Introduction

Modern buildings are no longer just physical structures. They are digital environments run by connected systems and smart devices. These systems manage air conditioning, lighting, access control, and fire alarms. They make buildings safer and more efficient, but they also create new risks. If secure systems fail, the result can be disruption, reputational damage, or even danger to life.

The Building Safety Act introduced the idea of the Golden Thread, which makes accurate and secure data central to compliance. Protecting this data means protecting the safety of the people who use the building. Building safety cybersecurity is now as important as physical security or fire protection.

Golden Thread Data and Why It Needs Cyber Security

The Golden Thread requires that key building information be captured, stored, and kept up to date. It includes records such as design files, safety checks, and compliance logs. For this system to work, data must always be accurate and available.

If cyber attacks corrupt or lock this data, safety and compliance both suffer. Ransomware attackers could block access to essential safety records. Weak points in the supply chain could allow hackers to steal or alter information. In either case, the building is left exposed.

Tools like MosaicGT’s app help store and manage compliance data in an organised way. But even the best tools depend on secure systems. Without proper security measures, the Golden Thread cannot be trusted.

Building Functions Most at Risk

Many building functions rely on digital networks. If targeted, they can become points of failure:

• Building Management Systems (BMS): Central hubs that control air conditioning, heating, lighting, and fire alarms. If hacked, attackers can disable or manipulate essential services.
• Access Control Systems: Secure entry systems and CCTV networks protect physical security. If breached, they can let unauthorised people into restricted areas.
• IoT Devices: Smart sensors and meters are often weakly protected. Default passwords and outdated software make them easy targets.
• Operational Technology: Lifts, ventilation, and fire suppression now run on digital systems. A cyber incident here could directly affect occupant safety.
• Legacy Software: Many modern buildings still use old operating systems that no longer receive updates, leaving them open to cyber threats.

Because these systems are connected, one breach can spread across the network and affect the wider building.

Types of Cyber Threats Facing Modern Buildings

Smart buildings increase efficiency but also increase risks. Some of the main threats include:

• Ransomware Attacks: Hackers encrypt building systems or compliance records and demand payment. This can block access to vital safety information.
• Supply Chain Attacks: Contractors and suppliers may have weaker security. Attackers can use them as entry points into secure systems.
• Phishing: Staff can be tricked into clicking fake links, giving hackers a route into building management systems.
• DDoS Attacks: Hackers overload a system with traffic, shutting down building functions such as access control or lighting.
• Hybrid Cyber-Physical Attacks: Malware could target air conditioning or fire alarms, turning a digital breach into a physical risk.

The impact of these threats goes beyond IT. They can affect the safety, security, and well-being of everyone in the building.

Regulation and Legal Context

UK regulations are adapting to meet these risks:

• Building Safety Act: Golden Thread data must be accurate, secure, and accessible. Cyber incidents that block access to this data could mean non-compliance.
• Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure Act 2022: Requires IoT devices to have stronger protections, including banning default passwords and ensuring updates.
• Cyber Security and Resilience Bill: Expected to introduce mandatory cyber risk assessments, incident reporting, and baseline security standards.
• Industry Guidance: RICS and the National Cyber Security Centre provide advice on managing digital risks in buildings.

Failing to comply can lead to fines, reputational damage, and higher insurance costs.

Security Measures to Protect Golden Thread Data

Owners and managers need a clear plan to keep their data and systems safe. Some of the most important steps include:

Cyber Risk Assessments

Identify where your systems are vulnerable. This includes building management systems, access control systems, and IoT devices. Assign responsibility for managing each risk.

Strong Network Security

Segment systems so that a breach in one area cannot spread across the building. Use firewalls, monitoring tools, and intrusion detection to keep secure systems safe.

Multi-Factor Authentication

Add extra layers of protection for all users who access building functions. Limit permissions so staff can only access what they need.

Updates and Patching

Outdated systems are easy targets. Apply software updates and replace legacy systems before they become a risk.

Staff Training

Most cyber incidents start with human error. Teach staff how to spot phishing attempts and follow security protocols.

Incident Response Plan

Prepare for cyber incidents in advance. A clear plan should include how to contain the problem, restore services, and access backups of Golden Thread data.

Secure the Supply Chain

Make sure contractors and suppliers meet security standards. Set minimum requirements in contracts and limit external access to critical systems.

These measures strengthen both safety and compliance, ensuring that critical data remains protected.

Designing Secure Smart Buildings

Retrofitting security into existing systems is often expensive and incomplete. A better approach is to design modern buildings with cybersecurity in mind. Cyber-informed engineering means building safety systems are secure from the start.

This involves cyber risk assessments during planning, secure architectures for building functions, and compliance built into design. It reduces costs in the long run and provides stronger protection.

Smart buildings will only succeed if their systems remain safe. Building resilience at the design stage is the best way to ensure this.

The Business Case for Cyber Security

Cybersecurity is not just a compliance issue. It also makes business sense:

• Cost Savings: Preventing an attack is far cheaper than recovering from one.
• Continuity: Secure systems keep air conditioning, fire alarms, and lighting running without interruption.
• Trust: Avoiding cyber incidents protects reputation and helps maintain tenant and investor confidence.
• Insurance: Strong security measures reduce liability and improve access to cover.

Cyber threats are business risks as well as safety risks. Managing them is essential to long-term resilience.

Conclusion

Cybersecurity and building safety are now inseparable. Protecting Golden Thread data means protecting both compliance and lives. Modern buildings rely on digital systems, and when those systems fail, safety is compromised.

By carrying out cyber risk assessments, applying strong security measures, and preparing an incident response plan, building operators can protect both data and people. Supply chain security, multi-factor authentication, and secure systems must be part of everyday management.

Looking ahead, smart buildings must be designed with resilience built in. Cyber threats will not go away, but with the right measures, they can be managed. Compliance tools such as MosaicGT’s app show the importance of structured data management, but true protection depends on embedding cybersecurity into every level of building safety.