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IFSEC Insider, formerly IFSEC Global, is the leading online community and news platform for security and fire safety professionals.
August 21, 2020

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SmartWater helps protect against 5G arson attacks

SmartWaterSmartWater-5GProtection-205GProtection-20SmartWater has been working with Telecoms companies to better protect 5G masts, which have experienced several attacks in recent months from conspiracy theorists linking the technology to the coronavirus. Such claims have been regularly dismissed, with no evidence linked to the virus and 5G.

The relationship between the SmartWater Group, which consists of a number of risk management service divisions, and MBNL (Mobile Broadband Network Limited) has been extended as a result. SmartWater is now supporing the organisation in protecting its assets from criminal damage, with MBNL deploying further security enhancements across its mast sites.

One of these enhancements includes the use of specially-adapted SmartWater ‘SmartSpray’ systems.

How does the SmartSpray system work?

Each SmartWater forensic liquid contains a unique identifying code, which is registered to each site. Once a SmartSpray system is triggered, the offender is marked with this unique liquid and can be linked back to a specific crime scene, helping to secure criminal prosecution, explains SmartWater.

The liquid is invisible to the naked eye but fluoresces SmartWater’s trademarked yellow-green glow under UV light, which is how it is detected by police throughout the UK.

MBNL will also be erecting high-visibility deterrent signage around each site, warning offenders of the risk that they will be traced to the scene of their crime, if they decide to attack a protected mast site.

The forensic system is also compliant with the Government’s Forensic Science Regulators Code of Practice, which means it is admissible in court.

The company says it carries a 100% conviction rate in court and its technology has been used to convict thousands of criminals – including several high-profile crime gangs – meaning professional criminals will actively avoid targeting sites using the technology.

Gary Higgins, Chief Operating Officer of SmartWater, commented: “At SmartWater we understand the importance of connectivity and the value of communication, we are proud of the work we have done to help the Telecoms Industry protect itself against criminal behaviour. Anyone attacking MBNL Mast Sites now, thanks to our cutting edge technology, run the risk of being forensically linked to the scene of their crime.”

John Watkins, Manager of Operational Security at MBNL, added: “At MBNL we are proud of our close working relationship with SmartWater and their operations team and continue to build on our extensive relationship. We are continuing to use SmartWater solutions and advice to help protect our infrastructure while we #SpeedupBritain.”

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