security

Carry-On Baggage Costs Taxpayers $260 Million

Filed under: Handbags, Luxury Travel & Hotels, Wings

Frequent flyers often prefer to fit everything they need into a carry-on bag instead of checking luggage. With the hassles of air travel constantly on the rise, this simple step means eliminating the wait at the baggage carousel upon arrival, and can often mean cutting to the head of the line when checking in. After all, it doesn't cost anything (except forgoing your checked baggage allowance). Well, not to the passenger, anyway. And not to the airline, either. But it does cost the taxpayers.

According to Janet Napolitano, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, carry-on luggage is costing the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) some $260 million every year. The figure reportedly came up when testifying before Congress last week on a debate over whether to raise the $5 TSA surcharge tacked on to every airline ticket. The question is whether Congress will opt to either raise that surcharge or place further restrictions on hand luggage to decrease its operating costs and make air travel that much more difficult.

[Source: TREND-News.com]

Source

Tags: air travel, airport, carry-on, janet napolitano, security, transportation security administration, tsa

Billionaires Demand Military-Grade Security on Their Superyachts

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Yachts & Sailing, Wealth

In an effort to boost the flagging superyacht market, manufacturers are fitting them out with increasingly complex, military-grade security systems aimed at assuaging the fears of paranoid billionaires. Bloomberg News reports from the Monaco Yacht Show that security systems similar to the ones on Roman Abramovich's enormous Eclipse are now standard issue for high-end craft. Pascal Wiscour-Conter, chief executive officer of Equisea Yacht Management in Monte Carlo, says that any billionaire buying a superyacht these days shells out an extra $400,000 at least for additional defensive measures, including bulletproof glass and "NATO military technology integrated with NASA satellite tracking to create an invisible offensive security bubble with underwater sonic cannons and surface lasers that evaluate and take out anyone who lays siege to the vessel." Wiscour-Conter notes that the high-tech system "knows the difference between a malicious scuba diver and a curious dolphin, and we transmit all the information to your iPhone four times a day."

Tags: billionaire, Monaco, Monte Carlo, Roman Abramovich, security, superyacht, wealth, yacht

$450K Armor-Plated Porsche Panamera for Sale

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Luxury Cars & Autos

We've seen the bag of tricks the exotic auto tuners have used on the brand new four-door Porsche Panamera - now how about a bulletproof version? An armored Porsche Panamera Turbo has just been listed for sale in Frankfurt, Germany via global online luxury marketplace JamesList for €295,000, or about $450,000. It comes equipped with armored steel in the doors, posts, overlaps and walls, and ballistic steel in the roof and floor; bulletproof glass; run flat tires; an armored fuel tank; armored battery and radiator protection; and more. Capable of stopping 9mm rounds as well as an assault from an M16 or .44 Magnum, the car's impressive performance is not hampered in any way by its added security measures.

Tags: armored, bulletproof, Germany, JamesList, Porsche, Porsche Panamera, PorschePanamera, security

Abramovich Installs Anti-Photo Shield on World's Largest Yacht

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Yachts & Sailing, Wealth

In addition to the military-grade missile defense system, armor plating and bullet-proof windows featured on Roman Abramovich's new 557-ft. Eclipse (above), the world's largest and most expensive privately owned yacht, the Russian oligarch has installed a high-tech anti-photo shield designed to keep the paparazzi at bay. The system relies on lasers to block any digital camera lenses nearby, the London Times reports. Infrared lasers will detect the cameras' electronic light sensors, known as charge-coupled devices (CCDs), and then fire a focused beam of light at the camera, disrupting its ability to record a digital image. The Times, which also claims the total cost of the Eclipse has now ballooned over the $1 billion mark, reports the yacht set off on a sea trial last week with 150 engineers and maritime experts aboard who will put it through its paces over 10 days. Abramovich, who just paid $89 million for a villa in St. Bart's, is due to take delivery of the yacht on December 22.

Tags: Eclipse, megayacht, oligarch, Roman Abramovich, RomanAbramovich, Russia, russian billionaires, RussianBillionaires, security, yacht

The $500,000 Bulletproof Bentley

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Luxury Cars & Autos

Sure, you could get yourself an off-the-rack Bentley Continental Flying Spur, but what happens when the s--t goes down? Better perhaps to be prepared with an armored version that can stop an AK-47 dead in its tracks. For about $500,000 you can pick one up in Germany via global online luxury marketplace JamesList. Featuring military-grade B6-level protection, the upgrade makes this super-luxe sedan war zone-ready. With no virtually alteration to the outside appearance and adjustments to handle the extra weight without sacrificing the 552-hp engine's performance, the changes are subtle but effective: ballistic steel in the doors, pillars, overlaps and sides of the vehicle, bulletproof glass, run flat tires, an explosion-proof gas tank, kevlar flooring, and more. Other security options include a self-contained oxygen supply system in case of a poison gas attack and exploding hinge bolts that blast open the doors should a speedy exit become imperative.

Tags: armored, Bentley, bulletproof, JamesList, security

Russian Dartz Kombat Grenade-Proof Luxury SUV

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Luxury Cars & Autos

The other day we told you about the awesome $1.5 million armored Rolls-Royce Phantom. If you're looking for something a little more utilitarian (and less expensive) though equally anti-ballistic, feast your eyes on the new Russian-made Dartz Kombat T98 SUV. The Hummer lookalike, a sort of tank-meets-luxury SUV, features heavy steel plated doors and 3-inch windows, and is impervious to everything from AK-47s to rocket-propelled grenades. Powered by an 8.1 liter Vortec V8, capable of 110 mph, it's priced at about $200,000. Prince Albert of Monaco was spotted checking the vehicle out at the recent Top Marques Monaco auto show.

Tags: armored car, ArmoredCar, bulletproof, Monaco, Prince Albert of Monaco, PrinceAlbertOfMonaco, security, SUV, Top Marques Monaco, TopMarquesMonaco

$1.5 Million Armored Rolls-Royce Phantom for Sale

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Gadgets, Luxury Cars & Autos

A fully armored Rolls-Royce Phantom, able to withstand everything from a direct assault with an AK-47 to a poison gas attack, is for sale in Germany via online global luxury marketplace JamesList for about $1.5 million. Engineered to the highest international protection rating, the armored Phantom is virtually indistinguishable from the standard version to lure attackers into a false sense of security.

The car features high-tech fiber composites and special steel plating to provide protection for the bodywork, with bulletproof glass for all windows and its own oxygen supply in the trunk in case of a gas attack. The ultra-luxe car's aluminum spaceframe chassis and suspension have been strengthened and the 453 hp powertrain remains unchanged, while nothing has been sacrificed in the way of luxury, refinement and comfort.

Tags: armored, bulletproof, Germany, JamesList, Rolls-Royce, security

Mercedes' New Armored E-Class Stops .44 Magnums, Hand Grenades

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Luxury Cars & Autos

Mercedes-Benz is coming out with an armored version of its all-new 2010 E-Class, able to withstand fire from weapons up to a .44 Magnum, and with optional underbody armor, hand grenade blasts as well. The E-Guard, which will be available when the sleek new 2010 E-Class goes on sale this summer, receives reinforced "protective elements" around the bodyshell consisting of high-strength steel and aramide components, aided by resistant polycarbonate glazing, MotorTrend reports. Despite the additions luxurious interior space and comfort levels remain the same as the standard E-Class, and pricing begins at about $58,000 depending on the specific model and drivetrain selected.

Tags: Armored car, ArmoredCar, Bulletproof, Mercedes, Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Mercedes-benzE-class, Security

Continue reading “Mercedes' New Armored E-Class Stops .44 Magnums, Hand Grenades”

Obama's Big Bucks Bulletproof Wardrobe?

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Apparel

There's been a lot of speculation over whether Barack Obama actually wore bulletproof clothing when he was sworn in as the 44th president of the United States on Jan. 20. There were certainly a number of extraordinary security measures in place. One thing's for certain however - the only person capable of making bulletproof clothing that's indistinguishable from your average Hart Schaffner Marx ensemble is Colombian designer Miguel Caballero - but it costs a hell of a lot more.

(For the record, Caballero's rep declined to comment when we asked if they'd furnished the President with any clothing.)

Back in October we told you about Caballero's stylish $10,000 quilted riding jacket. Known as "The Armani of Armor", Caballero developed a proprietary lightweight anti-ballistic fabric which he fashions into a number of garments, including a bulletproof tuxedo shirt (above). This allows for maximum flexibility and discretion while providing protection from weaponry ranging from a 9mm pistol to an Uzi, depending upon the security level you select.

Caballero's high-end Black Label line, favored by such security-conscious VIPs as Prince Felipe of Spain, President Álvaro Uribe of Colombia and President Hugo Chávez of Venezuela, also features a $12,000 bulletproof polo shirt, a trench coat, leather jackets and even ski gear. An additional stab-proof lining is optional on most garments. Check out the gallery for some more of his attack-proof designs.

Gallery: Miguel Caballero Bulletproof Clothing

Tags: Barack Obama, BarackObama, Bulletproof, Colombia, Miguel Caballero, MiguelCaballero, Obama, Security

Traum Heirloom Safe

by Rigel Celeste (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Gadgets

Touted as "stronger than a conventional bank vault" the Traum Heirloom Vault is the perfect solution to the dilemma of having your precious jewels and other valuables both easily accessible and adequately protected. Fully customizable to your specifications, the safe features pull-out drawers and interior lighting so you'll have no trouble finding what you're looking for, plus Relastan armoring and the ability to connect to your existing home security system so you'll have peace of mind.

Sporting a beautiful golden interior and blue laquered exterior, the Traum Heirloom Safe is available exclusively from Frontgate for $180,000.

Via Born Rich

Gallery: Traum Heirloom Safe

Source

Tags: heirloom safe, heirlooms, HeirloomSafe, safe, security, traum

Private Jet Passengers To Face Increased Scrutiny

by Deidre Woollard (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Wings

The Jonas Brothers, shown above on a private jet, probably won't have to worry too much about a background check when they fly on private planes but you might. USA Today brings the news that the TSA has made a new proposal to have travelers who fly on private corporate jets undergo background checks. The TSA is looking to bring these new security measures to approximately 15,000 corporate jets and 315 small airports across the U.S.

Private plane owners and pilots are up in arms over potential regulations that they say would be costly and intrusive. One of the main selling features of private and charter services is the idea that you don't have to undergo lengthy security checks to get on board. The TSA points out in their comprehensive 260-page proposal that there is no immediate threat but that they could be used in terrorism strikes. The proposal would costs $200 million but the corporate jet owners would be paying 85% of that.

The only good news is that once cleared passengers won't have to go through the process again and the proposal does not require physical screening of passengers. This proposal does not call for regulation of smaller piston planes but that may be the next some time in the future.

Source

Tags: private jet, PrivateJet, screening, security, tsa

Keyless Deadbolt Uses Fingerprint Scanning

by Lisa Palladino (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Decor, Gadgets

If you've ever fumbled with your keys on a dark night or with your hands full of packages (just like those poor women on Lifetime TV who don't quite get safely inside), you need this.

SmartScan from Kwikset offers the first biometric, keyless technology in a deadbolt designed to fit the décor and standard installation on your residential door. This commercial-grade technology uses biometrics to scan your unique fingerprint, down to the subdermal layer, to unlock your deadbolt without a key.

Fingerprints are read, once users "enroll" in the unit, by just swiping a finger under the sensor. If you're having work done in your home, you can change the normal 24/7 family setting to a temporary access setting that sets days of the week for contractors. Control even more with restricted access that sets time and days of the week, good for regular visitors, such as babysitters or housekeepers. Up to 50 users can be entered, and the administrator can easily enroll or delete users.

This standalone system does not require external wiring and installs like a conventional deadbolt with just a Phillips screwdriver. There's extra security with ANSI Grade 1 security features and back-up key usage. No prices on the Kwikset site, but on Home Depot it's $199.

As seen on The Oprah Winfrey Show. And we know how much Oprah loves her luxury items.

Tags: deadbolt, deadbolt-lock, keyless, keyless entry, keylessentry, kwikset, lock, locks, oprah, oprah winfrey, OprahWinfrey, security

Bulletproof Clothing Maker Hits Trouble in Mexico

by Deidre Woollard (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Apparel

Colombian designer Miguel Caballero doesn't just design clothing, he creates clothing that can stop a bullet. Caballero, who has been called the Armani of bulletproof clothing, recently had his store in Mexico City closed down. Caballero's store had been selling bulletproof vests without a permit. The regulations are designed to keep the bulletproof clothing from criminals. Caballaero creates a line of high-end casual and formal jackets for both men and women but they also sell best that did not comply with a federal law requiring government approval for those sales.

Source

Tags: bulletproof clothing, migeul caballero, MigeulCaballero, security

Wine Exec Surrenders Pricey Vintages to Airport Rules

by Deidre Woollard (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Wine

If you've traveled over the past year you have probably seen someone having to surrender a bottle of shampoo or some other liquid due to the rules about carrying liquids on planes. But pity poor Neil Grant, southern region general manager with Foster's Australia, who recently had to surrender bottles of a 1980 and an '82 Penfold's Grange, treasures worth a couple of thousand dollars. Grant was going to conferences in Scotland and Ireland and pulled the precious vintages from his personal cellar. At the final security check he ran into a woman who informed him the bottles would be destroyed because he could not take them on board. He argued that people from Emirates airlines were willing to find his checked baggage and put the wine in there but she refused. He also offered to open them and share them with everyone around. Finally, rather than just throw them whole into the trash, he smashed them. The best part of the article for me is that Grant was man enough to admit he was close to tears. To quote an old song, you would cry too, if it happened to you.

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Tags: airport, australia, penfolds grange, PenfoldsGrange, security, wine

D�ttling Bel-Air Safe

by Deidre Woollard (RSS feed) —

Filed under: Gadgets

The other day when I covered the estate of basketball player Cuttino Mobley, I mentioned briefly that he had been robbed of $500,000 of watches, jewelry and cash in a robbery that seems to be part of a sophisticated series of home invasions plaguing Beverly Hills and surrounding areas in Los Angeles. Mobley might be well served by getting his hands on the beauty shown at right, the Bel-Air safe from Döttling,a company I first covered last year for the posh and secure safes. The Bel-Air is custom made for the individual users and has the look of a luggage trunk. It can be customized with shelves, racks, lockable drawers, jewelry compartments, mini bars, watch collector cabinets or watch winders, gun cabinets, humidors or just about anything you can think of and uses patented armor plating containing vulcanized hard sinter ceramic stones with a hardness grade of 9 (out of 10). The safes meet all insurance requirements.

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Tags: dottling, safe, safes, security

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