Cybersecurity Risks and Challenges in Smart Cities: A Review with Insights for Cambodia

Smart Cities depend on interconnected digital systems, IoT devices, cloud platforms, and continuous data exchange to deliver efficient and innovative public services. However, this high level of integration increases exposure to cybersecurity risks that can disrupt essential operations and compromise citizen privacy. This review examines major cybersecurity threats affecting Smart City infrastructures, including IoT weaknesses, data exposure, DDoS attacks, surveillance system intrusion, and cloud security issues. It then analyzes Cambodia’s specific challenges such as limited legal frameworks, fragmented governance, unstable infrastructure, shortages of cybersecurity skills, and financial constraints. Global frameworks including the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, Zero Trust Architecture, IoT security models, and Smart City security architectures are reviewed to identify best practices. A gap analysis highlights significant differences between international standards and Cambodia’s current readiness. Finally, the study proposes strategic recommendations to strengthen national policies, enhance technical and human capability, and improve infrastructure resilience. The findings provide valuable guidance for policymakers and stakeholders seeking to advance secure and sustainable Smart City development in Cambodia.