Integrity in Security Training – It’s Time for Change

17 Apr Integrity in Security Training – It’s Time for Change

What Does Integrity Really Mean in Security Training?

Integrity isn’t just a word—it’s the foundation of trust, accountability, and professionalism. Nowhere is this more important than in the world of security professionals, where lives, property, and public safety depend on people doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.

Unfortunately, over the years, we’ve seen growing concerns across Canada when it comes to the integrity of security training programs. Both students and some training providers have been sidestepping mandatory requirements, and the impact is serious. It’s time for change.

The Problem We Can’t Ignore

There are individuals entering the field of security who are not meeting the minimum standards for training or licensing. This includes:

• Inability to meet Canadian Language Benchmark Level 5, which directly affects their ability to communicate clearly with the public – an essential skill for any security role.
• Using translated training materials, which is not permitted under provincial standards.
• Relying on AI tools (like ChatGPT) to complete assignments and exams, instead of learning the material.
• Cheating on exams, or even worse, having someone else take the course or exam for them.
• Skipping classes, while still expecting to be certified, without pushback from trainers or training providers.

The end result? Students who are unprepared, unaware of the consequences of their actions, and unfit for professional roles that require judgment, communication, and critical thinking. This not only puts employers at risk—it puts the public at risk.

Action Is Being Taken

We recently received correspondence from the Alberta Security Programs Registrar and the Justice Institute of British Columbia (JIBC), both of whom are taking a stand against academic dishonesty in security training programs. As a result, new exam integrity guidelines have been put in place—and we are proud to support and share them.

Academic Integrity Expectations for BST

The following changes will be enforced when it comes to the provincial exams:

Online Exams

• The exam is CLOSED BOOK – No notes, books, AI tools (including ChatGPT), or external resources allowed.
• Your face must remain visible on camera at all times.
• You must scan your room (360°) before beginning, and you must be alone—no help is allowed.
• The Proctorio monitoring system will flag suspicious behavior, and cheating will result in a failed certification.

In-Person Exams

• Only a laptop is allowed on the desk.
• No talking is permitted.
• No study materials, devices, or AI tools are allowed.
• Sharing or discussing exam content in any way is considered cheating.
• Remote access tools and screen-sharing are strictly prohibited.

Consequences of Cheating

If a student is caught cheating during the Basic Security Training program, the consequences are clear and serious:

• Immediate failure of the exam.
• No opportunity to rewrite.
• Suspension from all security training courses for one full year.
• After one year, the course must be retaken in full, and the exam must be written in person at JIBC or another approved institution.

Students also have the right to appeal under the JIBC Student Academic Integrity Policy—but make no mistake: academic dishonesty has real consequences.

The Bottom Line: Integrity Matters

Security professionals are expected to act with honesty, responsibility, and good judgment. If that starts breaking down at the training level, the entire system is at risk.

As trainers and providers, we have a duty to uphold these standards—not just because it’s the rule, but because it’s the right thing to do. Let’s raise the bar. Let’s stop cutting corners. And let’s ensure the next generation of security professionals is ready, capable, and deserving of the trust placed in them.

Sting is 100% behind this initiative. If you want to work in Security, it’s time to take this seriously. You are expected to show up for EVERY class, pay attention and do the training properly so you can do the job right.