After the Theft: Why Camera Upgrades Should Begin With a Risk Assessment

"When thieves stole more than $80 million in jewels from the Louvre in Paris, they didn't exploit a total absence of security but rather gaps in the museum's broader security program, encompassing both aging systems and situational awareness, according to early reports. The museum's director later confirmed that the balcony used in the break-in wasn't covered by a functioning external camera; the only camera nearby faced the wrong direction."

"Even without cameras aimed at that façade, the scene alone should have prompted a quick response. A basic perimeter patrol, one of the most fundamental layers in any protection plan, might have noticed the lift, verified whether any construction work was scheduled, and reported or challenged the activity. If perimeter security had been fully briefed on maintenance schedules and empowered to question irregularities, the setup might have been recognized as suspicious much sooner."

"This was not simply a matter of technology but of coordination and awareness. It is a reminder that the effectiveness of security depends as much on people and processes as on equipment. While details of the Louvre incident are still emerging, it already illustrates that upgrading cameras without strengthening the human and procedural layers around them provides only partial protection. Even the most advanced systems can falter when hardware, communication, and on-the-ground awareness aren't aligned."

Thieves exploited gaps in a museum's broader security program rather than a total absence of protection, revealing aging systems and limited situational awareness. The balcony used in the break-in lacked a functioning external camera, and the nearest camera faced the wrong direction. A truck with an extendable lift remained parked against the museum wall for two hours without intervention. A basic perimeter patrol could have noticed the lift, confirmed whether maintenance was scheduled, and reported or challenged the activity. Effective security requires coordination, communication, and empowered personnel as well as technology. The same risk-focused approach applies equally to schools and local institutions.

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