Cybersecurity in the Smart City Era

Abstract

As smart cities continue to evolve through the integration of IoT, AI, and big data analytics, the complexity and scale of cybersecurity challenges have intensified. This chapter examines key vulnerabilities ranging from data privacy breaches to cyber-physical system attacks and highlights the critical role of modern cryptographic technologies in addressing these risks. Techniques such as encryption, blockchain, PKI, homomorphic encryption, zero-knowledge proofs, and quantum cryptography are analyzed for their potential to strengthen smart city infrastructures. Drawing on recent case studies and emerging research, we further explore future directions, including post-quantum security and AI-driven cybersecurity frameworks. The findings of this chapter suggest that strategically embedding cryptographic solutions is essential for building secure, resilient, and citizen-centered smart cities capable of withstanding both current and emerging cyber threats.