Are we Smart Enough for Smart Cities?
By Muhammad Yahya Patel, Lead Security Engineer at Check Point Software Technologies Smart cities are becoming a reality rather than a concept and integrating technology into everyday infrastructure has become the norm. They present local authorities with a vast number of opportunities, including data-driven decision making, enhanced engagement between citizens and government, and a reduced environmental footprint. Though, as with any new technologies there are many risks to consider when becoming a smart city. Arguably one of the biggest threats is their vulnerability to cyberattacks. This is because using large, connected networks gives cybercriminals more entry points than ever before and the perfect opportunity to jump from one exposed system to the next. Now, while we should never let fear get in the way of innovation, it’s essential that we adequately prepare ourselves with robust security protocols. What are the challenges facing smart cities in 2023? Smart c...