Risk Management and Digital Security of Smart City applications

Smart city applications are rapidly being adopted by municipalities. However, the security of these applications remains underexplored. The Cyber Security & Safety research group, in collaboration with NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences, is conducting research into existing gaps in order to provide concrete solutions and improve security.

Digital innovations such as smart city applications can enhance liveability, for example by improving traffic flow or public surveillance. However, security concerns are often overlooked, particularly due to a lack of in-house expertise within municipalities and companies. There are also concerns about changes in legal frameworks and suitable allocation of responsibility in security matters. Hackers could disrupt smart city applications, potentially undermining citizens’ trust in municipalities and digital services.

Target group

The primary target groups are the participating municipalities of The Hague, Zoetermeer, Apeldoorn, and Eindhoven. In addition, this research serves as a stepping stone towards follow-up studies involving more municipalities, entrepreneurs, and citizens.

Objective

The objective of the research is to assess the digital security of smart city applications are and to provide concrete solutions to improve their security. Modern traffic control systems and surveillance cameras for public order and safety are the initial case studies.

Project duration

January 2021 – December 2021

Collaboration partners

The research is conducted by the Cyber Security & Safety research group of The Hague University of Applied Sciences and the Cybersafety research group of NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences. In a consortium setting, they collaborate with municipalities and companies (Cybersprint, Hikvision, and VCS Observation), with The Hague Security Delta acting as a coordinating organisation.

Expected results

1. Knowledge development regarding risk management and digital security of smart city applications within several Dutch municipalities, including relevant legislation, regulations, and standards.
2. Guidelines for governance, risk analysis, and security-by-design. Participating municipalities receive concrete solutions to improve the security of smart city applications. The knowledge gained will also be used by participating companies and higher education institutions.
3. The establishment of a long-term consortium, with expansion planned for follow-up research.

The project was funded through the KIEM 2020 scheme of Regieorgaan SIA.