Cyberattacks on commercial buildings are rising sharply. A recent survey by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) revealed that 27% of facilities professionals experienced a cyberattack in the past year—an increase from 16% the year prior. These incidents can disrupt building operations and carry serious implications for insurance, reputation, and asset value.
Modern buildings increasingly rely on digital systems, from IoT devices and access controls to building management systems and CCTV networks. However, many still operate on outdated software; some properties built as recently as 2013 continue to use Windows 7, which has lacked security updates for years.
Recognizing this growing threat, RICS has published a new practice information paper urging building owners, managers, and occupiers to prioritize digital security. The paper includes three tailored five-point action plans—for property stakeholders, industry bodies, and governments, to help mitigate risk and improve resilience.
Paul Bagust, RICS Head of Property Practice, emphasizes: “Buildings are no longer just physical spaces, they’re smart, data-driven environments. While this enhances efficiency, it also increases vulnerability. Managing digital risk must now be a core priority for protecting buildings from evolving cyber threats.”
Full info obtained here
