Editorial

Local authorities given guidance for dealing with cyber threats

The Secure Connected Places Playbook includes advice on how smart cities can protect themselves from attacks.

Posted 7 March 2024 by Christine Horton


Local authorities across the UK will now be able to access new advice on how to stay safe from cyber threats. This will include practical guidance on what to do in the event of an attack and how to assess the cybersecurity of their suppliers.

The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) said the beta Secure Connected Places Playbook includes fresh guidance on how connected places, or smart cities, can protect themselves from would-be attacks.

The advice is aimed at local areas that might be using sensors to monitor water levels in areas at risk of flooding, smart local energy systems to reduce pressure on the grid, and temperature and moisture sensors in houses to monitor and improve living conditions.

Measures included in the guidance range from detailed help on how to evaluate suppliers based on their cybersecurity practices, including sample questions to ask them, to extra information on how to encourage a strong cybersecurity mindset in an organisation that deals with connected places.

Developed with 17 UK authorities

The Playbook builds on advice published last year by DSIT and expands resources on cybersecurity governance, risk management, procurement and supply chain security.

The resources have been developed in collaboration with 17 authorities from across the UK.

DSIT said engaging with local authorities in expanding the Connected Places Security Playbook feeds into the government’s National Cyber Strategy. The strategy advocates for a comprehensive approach, encouraging collaboration among innovators, investors, academics, the industry, law enforcement, the government, and more, to fortify our cyber capabilities and ensure national resilience. 

“Digital innovation can unlock endless avenues in our cities and towns, from higher-earning employment opportunities and safer infrastructure to better travel experiences,” said Minister for cyber, AI, and intellectual property, Viscount Camrose.

“But we know that these transformative opportunities don’t come without risks of cyber threat. This is why we are taking world-first actions to equip local authorities with all the necessary tools to foster secure and sustainable growth in their communities, empowering them to realise the full potential technologies can offer.”

The contributing authorities include:

  • Bradford 
  • Dorset 
  • Coventry  
  • Kensington and Chelsea 
  • Merthyr Tydfil  
  • Newry, Mourne and Down  
  • Newcastle  
  • Perth and Kinross 
  • Renfrewshire 
  • Sefton  
  • Sheffield  
  • Staffordshire  
  • Sunderland  
  • The South London Partnership 
  • Tees Valley Combined Authority 
  • West of England Combined Authority; and 
  • Westminster City Council 

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