Modern apartment buildings and commercial properties rely on a growing number of connected systems. CCTV cameras, lift monitoring systems, intercom platforms, access control systems and building management platforms are now commonly connected to the internet.
While these technologies improve convenience and automation, they also introduce cyber security risks if networks are not properly designed and managed.
This guide explains common cyber security risks in modern buildings and how building managers and strata committees can protect critical building systems.
Why Building Technology Networks Are Vulnerable
Many building systems were originally designed to operate on isolated networks. As these systems become connected to the internet for remote management and monitoring, security risks increase.
Common building systems connected to networks include:
- CCTV security cameras
- Access control systems
- intercom systems
- lift monitoring systems
- building management systems (BMS)
- smart lighting systems
- energy monitoring platforms
If these systems are connected without proper network design, they may expose the entire building network to cyber threats.
Common Cyber Security Problems in Buildings
Many strata buildings and commercial properties share similar security weaknesses.
No Network Segmentation
Many buildings connect all devices to the same network.
This means systems such as:
- CCTV cameras
- access control controllers
- building Wi-Fi
- management computers
are all connected together.
If one device is compromised, attackers may gain access to other systems on the network.
Insecure Remote Access
Some building systems allow remote access using port forwarding on the internet router.
This exposes devices directly to the internet and can allow attackers to access systems if security settings are weak.
Secure remote access should instead use controlled methods such as VPN connections.
Outdated Firmware
Security cameras, intercoms and building controllers often run outdated firmware.
These devices may contain vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit.
Regular updates are essential to keep systems secure.
Unsupported Operating Systems
Many building management computers still run older operating systems that are no longer supported.
For example, the end of support for Windows 10 will require many systems to be upgraded or replaced.
Unsupported systems no longer receive security updates, making them more vulnerable to attack.
Unsecured IoT Devices
Internet-connected devices used in buildings often ship with weak default passwords or insecure configurations.
Without proper configuration and monitoring, these devices may be accessible from the internet.
Best Practices for Securing Building Networks
Modern building networks should be designed with security in mind.
Network Segmentation (VLANs)
One of the most effective security strategies is network segmentation.
Different building systems should operate on separate networks.
For example:
Management Network
CCTV Network
Access Control Network
Resident Wi-Fi Network
Building Systems Network
Using VLANs prevents devices from communicating directly with each other unless required.
Business-Grade Firewalls
A professional firewall helps control which devices can access the internet and which services are exposed.
Firewalls provide:
- intrusion prevention
- traffic filtering
- remote access control
- threat monitoring
This protects building infrastructure from external threats.
Secure Remote Access
Building systems often require remote access for maintenance.
Instead of exposing devices to the internet, remote access should use:
- secure VPN connections
- access authentication
- logging and monitoring
This reduces the risk of unauthorised access.
Managed Network Infrastructure
Using professionally managed networking equipment allows building managers to monitor and control the entire network.
Managed infrastructure can provide:
- device monitoring
- security alerts
- network performance tracking
- remote diagnostics
This ensures issues are detected quickly.
Regular Security Updates
All connected devices should receive regular firmware and software updates.
This includes:
- routers and firewalls
- CCTV cameras
- intercom systems
- access control controllers
- management computers
Updating systems reduces the risk of security vulnerabilities.
Why Cyber Security Matters for Strata Buildings
Cyber security incidents can impact building operations in several ways.
Potential risks include:
- unauthorised access to security cameras
- disruption of building access systems
- exposure of resident information
- loss of building monitoring capability
- network outages affecting building operations
Protecting building networks helps maintain security and operational continuity.
Modern Building Network Design
New apartment developments increasingly deploy structured network infrastructure to support building technology systems.
Modern building networks often include:
- fibre internet connections
- managed network switches
- enterprise firewalls
- network segmentation
- secure remote management
These technologies help ensure building systems operate securely and reliably.
Summary
As buildings adopt more connected technologies, cyber security becomes an important part of building management.
Poor network design, insecure remote access and outdated devices can expose building systems to cyber risks.
Implementing secure network architecture, managed infrastructure and strong access controls can significantly reduce these risks and protect critical building systems.
For strata buildings and commercial properties, investing in secure network infrastructure helps protect both residents and building operations.