Posts Tagged ‘Smart Buildings’
Cybersecurity Challenges in Retrofitted Smart Buildings
Key Points Legacy Systems Are Inherently Vulnerable: Most retrofitted buildings rely on outdated OT devices and insecure protocols (like BACnet and Modbus) that lack basic cybersecurity features such as encryption and authentication. Integration Increases Risk: Retrofitting often connects legacy OT systems to modern IT networks without proper segmentation, exposing buildings to lateral movement and cyberattacks.…
Read MoreSiegeware and the Cyber Defense of Smart Buildings
Key Points Siegeware is a targeted cyber threat that exploits smart building systems (like HVAC, access control, and elevators) to extort building owners by locking them out or threatening disruption. Vulnerabilities include weak IoT security, outdated software, and poor network segmentation, all of which expand as buildings become more connected. Common reconnaissance tools like Shodan…
Read MoreHow Zero Trust Enhances the Security of Building Control Systems
Key Points Minimizes Attack Surface: Replaces location-based trust with granular access controls, reducing the chance of a single breach spreading across interconnected BAS components. Prevents Lateral Movement: Uses micro-segmentation to isolate workloads and resources, containing threats within compromised segments. Continuous Verification & Least Privilege: Continuously authenticates and authorizes users/devices while limiting each to only the…
Read MoreHow AI is Transforming Building Automation Systems and Smart Buildings
Key Points Predictive maintenance and real-time fault detection powered by AI reduce downtime, extend equipment lifespan, and improve operational efficiency. AI optimizes energy usage by analyzing patterns, predicting needs, and eliminating waste—enhancing sustainability and lowering costs. Personalized occupant comfort and autonomous HVAC systems adapt settings like lighting and temperature to individual and environmental needs without…
Read MoreBuilding Automation and Smart Building Trends
Key Points Integration of IoT, AI, and cloud-based platforms is enabling real-time control, predictive maintenance, and system-wide interoperability across HVAC, lighting, fire safety, and more. Energy efficiency and sustainability are core drivers, with BAS helping reduce carbon footprints, optimize energy usage, and meet regulatory demands. Cybersecurity and system resilience are essential as buildings become more…
Read MoreBuilding Management System Cybersecurity Best Practices
A strong cybersecurity posture is essential for Building Management Systems to mitigate the risks associated with interconnected devices and systems. Building Management System Overview A Building Management System (BMS), also known as a Building Automation System (BAS) or Building Control System (BCS), is a computer-based control system that manages and monitors the mechanical, electrical, and…
Read MoreSmart Building Cybersecurity Best Practices
Key Points Smart buildings integrate interconnected systems like HVAC, lighting, access control, and more to optimize efficiency, sustainability, and occupant comfort through centralized, automated operations. Security challenges arise from inherently unsecure communication protocols, increased connectivity, and remote/cloud access, expanding the cyberattack surface and exposing systems to threats like unauthorized access and data breaches. Key security…
Read MoreHow to Conduct a Cybersecurity Risk Assessment for Smart Buildings
Key Points Understand the Smart Building Ecosystem: Recognize the interconnected components—IoT devices, BMS, access control, and sensors—that enhance operations but also introduce cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Perform a Structured Risk Assessment: Define system assets and boundaries, identify threats and vulnerabilities (internal and external), evaluate impact and likelihood, and assign risk levels to prioritize mitigation. Implement Mitigation and…
Read MoreBuilding Automation Systems, Smart Buildings, and 5 Ways to Make Them Cyber Secure
Watch this webinar replay of “Building Automation Systems, Smart Buildings, and 5 Ways to Make Them Cyber Secure” to learn about cybersecurity for buildings. Key Topics Buildings are becoming more connected and more at risk to cyberattacks. This webinar will address the following items: • Connected building trends • Building controls advancements and operating efficiencies…
Read MoreThe Importance of Protecting Smart Building Technology from Cyber Threats
Key Points Smart Buildings Are Rapidly Expanding: With over 115 million buildings expected to use smart technologies by 2026, these systems offer major benefits like energy efficiency, automation, and enhanced occupant comfort. Cyber Threats Pose Serious Risks: Connected systems can be vulnerable to attacks that may disrupt HVAC, safety, and security systems, compromise sensitive data,…
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