Securing Smart Environments

Summary

Smart cities depend on connected devices—like intelligent thermostats, solar-integrated meters, and environmental sensors—to manage buildings, transit, energy use and public spaces. These tools promise greater efficiency, real-time monitoring, and better long-term planning. But while they’re transforming how cities operate, they also create serious cybersecurity and privacy risks. 

Many are built with limited security features, and manufacturers don’t always treat cybersecurity as a priority. At the same time, it’s hard to keep these devices updated when they’re deployed in the field for years at a time.

This project is tackling this challenge by developing tools and strategies to secure smart devices and protect the data they collect. The work focuses on the devices themselves, the privacy of users, and the expectations of people who operate and interact with them. Using technologies like generative AI, next-generation cryptography and advanced software analysis, this project aims to help cities embrace smart environments with confidence and resilience.