Challenges and Emerging Paradigms for Augmented Surveillance

In modern society, the development of a territory is increasingly tied to the capability to ensure an adequate level of security to persons and infrastructures. Criminal acts, including terrorist attacks; accidents; and adverse natural events can pose a threat to homeland security (HS). In recent years, in all developed countries, the awareness about the high vulnerability of the infrastructures has increased considerably. In fact, the welfare, the quality of life, and all the vital functions of a country increasingly depend on the continuous and coordinated operation of several infrastructures, which for their importance are defined as critical infrastructures (CI). Critical infrastructure protection (CIP) has become a crucial and delicate activity, which requires the development of innovative approaches for identification, detection, and mitigation of threats, vulnerabilities, and risks.