Best Practices: Enhancing Your Smart Building Cyber Security Programme
Susan Clarke
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Executive Summary
On top of much-discussed IT cyber security risks, firms face growing cyber threats across their operational technology (OT), because of the explosion of networked devices, the convergence of IT and OT networks, and aging building systems. Despite this, the cyber security of building systems is frequently undermanaged, as firms lack clarity on where the responsibility for OT cyber security lies and are unaware of the full extent of risks they face. Drawing on our interviews with experts from the cyber security, IT and building technology sectors, this report sets out best practices for enhancing the cyber security management of building systems. The research finds that the first step for rebooting a smart building cyber security strategy is defining clear responsibilities and embedding cyber management into facilities operations across procurement, technology management and staff training.Firms Must Reboot Their Smart Building Cyber Security Strategies In The Face Of Growing Risks
Firms Face Growing Cyber Threats Across Their Building Technology
The Explosion Of The IoT Across Buildings Is Making Cyber Security More Complex
OT Cyber Security Management Often Falls Through The Cracks Due To Unclear Responsibilities
Firms Should Take A Risk-Based Approach To Cyber Security Management
Facilities, IT And Security Teams Must Unite Against The Cyber Security Threat
Facilities Leaders Must Embed Cyber Security Into Operations
Business Leaders Must Transition To Proactive Cyber Security Management
Figure 2. Initial Infection Vectors Used In Cyber Attacks On OT, January 2020-June 2021
Figure 3. Recent OT System Cyber Attack Tactics And Techniques
Figure 4. Factors Slowing Down A Firm’s Response To A Cyber Attack
Figure 5. Five Strategies For Managing OT Cyber Security
Figure 6. Key Steps To Enhance Your Smart Building Cyber Security Programme
About the Authors
Susan Clarke
Research Director
Susan leads the Verdantix Smart Buildings practice. Her current research agenda focuses on software solutions for real estate management including integrated workplace managem...
Rodolphe d’Arjuzon
Chief Product Officer and Co-Founder
Rodolphe co-founded Verdantix in 2008. As Chief Product Officer, he leads the firm’s research strategy and intellectual agenda. With over 20 years of experience in techn...
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