New security protocols introduced to ensure full traceability and prevent tampering across the entire distribution chain.
Bilinga, Australia, Thursday 19 September 2024 – inTechnology Distribution, a leading technology distributor of Real Time Lcation Systems (RTLS) and Clinical Communications technology across the Asia Pacific region, today announced it will rollout a new Chain of Custody Documentation protocol for all pagers it distributes.
The tragic explosions have sparked global concerns about the vulnerabilities in communication devices, prompting a revaluation of existing security protocols across the industry. While the devices involved were not distributed by inTechnology Distribution or manufactured by its supplier, the incident highlighted potential risks in the distribution and handling of pagers, particularly the possibility of tampering during transit. As a precautionary response, inTechnology Distribution is implementing these new measures to protect both their partners and customers from any future risks.
Mark Winter, Chief Executive Officer of inTechnology Distribution, addressed the situation:
“The events that have unfolded are deeply tragic, and our thoughts are with the families and communities affected. Although none of the pagers involved in these attacks were distributed by inTechnology, we are taking this situation very seriously. The safety, security, and trust of our customers are paramount. We pride ourselves on delivering secure, dependable communication devices, and to maintain that trust, we are taking pre-emptive action to introduce a comprehensive Chain of Custody protocol for all pagers distributed in the Asia Pacific region.
The new protocol will allow us to track every single pager from the point of manufacture to the moment it is handed over to the end-user, providing full visibility at every stage. This is not just about meeting industry standards but exceeding them. We are committed to ensuring that the pagers we distribute are protected from tampering or unauthorised access, thereby guaranteeing their safety when deployed in critical environments such as healthcare and public safety sectors.”
The new Chain of Custody Documentation introduced by inTechnology Distribution focuses on four key pillars:
Detailed Tracking and Traceability: Every pager will now be fully traceable throughout its journey from the manufacturer to the final client. This tracking will be meticulously documented, ensuring that all transfers of custody are accounted for and recorded. This step will allow for greater transparency and accountability in the supply chain.
Tamper-Evident Packaging: To further secure the devices, all pagers will be shipped with tamper-evident packaging, making any unauthorised access during transit instantly recognisable. This will help mitigate any risks of tampering before the devices reach their intended users.
Regular Audits and Compliance Checks: inTechnology Distribution will perform frequent audits across its distribution network and reseller channels to ensure strict compliance with the new protocols. These audits will be an integral part of maintaining the integrity of the chain of custody and will help quickly identify any deviations.
Real-Time Alerts for Irregularities: The new system will include real-time alerts for any irregularities in the chain of custody, such as discrepancies in inventory or signs of tampering. If any issues are detected, immediate investigations will be triggered, and the necessary steps will be taken to resolve the situation promptly.
Winter further elaborated on the long-term importance of these measures:
“The introduction of this Chain of Custody documentation is about more than just immediate reaction to a crisis. It is part of our ongoing commitment to securing the integrity of critical communication devices in an increasingly complex and unpredictable world. We understand that our customers rely on these devices for essential, often life-saving, communication, especially in healthcare and emergency response sectors. Their peace of mind is our top priority, and we are committed to ensuring that our distribution processes provide the security they expect and deserve.”
Winter continued: “By implementing these enhanced measures, we are sending a clear message: inTechnology Distribution is a leader in the critical communication field, not only in terms of innovation but also in terms of safety and security. We will continue to take proactive steps to safeguard our devices, ensuring that they meet the highest standards of reliability and performance, even in the face of unprecedented challenges.”
This initiative is part of inTechnology Distribution's wider strategy to further strengthen the security and integrity of the products it distributes. By working closely with their manufacture and network of resellers, inTechnology Distribution will continue to implement best practices and provide transparent communication with all stakeholders to ensure complete trust in the safety of its devices.
For more information on the new Chain of Custody Documentation or other safety initiatives, please contact info@intechnology.com.au.
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