New Feature: NFC Checkpoint Scanning for Patrol Verification

Proving Patrols Were Completed

One of the most common client questions is “how do I know my site was actually patrolled?” Until now, the answer relied on paper patrol sheets or GPS data showing a guard was in the general area. Neither provides definitive proof that specific locations within a site were visited.

Today we’re launching NFC checkpoint scanning in TacDesk, giving you irrefutable proof of patrol completion.

How It Works

NFC (Near Field Communication) tags are small, durable discs that you place at key locations around a site — entry points, stairwells, car parks, perimeter gates, fire exits. During a patrol, the guard holds their phone within a few centimetres of each tag to scan it.

Each scan records:

• The checkpoint identity and location
• The guard who scanned it
• The exact time of the scan
• GPS coordinates confirming the phone’s location

The guard’s phone must be physically present at the tag — NFC cannot be scanned remotely, making it tamper-proof.

Setting Up Checkpoints

Managers configure checkpoints through the management dashboard:

1. Name each checkpoint (e.g., “Main Gate”, “Server Room”, “Car Park Level 2”)
2. Assign checkpoints to sites
3. Write the generated tag ID to an NFC sticker and fix it in place

NFC tags cost pennies each, are weatherproof, and require no power or maintenance. Simply peel and stick them in position.

What Managers See

Every scan shows up for managers as it happens. You can see which checkpoints have been scanned, by whom and when, and the complete scan history for any checkpoint.

Scans are attached to the patrol report automatically, so the evidence is there when you or the client need it, with nothing for a supervisor to transcribe.

Client Reporting

Patrol data feeds into client reports and the client portal. Clients can see exactly when each checkpoint was scanned, providing the service verification they’re paying for. This level of transparency is a powerful contract retention tool.

NFC checkpoint scanning is the Enhanced Patrols (NFC) add-on on TacStarter and TacPro, and included as standard on TacCommand. It isn't available on TacFree. Try the demo to see checkpoint scanning in action.

Related Articles

• → Mobile Patrol Management: GPS Tracking and Route Verification
• → NFC Checkpoint Patrols: The Modern Alternative to Guard Tour Systems
• → NFC Checkpoint Patrols: The Modern Alternative to Guard Tour Systems
• → New Feature: Custom Dashboards — Build Your Own Management View

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