Overview

As video surveillance systems evolve into enterprise-grade platforms integrated with IT networks, cloud services, and third-party applications, user authentication security becomes a critical control point. Password-only authentication is no longer sufficient to defend against credential theft, phishing, and insider threats.

The Video Management System (VMS) developed by ACTi Corporation incorporates Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) to provide an additional security layer beyond traditional username and password login. By requiring users to verify their identity through a second authentication factor, ACTi VMS significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access to live video, recorded evidence, and system configuration.

Why 2FA Is Essential for Video Surveillance Platforms

Evolving Threat Landscape
Modern VMS platforms face security risks similar to enterprise IT systems:

• Compromised credentials via phishing or malware
• Password reuse across systems
• Insider misuse or privilege escalation
• Remote access exposure for distributed deployments

Unauthorized access to a VMS can lead to privacy violations, evidence tampering, operational disruption, and regulatory non-compliance.

Limitations of Password-Only Authentication
Password-based security alone is vulnerable to:

• Weak or reused passwords
• Brute-force and credential-stuffing attacks
• Shared operator accounts
• Lack of strong identity assurance

2FA directly addresses these weaknesses by adding an independent verification factor.

Overview of 2FA in ACTi VMS

ACTi VMS implements Two-Factor Authentication by requiring users to authenticate using:

• Something they know – Username and password
• Something they have – A one-time verification code generated externally

Only when both factors are successfully validated is system access granted.

2FA Authentication Workflow

• User enters username and password
• System validates primary credentials
• System prompts for a second authentication factor
• User enters a time-limited verification code
• Access is granted upon successful verification

This workflow applies to local and remote access, ensuring consistent protection regardless of user location.

Security Benefits of 2FA in ACTi VMS

Protection Against Credential Compromise
Even if login credentials are leaked, attackers cannot access the system without the second authentication factor.

Reduced Insider Risk
2FA discourages account sharing and strengthens user accountability.

Improved Evidence Integrity
Restricting access to playback and export functions helps protect video evidence authenticity.

Defense-in-Depth Architecture
2FA complements other VMS security controls such as role-based permissions, audit logs, and network hardening.

Alignment with Compliance and Security Standards

2FA adoption supports common regulatory and best-practice requirements, including:

• Critical infrastructure protection guidelines
• Enterprise IT security policies
• Privacy and data protection frameworks
• Internal audit and access control reviews

By implementing 2FA, ACTi VMS aligns with the principle of strong authentication widely recommended across security standards.

Typical Deployment Scenarios

Government and Public Sector

• Protects sensitive surveillance data
• Reduces risk of unauthorized disclosure

Transportation and Critical Infrastructure

• Secures remote operator access
• Prevents tampering with incident footage

Enterprise and Multi-Site Organizations

• Enforces centralized access security
• Supports zero-trust security strategies

Conclusion

Two-Factor Authentication in ACTi VMS provides a practical, effective, and scalable security enhancement that significantly reduces unauthorized access risks. By combining strong identity verification with existing permission controls, ACTi VMS enables organizations to operate video surveillance systems with greater confidence, resilience, and compliance readiness.