more I could do for my family if the worst happened , or if I returned seriously injured needing full-time care for the rest of my life’’, a consideration often forgotten.

We have all seen Regular soldiers return from theatre and presented with a fight against Military officialdom to obtain what they are due, so you can see it is easy to be complacent, even when allegedly given the support of a major organisation behind you.

SECURITY

So you have flown the nest and left your loved ones behind, or as a single person you have left property unmanned for the period up to your first rest back home on R&R. This could be weeks or even months before you see the white cliffs of Dover again, so what should you do to protect these assets, having been deployed and looking after someone else’s for so long!!

Firstly, look to a comprehensive alarm system, providing the reassurance and protection to your family and assets back home.

These systems can be complimented with a remote monitoring facility provided by 24 hour response.

In the role you are doing, I would always advise this, in the knowledge that there is someone you can trust to respond quickly and effectively, as you ponder thousands of miles away. The money you earn must be commensurate with the security system you deploy at home.

If you wish to be informed of the alarm status of your property remotely via PDA’s or Mobile telephony, this is also available and must be a consideration in these days of advanced technology.

Communication is essential in all aspects of this type of work, where a partner is out of contact, deployed in isolated and often badly served access to those vital links back home.

Tracking is also a key consideration, because the first “luxury” item that is often acquired after the first tour is complete is a very expensive family or personal car. Don’t be fooled in taking the cheap option. Al-

ways look to the Tracker UK’s or those who have credible backgrounds, and have been around a long time providing you with that reassurance. I only mention Tracker UK as this company has been in operation for over 20 years, and the only supported tracking company where all 43 Police Forces in the UK have the technology to track and recover your vehicle for you, as their vehicles and helicopters are fitted with the locators.

They are also ACPO approved, and from a personal viewpoint, the only consideration in my view to achieve what you seek in the knowledge again, that you have a monitoring service with a reliable response force!

The home should always be covered by a well appointed and a cost effective CCTV system, providing you images on previously mentioned telephony equipment, direct to your handheld or computer in theatre. This too, will reassure you that images of your family in their daily routine, but also any likely offenders to your family or property are recorded in date time sequences, and provide you with the reassurance you need to allow you to do your job in the knowledge that you have done your best to protect your family in your absence.

If you wish the 24 hour monitoring station charged with looking after your alarm system to also monitor the CCTV in your absence, this can also be achieved. A simple alarm panel on entry disables both CCTV and the alarm condition, so no worries on any indiscreet concerns by big brother watching your lifestyle by the monitoring station personnel.

Be aware that there are lots of “cowboy alarm companies” out there who are not accredited, so always look for SSIAB (http:// www.ssaib.co.uk/) or NACOSS (http://www. nsi.org.uk/) approved installers.

You wouldn’t use a non CORGI registered fitter to mess about with your gas appliances so don’t do it when you are considering a comprehensive alarm and CCTV system in your home.

Remember, with technology as it is today, “everything” is achievable, so don’t be worried about using it.

My adage has always been “Everything is possible”. *ACPO -= Association of Chief Police Officers

Circuit : : 9

Circuit :: OnTheJob

CASUALTY CHOICE FOR RETRIEVAL THE JOB THE RIGHT

by ANDY PURDIE

Ever since I can remember one of the big issues for a medic working in a remote or hostile environment has been the problem of evacuating a casualty after an incident. The ideal mode of evacuation is always going to be on a stretcher, particularly if there is a lengthy distance to the nearest vehicle or helicopter to definitive care. However, there have always been a number of problems associated with the choice of stretcher for an operation or expedition:

Size – Generally stretchers are large and bulky, unable to fit in vehicles or be man portable, and even the ones that are collapsible are still fairly large in size, take up precious room and are awkward to carry. Ideally, the stretcher should take up as small a footprint as possible so that it can be incorporated within or attached to the medical bag rather than become an extra burden.

Weight - Most stretchers are rigid and require a metal component to

provide the rigidity. This inevitably increases its weight and size, and if you are carrying this around for a long duration as well as your medical kit it soon becomes a burden you can do without. For this reason, when selecting a deployable stretcher, consideration should always take into account the weight / portability ratio.

Durability – As a rule the most durable stretchers are made from the stronger materials, increasing weight and bulk. The ideal stretcher should be hardwearing, washable and resistant to wear and tear. Fastenings should be robust and able to withstand rough treatment during evacuation in a hostile environment.

to use, rapid to deploy and, ideally, able to be used by a single as well as multiple rescuers as the situation permits.

A potential solution for these problems is the Team-8™ stretcher.

This rapid extrication stretcher is already in service with the British Forces in Afghanistan, British Special Forces and some UK Police specialist firearms teams. The Team-8™ has been designed by professionals who have spent years working in remote and hostile environments and have incorporated their experiences into the design of this stretcher. As well as being lightweight (2.4kg), compact when folded (16cm x 56cm) and durable, one of its key benefits lies in its speed of deployment, where a single rescuer can secure a casualty and be extricating them in under 60 seconds.

Functionality – We would always like to have a rigid stretcher, long board or scoop stretcher, head blocks & a vacuum mattress to provide a gold standard evacuation for our casualty. Unfortunately, when working in a remote or hostile environment, this is very unlikely to happen initially, especially during the care under fire phase of casualty treatment. In this situation an element of risk assessment with regard to casualty handling is going to be required to get them out to a safe environment for treatment and packaging. If you have to evacuate under these circumstances, standard stretchers will require at least 2 people to evacuate a casualty, potentially putting both of the bearers at risk.

Any stretcher you choose should be capable of being deployed in a care under fire situation in both urban and non-urban settings.

Ideally, it should provide the capability to allow a single rescuer to lower or drag the casualty up or down a flight of stairs, steep banks or rough terrain. The design should be simple

10 : : Circuit

To view a video of the Team-8™ in use, go to You Tube, and search ‘Team 8 Stretcher’.

Andy Purdie is an ex-military paramedic, with wide operational experience, and is Prometheus Medical’s Chief Instructor. Prometheus provides a range of specialist medical equipment based on its clinical expertise in pre-hospital trauma care, major incident and disaster management, primary care, combat casualty care and expeditionary medicine

Circuit :: OnTheJob

MARKETING YOUR BUSINESS I

by

GUS MACGREGOR

t is very clear to day that the current economic market place is very much more competitive as a direct result of the financial instability globally. Whether you operate in the UK, The United States or further afield, I am certain you will have noticed the current trends and changes in the market. Everyone has been affected by the direct/indirect influences of the uncertainties presently facing us all.

We all want to get a fair share of business and opportunities, but it is also very important to ensure that the ‘end user’ is made aware of who you are, where you are and what services you or your company can deliver. Whilst it is also equally important, in some cases, that anonymity is acknowledged, there are many ways to promote and market your service/s.

1. Consider this, you have all the necessary attributes to deliver a “security related service” (the service you presently provide) so why not diversify and tap in to the other areas of “security services” that would benefit from your expert input and knowledge.

2. This could be the ideal time for you to look at other geographical areas of operation with the current service you provide.

3. Perhaps you enjoy a successful career and wish to just expand your operation but need the assistance to market

and develop your company.

4. Do you feel you are getting your fair share of business? If not why not?

5. Do you have the time to market your business?

6. You may be considering starting your own business and need assistance with finance, marketing and development.

7. Advice and assistance is always available.

If you are presently considering a career change or the diversification of your operation then now is the time to put your plans into action.

Don’t be left behind do it now!!!!

A carefully devised work plan specifically designed for you will produce the results that will improve your share of the market and more importantly increase turnover and profits.

By penetrating the vast market place and ever increasing demand for quality service you will get the desired results to facilitate your expansion and resultant life style. Monitor how successful a particular mode of marketing was and continually use that as your blue print, modifying if necessary. Establish you goals and objectives by initiating a marketing and expansion plan has been proven and will achieve your desired results.

Gus Macgregor has been involved in sales and marketing for over 30 years, 17 of which have been within the Security Industry and is fully conversant of all the necessary tools and requirements needed to ensure a solid marketing drive.

E-mail: gus_macgregor@yahoo.co.uk; Tel : 01786 812323 Mobile :

07866 258094

Circuit : : 11

B

ACCOUN THE AFTERMATH Circuit :: OnTheJob

by JUSTIN JOHNSON

I

n our previous columns we have gone step by step in the choices that an Executive Protection Agent makes when he chooses to carry a firearm. Along this road we have asked the “how should I carry” and “why should I carry” questions, we have discussed which firearm to choose, and we have even talked about the training need to succeed in the industry. Now I want to explore a subject rarely talked about; the aftermath of a confrontation (lethal or otherwise), where a firearm is used.

What happens once you find yourself in a situation, where you as a reasonable person, have deemed it necessary to use lethal force to protect yourself and your client… Now what? First evolution kicks in: our adrenaline levels increase, a person will start to get tunnel vision, your hearing will decrease and become muffled, fine motor skills will jump right out the window (an instance where even taking a gun off “safe” will become difficult without practice).

Time will feel as if it is standing still, pain receptors in the body will diminish, and your physical strength may even increase tenfold. This is the bodies’ physical response to a life or death situation, but through continuous training and practice you will be able to control this response.

During heightened stress, the body takes over for your mind and reverts back to the lowest level of training and muscle memory. The professional would then engage the hostile threat with as many rounds as it takes to end the confrontation.

As you slowly regain your lost senses, things start to come back into focus… You turn to your Principle, “Sir, are you ok?”

After you have checked your Principle for any life threatening wounds and treated them accordingly, ensured the safety of the scene, and gotten your Principle to a safe and secure environment, you instruct someone to call 911…

This is where the legal aftermath starts.

Speaking from a US perspective, in most situations, be prepared to be arrested.

Most law enforcement agencies are going to initially arrest the shooter no matter which side of the fence he sits on. Perhaps it is not fair, but it’s the truth. Just keep in mind you don’t have to say anything without the presence of a lawyer, and

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S SECURITY

The Role of Firearms in Executive Protection.

Pt. 4 I would strongly suggest you not say anything until you have one, no matter how “clear cut” the situation may seem. This also raises the question, what about your Principle: If you are incarcerated, even temporarily, who is there to protect them?

This is just one of the many questions you have to ask yourself before you get into a

potentially lethal confrontation.

Now starts the long drawn out process of finding out whether this was a justifiable use of deadly force, or at worst, something that would be deemed murder. A routine day on the job now involves lawyers, police officers, judges, witnesses, and a lot of time, effort, and inconvenience. This can also run up a healthy financial bill, and without the proper insurances in place, or an assumption of the cost from a wealthy client, this would be your out of pocket responsibility.

Adding insult to injury, this could just be for the criminal case, not taking into account the fact the “bad guy” (or his family) could still take you to court in a civil wrongful death lawsuit. I have heard instances where a ruling was paid out to the tune of $1,000,000 dollars per bullet fired. I don’t know about you guys, but my rainy day stash doesn’t run that deep.

Yet another shot to the pocket book (pun intended) could come if you are working with a celebrity or well-known VIP. After the shooting, even in an instance where it’s justified, you may be surprised to find your not going to get a call back for work.

The big reason for that is the headline in the tabloids are gong to read; “So and So’s Bodyguard Shoots Somebody!” In the world of celebrity, the media is a double-edged sword, and this certainly isn’t flattering publicity. Unfortunate as it may be, that VIP is likely going to want to distance themselves from it, which means distance from you. Again, this may not be fair but it is a reality.

In this scenario, you’ve just been given the cold shoulder from a client who’s life you feel you’ve saved. You’ve been kicked in the wallet financially and your days are spent reviewing legal paperwork with your attorney. Now sets in the potential mental health concerns. This is not the movies, justified or not, taking another human life is not easy. Post Traumatic Stress is a growing problem not only in the military but also with anyone who has been involved in this type of life or death situation. Some things to look out for with PTSD: Nightmares, often feeling fearful or numb, the inability to stop thinking about what happened. This is in addition to anger, irritability, guilt, shame, self-blame, substance abuse, depression, headaches, stomach problems, chest pains, and even suicidal thoughts.

When all is said and done, the use of a firearm in the field of Executive Protection seems like a “lose-lose” situation. However the purpose of this particular column was to give readers a dose of reality, as much of the dialogue on firearms in our industry is on the technique and not the aftermath.

The professional knows that you draw your firearm as a last resort, because there is a weighty price to be paid once the smoke clears.

Until next time, Stay Safe…

BUSINESS CONSULTIN ACCOUNTANCY AND BUSINESS CONSULTING FOR THE SECURITY INDUSTRY

NTANCY ACCOUN

SECURITY Y INDUSTRY • Accounts • Bookkeeping & Payroll • Business Planning & Start-Up • Taxation • Non-Residency • Security Operatives in the UK

INSURANCE

CPSIS can offer cover for an extensive range of professions worldwide: • Close Protection (Single and Multiple) • Maritime • Security Consultants • Close Protection Training • Door Supervisors & Event Security • Physical Security Installation, CCTV & Surveillance • Alarms, Patrol & Static Guards To learn more: Hereford +44(0)1432 268007 protect@cpsis.co.uk www.cpsis.co.uk

WHITTAKER & CO.

www.whittakerandco.org

17 Parkers Lane, Newtown, Powys :: SY16 2LT Tel: +44(0)1686 610662 : : Mobile: 07970 200247 : : Skype: WHITTAKERANDCD

Circuit : : 13

Circuit :: OnTheJob

HEALTHY IN BODY AND MIND Working in this Industry and maintaining a healthy, varied diet can often prove difficult: Limited choice, availability and poor quality foods are common problems.

by RYAN NAISH

Nutrition

The choices made for each meal can have a detrimental effect on your energy levels throughout the day. When making a meal selection, try and divide the food available into the Macro-nutrient food groups: Carbohydrates, protein and fats. An effective split thatoptimises energy levels and supports lean muscle development is: 40%C/30%P/30%F

40% Carbohydrates

Carbs are split into: Simple and Complex varieties.

30% Fat

A lot of people will be very surprised that this percentage of the daily intake is taken up by fat. The low/non fat diet is a popular and misguided fad that is actually detrimental to people’s health.

Good fats are essential to good health and broken down in simple terms by: Nonessential: Saturated and Mono-unsaturated fats Essential: Poly-unsaturated fats.

Simple carbohydrates are those that are quickly absorbed by the body and provide a spike of energy by increasing the body’s blood sugar levels. This surge is quickly followed by a slump as the body tries to regulate these levels. Foods that are classified as simple carbs are: Sugar, refined starch’s (white: Bread, pasta and rice) etc.

Almost all foods that contain fat have all three types in various percentages. Saturated Fat is the most dangerous form of fat and found in large quantities in: Beef, lamb, eggs (primarily yolk) and pork etc. The leaner the cut, the lower the concentration of saturated fat, is the general rule.

Eating these foods in large quantities will cause major energy slumps during the day. Excessive consumption will also produce considerable body fat, as the body will put any unused energy source away in storage.

The essential poly-unsaturated fat is usually what people are deficient in. This is broken down once again into omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids. Foods high in these are: Hemp, pumpkin, flax, sunflower and sesame seeds, walnuts, almonds and oily fish.

The 40% should primarily be made up of complex carbohydrates. Starchy carbs should be kept to a minimum: Potatoes, Pasta and rice. These can cause bloating and lethargy. The majority should be made up of: Whole grains, lentils, beans and vegetables (leafy and root).

Supplementation

Obviously if the good choices are not available the worse alternatives have to be eaten. Just try to eat them in moderation.

30% Protein

The building blocks of muscle, inadequate protein intake will result in loss of lean muscle tissue. To be absorbed and utilised effectively, protein must contain the full spectrum of 8 essential amino acids that cannot be produced by the body. Foods that contain these are known as “complete” protein sources e.g. Meat, fish, eggs and milk.

Other foods can be combined however to achieve the “complete” status. By doing so, this will provide the 8 essential amino acids the body needs. This is useful to know if: Meat, eggs or dairy are in short supply or you are vegetarian. Some examples of this are: Rice + lentils, nuts + peas/beans, vegetables + mushrooms.

The ultimate protein source (surprising to many) is a South American seed called Quinoa, it’s of a higher quality than any lean meat source and is readily available in supermarkets.

How much protein to take on board is a continued source of debate, a rough equation that determines what quantity of protein to consume on a daily basis is: 1g of protein per 1lb of body weight. This is a very rough guide however, as it takes no consideration into your lean body mass, just overall weight.

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This could be a subject for an article in its own right. In brief, my view on supplements is that the clue is in the name. They should be used purely to boost an already balanced and healthy diet. The daily food intake should ideally be broken down into 5-6 smaller meals consumed approximately every 3 hours.

Supplements are a great addition to assist in maintaining this frequency. When choosing a supplement, try to keep the same ratio of macro-nutrients. This can be done yourself by buying them individually and combining them e.g.

Whey protein isolate

30g

Milled Oats

40g

Ground flax/pumpkin seed

30g

This combination will blend easily to form a shake and fill a gap between ‘whole food’ meals. Ensure that ‘whole foods’ make up the bulk of the daily intake. Other elements can be supplemented during the day to assist energy levels, performance and well-being. This is a complex subject and down to personal preference and self-research.

In conclusion, good nutrition is easy to achieve with some background knowledge, preparation and fore thought. Good choices made of the fuel you put into your engine will determine: Overall health and wellbeing, consistency of energy levels and continued gains in physical performance for your chosen fitness goal.

Circuit :: OnTheJob Press up Variations Everyone knows how to do a standard press up and it’s still an effective fitness tool when used in circuits and strengthendurance training. The exercise can be made more demanding however, by varying the: Hand positions, weight distribution, speed of exercise, pivot points and angle of the body.

Pike press up Round the body and distribute most of the weight over the shoulders. Either leg can be elevated to increase the difficulty.

1 arm press up Activate the core and grip the quadriceps with the non-exercising hand, (optional for stability). Lower the body under control until the chest touched the floor, then fully extend. To increase the difficulty, raise the leg on the working side

Spider press up Arms shoulder width apart, simultaneously lower the body to the floor whilst bringing the knee towards the elbow. As the arms fully extend, the leg returns to a straight position.

Extended press up Place the hands in front of the head, shoulder width apart. Ensure the elbows stay inline with the hands on the way down to place increased strain on the triceps.

Hindu press up Start position resembles the pike press up but this time the body contours the ground extending into the cobra position. Unlike the dive-bomber press up that follows the same route back, the Hindu press up returns to the start position via the easiest route. *Great exercise for spinal flexibility*.

Plyometric press up Started as a conventional press up, the difference occurs at the concentric part of the movement. From here, the arms are extended in an explosive manner with a view to gaining as much height from the floor as possible.

Circuit Challenge

This issue’s challenge involves the Tabata principle, developed by DR. Izumi Tabata in Japan.

It’s an interval based activity that works on: 8 x 20 second work intervals with 10 second rest intervals interspersed.

Designed to increase aerobic and anaerobic conditioning and lower fat levels to increase lean body mass. It is a relatively short workout

but don’t let it fool you, it’s brutal!

Move through the following exercises completing 8 sets of: 20 secs on 10 secs off, resting 1 minute between exercies before moving to the next movement: Bag/Pad work (non stop striking) Squats; Press ups; Half-sit ups; Pull ups

Utrinque Paratus

Circuit : : 15

Circuit :: OnTheJob

THE BENEFITS OF LOW PROFILE PSDS IN HIGH THREAT AREAS.

The Personal Security Detail,

Protective Service Detail or Personal Security Detachment is commonly known by the three-letter acronym of PSD. Although it has gained a lot of attention and publicity in recent years it is not a new invention.

T

he need for security is a common thread that runs through history. The Roman Emperors had their Praetorian Guard and British Royalty used the Beefeaters to protect them against attack from their adversaries.

Indeed if the Arch Duke Ferdinand’s security had been up to the task, his assassination, which occurred in Sarajevo in 1914 might well have been averted. This climatic event is largely attributed with starting a chain reaction, which led to the outbreak of the First World War. It could be argued then that good security might have changed the course of history. PSDs because of their prohibitive cost have more commonly been used by governments and wealthy business executives. All this was to change however in the aftermath of the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars.

Both countries had to be put back together but there was a snag, there was no law and order. The foreign national contractors whose job it was to oversee the reconstruction process were flooding in but had no protection.

The demand had been identified, all the security companies had to do was supply.

Kabul and Baghdad were soon crawling with security executives looking for business, the PSDs had arrived.

With no or little local law enforcement the PSD convoys were able to flaunt and break local traffic laws with impunity. Using ‘hard drills’ such as running counter flow, blocking, jumping stop signs and ignoring check points were all in a day’s work for a PSD and considered as normal behaviour.

Things have changed however, the onus is now for PSDs to work within the law, a

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by CHARLIE RICHARDS

concept that some find difficult to grasp.

The reason for the change is that both Iraq and Afghanistan’s fledgling security forces have come of age and are asserting their authority. The PSDs that ignored them previously are under the microscope and are being targeted and hit hard.

There are continued reports from both Kabul and Baghdad on how PSDs are being harassed at security checkpoints. In Kabul it is not uncommon for PSDs to have weapons and vehicles confiscated at check points, with the ‘operators’ being left by the side of the road to find their own way home.

tactics. This concept again is not new. There are a number of security companies that have used covert methods to transport their clients around very effectively in high threat areas. These companies are normally run by ex-special forces who have adapted tactics used by their old units for use within the private security sector.

The whole concept of ‘low profile’ security is therefore lowering the profile signature of the PSD. This can be done in several ways but the most common are vehicles, tactics and personnel.

Firstly vehicles. Most security contracts insist that their people get moved around in armoured vehicles. This can cause a dilemma for a security manager who has to deliver a ‘low profile’ service. Armoured vehicles by their nature are easily recognisable but their look can be toned down. Getting rid of external radio antennas is essential and camouflaging by getting it to look like a local vehicle is also extremely beneficial.

The main reason for this is that PSDs are so obvious to spot. We have all seen pictures of the archetypal PSD on TV. Three vehicles with blackened out windows moving through traffic as if connected by invisible towropes. The ‘optics’ of operating like this is a dead giveaway and therefore makes High Profile PSD working in Iraq. Note the them vulnerable to Danger sign, Codan Ariel and tow rope attack by insurgents with IEDs, small arms and of course harassment by local law enforcement.

The industry still has to go about its business however and provide security for its clients. The question is how can it do it?

A possible answer is using ‘Low Profile’ or ‘Covert’ methods and

Circuit :: OnTheJob Under close scrutiny an armoured vehicle will always be recognised. The idea then is not to make it invisible but to create a doubt in the person’s mind who is wishing it harm, ‘is it or isn’t it?’, the security manager is buying seconds, seconds in which the vehicle would have moved out of the kill zone.

Using local vehicles also helps. The configuration of a ‘low profile’ PSD might consist of a local saloon that is used as a Security Advance Parties (SAP), a B6 Land Cruiser for the client vehicle and a local four wheel drive for the Counter Attack Team (CAT). If the tactics used by the team were well rehearsed it would be extremely difficult to associate these vehicles together.

Secondly Tactics. This is not the place to discuss Standing Operational Procedures (SOPs) and Immediate Action (IAs) drills.

These will be unique to the organisations using them and it is important that they are not publicised. The main tactic that all low profile PSDs share however is not to draw attention to itself.

The hunter in the animal kingdom looks for weaknesses in its prey; the young, old or infirm are all considered targets because they stand out. It is the same in high threat areas, stand out and you present a target, blend in and the target disappears.

Thirdly personnel. I have worked in both high and low profile PSDs, my personal preference is for the later, however it’s not Same make of vehicle, note difference in for everyone.

Ariel size on roof and stickers High profile teams usually consist of six to eight expats who are normally well trained and have an abundance of weapons and equipment. The guys are invariably exmilitary; they are at home using hard drills and are comfortable with the camaraderie and support within

this pseudo military environment.

The expat operator in a ‘low profile’ team might well find himself as the only international. His confidence in his own ability is therefore crucial and his skill set would have to be honed to a much higher level.

Low profile team leaders would be expected not only to run the team but to teach their ‘locals’ in all aspects of PSD work. To do this they must be well versed in weapon handling, navigation, first aid and of course PSD and military tactics.

Working in a ‘low profile’ PSD is not for everyone, many high profile PSD guys would never entertain the idea of switching. It takes a certain type of individual who can train and operate a team of locals in high-risk areas - the job is not for the faint hearted.

Low profile PSD is not a panacea for working in high threat areas. It does however provide another tool that the security manager can use in providing a secure environment for his clients.

As a tool it could be likened to a surgical instrument, designed with a job in mind and manufactured to cause the least amount of damage. High profile would be more like a hammer, strong, heavy and brutal. Both have their uses, the clever part is knowing when to use them.

Global.securityandrisk@googlemail.com

Circuit : : 17

Circuit :: TechTalk

SO, YOU WANT TO BE A

PENETRATION TESTER... pt5

:: Social Engineering

The Fifth in a series of 6 articles that will give you an introduction to corporate penetration testing

I

Whatis.com Definition: Penetration testing “Penetration testing is the security-oriented probing of a computer system or network to seek out vulnerabilities that an attacker could exploit.”

n this the penultimate article in the series on penetration testing we are going to take a look at social engineering, perhaps one of the hardest attacks of all to protect against as it typically circumvents the technology put in place to protect a companies digital assets.

In the simplest terms, social engineering is using relationships with people to attain a goal. As a pentester you will typically be using social engineering to gain physical access to buildings, workstations or data by manipulating the company employees perception of you.

Definition

Ian Mann, (2008) author of “Hacking the Human,” defines social engineering as the following: “To manipulate people by deception, into giving out information or performing an action” . This definition encompasses not only the gleaning of information, but also the possibility of “performing an action.” In general terms, when social engineering is thought of, it is usually in relation to harvesting information and not necessarily in relation to performing an action. For example, if a security guard is manipulated into allowing an attacker through a security checkpoint, the attacker has not gained any particular information.

However, they have manipulated the

18 : : Circuit

by KEITH LOOSE

security guard into allowing them into an area (performing an action) where they were not authorized to be.

Social engineering has been around since the beginning of time. In fact, one of the earliest documented examples of a phishing attack can be found in The Old Testament.

In Genesis 27, Isaac had gone blind in his old age, and was on his deathbed. After his wife heard that he wanted to give the family blessing to the eldest son, she told their youngest son, Jacob, to go and deceive his father and receive the blessing instead.

The problem was that the eldest son was a very hairy man, and Jacob was not. To deceive Isaac, Jacob covered himself in goatskins. This deception worked, and Isaac

blessed Jacob instead of his eldest son. In this example, Isaac had fallen prey to what is known as a simple phishing scheme.

Throughout history up to the modern day, there have been countless other examples which illustrate the effectiveness of social engineering. In the story of the Trojan horse of the Greeks, the Trojans had fallen prey to the Greek’s social engineering tactics through their own over-confidence and gullibility. Twentieth century social engineers, such as Frank Abaganale, portrayed in the movie, “Catch Me if you Can,” pulled off astonishing stunts through social engineering methods. And Kevin Mitnick, one of the most well-known social engineers of the modern era, uttered these words as he was testifying before Congress of his misdeeds: “I explained that I could often get passwords and other pieces of sensitive information from companies by pretending to be someone else and just asking for it.”

Tools of the Trade

Social engineers use tactics to leverage trust, helpfulness, easily attainable information, knowledge of internal processes, authority, technology and any combination there of. They often use several small attacks to put them in the position to reach their final goal. Social engineering is all about taking advantage of others to gather information and infiltrate an attack. The information gained in a

Circuit :: TechTalk phone book may lead to a phone call. The information gained in the phone call may lead to another phone call. A social engineer builds on each tidbit of information he or she gains to eventually stage a final, deadly attack. In the real world, a successful social engineering attempt could (and has on many occasions) result in great financial loss for the target company - a motivated attacker will be willing to gain information in any way possible.

much more likely to know whether or not the attacker is who they say they are. Trust is important to establish both as a technique on its own as well as in combination with other techniques.

Establishing Trust

Help

Human nature is the social engineer’s greatest exploit - as part of human nature, people generally trust easily and get satisfaction out of helping those in need. In order to gain information, such as a phone number or a password, the attacker must first establish trust with the individual that he or she hopes to gain information from. Social engineers often use a direct approach to gain the information they need for an attack by simply calling and asking for information.

Often the attacker will use a series of calls to multiple individuals to gather the information and/or access needed to cause damage. The social engineer may test the waters with an individual they have contacted by asking simple questions or even engaging in small talk with them.

An effective social engineer is very good at picking up on warning signs such as the hesitation of an individual to offer certain information. A sense of hesitation shows the attacker that trust has not been established and that the individual is more likely to catch on or not reveal information.

The easiest way for a penetration tester to gain trust is to not ask suspicious questions. A engineer who asks about sensitive information right off the bat will be less successful than a social engineer who doesn’t ask such suspicious questions.

This is why social engineers instigate a series of conversations to gain bits and pieces of information at a time – often having already gleamed as much publicly available (or privately in the case of dumpster diving) information as possible to give set the scene, mentioning the right names and places in context will aid in letting the ‘mark’ think you are who you say you are and A social engineer will generally start by asking simple questions that seem minute to the attacked. If an attacker senses hesitation in the voice on the other end of the phone, he or she will stick to simple questions and hope to gain more information from the next individual he or she chooses to call. The larger the organization, the easier it is to establish trust. In a smaller environment the target is

Clout, or having authority over an individual, is a technique used by social engineers to intimidate the target this is often done by posing as an authoritative figure such as a manager.

A social engineer may use a tactic known as reverse social engineering. There are three parts to reverse social engineering: “sabotage, advertising and assisting.”

Reverse social engineering involves creating a situation where the attacker must help the target individual; this is a great way of establishing trust because a target individual who gets help from an attacker will be more willing to help the attacker in return. When creating a situation for reverse social engineering, an attacker will generally pose as someone whom the attacked will recognize as an individual who can both solve his or her problem and receive privileged information. The attacker will try and choose an individual that he or she believes has information to help them. An attacker may make up a situation where nothing even goes wrong to effectively use the reverse approach.

An attacker posing as an IT employee, for example, could call and warn the target individual of an outage that may affect their network connectivity. After the false outage window expires, the attacker will follow up with the target to verify they are not having any problems, knowing that the target will not. After creating such a situation, the attacker has established a level of trust that can be used to ask for help in gaining information in the future.

This is also a good way for a social engineer to install malicious software on a targets machine. The social engineer posing as an IT employee or software vendor may ask the target to go to a web site or open an email attachment sent to the target that may contain a virus or other malicious software.

In this situation the social engineer may say, for example, that the software is required to be installed as part of an upgrade.

Easily Attainable Information

Most of the information a penetration tester will need to initiate an attack is usually publicly available, simple phone numbers are often published in a variety of business directories, in the case of publicly listed companies full upper management structures are a simple google search away and if employees are active in social

networking or industry specific forums a variety of information can be gleamed.

Social engineers planning to pose as an internal employee will first need to identify someone to masquerade as. Corporate directories are often easy to come by, and not viewed by internal employees as containing sensitive information.

Many individuals may thing that sharing names, positions and phone numbers is harmless. Cold calling sales people often gain contact information on the people they want to sell their products to from other individuals employed by the same company. Social engineers do this to gain the contact information of the people they want to take advantage of. A call to a corporate receptionist to learn the name and number of a manager, or anyone in a certain position, for that matter, can be quite simple. Social engineers may call the human resources department to learn the names of the employee’s they want to target. The attacker may also gather easily attainable information by browsing corporate web sites.

Knowledge of Internal Processes

An attacker can have much success by knowing both internal lingual and business processes. By displaying knowledge of an internal process or procedure or by using internal jargon, a social engineer can trick a target into thinking that he or she is indeed a company employee. For example, knowing the method a help desk uses to verify identities and responding as expected will increase the believability of a call to the help desk from a social engineer posing as an employee who forgot his or her password. The attacker may already have a good deal of information about the target. A distraught ex-employee wanting to disrupt business likely already knows the key people that he or she can use as pawns for the attack. The ex-employee could also have established some ground work before leaving, such as installing malicious software. For this reason, it is not necessarily outside forces that are most dangerous to an organization’s assets being compromised. Rather, it can be an organization’s employees themselves.

Circuit : : 19

Circuit :: TechTalk Clout

Clout, or having authority over an individual, is a technique used by social engineers to intimidate the target this is often done by posing as an authoritative figure such as a manager. After the social engineer has gained information about the people in charge, he or she may pose as such an individual and call a target demanding information. To use clout effectively, social engineers do not have to necessarily pose as management. They could instead say that they are calling on behalf of a CEO, CFO or other high-ranking official who needs information now and won’t take no for an answer. Once the sensitive information is revealed, trust is also established, meaning that the attacker could use this approach against the same person again in the future.

Technology

Although a successful social engineering attack does not require a great deal of technical knowledge, using technology in conjunction with social engineering principals can be very effective. A social engineer may use the techniques above to learn about the technical infrastructure of a company in order to unleash a virus that could potentially take down a network.

Social engineers may deploy a “Trojan horse”, a program in which malicious or harmful code is contained inside apparently harmless programming or data in such a way that it can get control and do its chosen form of damage.”4 A social engineer may send a virus or Trojan horse as an email attachment; capture victim keystrokes with expendable computer systems or programs; leave a floppy disk or CD around the workplace with malicious software on it; use false pop-up window’s asking a user to log in again or sign on with their network password; send free software or a patch for a victim to install.

Gaining Physical Access

Many corporate offices hold a lot of easily attainable information that can help a social engineer perpetrate his or her attack. Although social engineers tend to avoid going on site of a target, doing so can be easy. These days, most large organisations use a badging system for getting in to a building or secured area.

Being that humans are generally polite, following someone in to a corporate office can be very simple. At large organizations most employees do not know every employee or recognize every face and are usually more than happy to hold a door for someone. Once in, the social engineer

20 : : Circuit

can gain a great deal of information from just walking by the workspaces of employees who have stepped away. From taking a walk through a corporate office, a social engineer may find passwords on sticky notes stuck to monitors, financial records such as invoices and purchase orders, or documentation on the technical infrastructure. The attacker can leave with such information in hand.

Being on site is most advantageous after hours. Social engineers may pose as cleaners or maintenance workers to get in after hours. Some may even get a job with a contracted cleaning company to get inside the target. Once on site after hours, a social engineer may find a workstation of someone, who hasn’t logged out or locked his or her workstation, and install malicious software or steal information. The attacker may find sensitive information that was not properly destroyed. He or she could install networking equipment such as wireless access points. A social engineer that goes inside the target company is going to be as quick and stealthy as possible, but at night when no one is around he or she can let down their guard a bit more and take more time gathering information. A social engineer in the office undetected after several hours can easily remove hardware, software or anything else he or she feels may help in reaching the final goal.

We have only skimmed the surface of possibilities that social engineering can un-cover and you would be very surprised to hear about the type of supposedly secure environments that can be breached with SE techniques… Many engineers study neuro linguistic programming (NLP) and something I would strongly recommend anyone embarking upon a career in on-site penetration testing look at, I would also strongly recommend reading “The Art of Deception” by Kevin Mitnick, the un-official king of social engineering (and the subject of some pretty bad films – please ignore these!!).

In the next issue, the last article will round off the series by describing a full on-site penetration test of a major UK based investment bank – I hope once written it reads half as exciting as it sounds!!

Top 10 business tips Many of you are operators who aspire to be the guy that gets the contracts and hires people to fulfil them.

Here are our top 10 tips to help you on your way!

1. Think of a name for your business and think hard!

2. Get you business stationary in order o Business cards o Letter heads

3. Use good quality paper and envelopes and address envelopes using a printer rather than your own handwriting!

4. Get a logo – Nike and Apple have been rather successful with theirs!

Brand identity is so important, do not underestimate this!

5. Get a website, not having one is just not acceptable in today’s world and attracts suspicion.

6. Do not use a ‘free’ e-mail address, get one that matches your domain: steven@bodyguard_services.co.uk and have an admin/info@ mail in the same vein , makes you appear a much better outfit 7. Go to networking events, not as an operator but as ‘your’ business

o Think outside the box when doing this. Going to events where there are 100’s of other operators may be of limited value, going to one where you are the only security firm could be a winner

8. Get an answer phone message! Do not use the standard one that your carrier supplies.

9. Collaborate on projects. 30% of something big is far better than 100% of a good idea that never sees fruition

10. Use project management software such as basecamp. Sending e-mails back and forth is uninspiring, gets confusing and leads to chaos.

Circuit :: ShopTalk

25

th

DES SABLES N O H T 201 RA A 0 M

FINISH!

The marathon des sables is like test week in the sand.

biggest problem for nearly everyone including some of the pros. Many people found this stage the most difficult of the entire race as diarrhoea had ripped It has been three weeks since the MDS has finished and my feet through the tented camp the night before and dehydrated many of have just about recovered and dried out. Would I do it again? the British. Dehydration was a constant concern as the water ration Not a chance. is approximately 1.5 litres for every 10-14 kms depending on the This year’s MDS was the 25th anniversary and so the organisers overall length of that stage. The next four stages were progressively increased the distance longer and the ground to an even 250kms more difficult, with the which is the longest 82km taking over 20hrs ever MDS race. The six for me to complete with a stages were 29, 35, 40, maximum time of 34 hrs.

82, 42 and 21 kms over By stage 3, I had resorted 7 days in the southern to head down, crack on as Moroccan Saharan I had very painful blisters desert. and swollen feet but Days 1 and 2 are spent managed to run the final under basher with half marathon in 3.5 hrs. all food and water My tent number 124b, had provided by the race six occupants who were all organisers with these ex-pats, a Brit and an Irish two days being used man both living in Hungary, for administration, two South Africans one medical, kit checks from Dubai and the other and alterations to living in Finland and also your personal kit after an Irish man now living in talking to the old pros.

France all of whom were a Day 1 of the race is the cracking bunch of blokes start of self sufficiency and like any team great with only water rations for morale and swapping being provided and starting at 0900hrs mass start for all, this ideas. Two of our tent mates unfortunately did not complete the would become the format for every stage just to make sure you race but will return next year, Dennis did however become our tent are grafting in the mid day sun. This stage was to break us in gently ‘maid’, making sure our beds were turned down at night - cheers as our day sacks were at their heaviest (17kg with water for me) mate! with many people still acclimatising after travelling from colder In a nutshell the MDS is Jedi hard and will cost you nearly 4000 climates and adjusting or binning equipment. Most of the runners pounds to enter and buy the correct kit. As to enter this type of ultra were accomplished marathon runners and well sponsored, which race with mediocre kit and a lack of knowledge in the race itself, reflected in the size of their tiny bags with an average weight of calorific nutrition and your own limits would be foolish. It’s all about around 7kg or less for the professionals. The ground was broken weight! I started with kit weighing 6kg and my food was 7.5kg add to up into small sand dunes, wadis, Jebals and stoney plains with the this your safety flare and 1.5ltr or 3ltr on day 1 and your very quickly mid day heat reaching approx 110 degs. Day 2 was the ‘beaster’ carrying over 17kg when the pros and semi pros are starting out with and certainly got rid of a few people who thought that this was an 8-10kg and the best lightest ‘Ali’ kit money can buy. attendance event, with the first few kilometres starting with some It was only ever about finishing (so I didn’t get a slagging off the cheeky hills and sand dunes followed by 29kms across a dried up blokes) and raising as much money as possible for Help for Heroes. lake which was very hot. At the final checkpoint of stage 2 straight Almost 100 people did not make it to the finish line on day 7, with in front of us loomed a huge Jebal rising about 1500ft high, with 1013 starting on day one and 926 finishers, with me coming in at 796. half way up it covered in soft shifting sand. At this point in the To date I have raised 3600 pounds for H4H and this would not have race I had picked up some pretty horrendous blisters due to my been possible without the support and sponsorship from the Olive feet constantly being soaking from sweat and which became the group and Surefire group, cheers Airborne.

Circuit : : 21

THE BOD DIA

Just under a year ago

I graduated from a recognized Executive Protection Training Course, and after doing some pretty consistent work for the sponsor company; I am now presented with an opportunity to join an existing team escorting a very prominent VIP for a week in Miami, which would include a major performance centered around an event filled weekend. I was absolutely floored. While not my first detail, this was the first with a celebrity, let alone one of this stature.

REWIND.......

The boss calls me in his office and explains; “If the budget will allow for us to bring you in, would you like the opportunity to act as a security driver for six days on Miami’s South Beach for a high-profile client”? I instantly answered “Absolutely!” This was my chance to show everyone my value. I didn’t even ask what the rate was, for the experience I was going to get, I would have paid my employer to go. I instantly went to work as I left the boss’s office. It wasn’t even a sure thing that I would be joining the team for what I’ve dubbed Mission Miami, but I wanted to stack the deck in my favor as much as I could—just in case.

While waiting for the green light, I started watching the daily weather forecast to get an idea of how to pack. I was amazed to see the temperature in South Beach in January got down to 30 degrees Fahrenheit. I put together a go-bag, planning for the worst and hoping for the best. I also downloaded a map of the area. As I studied Google Earth, I knew the key to my success would come from a portable GPS; an invaluable tool. My mindset was to travel as light as I could with no checked baggage at the airport to slow me down. For this trip, I purchased a Wagner Laptop Backpack that would fit all the basics I would normally have in my go-bag such as: chargers, batteries, passport, business cards, energy drinks, maps, flashlight, day planner, camera, pens and so on.

Next, I was going to pack my luggage carryon bag tightly, hoping I would be able to fit everything I needed in it. I had packed all the clothes I needed with one mistake; I only brought one suit. My first lesson: On any job more than two days, bring at least one other distinct suit. I learned from the team leader to bring along a portable steamer for your dress shirts and suits. This allows you to pack them

22 : : Circuit

tightly in a regular bag, yet easily get the creases out once they’re unpacked. To minimize the chance of being slowed down through security checkpoints at the airport, I decided to purchase travel size toiletries such as deodorant, toothpaste, hair gel, and razors at the local pharmacy when I reached my destination.

For phase two of my planning, I researched local car rental places to check the prices and availability on the desired vehicle for this trip. The key when renting cars is establishing a personal relationship with the rental agent. No one wants to guarantee models, let alone colors, but for this trip my intentions were to secure a black XL Cadillac Escalade, so that’s what I made happen. A key point: try and establish a rapport with every resource you may need during your assignment. People will think outside the box for you if they like or respect you. All my ducks are in a row, so now I’m on standby.

A few days later I get the call, “MISSION MIAMI IS A GO.” Understandably, I experience some anxiety, so to regain focus, I study my maps closer, unpack my bags, take inventory, and repack them again. I reach out to the car company and verify nothing has changed, confirm my flights, and call the Agent In Charge for a briefing on what is expected of me when I am on the ground. This is my shot. It’s my opportunity to show both the team and the Principal the value I bring to the big picture, that I’m the guy to call on for future assignments. The next few nights lying in bed are filled with anticipation, and some anxiety. What could go wrong? Everything could go wrong. Then I snap out of it, I wanted it, now I have it, time to focus on the job.

Day One I get on my plane with my backpack and carryon. We are now just sitting at the end of the tarmac waiting for our turn to take off. We end

by MIKE

AN OPPORTUNITY F

by MICHAE

Entry 67# Mi

DYGUARD ARY up sitting for an hour as the airlines de-ice the plane. Thoughts go through my head of missing my connecting flight. Before much longer, we are taking off heading to a connecting city for a short layover. I make my connection, and within a few hours I am landing in Miami.

BRIGGS

FOR THE NEW GUY

EL BRIGGS

ission Miami

On the ground, and it’s go time, essentially a stranger in a strange land with a lot of advance work to do. I secure the vehicle and start my advance to the hotel on South Beach. I meet up with the AIC and go over the week’s itinerary, taking special note of each destination we may visit. Our team lead and I drive the routes together discussing construction, traffic, parking, and other various scenarios.

Advance and route cards completed, we are ready for our principal who arrives tomorrow. After a long day of advance work, the lead and I decide to get some rest. We pick up our principal at the airport in the morning.

Day Two I depart from the hotel to the airport for our pickup, along with our team lead. On the way, we are discussing the itinerary, at which point I notice a police officer on the side of the road pointing at us and motioning to pull over. I am thinking to myself, I must have been speeding, but I haven’t noticed any speed limit signs, and it is a three-lane highway? The limit must be 55mph, right? Wrong. It is a poorly marked area that quickly goes from 55mph to 40mph. I’m busted and given a $295.00 speeding ticket. Can you believe this? I am in Miami for less than a day, and I already have to spend $295.00 on my driving--thank God the client wasn’t in the car.

We arrive at the airport and our team lead heads into the baggage claim area to meet our Principal as I am staging the vehicle. Moments later, he arrives with the principal, and we are off to the hotel to drop bags and get some rest before heading over to a rehearsal studio. A few hours later, I drop off the principal at his appointment.

It’s quite a bumpy ride but everything goes well. According to the itinerary, this gives me several hours of down time knowing they will not be leaving. I take this opportunity to wash the car and fuel it up. I also got the chance to re-run some routes. A few hours later, I return and meet the AIC outside the studio bringing him up to speed on my advance work. After many hours of rehearsal, we are on our way back to the hotel, and down for the night.

Day Three

We are our way to a large convention center for a live radio interview. I make a wrong turn twice while driving, but was lucky that the principal did not notice. We finally get to our destination and due to the massive crowd, the AIC asked me to exit the vehicle and become the front escort, essentially leading the formation into the venue. I notice myself making rookie mistakes like allowing too much exposure by getting too far in front of the principal while walking.

Another challenge came during the live radio interview. Our VIP was being interviewed by a famous comedian and I caught myself, more than once, getting pulled into the humorous conversation. It took a team member to point out to me through my earpiece, and I kicked myself for losing focus. After the interview, we worked our way back to the hotel for a bit, with plans to shortly move to the concert venue for a sound check and rehearsal. Not long after we get back to the hotel, we are notified of a tropical storm moving into the area which will directly affect the concert. After a flurry of activity, the resolution is moving the show to the following night. The team gets an early night off, but of course, still on standby.

Day Four Up early and getting to feel much more comfortable with the routes. With each passing hour I notice the traffic starting to build at a ridiculous rate. We have another appointment to attend; a radio interview, and with all the festivities associated with the event growing, it’s a madhouse outside. I start to identify alternative routes to avoid as much of the congestion as I can. As a matter of fact my plan worked so well, we almost arrive early, so I shaved some time in traffic intentionally so that the client wouldn’t be sitting around waiting.

Interview complete and now some shopping.

Later in the afternoon we make our way to the show site. The band gets ready and the security team gets to work as our principal starts rehearsing. Our secondary objective, other than the safety of our principal, is recording devices. Our principal will be performing songs from an album that will not be released for several weeks yet, so I am tasked with politely working the crowd, requesting no recording devices. This was an excellent op-

Circuit : : 23

Circuit :: ShopTalk talk to one of the biggest stars in the world.

Your head is on a swivel, and your senses are wired. All goes well, and after getting the client back to the vehicle, its back to the hotel for the night. Tomorrow is Super Bowl Sunday and we expect to be busy.

Day Five Super Bowl Sunday and I’ve received word that the Principal plans on attending. I make a run to the stadium to research if the route I previously planned is still my best plan of attack. I also intend to meet a representative from the NFL to find out where the celebrity entrance is and what special arrangements can be made for my VIP, such as a police escort. Advance complete and now back to the hotel to report my findings to our team lead. With everything set, I spend the next couple of hours waiting for the client to exit. Then at the last minute our VIP decides to avoid the mayhem of the Super Bowl and just catch the game on television!

Work for us was much easier than we obviously had anticipated--or at least I thought.

portunity, as I also became responsible for VIP entry into the show, meeting many contacts from corporate execs to rock stars. I also learned something valuable: you never know who you may be talking to. I couldn’t believe the influential people I was meeting, some recognizable, some not so much. Just by focusing on my task, I believe my agency is going to see some future jobs from the connections I made.

The show ends in success and our principal wants to visit with another high profile individual in a VIP area on the other side of the venue, at the client’s request, we take the most direct route, through the crowd. You can try and teach the skill of moving a principal through a crowd in the classroom, but you can’t even come close to the real world experience. Imagine a swarm of people all wanting to touch or

After the game, the strip on South Beach is crazy with fans and every hotel and bar is packed. Our Principal decides to celebrate with associates at a few hot spots, so we are on the go from nightclub to nightclub until the early hours of the morning. Thank you Five Hour Energy Drinks for the boost!

Just before we are to head back to the hotel, a large fight breaks out just in front of the car as our VIP is ready to leave. I alerted the AIC by radio that we need a minute or two for club security and the authorities to get this handled. We ended up keeping our principal from walking into a mess by moving to an alternate exit. Back to the hotel, just as the sun is rising and the birds start singing.

Day Six I get up very early and prepare for several trips to the airport. Everyone is flying out today, with the first, and most important, our Principal. He is ready to go, and enters the car. Just before I pull away our team lead discovers his plane is delayed for two hours. The principal goes back to his hotel and the decision is made to send me off, so as not to miss my flight before I depart, I hear him mention to the AIC, the “new guy is pretty good”.

With a hidden smile, I get to the airport, board the plane, and head home from Miami -- just in time to shovel out the driveway from the snowstorm that welcomed me home.

While I may be the “FNG” on the detail, I believe I served the client and my team well. What an experience... getting paid for doing something you love in a competitive industry like this has cemented the fact that this is exactly the right career for me.

24 : : Circuit

END

Circuit :: Feature

Keeping Your Edge The Issue of Ethics

As most people already know, I currently have the pleasure of serving as the head of the North American Bodyguard Association (the co-producer of this magazine along with my British counterparts). Recently on our discussion board (found at either www.AmericanBodyguards.org or www.The-BBA.org.uk) I brought up the subject of moral dilemmas and how they affect the security professional, particularly those involved heavily with close protection. Because we wanted honest answers to the “What would you do if...” question, we even allowed participants to post their answers anonymously.

While the discussion was lively and a lot of good points were made, I had the sneaky suspicion in the back of my brain that while most answered overwhelmingly on the side of “I won’t cross the line for a client that breaks anything other than a minor law or two” I wondered if those that felt otherwise just choose to keep it to themselves?

Anonymous feature or not.

There is an unavoidable reality to the situation that clients are hard to find and once you have them we traditionally do everything in our power to hold on to them and keep them happy. A bird in the hand so to speak. But when faced with a situation that might be at odds with our individual ethics, do we turn a blind eye to the activity, or do we hold our ground regardless of the employment consequences? Of course by and large we all consider ourselves honorable people but the reality of life is that each of us has our own internal compass. Additionally there’s an age old saying “it’s not what you know, it’s what you can prove.” Does that mean that allowing a client to “get away” with something is ok as long as there is very minimal chance that it would come back to bite you?

Notice that I have not given any examples of the moral dilemmas that are the topic of this column. That is intentional because up into this point, I wanted you, the reader, to come up with your own set of circumstances in your minds eye. What may be a black and white to one protection agent may be a shade of grey to another. However, for

the purposes of this discussion, allow me to pose a few questions. Answer truthfully, and since this article is not required reading for an Executive Protection oral exam (yet) the only person you have to be honest with is yourself.

Situation #1 Your client is a wealthy businessman who has always treated you fairly. At a country club dinner you sit the next table over and hear the client and his associate engage in conversation that includes a lengthy discussion filled with degrading hate speech about a particular minority group. Once back in the car he asks how you feel about that particular group. What do you say?

Expanding on that: Would your response change if hypothetically your son were now married to a woman in that particular racial group?

Situation #2 You receive instructions from your Principal that you’re to accompany him on a two day out of town business trip. Once there you quickly notice that your married client is actually engaged in an affair and that this trip is just a cover story. Weeks later the Principal’s wife pulls you to the side, and with tears in her eyes tells you what she suspects and begs to know the truth. What do you do?

Would you answer change if she confided that he has physically abused her and that your affirmation of the affair would be grounds for divorce so that she could finally leave him?

Situation #3 Your client is a celebrated actress and philanthropist who just donated a large sum of money to a reputable charity in a much publicized manner. You later discover documents showing that someone in the charity has funneled the money back to the

J

ELI AH SH AW client, effectively making it a PR stunt. Do you do anything with this information?

Make the charity into one working on an autism cure. Now imagine you had a younger sibling with severe autism. Change anything?

Situation #4 The police have just pulled over the SUV you are driving your client in and ask if all occupants would submit to a search. The Principal, a popular musician who has an untarnished image of a golden boy, has just previously confided in you that he has a drug stash in the vehicle and that his career would be over if it was tied to him. Panicked, he states that if the item was found and you claimed ownership and any accompanying punishment, he would compensate you with a very large cash payment. Do you accept?

Ask these questions to a group of your peers and I would expect some pretty consistent answers, most framed with words like “honor” and “integrity” but also terms like “client confidentiality”, and “service” would come into play, and these two can sometimes be at odds with each other. As professionals, we train regularly to ensure the safety and well being of those we’re charged to protect. However, the waters become a bit murkier when we are required to judge our clients or make decisions based on their actions in a manner that may ask us to compromise our individual values. In some cases, being true to yourself may mean being on the unemployment line. But hey, if this job was easy, then everybody could do it, right?

Elijah Shaw is the CEO of Icon Services Corporation and The National Director of the North American Bodyguard Association

Circuit : : 25

Circuit :: ShopTalk

SPEAKING

WORDS OF WISDOM

LET IT BE

Recently I conducted a short survey among some of my friends, associates and peers within the Close Protection Security Industry.

Although it was a short and informal survey, it definitely garnered some valuable insights and information from those who participated.

There were several ideas behind this survey. I wanted to know what the average male agent thinks of women in the industry, how we are perceived and what bridges could be built to better the understanding between us. by

CINDY SOMMER

W

hy is it that women don’t survive very long on the circuit, and what are the strengths and weaknesses of women in the industry, as perceived by those who work the circuit?

Make no mistake about it: This is a male dominated industry, and if you are a female and want a job, you will most likely be hired by a man who has as many doubts about how you will perform, as he has years in the industry.

I’ve worked in this industry for over 25 years. My first exposure was the ‘Explorer Academy’ for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department at age 17. This is essentially like becoming a Junior Deputy.

I was one of two women in an academy of twenty five participants. After graduating the Explorer Academy, I worked in loss prevention, as an armed security guard and later as a sworn Deputy Sheriff with The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

Even then, I was one of ten women, of 160 ‘cadets’ and only 5 women were counted among the 80 graduates. That was in the summer of 1985.

26 : : Circuit

It was twenty years later that I was introduced to the world of Close Protection. I was told “Learn everything you can! Take every assignment, learn from everyone around you and you’ll go far.”

Each assignment that came along was exciting, and I was eager to learn. I was taught early on to keep my mouth shut, and my eyes and ears open. That’s exactly what I did, and I’m grateful I listened. I’ve worked nearly every facet of security from static door security, production and movie set security to disaster relief, photo shoots, jewelry escorts, and Estate and celebrity protection. As I became more familiar on the circuit, I took an assignment working with Foreign Dignitaries. This is what I do now, and what I love to do most.

In the next few articles, I will share with you some of my experiences that will give you some insight as to what it’s like to work as a female in this male dominated industry. I’d also like to highlight some of the challenges we face and the strengths women in the industry possess.

Men and women think differently.

Scientific studies have proven that women have more connecting fibers in the brain, and we are, for the most part, integrated; that is, we see everything as

interconnected. Men are (in general) more segmented and see things more often as separate events or in compartments. So a man (generally) can go from one task to another while women see everything related. Women in general, can multi-task much better, and are able to see and hear many different things at once, processing them all simultaneously. Women have more conversations, and tend to speak more words than their male counterparts.

Maybe that’s why there can be so much conflict between men and women in this industry. If I’ve learned one thing, talk is cheap and actions speak louder than words. Ladies, deliver the goods, don’t talk about it.

Are there advantages to having a woman on a close protection team? In my opinion there are many advantages, especially when the principle is a female, and even more importantly, a Middle Eastern Diplomat. Yet so often, women are passed over in the selection process because of the stereotypes and misconceptions of women in this industry. Most of the women I know, who work in Close Protection, have either a police or military background. That doesn’t necessarily qualify them for the job, but it does help in

Circuit :: ShopTalk most cases. As a whole, women who have at least ten years experience in police work, have learned the art of communication, and are much less likely to over react in stressful situations. Their background and contacts within police departments can come in very handy, especially when confronted by police officers in the field.

Issues such a parking, and crowd control can be handled very quickly by someone who has the respect of being a ‘retired’ or ‘former’ law enforcement officer. Women bring a gentle quality to a detail that is much needed. Yet just because a woman is on your team, don’t underestimate her abilities. Women blend in much easier, and I would rather have the advance done by a highly trained woman, as she is most often least expected to be security. This also holds true when working with principles.

When I conducted the survey, I asked the question: “What is the one complaint you feel is most often heard about women on the circuit, which prevents women from working and succeeding in the Close Protection Industry?” Forty percent of the respondents said, “Prejudices and Chauvinism from the male agents within the industry.” Fifty percent of the participants in the survey answered, “Female agents becoming too familiar with the principle.” The remaining ten percent were divided between not knowing the answer, and believing it was the “lack of the same kind of exposure that men receive in the industry.”

While it is true that chauvinism exists within The Circuit, this is changing rapidly.

As male agents are exposed to qualified and successful women agents, the stereotypes, and the thinking will shift.

I’ve also seen a significant increase in the media exposure for women in the industry.

Women are a valuable asset on any good close protection team however, there needs to be improvement in all areas.

To the question: “What is the number one complaint about using a woman on a detail?” one of the respondents said it best.

He said, “The biggest issue is that they need to MAN UP and remember what they were hired to do. Clients have friends, and if they don’t, they will buy one!” So true!

I have seen first-hand how a woman operative can become far too enmeshed with her principle. Why does this happen?

In my opinion, it’s a lack of experience, and a lack of training. When I worked a very large, mostly all female detail last summer for a Middle Eastern Royal family, one of the agents was extremely close to her principle. And working side by side with this agent, I saw this first hand.

After awhile, it not only annoyed me, this behavior became a hazard to the entire detail. When I approached the agent

about her very close relationship with the principle, she denied it. If you have a problem with one of the members of the detail, go directly to the agent, and discuss the matter face to face in a forthright but firm manner. If the partner isn’t willing to listen to constructive criticism and you feel the behavior has become a hazard, go to the detail leader, and let him or her handle it. Ladies, you shouldn’t have ‘secrets’ with your principle.

Yes, you are sworn to confidentiality, and have given a written statement to such.

However, you should not be keeping vital information from your co-workers, and team leaders. Information and communication is vital within the team. If a principle asks you to participate in personal activities after your detail partner, and the rest of the team have been stood down, politely decline. Tell the client ‘no’, and if you have to, blame it on your detail leader.

Your detail leader will always back you up on a smart call like this one. Remember, you are not the principle’s friend, no matter what you are told. By ‘hanging out’ with the principle after hours, you will not only lose the respect of your team, you might lose the next job opportunity before it begins.

“you can have all the information you want about this industry, but if you don’t know how to ‘get in’, what good is it?”

There were many suggestions from those who participated in the survey on topics of discussion. From the importance of advance work, to how someone ‘new’ gets into the business, stay employable, and survive the downtime. I will cover all of these issues in future articles. One of the topics I would like to touch upon now is ‘Getting In’ After all, you can have all the information you want about this industry, but if you don’t know how to ‘get in’, what good is it? First, you should have a background in security or at least an interest. Read books on the subject. Find out your strengths, and identify your weaknesses.

In every region of the world, there are laws governing the security industry.

Learn what laws apply to you, and what is needed to become licensed in your area.

Utilize the Circuit Magazine, your social and professional networking sites such as Facebook and LinkedIn to make personal contacts within the business. Listen, and learn from those around you. Always network, network, network!

What helped me immensely when I first started in this business was word of mouth networking. I was told early on, ‘You’re not going to the see jobs that we do advertised in the paper. If you want the job, you’ve got to let people know who you are.” I

was also told, “Talk to everyone in the business” and this is so true. Each of you know people in the business. Let them know that you are eager to get into the world of Close Protection. If you don’t come from a Military or Police background, you’ll need to seek out some good Close Protection Training. The Circuit Magazine has a list of qualified instructors and agencies who are experts in this area. But having a certificate of completion, and getting a job are two different things. Get a simple business card, and when I say simple, I mean it. In my opinion it should have your name, your phone number and a reliable email address. Don’t make it all fancy, and write your name in Arabic. You can list your licenses on the card, but if someone wants to hire you, they’ll ask for your CV, and you should have all that vital information listed there. Give your card out to everyone you know, and everyone you meet in this business. Ask them to forward you vital information such as other reputable companies they have experience working with. You will most likely get into a company through a recommendation from a friend or co-worker. Start making new contacts with companies your colleagues refer you to, and follow up, follow up, follow up. Consistency and persistence will prove to be your friends.

Last but not least, stay positive! You will find the right people to assist you, and the opportunities will come in. Listen to those around you who have more experience, and be grateful for the opportunities that do come your way. I believe when you are grateful, you really do attract more of what you want. Most of all, love what you do.

If you don’t enjoy working the Circuit, or being in this male dominated business, get out. There’s nothing worse than working with a ‘Debbie Downer’. Find joy in everything you do, and If you love it, you’ll surely be here to stay.

Cindy Sommer is a respected member of the security industry, a licensed Private Investigator and a valued contributor to The Circuit Magazine.

She is available for Close Protection, PI & Dignitary Protection work. You may contact Cindy Sommer at Lifeline Investigations: 01- 805-308-1098 or at 01- 661-874-9303. Her email is: cindy.sommer@ yahoo.com. Cindy invites you to connect with her on LinkedIn and Facebook, and welcomes your feedback to this article.

Photo courtesy of BHalliday Photography: www. bhalliday.com

Circuit : : 27

Circuit :: ShopTalk

THE HISTORY OF SNIPING by

JULES THORN

After VE Day, once again the British and American high command showed no instinct to heed the lessons of history. Just as they had in 1918, both armies decommissioned their specialist sniper regiments. Barely five years passed before they needed them again.

The conflict between North and South Korea in many ways reflected that of the western front during the First World War, with two armies facing each other 150 miles across the Korean Peninsula. A conflict of thrust and counter thrust, the face of it a war that seems tailor-made for snipers. And one for which the Chinese were prepared and trained.

It was not until two years into the war that a more formal countersniping tactic evolved. It began with the US Marines equipping selected soldiers with rifles with telescopic sights and putting them through three weeks of training. This enabled them to take up positions in camouflaged bunkers from which they became highly effective counter-snipers. As Maj. Hesketh Pritchard had done in 1915, these snipers were then posted out to other units to pass on their expertise. The British and Commonwealth troops serving in Korea also formed their own ad hoc training schemes in order to put sniper units in the field. But although these measures were effective, none had the official blessing of their respective military establishments.

Snipers display an uncanny ability to adapt to their environment wherever that may be at any given time

28 : : Circuit

PT3

When the war ended in July 1953 and the shooting was over. There was still no formal sniper training programme in any of the allied armies.

In 1960 Lieutenant (later Major) Jim Land took the first positive steps to turn theory into practice when, as head of the Hawaii Marine shooting team, he set up a scout-sniper school. In a document outlining his intentions, Land noted the dearth reference material on sniping, although he praised the old First World War classics by McBride and Armstrong, which he still found relevant. He also emphasized the mental as well as physical qualities required for a sniper. Land’s sniper course was of two weeks duration. The first week covered marksmanship (using the Winchester Model 70s), the second field craft and related skills.

The school in Hawaii was unique, until rising casualties in Vietnam helped provoke a radical change in official attitudes towards sniping.

Training alongside the Vietcong were communist snipers equipped with the 7.62mm M1891/30 Mosin-Nagant sniper rifles (often referred to as the K-44). The weapon could be fitted with either a x 4 PE telescopic sight or the lighter 3.5 x PU. It was the same combination used by Red Army snipers during the Second Word War. As it had been effective for them, so it was for North Vietnamese Army (NVA) snipers.

NVA snipers were all volunteer recruits who were given a three month training course. For the first two months they concentrated on basic rifle handling. In the final month they covered the finer points of marksmanship with the telescopic sight. All firing was conducted against man-sized paper targets at distances of up to a thousand yards (just over 900 meters) although, in the field engagements were not normally initiated at ranges over 500 yards

Circuit :: ShopTalk (around 450 meters). Also once deployed in combat in South Vietnam the snipers would have little or no recourse to the services of the armourer, so each sniper was provided with basic training in rifle maintenance and repair. Further instruction was given to the recruits in camouflage, concealed movement and the selection of suitable fire positions. Snipers were considered an elite within the NVA and morale was correspondingly high in these companystrength units.

Each company consisted of a Headquarters element and three platoons; the platoon was the main tactical unit. Whilst deployed in support of a NVA main force units it operated in an independent capacity. Within each platoon were three squads of about ten men, each Platoon was further divided into cells, each usually comprising three snipers.

As you can see there was a remarkable difference in attitudes regarding the training and importance in snipers. During the Vietnam conflict the Americans changed their attitude to sniping and in 1967 the first sniper school was started in Vietnam by Captain Robert A. Russell. He selected experienced marksmen who were also rifle instructors. Russell then proceeded in writing a training syllabus for the sniper training. Due to their own lack of operational experience Russell opted to put themselves through the course prior to deploying on operations against the NVA. Once happy that they were on the right track, Russell asked for volunteers. These had to be recommended by their Commanding Officers, be combat veterans and expert rifleman. With the new approach the remaining Marine divisions started the sniper schools. Legends such as Chuck Mawhinney and Carlos Hathcock heralded the rise of the modern day sniper.

For the British the development of sniping was slower due to the type and duration of conflicts.

But if the situation allowed, the practice was encouraged and developed, for example in Aden, Dhofar and Radfan.

factions. These were effectively deployed against combatants and noncombatants alike. Often, the presence of snipers delayed or prevented United Nations (UN) patrols to access contested areas. If so equipped, UN units deployed their own snipers – to provide patrols with some degree of protection, as information gatherers and if necessary eliminate the enemy threat. Hostilities were mounted against the UN irrespective of their role as peace keepers.

As a result of new technology in training (test exercise know as TESEX) the high echelons realised what an asset snipers are to infantry units. This started a new trend and the start of new orbats (order of battles) for the infantry. This involved the establishment of a 16-man sniper platoon, part of ISTAR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance) group.

This allows the COs the flexibility to use their reconnaissance platoon or sniper platoon to gather battle field intelligence.

The longest range recorded for a sniper kill currently stands at 8,120 feet or 2,706.6 yards — well over a mile and a half by Corporal Craig Harrison of the Household Cavalry using an Accuracy International L115A3 rifle, chambered in .338 Lapua Magnum

In 1982 Argentina deployed snipers, which were regular soldiers, amongst the mainly conscript soldiers who manned defensive positions among rocky outcrops or in concrete bunkers on dominating high ground. Due to the terrain and superior Argentine numbers, the British Task Force utilised the better training and standard of its ground forces and attacked during the hours of darkness. This was not ideal for sniping tasks. Nevertheless, there are numerous accounts of snipers of 2 Para and 45 Commando being effectively deployed to eliminate enemy snipers and crewserved weapons. At this time, the weapon of choice was the L42A1, a Lee Enfield upgraded to use 7.62mm NATO ammunition and fitted with the Mk 32 telescope with x 3 magnification.

By this time a structured sniper doctrine and formal training had been developed within the British army. Training was conducted by specialist sniper instructors. The basic sniper course was of six weeks duration and in-house (within the regiment/battalion). The instructor’s course took eight weeks and was held at the sniper division in Warminster, now at Infantry Training Centre (ITC) Wales.

uring the conflict between Serbia, Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina, snipers – often sharpshooters – were widely used by all warring

During and after the conflict and especially during the rebuilding phase, sniper platoons were deployed in numerous tasks, from providing local protection for the Forward Operations Bases (FOBs), providing early warning and protection for patrols from observation posts (OPs): urban and rural environments and part of a cordon for other operations, to name but a few.

Extract from an article from The Observer (15th Feb 2009): They were pinned down on a small hill just east of Kajaki, northern Helmand, a company of Royal Anglian Regiment infantrymen surrounded by Taliban firing from 21 positions. Amid the chaotic firefight, a lone figure crawled along an exposed ridge and, slowly took aim. Over the next 15 minutes, the British sniper methodically eliminated seven of the Taliban gun points.

The sniper never said a word, but single-handedly ensured his colleagues made a successful dawn retreat one August morning in 2007, a single example among countless occasions when snipers have underlined their value in Afghanistan. A Royal Marines spokesman said: “Once you have targeted the Taliban, you can run down their numbers pretty quickly; without a doubt, sniping is a battle-winner.”

He recalled one occasion when a sniper picked out Taliban gunmen 1,800m away, a spot that also helped save lives. Only days after the Kajaki sniper’s heroics 18 months ago, a 500lb bomb from an American fighter killed three British soldiers in the same location, an illustration of the risks inherent in high-speed air strikes and a tragedy that advocates of sniping still refer to.

The equipment used has also improved considerably. The new scope has a x 42 magnification and uses the Mil-Dot, compatible with the rifle scope (same sight picture); it allows quicker and more accurate communication between the spotter and shooter.

The rifles are the L96A1 (7.62mm) and L115A3 (8.59mm). Each is fitted with the Schmidt & Bender x 3 – x 12 variable telescopic sight with the Mil-Dot reticule and Killflash cover. The SIMRAD, is a night sight which fits onto the day scope allowing the sniper to provide accurate fire during hours of darkness and does not affect the zeroing of the main scope. These are just some of the main improvements.

Circuit : : 29

Circuit :: ShopTalk

BRITISH CONTRACTOR JAILED FOR BRIBERY IN AFGHAN COURT

April 26 2010, a landmark date in Afghanistan’s judicial system and one that illustrates the deteriorating relations between a government and its International Community. A date that serves warning to a secondary threat lay beneath the surface for potentially all foreign contractors.

B

ritish based Security Company G4S, which provides protection to the UK embassy, have their Commercial Operations Manager imprisoned in Kabul after the newly formed Anti Corruption Court tried him for bribery.

30 : : Circuit

in KABUL

weapons, radios, body armour and even vehicles were cherry picked at will and consumed by a system that would rarely regurgitate its prized acquisitions. Two armoured vehicles being driven by G4S employees were stopped, searched and detained by agents of the sometimes flamboyant and maverick organisation.

The confiscations were cited as being for unsatisfactory registration documentation, which could amount to anything depending on the day of the week and the attitude of the individual stopping you.

Ex British Army officer Bill Shaw, 52, was sentenced to 2 years imprisonment and was given a $25,000 fine after being found guilty in a trial, what may yet prove to be the first of many designed to rid Afghanistan of the increasing corruption brought about by the International community, a claim voiced by leader, President Karzai.

The charge relates to an incident that happened back in October 2009 . A period during which Afghan governmental agencies were proactively stepping up restrictions on internationals operating within the capital and in particular the profit chasing security companies which have sprung up like wild fire since the 2001 US military occupation. Such periods of oppression are not uncommon and occur periodically in the Afghan capital of Kabul where the government has the unmatched confidence and ability to press home its authority unlike much of the rest of the country. However, many long serving internationals noticed a distinct drive and determination during this particular phase where authorities and in particular the NDS (National Directorate of Security) imposed themselves with a vigour previously unseen. Whether this was driven by a real genuine belief that the international community were contributing to the many

by JON MOSS

Shaw’s involvement in the incident, which led to his eventual arrest and imprisonment, didn’t begin until sometime after when tasked by the company, in his capacity as commercial manager to open a dialogue with the relevant agencies in an attempt to have the impounded vehicles released.

and varied problems within Afghanistan or whether, as is widely believed they simply serve as a good tool for bankrolling various ministries.

It was during this most recent surge that G4S and ultimately Bill Shaw fell afoul of the inconsistency and perhaps unfairness of a Judicial system being revamped with the help of expatriate mentors from countries including, but not limited to, the United States and Britain and bankrolled by those nations taxpayers. On (I don’t know)???? Group 4 Security, having recently taken over ArmorGroup Ltd, were one of a series of security companies deprived of valuable lifesaving equipment by the highly secretive NDS. Equipment such as

The interpretations of events that follow are those of Mr Shaw and his legal team.

Shaw and co-defendant, Maiwand Limar, an Afghan employee of G4S who was also sentenced to two years worked on behalf of the company to retrieve the vehicles. It was Maiwand Limar, the co accused person who met with Eidi Mohammad an Afghan claiming to work for NDS who communicated to Mr. Limar that the company needed to pay a release fee. Mr. Limar was key in facilitating the repatriation vehicles in that Eidi Mohammad only spoke Dari to facilitate the repatriation of the vehicles at the cost of $25,000 in release fees. His lawyer in court argued that, the fact he attempted at

Circuit :: ShopTalk the time the money was paid and for weeks afterwards to get a receipt proved that he had not intended to pay a bribe.

Indeed to further enhance Shaw’s claims for innocence, in the period between paying the alleged bribe and succumbing to his subsequent detention he made several visits to authorities, voluntarily attending interviews with investigators.

He also returned to the country after a 12-day holiday spent with his family in the UK in early January before eventually being arrested on March 3rd when he was voluntarily meeting with the prosecutor for the third time. This unheralded level of cooperation would surely be uncharacteristic of a man genuinely guilty of a crime, which bares such serious repercussions.

Mr Shaw’s representation in court was none other than past Circuit magazine contributor and Attorney Kimberley Motley. Attorney Motley is the first International attorney to practice in Afghanistan’s criminal courts which, in and of itself makes the case even more unique. but to add further dimension to this landmark trial its also worth noting that it is the first proceeding to take place under

the newly formed anti corruption unit which was not only a British initiative but paid for by the British taxpayer and casting increasing irony over the dubious outcome.

According to the Guardian, Attorney Motley stated that “For some reason [the tribunal] decided not to follow Afghan law or the UN Conventions to which Afghanistan is a party. Furthermore, the presumption of innocence did not exist for [Mr. Shaw].” She further stated that “The trial had been poorly conducted and there would be an immediate appeal.”

Whilst an appeal may be the only proactive option left to Shaw and his defense team it does not come without risk. Appeals in Afghanistan happen as matter of course in the most part and uniquely can be requested for by the prosecution and more astonishingly can be conducted without the presence and consent of the defendant. When a case goes to the Court of Appeal it runs almost like a second trial where the outcome could conceivably result in a longer sentence than was awarded in Primary Court. What makes the appeal event more tentative is the knowledge that within Afghan law that the sentence currently imposed on the accused

is already the most lenient the judge could have awarded. So unless Mr Shaw is found innocent it could be a very grim verdict.

Another possible avenue that could pave the way for a possible release would be an official presidential pardon, an action in itself which is not alien to karzai whom has been known to grant such decisions when popular with the masses or to appease the influential. Certainly a gesture of this magnitude and a first for the incumbent President in terms of Shaw’s nationality would award him with moral high ground in diplomatic relations with the UK. However, what makes this sequence of events improbable is the anticipated reluctance of the British Embassy to solicit for it. Remember, the formation of the Anticorruption Court was born on the initiative of British Governmental aides and they would risk appearing hypocrites should they lobby for the pardon of the first convicted person processed via the ACC. Whatever the outcome of an appeal, that which needs highlighting at this juncture is the potential perils awaiting all internationals doing business in Afghanistan.

British Special Forces

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Our training scenarios will give you the opportunity to practice the skills of a Close Protection Officer using the knowledge that you have gained throughout the course in a realistic but safe environment prior to heading out into the field as a CPO.

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Circuit : : 31

Circuit :: ShopTalk

PROFESSIONALISM BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER THE ASSIGNMENT (Is your integrity intact?…) by

NIKIDA SHERMAN

I choose to bring forward this particular topic because it really concerns me as a EPS and because I have a compassion for what I do and I can safely say so do many others as well industry wide.

I truly believe in what we as EPS’s, and Security professionals stand for worldwide.

I am big on homeland security.

Being a retired Army Veteran. I have seen and still see the constant growing need for what we do as worldwide armed forces.

And I see the great need for what we do as Protection Specialist in this industry worldwide. Now, to zero in on the overall main focus on the purpose that I wrote this article and wanting to share this with fellow EPS/Bodyguards and to those of us that work in this industry on all levels.

We are to be professionals before, during and after the assignment is over. So, the question is asked is your integrity intact?

Why I asked that? Well, so often we hear or read about” So-n-so bodyguard tells all.”

Blank…blank ex-bodyguard writes a tell all book about XYZ Celebrity who he or she used to protect. So, that’s why the question is put forward.

When this happens it makes a statement about that person and the industry. This is a personal feeling that I’m sharing here. But this I do know, and that is. I am sure that when your then potential client hired you.

One he or she must felt that you were the person for the job. Because you presented yourself professionally. And Two that he or

32 : : Circuit

she can trust you with most sometime personal details of there life.

If I am amiss stating this here someone please share it with me. We as professionals, our goal should be and which I personally stand for on and is am firm believer of. 1# Protect the principal 2# Protect the image of a Protection Professional and 3# Protect the industry.

Please let me make this clear I am speaking across the board and not about anyone in particular. I am just addressing an issue I have came across several times, both having read about it and having seen it happen where a Bodyguard tells all concerning inside details on……..!

The last issue of “The Circuit” Mr Elijah Shaw wrote a well put article on “Playing well with others.” But that also goes for our ex-clientele or details that we were contracted to work on. I am not talking about when it comes to being ordered to court or anything in that nature. Now, that is a whole another issue. Just stating facts about ex-bodyguards who… tells all in his or her book of” Bodyguard tells all concerning blank & blank relationship plastered all over the weekly magazine!

I know I am not alone in saying. I love what I do…I love the industry. So fellow professionals. Be safe cover your six.

Protect the principal…protect the image… protect the industry.

US & Russian nuclear arms treaty The US President and his Russian counterpart have signed a landmark nuclear arms treaty in the Czech capital, Prague. The treaty commits the former Cold War enemies to each reduce the number of deployed strategic warheads to 1,550 - 30% lower than the previous ceiling.

The treaty will replace the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (Start) of 1991, which has expired.

Switzerland casino robbed by armed gang

Masked men have stormed a packed casino near the Swiss border city of Basle, making off with hundreds of thousands of francs. It has been reported that around 10 raiders pulled up at the Grand Casino in two cars just after 0400 local time and smashed their way in, brandishing automatic weapons and pistols.

The French-speaking gang ordered the 600 guests and employees to the floor while they went about their business. Reports say that the raiders could not get into the strong room despite firing on the door.

Nobody was seriously injured in the robbery.

Middle East

France denies Iran ‘spy deal’ France has denied it made a secret pact with Iran to secure the release of a French lecturer charged with spying after last June’s disputed election. Clotilde Reiss has now arrived in Paris following a flight from Tehran. She was originally sentenced to 10 years in jail in Iran but this was commuted to a fine of $285,000 (£190,000). The 25 year old was accused of espionage and e-mailing photographs of anti-government protests.

Circuit :: BooKlub Here at The Circuit, we know that despite your image, you guys like nothing more than curling up with a good book.....

This months reviews:

A SPy’s Journey - A CIA Memoir

by Floyd L. Paseman

Paseman is only too happy to point out and hey why not, if you are good then you are good! Throughout his career the author is assigned to some of the most interesting areas in the world for those involved in espionage and rises up through the ranks of the CIA to an impressive level before retiring.

The experiences of the author show that working for a government organisation can be fulfilling and that while many seek the larger pay packets of the commercial world working for your country can be an immensely satisfying experience. Paseman also comments on how having a successful in-service career can lead to many, many lucrative offers of employment once you leave a governmental post - you are very much an asset to many!

For those amongst you who do not like to see books of this genre released in to the public domain you can rest a assured that the author stops short from mentioning the who, the how, the why and dates of specific operations but he does give you enough information for the tales to be interesting and make you want to read on and on.

At the end of the book Mr Paseman goes on to look the Presidents and Directors that he worked for during his time with the CIA and also comment on 9/11 One thing that this book cannot be criticised for is the way it is written, it reads well but is not full of acronyms that detract from the story being told. All in all this is an interesting book and one that many will find highly interesting and enjoyable.

Recommended Blood Clot

Review by Nick McCarthy I have read some poor reviews of this book but after reading it i cannot understand for the life of me why? Sure, there are some references to stories not necessarily to do with 'spying' but they act as background and do not for one minute detract from what is a very engaging storey about Mr Paseman's time in the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). The authors journey in to the CIA begins whilst at college but did not get underway until the author had served some time in the United States army and then took him on a path that those of us with no knowledge of the intelligence community may be quite surprised at.

At first, Mr Paseman appears to be somewhat of a renegade within the ranks of the agency whilst also being an extremely effective agent, something Mr

by Jake Scott

Review by Mike Jones Blood Clot tells the tale of the 3rd Battalions the Parachute Regiment’s tour of Afghanistan in 2006. It is told from the view point of Jake Scott, a junior NCO within the Battalions forward element, the Patrols Platoon. The book begins with some background about the author and his Regiment before flowing in to the main subject matter of the book.

Once there, the tale follows Scott and his fellow Paratroopers from their base in Colchester through their build up training in the UK and later in Oman and finally in to theatre. This particular tour is renowned as being a ‘bloody tour’ and at the time was the most ferocious fighting that the UK’s armed forces had been involved with since Korea and perhaps it still is.

Throughout the book the author uses a lot of 1st person passages to describe the events and this is not out of place within an ‘action’ setting such as Afghanistan where the majority of the story of Blood Clot takes place. The tale is also told with good humour, honesty, immense detail and at times colourful language; a soldiers industrial language which is not out of place in a novel such as this and does nothing but add to the realism of the situation that Scott and his band if brothers find themselves in frequently throughout their tour of duty.

It’s because Scott goes in to tremendous detail about the activities and movements of his patrol it is impossible not to feel part of ‘the mission’ whilst reading this book.

The author is not shy about mentioning the times (or the personnel responsible) when he feels that the bullshit factor adversely affected moral and that it had no place within such an operational environment; this is something that has been echoed by many a soldier over the years and something that will always be reported by the men at the sharp end if the stick.

The author is clearly proud of his Regiment and this pours out throughout the book, some may find this offensive but this reviewer finds nothing wrong with this, this is as it should be and is what makes Cap Badge rivalry what it is and ensures that each unit tries to more professional than others and set the bar hugger every time. Who wants to be average?

If you enjoy reading vivid accounts of what it is like to be in ‘contact’ in war zone then Blood Clot should be on your lists of books to buy.

Circuit : : 33

Circuit :: Feature

LISTEN UP POD PICKERS, IT’S THE TOP TEN APP’s FOR THE CIRCUIT

Ok

then, so most of us know all about smart phones and how much easier they can make our lives due to their ability to surf the net, receive e-mail throughout the day and reply in quick time. However, with the emergence of phones like Apple’s i-phone and the huge amount of applications or ‘apps’ that are available for them they have become even more useful for us as we go about our daily business as operators and business people. This is our top 10 list of i-Phone applications as it stands right now - we will review this each issue so that you can download the most useful apps going – if you have any that you think the readership should know about then just let us know and we’ll take a look!

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

TUBE DELUXE – paid for Ok so it is a paid for app but if like me you are not native to the capitol then this is a great app! It lets you know about delays on the system, lets you plan a route, lets you know when the next tube is due and how far away you are from any given station. AWESOME! MAPS – supplied with handset What a great application. Satellite view, map view, hybrid, directions on foot, train and car! Not a navigation aid in the sense of a TomTom but a great app none the less. It also now has street view which is particularly useful when looking at residences/venues etc FLIGHT CHECKER What an app! This gives you live status on the flight that your principal is on, air time and flight number. If you upgrade to the pro version you’ll get push alerts, airport delay warnings, weather forecasts and more!

MAIL – free, supplied with handset You can set up just about any e-mail on an i-Phone from exchange to Google mail. Do it, get the mails before your peers do, reply before they do and get the gig while they are logging in at home 8 hrs later. You snooze, you loose!

NDRIVE – paid for This app has been on sale for quite some time and was £4.99 at the time of writing. It workd really well be it as your main navigation aid or as a back up to a more traditional device. Superb value!

WEATHER – supplied with handset What is the weather like at your destination? Is it likely to improve tomorrow?

This app will give you the answers. Basic but effective.

SKY NEWS – free You cannot beat being able to keep up with what is happening in the world and Sky News is one of the very best at getting the breaking news to you as it happens 1 PASSWORD – paid for Works superbly with the desktop version and as an i-Phone app. Keep you login secure and in one place!

DROP BOX – free This and Sugar Sync were looked at last month in a short article and both deserve to be in this list. They pretty much do the same thing and if you have the desktop version then the free i-Phone version is a MUST! Need to send that presentation to a colleague but cannot get to a workstation then this is for you!

LINKEDIN - free Social networking on the fly and why not!

34 : : Circuit

Israel raises heat with Iran War Talk

Israel have raised tension in the Middle East by saying his country’s air force could successfully strike Iran.

Israel is capable of fighting a war with Iran after modernising its military said a former military chief.

“Technology has improved range and aerial refuelling capabilities and has brought about a massive improvement in accuracy of ordnance and intelligence.”

Israel is urging the international community to take more decisive action against Iran going nuclear - military action remains an option to neutralise the threat from Iran.

New US warning to Syria on Scuds

The US Secretary of State has issued a strong warning to Syria over the alleged transfer of sophisticated weapons to Lebanon.

South Asia:

‘Man Arrested’ in Karachi airport security alert

A man has been held at Karachi airport after batteries and an electrical circuit were found in his shoes as he tried to board a plane, reports say. A spokesman for the airport security force, said the civil engineer was arrested when a scanner sounded an alarm at the airport.

Missile strike hits north-west Pakistan

Two missiles fired from a suspected US drone aircraft hit a home in a village in the tribal district of North Waziristan, which borders Afghanistan.

It comes after a man arrested for planting a bomb in New York said he was trained in bomb-making in Waziristan.

Benazir Bhutto murder ‘avoidable’, Un inquiry concludes The assassination of ex-Pakistani PM Benazir Bhutto in 2007 could have been prevented and the subsequent inquiry was bungled, according to a UN report.

It says insufficient security measures were taken by the then government and concludes that the police deliberately failed to investigate the murder properly as they feared intelligence agency involvement.

An aide to President Musharraf said the report was a “pack of lies”. The independent UN commission of inquiry urges the authorities to launch a “credible, serious” investigation into Ms Bhutto’s death at a rally in the city of Rawalpindi “and bring those responsible to justice”. Its report says that the pervasive presence of Pakistan’s powerful politicised intelligence agencies hampered the initial inquiry.

Circuit :: Feature

HERE’S SOMETHING YOU DON’T SEE EVERY DAY - A FREE FINANCIAL

times, thus cheaper for you. In addition to this if the businesses are companies and they are connected parties or form a group for tax purposes, then rates and reliefs may not be fully utilised or applied correctly.

Q

: We employ people as ‘subcontractors’ but are considering taking on 1 x employee due to an increased workload. We believe that this could be cheaper than paying inflated sub-contract wages but realise that we will be liable for national insurance contributions – what else should we be aware of?

A

Q

SESSION

: I carry out close protection and surveillance as part of my business and have heard conflicting advice about the claiming against tax for suits [for cp] and for protective equipment for surveillance [I do motorbike surveillance and would like to claim for helmet/leathers/gloves ect].

Can I and if so how often? I buy suits every year [2] and get a new helmet every 3-4 years and leathers maybe every 5-6 years.

Can you advise?

A

: In order for self employed individuals to claim tax relief on expenses they must be ‘wholly and exclusively’ for business purposes. It is highly unlikely that HM Revenue & Customs would allow the cost of suits as a deductible expense as they believe the suits can be worn for private purposes i.e. they fail the ‘exclusivity test’, however, due to the protective nature of your helmet, gloves & leathers you could claim them as a business expense.

Q

: I am involved with various businesses, businesses which ‘may’ at times invoice each other for work that has been carried out under the various banners. Do we need to have the same accountant for each business? Is there anything morally or legally wrong with this?

A

: There is nothing legally or morally wrong with having different accountants acting for your different businesses, however it may cost you more. It would be easier and more practical for one accountant to deal with all of your businesses. For example if there are transactions and outstanding balances between the businesses they will need to be verified. It would reduce communication time and possibly meeting

: Firstly, it is worth noting that employment status is determined by fact and the actual nature of the engagement. In addition to this there is legislation in place (IR35) which means that HMRC can tax some contractors as though they are employees.

However, with regard to employing staff you will have to register for PAYE with HMRC and comply with their PAYE regulations, including deducting and accounting for their tax and national insurance as well as paying Employers National Insurance on their wages which is currently 12.8% on wages above £110 per week. Many clients employ us to deal with such obligations on their behalf, as it makes their lives easier and is surprisingly cost effective. Also unlike subcontractors, employees have statutory rights which you will need to be aware of including sick pay, holiday pay, redundancy pay, etc. It is also advisable to have contracts of employment drawn up for all employees.

Q

: I pay tax in January and July – can I start paying tax to the revenue on a monthly basis once my contribution has been decided? I feel that this may be a better way to do it than all in one go!

A

: This year the Government has introduced a new ‘Budget payment plan’ which allows you to pay your self assessment tax monthly. To qualify all your tax payments must be up to date. Then you will make regular payments based on your estimation of the tax due for the coming year. It is worth noting that using the budget payment plan means that you pay your tax

in advance. As an alternative, you may like to consider setting up a monthly payment into a high interest bank account which you can use to pay your tax as and when it falls due, this way you will earn more interest and still retain control of your money.

Q

: Now that we have had the general election are there any STANDOUT changes in the tax system that could benefit or hurt the majority of us that are 1 man bands/small business’?

A

: There was not a great deal of standout changes made in the budget this year that will affect your situation. Among the key measures announced was a temporary increase in small business rate relief taking effect from October 2010, in addition to a doubling of the Annual Investment Allowance which gives a 100% tax write off on qualifying capital expenditure up to £100,000.

Q

: I wish to start up a small business which i want to be VAT registered and a LTD company for certain reasons, however i also want to remain an ‘individual’ CPO and invoice people from me [without VAT] rather than my company.

What would be the best course of action?

I feel that i will put people off by billing them from a company but wish to develop myself in other areas.

A

: You could remain an individual for your CPO business and invoice your clients separately to your limited company. However if the two business’s are not distinctively different trades HMRC has legislation in place which prevents splitting a trade to avoid VAT. Therefore your individual circumstances will dictate if you need to register for VAT for either or both of your businesses. Also there could be extra costs of having two businesses, for example printing & stationery and accountancy fees!

Q

: After how long can i destroy my accounts? I was told 6 years but these things always seem to change and i do not want to get caught out.

A

: You are required by law to keep your accounting books and records for a minimum of 6 years.

Send your finance questions to Jason Cheesman ACA, Partner at Mitchells Chartered Accountants specialising in delivering accountancy services to people working within the security industry 0191 416 4820 JC.mitchells.ca@btconnect.com

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Circuit :: ShopTalk

REGIMENTAL ASSOCIATIONS I left the Parachute Regiment in October 2004 after 7 years service.

I thoroughly enjoyed almost every minute of it, I have some great memories, had some brilliant laughs, made some great mates, endured some difficult times and did some amazing things but upon leaving the one thing I was determined to do when I left was to do just that - LEAVE! I certainly didn’t want to turn my back on the army or my Regiment but I felt that I needed to distance myself from it so that I could get on with my new chosen profession as a commercial security advisor. I kept in touch with a handful of good mates through various means but on the whole I had nothing to do with the army or the Parachute regiment for about 4 years until 1 day when I had a chance encounter in my local bank. Many ex soldiers still display their ‘colours’ even when they are no longer serving and on this day I noticed a gentleman with a small Parachute Regiment cap badge attached to his lapel so I went over and said ‘hello’. We had a quick chat and this former airborne soldier informed me that he was the Secretary of the local Parachute Regiment Association [PRA] and asked if I would be interested in attending their meetings. I didn’t make a formal commitment but I did take the details of their website and told him that I would check it out which on getting home I duly did.

It wasn’t an immediate bite for me although it did spark my interest again and because the meetings were literally on my doorstep, there really was no excuse for not attending.

However, despite the meetings only being once a month I still had not attended one but then bumped in to another former ex paratrooper in a local watering hole where we were introduced by a mutual friend and of course the first thing he said was ‘why don’t you come to the meetings!’ So, over the course of the evening i had an excellent chat about ‘the old days’ with Fess’ experiences dating back to the Radfan and beyond! I have always found that there is a natural respect between ex service people and because we were from the same regiment and had endured similar experiences that respect was magnified and we had a great night sharing a good bit of ‘crack’ and some fine ale. Well that was it for me as despite having some excellent civilian friends one of the things that I always hear ex soldiers saying is that the one thing they miss is the crack! We have our own particular sense of humour and tend to be on

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the same wavelength so I was off to the next meeting once I had cleared it through the long haired Colonel of course as I didn’t want to find myself on extras for not obtaining the correct pass.

My local meeting begins at 1930 hours but people generally form up about 1915 hrs to sample the local ale and have a quick chat. The meeting is very much along the lines of a ‘mess meeting’ although this may differ from branch to branch. The meeting starts with the minutes of the last meeting being read and voted a true record [or not] and then it is moved on to correspondence from Regimental HQ and other sources. The Branch often receives requests from groups/individuals who are trying to raise money for charitable courses such as Help for Hero’s or SSAFA and the members duly vote on if they should give and if so how much. If there have been any deaths or upcoming funerals then these are also announced in case you would like to attend or send your condolences. There is also a forecast of events from Regimental HQ so that the guys can keep in touch with what all 4 Battalions are up to. If there are any serving members present then they are also given the opportunity to keep the branch informed as to what 1, 2, 3 and 4 Para are up to from their own perspective. Durham PRA is lucky enough to have several serving members from across the Battalions attend as and when their own operational and training commitments allow and the branch eagerly receives their input.

Any other business would then be covered where the members have the opportunity to bring matters to the attention of the rest of the branch and with Durham being a ‘lively’ branch there is always something that is brought up! The meeting is then brought to a close and members stay on for a bit of crack and a few more beers before dispersing.

Despite joining the PRA whilst in the ‘depot’ [as all prospective Paratroopers do] I did not realise its significance until I attended a meeting and then joined my local PRA. The guys who run and attend it are fiercely loyal to the Regiment, its history, its standards and this

by NICK MCCARTHY Argus Europe

can only be a good thing for any Regiment.

The PRA is a registered charity and gives branch funds every year to many excellent causes. The branches also hold fund raising events themselves and are supported by other local branches, the local community and also local businesses. My branch also shows a significant presence at the training depot where the young Paratrooper is whipped in to shape; when the newly qualified Paratroopers pass-out at the end of their training there is a parade. The ‘old and bold’ are given pride of place and nice soft seats on the parade ground and I remember from my own passout parade seeing these former Para’s and feeling immense pride that these people that had trodden the path before me were still committed enough to come back and support the ‘next generation’ as we began our own journey up to the Battalion lines and beyond.

Things like this stick in your mind. Another area where the PRA also has a major presence is at the funerals of the serving and former soldiers; these have become more commonplace with the on-going commitments in Afghanistan and elsewhere. If ever there was a time for your Regimental Association to show support then surely this is it.

When I started to attend the meetings I spoke with the Secretary, Chairman and others and told them that I would try to encourage some new members from my era to attend including some serving soldiers. I felt that this would be great for the branch and also the serving soldiers as there was a definite age gap between the established members and myself and as I pointed out if this trend was to continue then sooner or later the branch would die out. I am determined that this will not happen at my own particular branch and have managed to introduce several new and younger members who attend when they can. New blood brings new ideas, different conversations and can only help move the branch, association and charity forward.

Please remember when you leave the services, no matter what your Regiment was, to join and help support your Regimental Association, this helps to keep the old traditions alive and makes the United Kingdom’s armed forces the best in the world bar none!

Nick McCarthy is a trainer and operator for Argus Europe Limited. He also contracts to other national and multi-national companies involved in risk management. www.arguseurope.co.uk

UK:

Real IRA admits Northern Ireland Mi5 base car bomb

The Real IRA has admitted it was behind a car bomb which exploded outside the army base which houses MI5’s Northern Ireland headquarters. The blast came on the day that David Ford was elected as NI’s Justice Minister, the first local politician to hold the job in 38 years. It happened outside Palace Barracks, in Holywood, County Down. Police said no warning was given. The bomb was placed in a taxi, which had been hijacked in the Ligoniel area of north Belfast, about seven miles from Holywood.

Israeli diplomat expelled over Dubai passport row

The UK is to expel an Israeli diplomat over 12 forged British passports used in the killing of Hamas leader Mahmoud al-Mabhouh in Dubai in January. David Miliband said there

were “compelling reasons” to believe Israel was responsible for the forgeries. The then foreign secretary said the misuse of British passports was “intolerable”. Israel’s ambassador to London said he was “disappointed”, but Israel confirmed there would be no tit-for-tat diplomatic expulsion. A source said “The relationship between Israel and the UK is of mutual importance, hence we are disappointed by the... decision.”

Israel has previously said there is no proof it was behind the killing at a Dubai hotel.

Suspected Eta member arrested in London

A suspected member of the Basque separatist group Eta has been arrested in London by the Metropolitan Police. Garikoitz Ibarlucea Murua was held in Soho, central London, by officers acting on behalf of Spain’s government. The 27-yearold was held under a European Arrest Warrant alleging terror offences. Eta, designated a terrorist group by the EU, wants a separate Basque homeland in northern Spain. It has

been blamed for more than 820 deaths during its 41-year campaign.

Tragedy in The Lakes District

A taxi driver who went on the rampage in Cumbria killed 12 people, including his twin brother, and injured up to 25 others.

Derrick Bird opened fire as he drove through the countryside over a three-hour period before taking his own life. The self-employed taxi driver, 52, began his massacre by shooting at least one colleague in the town of Whitehaven in the Lake District region of the UK. The divorced father of two then drove his cab south, opening fire on people through the window of his car, apparently at random. Following a manhunt, police found his body 20 miles away in woods near the hamlet of Boot about three-and-ahalf hours after the first shootings.

There are thought to be as many as 30 separate crime scenes in the investigation.

This extremely sad event comes only a week after another tragedy struck this rural area and is likely to ensure a look at the gun laws in the United Kingdom.

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Circuit :: BoyZone

GET YOUR LAWMATE PV1000

KIT ON Sam Burns of Track Clarity looks at technology and equipment which can be useful to operators and companies within the Security industry.

Lawmate’s equipment, in my experience has always performed well and has never let me down. This product is well known throughout the world, and is used for surveillance and law enforcement.

General Overview

This device has been very well thought out. The pv1000 supports HD cameras as well as the standard input supported by lawmate. This means you can use the current cameras as well as the new HD input for the HD cameras.

The pv1000 also supports powering the cameras from the device. This reduces the amount of cables required when you are using the device. It will also record high quality audio alongside the video capture.

The LCD screen on the device is of an excellent quality and allows you to check footage easily in both live and playback modes. The device has a very easy to learn user interface which is vital in a device such as this. You can very quickly train someone to use it without worrying they will make an error. This device has many clever features which aid in taking quality footage and making sure you do not miss the all important event.

One of these is “pre record”. The recorder is constantly looping through video and saves 30 seconds before you initiate recording. When the device is triggered to record you will have a 30 second buffer before you initiated the recording This means you should always capture the event required.

A problem which often besets similar products is image quality. This is usually due to poor compression and the “bit rate” which the device records at. The lawmate 1000 however does not have this problem with a high bit rate and excellent compression which allows you long record times but keeps a high quality result.

This device comes with a 60 Gb hard drive as well as supporting SD cards to further enlarge the recording capacity.

On the standard internal hard drive you can expect about 40 hours on the highest quality setting.

To trigger recording on the pv100 you can use a wired remote control as well as

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motion detection. Both of these methods allow you to use the “pre record” setting.

I found the motion detection very reliable.

The sensitivity of the motion detection can also be altered.

This unit has been designed to be used for evidence gathering within law enforcement. This shows in the design with tamper proof frame counters and logging of all events within the DVR. This allows you to be confident in presenting the evidence you have captured.

These type of devices can be used for a number of different situations. I have detailed the following scenarios:-

Overt Surveillance Camera system These devices can be used for protection system using head mounted cameras to overtly record subjects you interact with. This can be very useful for door supervisors, wheel clampers and other roles where conflict is common. Often this can prevent physical conflict due to the overt nature of the equipment. In this setting audio and video can be captured to show a complete picture of an event.

Covert Body worn camera system These devices can be easily and quickly integrated into a number of covert surveillance recording situations. The lawmate pv1000 can be easily integrated

due to powering the camera solutions from the device. This allows you to easily install and check your solution. You can also use a remote lanc to trigger this device if its being used in a bagfit for surveillance and other day to day objects such as document files and briefcases.

Covert Surveillance camera system This system works well for a number of uses such as rural surveillance, Anti flytipping and theft prevention. The lawmate 1000 supports motion detection which allows you (with a suitable power setup) to record days of motion activated events at a time. The motion detection works extremely well and is reliable to use outside and inside. Do remember however to check the motion detection setting is setup correctly in regards to the local environment such as moving trees e.t.c.

Summary I believe this device to be well featured and at a sensible price point. You can pick up the DVR and a covert camera system including wired controllers and standard resolution button camera for around £570.If you are in need for a reliable well featured small DVR I would suggest having a look at the PV1000.

Thanks to Dogcamsport for the loan of a pv1000 for review www.dogcamsport.co.uk

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REDWEB SECURITY’S TRACKER AND PLD UNITS The BBA recently took delivery of a couple GPS tracking devices from RedWeb Technologies to test and evaluate in the various roles those of us operating within the Security Industry may undertake. The 1st device that we tested was a device called the RX-8+which is a Covert Magmount Tracking unit. The other device is called the RX-3 and is primarily a Personal Locating Device or PLD.

The RX-8+

comes in a really neat little weatherproof box that has 2 very strong magnets attached to it; these magnets and the size of the case proved to be a good combination whilst covertly deploying the unit on various test vehicles.

The unit has a charging point, an on/off

button and also a see through window that allows you to see a flashing light that indicates the state of the device, something that many will find useful immediately prior to fitting the device on a vehicle.

Like with most of the GPS tracking units on the market there is an associated online panel that allows you to login and do various things such as changing the frequency at which the device reports, set alarm zones, access tracking information and more.

We found the web interface to be quite user friendly although there was, as you would expect, a learning curve to it. With the increasing development of Google Earth, the sheer amount of information that can be gained about a said location, is quite impressive and in some cases almost scary…….take a look at your own house next time you are online!

Whilst testing, the RX-8 proved to be reliable, robust and accurate in a wide range of conditions and testing scenarios and travelled the length and breadth of the UK. The battery life of this unit was more than acceptable but of course depends on many

factors such as frequency of reporting, the actual movement of the vehicle, strength of signal and to a degree, weather conditions.

The RX-8+ comes highly recommend as a GPS tracking device and would not be out of place in the kit bag of a Surveillance Operator, Private Detective or indeed a CPO wishing to keep a track on his principal’s vehicle.

The RX-3

can be used in a variety of roles, most notably as a PLD for the lone worker. It could also find use in our industry for RST workers, CPO’s, security consultants, in fact anyone in need of a PLD solution. The device itself is slim, compact and feels of a reassuring quality. The unit also has a belt clip and sits nicely on your belt but could also be placed more covertly inside a handbag, rucksack or similar. The layout of the unit is uncomplicated and well structured, making it easy to use and quick to learn.

The performance of the RX-3 was excellent and easily matched, or indeed exceeded, that of the RX-8+, but this may be due to

by

NICK MCCARTHY

the fact that it was not covertly deployed underneath a vehicle! However, we also found that the positioning information from the RX-3, when inside a building, was also very good in most circumstances.

The unit has a various flashing LED’s which make you aware of its status and also let you know when the battery is running low.

Charging is via the popular mini USB data port that many mobile telephones use. As ever battery life depends on many factors, so thorough testing should be carried out using the conditions in which you intend the device to be used.

Not only does the RX-3 have GPS tracking capabilities, it is also a programmable mobile phone allowing the users to make emergency calls when the need arises.

Another great feature of the RX-3 is that you can dial in to the unit and listen in to what is going on in the immediate vicinity of the unit, should you became concerned about your colleague/employee. This combined with an SOS feature/panic button make this particular unit an excellent PLD For more information, please telephone: 0800 157 7246 or email; info@redwebsecurity.com www.redwebsecurity.com

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CLASSIFIED A.B.I. Solutions A.B.I Solutions is a dynamic, forward thinking company, specialising in surveillance, security and investigations with local, national and international experience.

A.B.I provides a wide range of services to the corporate sector and individuals alike. www.abisolutions.co.uk Alphyn UK Ltd Alphyn UK Ltd are a UK registered limited company primarily based in North Wales, with the ability to offer our range of services on a global scale. nfo@alphyn-uk.co.ukT el: +44 (0) 1745 538962 Amanda Campbell A highly motivated and experienced female operative both CP and Surveillence trained.

T – 07596542249 www.amandacampbell.org.uk ac@amandacampbell.org.uk Argus Europe County Durham, T:+44 (0) 8456 123 843 Argus Europe has been providing specialist training for high-net worth clients and their families for close to 20 years, worldwide. Argus Europe now offer accredited training for CPO’s, Surveillance Operators and Private detectives. Argus Europe is an operational company working globally with an extensive variety of contracts. www.arguseurope.co.uk Briareus Security Our aim is to give a complete, discreet and professional service to all of our clients, be they large corporations, small businesses, local authorities or private individuals, all tailored to meet their individual needs. www.briareussecurity.com info@briareussecurity.com Camberford Law Plc Lygon House, 50 London Road, Bromley, BR1 3RA Tel: + 44 (0) 20 8315 50 We provide bespoke insurance solutions for Bodyguard, Door Supervisor, and Security companies of all sizes.

Cover can apply for worldwide services. It is an exclusive arrangement - not available to anyone else. BBA Associate Member. www.camber fordlaw.com/closeprotection Canadian Use of Force Systems 7975 Yonge St. # 7124, Innisfil, ON, L9S 1L0, CANADA Tel: + 1 705 456 4333 A professional Use of Force and Defensive Tactics organization teaching a full range of controlled response options for Self-Protection and Use of Force considerations in public and professional environments. BBA Associate Member. www.canadianuseofforce.com Challenger Chauffeuring and Security Ltd Eaton Place Business Centre, 114 Washway Road, Sale, M33 7RF

40 : : Circuit

Tel: +44 (0) 161 905 1424 Based in South Manchester, we aim to take customer service levels to new heights by providing smart, high calibre drivers and vigilant, professional door supervisors and security staff. Licensed close protection operatives are also available to work both at home and abroad.

BBA Member. www.challengergroup-mcr.co.uk Control Risks Cottons Centre, Cottons Lane, London, SE1 2QG Tel: + 44 (0) 20 7970 210 Control Risks training services is the training division of business risk consultancy Control Risks. We run courses including close protection, hostile environment training, close protection within hostile environments, first aid and defensive driver training for organisations and their staff, ex service personnel and other private individuals. www.controlrisks-training.com Covert Solutions Group International 27, Old Gloucester Street, London, WC1N 3XX Tel: + 44 (0) 7005 964 17 A UK based Specialist Security Company with Global reach and are leading providers of Close Protection and Surveillance to Private, Executive and High Profile Clients.

BBA Member. www.covertsolutionsgroup.com Cunningham Support Services Cunningham Support Services offers all BBA members a discount of at least 10% on all their Services.

T - 01582 520327 / 07882 883591 E - admin@cunninghamsupportservices.co.uk W - www.cunninghamsupportservices.co.uk Custodia T - 01432 277693 Custodia is an independent client focused Specialist Security & Risk Management Company, specialising in Risk consultancy and Security project management. Providing a comprehensive portfolio of Risk mitigation solutions to assist Businesses and individuals to plan for, manage and mitigate risk. www.custodia.co.uk DF Risk Management Solutions Telephone : +44 (0)7837642686 / +44 (0)7758743918 DF Risk Management Solutions N.I. is a modern, professional risk management company, with a diverse range of global strategic experiences and a team of executives who possess dynamic but complementary backgrounds. www.dfriskmanagementsolutionsni. com D.McKenzie Associates Stacey Bushes, Milton Keynes, MK12 6HL Tel: + 44 (0) 1908 225474 Operational management, training, threat and risk assessment, threat

management, executive (personal) and corporate security / investigations. BBA Member. www.dmckenzieasociates.com Decisiones Estratégicas Buenos Aires – Argentina Tel: +54(911) 6415 1941 E: jbenitez@d–estrategicas.com Executive protection specialists we have experienced in all Latin America, for multinationals companies, also providing support in project throughout Latin America to consulting first the US. and UK. We have a team of specialists and psychologists in assistance and crisis negotiation. www.d–estrategicas.com Detective Lacerda P.O.BOX 25996, São Paulo, 05513970 , BRAZIL Tel: + 55 (11) 3452 4388 Providing the full range of security and investigation services throughout Latin America.

BBA Member. www.detectivelacerda.cjb.net DM Security (UK) Ltd The Elms Business Centre , 62 High Street, West Bromwich, B70 6JT Tel: + 44 (0) 8444 821 460 A highly professional and reliable outfit catering for all aspects of security and close protection. We have an enviable reputation within the industry and guarantee a friendly, efficient and consistent service. BBA Member. www.dmsecurityuk.com Goodege T – 0845 052 3619 (24hrs) GOODEGE are specialists in the rental of performance and luxury cars including Porsche, Aston Martin, Lamborghini, Ferrari and other quality marques. www.goodege.com Hawk East PO Box 339, Stoneville, NC 27048, USA Tel: + 1 336 427 8699 The Complete Bodyguard Training Video Series, VHS or DVD. BBA Member. www.bodyguard-training.com Heimrisks Svartemyrar 2, 458 93 Färgelanda, Sweden Security services and training provider with focus on the middle east region www.heimrisks.com HR Security Tel: 0207 4195 665 HR Security specialises in a broad spectrum of security services to suit corporate organisations, private clients, local authorities and the legal profession. Our professionals include former members of the elite Special Forces, and all have extensive experience in both security and military operations worldwide, enabling us to offer a diverse range of specialised security services. www.hrsecurity.co.uk info@hrsecurity.co.uk

To place a classified lineage or box advertisement telephone our sales team on: 0845 519 2538

Icon Services Corporation 1043 Grand Ave. #312, St. Paul, MN 55105, USA Tel: + 1 651 695 8778 A full service security and investigative agency specializing in providing high-level security and bodyguards to international celebrities, public figures and corporations. Licensed, bonded and insured, our diverse roster of clients reads as a virtual who’s who in the corporate, motion picture, fashion and recording industry. Entering into our 10th year, Icon has been the hand picked choice to provide Executive Protection to everyone from Superintendents to Supermodels.

BBA Member. www.Industry-Icon.com Imperial Protective Service, LLC 15849 N. 71st Street, Suite 100, Scottsdale , Arizona, 85254, USA Tel: + 1 480 281 1588 Imperial Protective Service’ (IPS) is a security consulting and services firm founded in 1978. IPS provides both national and international corporate, executive and celebrity protective services. BBA Member. www.executiveprotect.com Intelligent Network Services Unit 27B, Wolverhampton Airport, Stourbridge, DY7 5DY Tel: + 44 (0) 845 2572193 We provide a full and comprehensive range of services into all areas of business and the private sector including Close Protection, static security (all UK SIA Lincensed), Private Investigation, Aviation, Maritime & Fire Services and a Secure Document Transfer Service. BBA Member. www.intelligentnetworkservices.org

International Protection Management Dublin, EIRE Tel: + 353 1800 771 772 Specialists in Security Risk Management & Consultant Bodyguard Services for Media, Corporate, Hotel, Private, Executive and Celebrity Clients.

BBA Member. www.bodyguards.ie International Security Academy P.O.Box 5833, Herzeliya, 46000, ISRAEL Tel: + 972 9 950 0969 Our graduates are more recognized, respected and sought after by Distinguish Protection service “consumers” and by most of the “Providers” of Protection services worldwide.

Organisers of the 2008 International Summit of Protection Officers. BBA Member. www.SecurityAcademy.org.il Ipeleng Risk Management PO BOX 3904 | Randburg | 2125 | Gauteng | South Africa Telephone : +27 11 781 6388 / 6390, We value devotion to our clients needs. We value the creation of excellence in everything we do. We value each employee as a unique contributor to our success. We value social sensitivity to ensure that we are always in harmony with the

CLASSIFIED needs of the society. www.ipeleng.co.za IPSS Security Northfield, Aberdeen, AB16 7EX Tel: + 44 (0) 1224 69455 Security and protection services - UK and overseas. BBA Member. www.ippssecurity.co.uk ISS Training Ltd Riverside Cottages, Nidd Walk, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, HG3 5NA Tel: + 44 (0) 1423 712265 ISS Training Limited are providers of specialist covert surveillance training courses and publications to the security and investigative industries, enforcement agencies and specialist military units. Formed in 1990, we are the longest established surveillance training company in the United Kingdom. Our credibility and reputation is widespread and we offer nationally recognised qualifications.

BBA Member. www.intelsecurity.co.uk John Featherstone 24hrs : +44 (0)7702 740722, john@ johnfeatherstone.co.uk Security professional with operational experience gained in a variety of theatres. Main specialities close protection and surveillance. www.johnfeatherstone.co.uk Johns Agency Hannover, Germany, D-30659, Podbielskistrasse. 333 Telefon: +49 (0) 511 54 06172 Mob: +49 (0) 177 74 22553 John C’s Agency provides Licensed close protection operatives and a discreet and professional security service to all clients in and out of hostile environments. www.johns-agency.com, info@johnsagency.com Kevin Mullin Location Glasgow, Tel: 24hrs +44 (0)7885790954 Sia Licensed Security Consultant and Front line CPO. Avalible for deployment worldwide. www.kevinmullin.co.uk km@kevinmullin.co.uk Komodo Red Security Services Unit A The Courtyard Business Centre, 27 Norfolk Street, Peterborough, PE1 2NP Tel: + 44 (0) 1733 567253 We offer bodyguard, close protection, security, surveillance and consultancy services such as risk assessments. We also provide unarmed combat conflict management training. BBA Member. www.komodored.com MAF Protection P.O. Box: 25996, São Paulo, 05513970, BRAZIL Tel: + 55 11 3452 4388 MAF Protection was formed in 2001 by a Group of experienced independent Security Specialists, who have trained and gained their experience from service within the Armed Forces, Police and Civilian Security Sector. We provide an extensive range

of specialised security services. BBA Member. www.mafprotection.com MB Security Service Furstenbergs Gatan 4, Gothenburg, 41664, SWEDEN Tel: 46 (0) 31 150 333 Close Protection and security services worldwide. BBA Member. www.mbsecurityservice.com Military Grade Encryption Phones PO Box 52310, Limassol, CYPRUS Tel: + 357 7777 7276 Built-in encryption software which converts your voice to encrypted data using a constantly changing mathematical formula. It uses a dual layered RSA/AES combination and a changing session key which modifies the encryption algorithm every second. € 1,398.00 + VAT. All prices include new Nokia N73 phone. BBA Member. www.protechcy.com/new New Security via Rome 100, 95030 Gravina of Catania, Sicily, ITALY Tel: + 39 0954 197 546 La New Security di Carmelo La Rosa è stata fondata nel 1993 per fornire servizi di Investigazioni, Ricerche, Informazioni Commerciali, Intelligence, Security, ad Aziende, Istituti BancariCommerciali e Finanziari, a Studi legali e Privati, in tutto il mondo. BBA Member. www.newsecurity-investigazioni.it PPSS Group T: +44 (0) 845 5193 953 F: +44 (0) 1765 603 512 Body armour and stab vests provide a functional solution to individuals who require extra protection in their chosen vocation. All PPSS (formerly ASEO) body armour and stab vests are certified by the UK’s Home Office (HOSDB) and offer unrivalled protection from blunt trauma caused by a punch, blow or kick. Based on our professional frontline experience and extensive research we can confirm that an impact based assault is a more likely event than an attack involving an edged weapon or firearm.

E: info@ppss-group.com W: www.ppss-group.com Prometheus Medical Ltd T - (+44) 1568 613942 Prometheus deliver unrivalled bespoke emergency medical support in the form of specialist equipment, training, strategic advice and deployed clinical care. www.prometheusmedical.co.uk Protector Network 156 Queens Road, London, SE15 2HP Tel: +44 (0)759 434 9911 The Protector Network provides worldwide operational and training solutions. Closely bound with the International Bodyguard Association and ILETA we are able to provide global coverage through our professionally qualified affiliates. Free membership for BBA members. BBA Member.

www.protectornetwork.com Richard James Cooper 24hrs : +44 (0) 7890 676839 , info@richardjamescooper.co.uk Experienced Security Professional and Front Line Close Protection Officer. www.richardjamescooper.co.uk Saint Security Consultants Pte Ltd 20 Kramat Lane, #03-04 United House, 228733, SINGAPORE Tel: + 65 67373104 Licenced by the Criminal Investigation Department of the Singapore Police Force, Saint Security Consultants Pte Ltd was incorporated by former Police officers from various departments and specialist professionals with decades of expertise in Criminal and Commercial Investigation, Intelligence Operations as well as Security Planning and Management. BBA Member. www.saint-security.com SGS Tel: +44 (0)1252 546957 semagurkha is an elite security provider, founded and directed by an ex Royal and Diplomatic Protection Officer and manned by fully trained, SIA licensed, English speaking, ex Gurkha professionals. We offer a flexible, discreet and expert support service to design, deploy and manage security services customised to fit your specific requirements and dynamics. enquire@semagurkha.com Shaun West United Kingdom, E: sw@shaunwest. co.uk T: +44 (0)7830 109 601 SIA licensed, Highly Experienced Frontline CPO. Ronin SA trained. Providing security for both corporate and hostile Environments. www.shaunwest.co.uk Sphere Protection Consultancy Sphere Protection Consultancy is committed to delivering an exceptional service based upon the delivery of training and the provision of specialist security in accordance with BS 8507-2:2009, BS7858 (Vetting) and other relvant standards. info@sphereprotection.com Sun Security Personnel Suite 7/Level 1, 564 Princes Highway, Rockdale, NSW 2216, AUSTRALIA Telephone : + 1300 736 795 Founded in 1992 with a vision to provide a professional and outstanding level of security service to our clients worldwide. BBA Member. www.sunsecurityñcom.au Tony Scotti’s Vehicle Dynamics Institute 1162 St. Georges Ave, Suite 277 , Avenel, NJ 07001, USA Tel: + 1 732 738 5221 The first name in advanced driver training, offering our highly acclaimed Protective/Evasive Driving Programs. Designed specificallyfor today’s executive chauffeurs, execu-

To place a classified lineage or box advertisement telephone our sales team on: 0845 519 2538

tive protection professionals and others who are responsible for providing safe and secure transportation services. BBA Member. www.vehicledynamics.net

Varsity Publications PO Box 222, Chipping Norton, Oxford, OX7 5WY Telephone : +44 (0) 870 350 1231 Varsity International Directory of Security & Close Protection features around 2000 Security Advisors, Bodyguards & Executive Protection Specialists and it covers over 150 countries throughout the world. It is laid out by Continent and thereafter alphabetically by Country and City for ease of use. There is a map for every Country covered plus information panels giving vital details such as local currencies, languages spoken, dialing codes and time differences. www.varsitypublications.com Viking Security 185 Langworthy Rd, Salford, Manchester, M6 5PW Tel: + 44 (0) 161 745 880 Our aim is to provide first class security solutions. By using the skills of our dedicated team of professionals, we will ensure the very best service and support is offered to all our clients. BBA Member. www.vikingsecurity.co.uk VIPA Tactical Training P O Box 353, Roweltown, Cumbria, CA1 9DP Tel: + 44 (0) 7954 218125 A specialist training academy dealing with four specific areas of combat: VIPA Civilian Self Protection Program, VIPA Close Protection Combat System, VIPA Police Defence Tactics and VIPA Military Close Quarter Combat.

BBA Member. www.VIPAtacticaltraining.com Watchman Protective Services Inc 1306 Fairlakes Pl, Mitchellville, MD 20721, USA Tel: + 1 866 608 8000 We provide executive protection and security guard services with unarmed and armed security officers and mobile patrol services to industrial and manufacturing facilities, commercial properties, local and federal governments, residential communities and retail establishments. BBA Member. www.watchmanprotective.com Zaheer Boomgaard Surveillence and CP trained (SIA Licence holder) Zaheer offers travel advice, threat and risk assessments, travel and itinerary planning for overseas guests in South Africa as well as offering a Security Advance Party service to visiting CP teams in South Africa. www.zaheerboomgaard.co.za zb@zaheerboomgaard.co.za

Circuit : : 41

THE NORTH AMERICAN BODYGUARD ASSOCIATION PRESENTS:

ICON Celebrity & VIP Protection Training “Professional guys, they know their stuff & come highly recommended.” ~ Sha money XL, Personal Manager to 50 Cent

Course Highlights • Operating in the world of Celebrity & VIP Protection • Protecting the Principal (Individual & Team) • Transportation movements and logistics • Working the red carpet & major events • Dealing with fans, paparazzi & stalkers • How to market yourself and establish a career in the industry

Circuit The

SUMMER

2010 £4.50/$8

Circuit The

The Magazine for Security Professionals

Cover: THE BODYGUARD DIARY 6 days in the life of WISE WORDS FROM CINDY SOMMER GIL BOYD IS HOME ALONE

Make yourself more marketable in the new economy!

Icon Services Corporation is proud to present a five-day course of practical theory and hands-on training in the world of Celebrity & VIP Protection. If you are new to the bodyguard industry or a current operator looking to refresh and polish your skills, this course will offer excellent instruction into the professional side of Close Protection work. Taught by industry veteran Elijah Shaw, who in addition to his corporate clients, has traveled the world as the personal bodyguard of international public figures such as musical giant Usher, supermodel Naomi Campbell, and rap megastar 50 Cent, the course will offer real world problems, scenarios, and solutions from instructors that are currently active in the industry.

HEALTH MATTERS WITH RYAN NAISH BRITISH CONTRACTOR JAILED FOR BRIBERY IN AFGHAN COURT HOW TO SAFELY RETRIEVE A CASUALTY WE’RE STILL PENETRATION TESTING IN pt. 5 OF THIS SERIES and the final installment of THE HISTORY OF SNIPING

A Quarterly publication from the British and North American Bodyguard Association

Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota (USA) For more info contact: 1 (651) 695-8778 or email Training@industry-icon.com

www.The-BBA.org.uk Info@The-BBA.org.uk Tel: +44 845 519 2538

Contributors: -

www.Industry-Icon.com/Training Discount for BBA & NABA Members

The Circuit is compiled, edited and published in the UK and US quarterly by: The British Bodyguard Association.

Jon Moss

Gil Boyd

Mike Briggs

Ryan Naish

Sam Burns

Andy Purdie

Jacquie Davis

Charlie Richards

Justin Johnson Mike Jones

Elijah Shaw

Keith Loose

Nikida Sherman

Nick McCarthy

Cindy Sommer

Gus Macgregor

James Mcintosh

Illustrations: Jon Moss

Jules Thorn

Additional Photography: Nick McCarthy

KiKi Koralesky

Design and Layout: Kal Wilkins

42 : : Circuit

DISCLAIMER While every care has been taken to ensure that the information contained in this magazine is both accurate and up-to-date, The Circuit accepts no liability in any part for loss or damage incurred by reliance on information contained in this magazine through omissions, errors, howsoever caused. © COPYRIGHT Copyright remains with the authors and contributors at all times.

No part of this publication can be copied or reproduced in any way whatsoever without permission from the publisher AND the author / contributor.

SIA SECURITY TRAINING Door Supervisor £110 CCTV £ 185 Handcuffing, Quick-Cuffs & Plastic-Cuffs £125 (free plastic cuffs & key) Emergency First Aid £60 Offender ID £115 (includes canister & pouch) Control & Restraint £99 (Home Office approved techniques)

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First Person on Scene Intermediate Security Industry Course in association with GOR UK Chaos and confusion are the defining characteristics of the early stages of a major incident. In the immediate moments after a catastrophic or major incident, individuals can play a crucial role in the rescue and treatment of those seriously injured. The First Person on Scene (FPOS) courses are designed to give first responders the knowledge, skills and aptitude to save and preserve life. Both the Basic and Intermediate course provide candidates with the skills and knowledge required to identify and manage life threatening conditions and deliver critical treatment required to sustain life in preparation for the arrival of the emergency medical services. Developed with and approved by the institute of health care development (IHCD, Edexcel) and clinically endorsed by the faculty of pre-hospital care (Edinburgh). Gaining recognition across industry sectors, inclusive of the private security industry, which the SIA has included FPOS (1) as one of the courses required to comply with licensing criteria for close protection operators.

FPOS courses have been specifically designed to deliver immediate response, pre-hospital care, transferable to meet the needs of individuals, organisations and communities by

providing training that is both realistic and highly practical with over 60% of time allocated to workshops, small group demonstrations, including real time casualty care scenarios. We utilise a human patient simulator to reproduce human physiology, in both good health and crisis. This invaluable learning resource permits students to gain invaluable realistic hands on experience that inspires confidence and dramatically improves performance.

The course has tactical focus and students will learn how to provide care at each phase of the Tactical Combat Casualty Care model. Rapid access to a First Responder can improve survival following a critical incident from 1:4 to 1:8 deaths making a great difference to survival outcomes. Thorough assessment linked to appropriate but relatively simple treatments delivered rapidly and competently are known to reduce deaths and improve survival. The FPOS courses are the platform for all further ongoing pre-hospital training and are increasingly recognised by other organisations including the SIA for completion of the Close Protection qualifications. For those deploying overseas to hostile areas it is the course of choice for preparing for combat trauma.

For further assessment of our service offerings visit www.custodia.co.uk To discuss how Custodia can help please contact us Tel: 01432277693 Email: info@custodia.co.uk