Technology Asset Protection Association - Speaking the Language of TAPA
October 14, 2004
By Katherine Curtis
In masterful arrangements, TAPA (Technology
Asset Protection Association) cunningly outwits
technology pirates from stealing freight shipments
and arranges well-orchestrated logistics for its clients'
goods.
In response to issues that hit a sour
note for high-tech industries once the 1994 border-free
Single Market was passed, TAPA created connections
to up the security measures for these businesses'
pricey cargo.
To add an extra measure of value to TAPA's
credibility, TAPA services are also available to relevant
law enforcement agencies.
The Word's Out - Hi-Tech Has High Security.
The procedures that technology shippers must undertake in order
to hold back cargo crimes are mind staggering. Since a customs-free
trade zone was developed in Europe and Asia, corporations needed
the assistance of technology asset protection associations such
as TAPA.
Even though TAPA is primarily based out of Europe, its clientele
base expands into United States and parts of Asia. Choreographing
IIS (Incident Information System) and FSR (freight security standards)
initiatives are two of TAPA's prime services that address the security
problems faced by today's technology market.
Staying In Tune With The Current Trade. TAPA's IIS broadcasts
relevant news via e-mail and bulletins to its members about new
crimes involving shipping technology products. Also available to
these members are a contacts directory and incident database. For
members who wish to articulate their concerns with others in the
industry, a monthly telephone forum is provided, at no extra cost.
Raising The Bar On Security. Storage and shipment arrangements
are only two steps in transporting property from one location to
another. FSR's function is deciding on an independent auditor of
the technology industry standards. Currently, SGS represents this
function for TAPA members. Once a supplier such as an in-transit
contractor or logistic security personnel company attains TAPA certification
through FSR's designated auditor, then that supplier is operating
according to TAPA's high standards and will be trustworthy in the
eye of TAPA's ever-growing list of businesses and agencies.
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