A majority of IT (Information Technology) professionals believe smart cities are at risk of cyber attacks.

Around 98% of 200 respondents surveyed by Tripwire, which assessed cyber security challenges associated with smart city technologies, said so.

Smart cities use IT solutions to manage a wide range of services including smart grids, transportation, surveillance cameras, wastewater treatment and more.

A total of 38% of professionals said smart grids have the greatest cyber security risks when compared to services and 55% believe cities do not devote adequate security resources to smart city initiatives.

Last month the World Energy Council also warned the energy sector, with the emergence of smart grids and services, are an “attractive target for hackers”.

When asked about why there is a lack of cyber security resources for smart city initiatives, 61% of those surveyed said budgets while 60% believe politics interfere with decision-making.

Rekha Shenoy, Vice President and General Manager of Industrial Cyber Security for Belden, Tripwire’s parent company said: “Smart grids can help optimise utilities but bring additional cyber security and regulatory challenges.

“Municipalities are dazzled by the promises of the Industrial Internet of Things, which can bring cost savings and improved efficiency. However, the dazzle will wear off quickly if smart city initiatives can’t keep up with new threats, regulatory requirements and hidden costs. In order to succeed, smart cities must actively protect their critical infrastructure.”

Smart cities and grids will be among the topics discussed at Energy Live 2016. Get your tickets here.

There are limited free tickets available for energy end users and university students.