Connley Walker Security Consulting Blog: 3G Is Shutting Down Next Week – Here’s What You Need to Do to Keep Your Security Systems Safe

Background on the 3G Network Shutdown

Telstra, Optus, and other major providers in Australia have announced the closure of their 3G networks. Telstra and Optus will shut down their networks by 28 October 2024, while Vodafone (TPG Telecom) has already completed its shutdown earlier this year. This shutdown is designed to free up spectrum for faster and more reliable 4G and 5G services. However, for those who rely on 3G-compatible devices, the impact could be significant.

Security Equipment Potentially Affected by the 3G Shutdown

Many businesses rely on a range of security devices, some of which may still use 3G for connectivity. Devices at risk include:

• Fire alarms and security alarms: Some older systems, particularly those installed prior to widespread 4G adoption, still use 3G connections to communicate with monitoring centres.
• Personal emergency alarms: Devices used in workplaces for personal safety, such as lone worker devices or duress alarms, may use 3G networks for emergency communication.
• CCTV systems: While most modern systems rely on wired or Wi-Fi connections, older or budget CCTV units may use 3G as a backup or for remote monitoring.
• Access control systems: Keypads, biometric scanners, or card readers that rely on 3G for communication could stop functioning, particularly those used in remote locations.
• EFTPOS terminals: Some payment systems, particularly those used in mobile or remote locations, may still use 3G to process transactions.

How to Identify If Your Workplace Has Devices Using 3G

To ensure continuity in your security systems, it’s crucial to identify whether any devices in your workplace still depend on 3G. Here’s how:

• Review your security system documentation: Check the specifications of all devices to determine their connectivity method. If your system was installed before 2016, it is worth verifying with your service provider.
• Consult with your monitoring or security provider: They will be able to advise whether your alarm, access control, or CCTV system is 3G-based and whether it requires an upgrade.
• Test your device’s network: For mobile phones and smart devices, you can check their network capability by texting “3” to ‘3498’ or using your provider’s ‘Check My Device’ tool for other hardware. Consult your equipment’s user manual or provider for similar checks for non-mobile devices.
• Monitor your system performance: If you notice connectivity issues or errors in communications between your security devices and monitoring centres, this may indicate that the devices still rely on 3G.

Risks of Failing to Upgrade

Failure to address 3G-dependent devices could lead to significant operational and safety risks, including:

• Security gaps: If a security alarm, CCTV camera, or access control system ceases to function, this could leave your business vulnerable to theft, vandalism, or other security breaches.
• Inability to report emergencies: Devices like personal emergency alarms or duress systems that rely on 3G will no longer be able to call for help in the event of an emergency, putting staff and property at risk.
• Non-compliance: For businesses with specific security compliance obligations, outdated systems may result in breaches of regulations or safety standards, particularly for industries requiring high levels of security.

Steps to Upgrade Your Devices

To avoid disruptions, it’s important to take action before the 3G shutdown. Here are some steps to consider:

• Audit your current security systems: Perform a full review of all connected devices to determine which ones rely on 3G. This includes not just obvious security equipment like alarms and CCTV, but also other devices like EFTPOS terminals or emergency communication tools.
• Consult with your security provider: If you have a service contract with a security company, they can guide you through the upgrade process. For critical systems like fire and security alarms, it’s essential to ensure the replacement devices are compatible with 4G or 5G networks and meet any regulatory requirements.
• Consider future-proof solutions: As you upgrade, consider investing in systems that support the latest technology standards (4G or 5G). This will ensure longevity and compatibility with future network upgrades. Look for devices that offer additional features, such as cloud-based monitoring or remote management, to improve the overall security posture of your business.
• Ensure redundancy: Where possible, choose devices with dual-connectivity options (e.g., 4G with Wi-Fi backup) to provide greater resilience in case of network outages or issues.

Additional Considerations for Your Business

• Test after upgrade: After upgrading to 4G or 5G-compatible devices, ensure that all systems are thoroughly tested to confirm they work as intended.
• Regular maintenance: Going forward, schedule regular checks and maintenance of your security infrastructure to ensure ongoing compatibility with the latest technology and network standards.
• Plan ahead: The closure of the 3G network signals the eventual phase-out of other legacy networks in the future. Consider this an opportunity to future-proof your infrastructure by planning long-term upgrades that will support newer technologies.

Conclusion

The shutdown of 3G networks across Australia represents a significant shift in how devices connect to communication networks. For businesses that rely on older security equipment, this change poses a real risk to the reliability of critical security systems. By conducting a thorough review of your systems now and taking steps to upgrade affected devices, you can ensure that your security measures remain robust and reliable in the face of this transition.

At Connley Walker, we are experts in physical security and can assist with audits, recommendations, and consultation during the installation of up-to-date security systems. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you prepare for the 3G shutdown and ensure your business stays safe and compliant.