From Ancient to AI: Secure Redact transforms video data compliance at C2C Rail
Struggle to turn over data subject access requests (DSARs) whilst managing tonnes of CCTV from across different locations?
Ryan from C2C Rail tells all: from an outdated to an efficient system - thanks to Secure Redact.
Ryan Willis, Corporate Affairs and Governance Officer at C2C Rail
“I used to save Fridays for redactions… now it’s Friday morning.
Before I would spend days on redaction to make sure everything was right - now, it’s more hours, if not minutes.”
Background and challenge
Part of the Trenitalia network, C2C Rail is an award-winning train operator which serves 26 stations across East London and South Essex.
Corporate Affairs and Governance Officer Ryan is in charge of handling DSARs from members of the public, which require him to redact hundreds of faces and license plates from CCTV and mobile footage. These requests range from accident investigations to vandalism incidents, across an extensive network of cameras spanning train stations, platforms, and car parks.
Precise video redaction is imperative to handle these hectic environments with constant movement and footfall.
“The previous technology we used was ancient in my eyes. It was so hard to use and not user-friendly at all.”
Before Secure Redact, Ryan and his team used outdated software that was cumbersome and far from user-friendly. Ryan would have to go back and forth between redacting, exporting, reviewing, and making corrections. His challenge was not just about meeting GDPR compliance; it was about overhauling an inefficient system that took 2 to 3 weeks to process a single request.
Automated, accurate redaction that drives results
“I'm so glad we looked for another solution like Secure Redact because I'd probably still be doing CCTV now from 3 months ago."
Secure Redact emerged as a saving grace for Ryan and C2C. With its AI-driven tracking and intuitive editing features, what once took weeks now took mere hours.
"A lot of the other solutions required so much manual intervention, whereas Secure Redact just takes a lot of the leg work out of it. It probably has paid for itself - I would highly recommend it."
Ryan found Secure Redact’s accuracy especially impressive - he found the platform to be over 99% accurate on initial upload, only requiring minor manual tweaks. The ability to automatically track small faces (individuals in the distance or out of immediate view) across multiple frames, was vital for him to manage all security incidents across vast train stations.
"Because of my line of work, I can't afford to make any mistakes."
The platform's user-friendliness empowered him to speed through redacting videos independently and with minimal technical support. While Ryan was confident using the app, Secure Redact’s exceptional customer support ensured he was always assisted throughout.
“I know for a fact that if I needed anything I could drop Dillan (Customer Success Manager) a message and he would get back to me. You guys are always on the ball with that.”
The value of the Secure Redact platform
“I've easily saved more than half the time I used to spend on it. Redaction used to be the longest part of my process and now it’s the shortest - which is groundbreaking.”
Secure Redact didn't just streamline video redaction; it redefined Ryan's workflow. What would previously have taken days, could be done in 30 to 60 minutes (depending on requirements).
By automating the most tedious aspects of DSAR processing, Secure Redact freed Ryan to focus on more critical aspects of his job - like developing data protection training packs for the company.
“Even outside of train operating companies, if you deal with a lot of public footfall through any of your cameras, 100% look into this tool and this AI because it’s so time-saving.”
What’s more, Ryan has complete faith in Secure Redact’s capabilities with body-worn camera (BWC) footage - having tested the solution on moving cameras himself.
“Body-worn videos are notoriously difficult to redact but the tracking on Secure Redact just makes it so much easier.”
As data protection laws evolve and public awareness around privacy rights increases, Ryan foresees an expanding role for Secure Redact, particularly across the transport industry. The platform's efficiency and high-level capabilities are a game-changer, especially in environments with heavy footfall.