Local communities in the UK could be vulnerable to cyber-attacks if they make use of “connected places” projects, according to a recent report. While new technologies bring new opportunities for economic growth and more effective public services, they also bring risks that need to be addressed and managed at both the local and national levels. The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) has announced a new guide to help local authorities protect cyber security as they develop connected places. The alpha Secure Connected Places Playbook has been designed with accessibility in mind so that those without a background in tech can make use of it. The playbook includes a summary of the National Cyber Security Centre’s Connected Places Cyber Security Principles and areas of guidance on effective “security governance” of connected places projects, how cyber security concerns can be integrated into the “supply chain management lifecycle”, and how to conduct threat analysis. Local authorities are being invited to take part in the project’s next phase, the “beta testing” of the alpha Playbook.