Crime Is Falling. So Why Is Private Security Booming?

Posted on 09/08/2026
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Private security has become a major business as companies invest more in security guards, executive protection, corporate security, surveillance technology and physical security services. CNBC's Alex Harring goes inside Allied Universal to examine what is driving demand, how technology is reshaping the private security industry and why low pay, high turnover, training and growing responsibilities remain challenges for security guards.

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
2:16 Inside Allied Universal
5:00 Demand for security
6:44 Labor force

Produced by: Charlotte Morabito
Reporting by: Alex Harring
Edited by: Erin Black
Camera: Mickey Todiwala
Animation: Jason Reginato, Emily Park, Alisa Stern
Senior Managing Producer: Shawn Baldwin
Additional Footage: Getty Images, Allied Universal

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Crime Is Falling. So Why Is Private Security Booming?