Forest’s business security cameras with Video Analytics do more for you:

Security cameras providing video surveillance for our businesses have been around for decades. It helps us protect our property, our employees, and our inventory. In the beginning, surveillance and recording was all it could do. Fast forward to today, Our surveillance systems do so much more, recording and surveillance is just the start.

You Need Business Video Analytics

With Business Video Analytics from Forest, your surveillance system works even harder than ever. It gives you the information needed to help you make informed decisions about your business:

Occupancy Tracking

You need to keep tract of how many people are in your facility at any given time. It’s easy with our security cameras with video analytics. You can determine total net occupancy at any given time with a multi directional people counting system and even get alerts if the occupancy level gets too high.

People Counting

Want to know which isles in your store draw the most foot traffic? It’s simple with our video cameras with business analytics. Just draw a tripwire anywhere within your property to count how many people cross that invisible line in one direction.

Heat Mapping

What in your inventory is keeping patrons interested? Track and visualize where people spend the most time within an area during a specified date and time range with our video cameras with business analytics.

Pro Tip: Use heat maps to see where you have the most foot traffic and help boost profits by moving high-value products into those areas.

Crowd Gathering

Are your lobbies getting too crowded? Monitor how many people are in a defined area at any given point and get alerts when too many people gather in one space.

Queue Monitoring

Are people waiting too long in line for service? Measure average customer wait time and get alerts if line length or average wait time exceeds preset limits.

Now more than ever, understanding how people move through your business is vital. Improve your security and your business operations using a single platform, with Business Activity Analytics – See more  here

Call Forest at 708-452-2000 or contact us below for more information:

The Danger Zone

The range of temperature between 40° and 140° is referred to the danger zone as this is when bacteria can reproduce rapidly turning fresh foods into toxic disasters within hours. A refrigerator door left open or a heater bulb going out can spoil an entire inventory.

Protecting your inventory from spoilage is crucial and Forest makes it fast and easy to keep real time monitoring or all your temperature-controlled equipment right at your fingertips.

Safe and Simple

We make it simple to set up and even easier to use. We install remote sensors in each environment you need to keep temperature controlled. You can then monitor each right from your desktop or mobile app. If something goes wrong, you can get an email, SMS, and push alerts that are triggered by your set temperature parameters. It even keeps a full history report so you can collect and review crucial data and create historical reports.

More than just foods

It’s not just perishable foods that need to keep out of a danger zone. With the ability of monitoring -22°F to 158°F, we can protect any business that need to keep areas within a specific temperature range. Keep an eye on storage facilities, greenhouses, or other out-of-the-way places. Whether you’re a pet store that needs to keep lizards warm, a plant nursery that needs to keep seedlings from getting too cold or an IT server warehouse that needs to keep equipment in an optimal temperature range, Smarter Business Temperature Monitoring keeps you in control.

Helping you to keep your business safe is what we do… Forest Security – Call Today 708-452-2000 – Or contact us below:

Shopping online is commonplace these days, most of us have shopped at the big-name websites, but what if you find that perfect something from a small unknown place? How do you know their website is trustworthy?

https before anything

First of all, before you enter any sensitive information, make sure the URL starts with “https”. The “s” stands for secure and means the site is encrypted which makes all data transmission much safer to guard against hackers. You can also look for the small padlock which also shows the site is secure.

Safeguard your personal information

Unless you plan to shop on this site often, check out as a guest as opposed to creating an account. This cuts down the number of places your information could be hacked or stolen from. If you do set up an account on the site, remember to create a strong and unique password. Or better yet, use a password manager – See more here: Protect Yourself From Hackers | Forest Security

Be skeptical

Phishers try to lure you away from legitimate website onto malicious pages that capture and steal your information. Phishing sites and emails may closely resemble those of the companies they’re spoofing, so watch out for misspellings, blurry images, deals that require immediate action, deals that are too good to be true, or anything that seems a bit off. Stop and investigate before you hand over any information. Also watch out Hidden or misleading hyperlinks (to see a link’s true destination, hover your mouse over the text before clicking).

Shop only from a secure Wi-Fi

Never trust public Wi-Fi to be secure since it an open network it may be possible for a criminal logged into the same network to see your details. It is best to save shopping, banking, and other sensitive transactions for home.

Public computers

It is highly recommended not to enter any personal information if using a public computer. If you must make a purchase using a shared device, be certain to sign out of your account when you are done. Next visit the browser’s “Settings” page to delete all cookies when you’re done.

Credit Cards

You are protected when using your credit card whether it be in person or online. The Fair Credit Billing Act, a 1974 consumer protection law designed to guard against unfair credit billing practices, gives purchasers the right to dispute unauthorized credit charges over fifty dollars. Even though you are protected, a stolen credit card is a hassle to unravel especially if you have any accounts on auto-pay. If in doubt, double check the company first before entering your payment information.

Identity Theft Protection

Whenever personal or financial information is exposed through a data breach or a shopping scam, there’s also a risk of identity theft. To protect yourself and your family – see more here: Identity Protection | Forest Security

Forest’s Smart Tips: Download a video clip on Forest’s ADC Cameras

If you have a Forest Security Video System, you may be capturing some unique or unusual videos.  Think you have one that may go viral? Here’s how to download it so you can use it on your social medial platform:

You can download saved video clips using your Forest mobile or desktop app.

To download a previously recorded video clip using the mobile app:

1. Log into your Forest/Alarm.com app.
2. Tap Video.
3. Tap Saved.
4. Tap on the desired clip.
5. Tap

To download a previously recorded video clip using the desktop app:

1. Log into your Forest/Alarm.com customer website.
2. Click Video.
3. Click Saved Video Clips.
4. Mouse over the desired clip, then click
5. Click Download Clip. The download starts automatically.

To download multiple clips at once:

1. Log into your Forest/Alarm.com customer website.
2. Click Video.
3. Click Saved Video Clips.
4. Click Bulk Actions.
5. Click to select the desired clips or click to select all the videos shown on the page.
6. Click to start the download

If you need assistance, please call us at 708-452-2000 and tag us if you share any of your funniest videos.

Pro Series

Forest’s Pro Series camera line is built for business but is also a great solution for residential use. Improve your security with features like high resolution onboard, SVR recording and varifocal lens options. Industry leading technology delivers security to protect you from intruders, vandalism, theft and unexpected activity.

All Pro Series cameras offer:

• Onboard recording with a MicroSD card and recording to the Commercial Video Stream Recorder
• Smart Business Analytics (Occupancy Tracking, People Counting, Hat Mapping, Crowd Gathering, Queue Monitoring)See more about Smart Business Analytics Here:  Video Analytics For Business | Forest Security
• HDR (High Dynamic Range) for higher contrast and brighter images
• WDR (Wide Dynamic Range) Cuts glare and “washed out” areas

Motorized Varifocal Lens

The Standard Dome, Bullet and Turret Camera all have a motorized varifocal lens. So exactly what are the benefits of this specialized lens?

• 116° to 34° Field of View with no loss of focus
• Allows for end user camera adjustments
• Motorized lens allows for remote zoom and auto-focus
• Easily dial in your field of view to maximize image quality
• Increase install location flexibility

Integration

Cameras that are integrated into your security system give you all in one solution with 24/7 monitoring, proactive security and smart technology so you can focus on what matters most. Whether you are looking to safeguard your home or business, Forest has the right video solution for you.

Video Monitoring

Remotely know if someone is on your property at any time. Get alerts about moments that matter, in real time with video analytics. Fewer false notifications keep focused only on events you want to know about and not bother you with the ones you don’t.

Remote Control

All in one app allows you to control and manage your entire security system with the tap of a button. Remotely see your home or business video feed at any time.

Smart Cameras

See your Indoors or outdoors in HD right on your mobile device. Forest’s Smart Cameras also allow you to talk to guests and proactively deter unwanted visitors.

Wellcam

You can’t always be there but you can be in touch. Check in on your office, the kids at home, or check in with your folks. With the push of a button, you have 180-degree view from the camera and two-way talk so you can rest assured all is well.

The Right Choice

When it comes to video cameras, we know there are a lot of choices out there. Commercial businesses and retail stores face different security threats compared to residential buildings, like petty theft or shoplifting.  Forest can help you determine the best options for your specific needs.

 See more about Residential Video Cameras Here:

See more about Commercial Video Cameras Here:

Call 708-452-2000 or contact us below anytime for your free, no hassle, security quote.

Seniors Embrace New Technology

When we think of new technology, the thought of gaming, voice command, robotic devices, electronic devices, etc. come to mind and we don’t necessarily associate this with seniors. Actually, we think it is geared towards the young who have grown up in this world. In reality, the majority of people 65 and older are more connected than you think. We go online daily and use smartphones. Granted, we may not be gaming, at least not all of us, but we are keeping up with technology.

We al love the internet to learn, explore, shop, keep in touch with one another, but the more time we spend online, the more exposure we have to fraud and scams. Seniors are targeted because they have something to steel. Many own their homes and have retirement money saved up.

According to the FBI’s 2020 Elder Fraud Report,  when seniors become victims of fraud, they tend to lose a higher dollar amount. For those 60+, the average loss was over $9,000 per victim with total annual losses totaling over $1 billion.

What makes seniors vulnerable to fraud and scams?

Growing up in a different era, many seniors are more trusting and open to strangers. As we grow older, many have lost friends or spouses and need or want to talk to others plays a role in welcoming a call from a stranger or salesperson.

Fraudsters know this, and have become skilled at posing as a “friend” to build up a relationship over time, a process known as grooming. Successful cons may play to concerns that are common among seniors such as a desire to leave a financial legacy for children and grandchildren, or a fear of being alone. The end goal is to gain their trust, then steal money or personal information.

Ignoring chats, calls, and texts is difficult for all of us. Why else would our smartphones connect to our cars so we can stay in touch, even when we are driving. It’s the same for seniors. “This is a generation that was raised to be polite, to answer the phone, answer the door, etc.. “But if someone calls you or messages you and you don’t recognize the name, you do not need to let them in. You need to be your own gatekeeper.”

Digital safety tips

As with anything else, just by learning about and being aware, gives you an advantage. Scams and scammers may change but there is a common thread that links them. Being able to identify common fraud types will help to protect you.

It’s easy for anyone online to make a false claim so always enter with caution when connecting with strangers. Remember, scammers like to “friend” people to start their scam rolling. If you have never met or been introduced to a person. It’s best to avoid chatting on line where personal information can be given out without even realizing.

Check out the ads… Your browsing social media and see an interesting ad, something you just might want to buy. Instead of clicking on the ad, check them out. Look up the name brand on line. Do they have a website? Are they listed with the BBB? What are their reviews? If there is little or no information, it is best to steer clear.

Watch out for romance:

Believe it or not, romance scams are one of the most common fraud types for seniors. When you think about it it’s easy to see why.  As we age, we sometimes become more isolated and welcome new friendships. Remember the scammers are out there looking to start up their scams by “friending”. Friending then a little flirt, after all how good does it feel that someone is flirting with us after all these years. Then, the sting…all of a sudden, they need help with an emergency. Of course, you want to help, after all you are planning on that big date with them just next week. See how this gets perpetuated… It’s best for friendships and even romance to be with someone you have actually met with, in person. Maybe someone you volunteer with, or from a local group or church.

Watch out for the grandparent scam:

this involves an urgent request that sounds like it is coming from your grandchild. They need money to get out of a jam and usually ask you to make a wire transfer. This scam plays on your emotion, you are scared because your grandchild is in trouble. Scammers like this payment method because it’s like sending cash. Once you wire money, it’s difficult to trace who receives it and nearly impossible to get it back. If someone asks you to wire money, it should raise a red flag.

Phone scams:

Criminals often use scam texts and fake telemarketing calls to phish for money and personal information. They may pose as someone you trust — like a rep from a government agency or charitable organization — and then ask for banking or personal information. Don’t give it to them. It’s best to not answer any call from an unknown number. You can even block calls from numbers not in your contact list. Here is how to block unknown numbers with an iPhone:       with an android:

If you think you’re being targeted in a scam:

• Stop all contact with the scammer
• Reach out to someone you know and trust for help
• Call your local Better Business Bureau to report a scam or disreputable business practice
• If you shared money or personal information, contact your bank; monitor statements and credit reports carefully; and report the issue to the Social Security administration

Identity Theft:

Scams can easily lead to identity theft if any personal information is exposed. If you’re a Forest RapID member powered by Allstate, you can contact your Allstate customer care center rep at any time through your portal or mobile app. Allstate Restoration Specialists spend their days educating people about identity theft. They’re available to help you:

• Determine if something is a scam
• Report fraud to the proper authorities
• Build a game plan for protecting your identity
• Recognize when a scam has become identity theft
• Fully manage the recovery process if identity theft occurs

If you have a senior in your life, you can take steps to safeguard them from scams

As a family member or caregiver, you can help protect the older adults in your life by simply listening.

“If you’re an adult child and you have an elder parent, the most important thing you can do is pay attention to what’s going on in their life,” Huffman says.

Ask your folks about their habits, especially online and mobile device activity, and keep an ear out for any mention of a “new friend.” Have conversations with your loved one about online safety and common scam types. “Take an active role and talk openly with them about protecting themselves and their money,” Huffman adds.

If you’re a Forest RapID/Allstate Identity Protection member, add your parents to your account. The plan covers up to 5 family members. See Details Here: Identity Protection | Forest Security

To add a family member, follow these simple steps:

• Log in to the Allstate Identity Protection portal
• Click the icon in the top right-hand corner
• Tap “Manage family members”
• Click “Add new member”
• Enter your loved one’s details for monitoring

From there, we’ll let you know if we spot their information where it shouldn’t be.
Safeguarding your entire family from identity fraud is a mission we take seriously.

Forest’s RapID is an easy and affordable way for complete family protection – See more here Identity Protection | Forest Security or call us today at 708-452-2000

Do you have property or equipment to protect but its location is just too far away from your security system to communicate? In the past you didn’t have much of a choice, but you do now. The Flex IO™ is a sensor with virtually no range limitations.  It can be installed anywhere there is cellular coverage.

Communication is key

So how does it work? The Flex IO sensor has its own LTE cellular communicator so it doesn’t need a panel, hub or Wi-Fi. It is wireless, weatherproof and doesn’t have to be plugged in, so it really has no boundaries. It can work as a standalone security solution or as an expansion to your existing Forest Security System.

Stay In the Know

Just like your security system, you will get real time alerts from Flex IO. Know when a gate or shed door is opened, closed, or left open for a period of time. Get immediate notification if equipment such as an ATV, boat, golf cart, or RV is accessed or moved. Even get reminders at the end of the day if the side gate or shed door wasn’t closed.

Not Just for Gates or Doors

The Flex IO can work with a pull apart sensor. You can secure just about anything with this including tools or vehicles like a motorcycle, tractor, golf cart, jet ski, ATV, just about anything. It is designed to work with pull apart sensors like the Magnapull heavy duty magnetic pull-apart cord from Interlogic, magnetic pull-apart switch or bar from Nascom, or the door magnetic switch from Seco-Larm. When the Flex IO pairs up with a pull apart sensor, it can protect almost anything.

Stand Alone or Connected

You don’t need a security system for the Flex IO to work. It communicates with its own built in LTE cellular radio. But what if you have a security system? do you need a separate app to use the Flex IO? Absolutely not, it talks to your Forest Security system and is controlled through the same easy to use app so everything works together. Stay informed about pertinent activity detected by the Flex IO sensor through real-time notifications and customizable alerts configured through your mobile app.

Battery Life

The Flex IO has an expected battery life of more than two years so you don’t have to worry about running out of power.

“The Flex IO sensor expands the boundaries of smart property monitoring while redefining the uses for an activity sensor,” said Alison Slavin, co-founder and senior vice president at Alarm.com. “It’s an extremely versatile solution that’s ready for the challenge of what home or business owners want to monitor without being restricted by location.”

Call 708-452-2000 or contact Forest (below) for more information about Flex IO and expand your protection boundaries today!