DEMAND for sophisticated security technology is at an all-time high after lockdown led thieves to target empty offices, bicycles and even family pets.

That is the experience of a new security systems technology launched in Bournemouth.

Red Security Systems – which designs and installs CCTV, alarm and access systems for homes and businesses – said there was rising demand for increasingly sophisticated systems.

Although burglaries in England and Wales have declined by around 10 per cent in recent months, empty offices have become a target.

There has also been a spike in bike theft – with around 113,000 cycles stolen since April – and a 65 per cent increase in dog thefts as demand for pets grows.

Red Security Systems’ founder and managing director, Yann Maciejewski, has worked in the industry for 20 years, designing and installing systems for some of the UK and Europe’s largest companies and institutions.

He said: “Electronic security has always been a fast-changing sector and Covid-19 has only served to accelerate this.

“Of course, we’d expect an increase in demand as crimes like bike theft increase, but Covid-19 has also changed both the products and applications customers are now looking for.

“For example, Covid-19 controls and restrictions have led to many businesses installing temperature-check cameras or contactless entry systems. We’re also seeing the impact of Covid-19 on the vulnerable or isolated. For example, families are increasingly looking to CCTV to keep an eye on vulnerable relatives they can’t visit.”

The company says it aims to make increasingly complex technology more accessible.

“Thanks to artificial intelligence and machine learning, the possibilities from a tech perspective are now virtually limitless,” said Mr Maciejewski.

“It’s of course exciting for us to be at the cutting edge of this, but there’s no point installing a system if the end user can’t or won’t use it.

“I’ve been designing security systems for more than two decades and while the technology continues to evolve rapidly, the one thing that remains unchanged is the need to design security around people, not property.

“Whether it’s the Dorchester Hotel, a National museum or a small apartment, every system will be used by different people in different ways. We also need to ensure everyone – however tech-phobic – is confident using the technology.”

The new business has selected several local and national organisations to support through financial and in-kind donations, including Bournemouth Rugby Club and Help for Heroes.