Smart electricity meters, once simple devices for recording household consumption, are now central to modern energy systems. They track usage patterns, support grid balancing, and enable predictive maintenance. But as their role has expanded, so has the volume of sensitive data they collect and store, making these devices an overlooked but critical point of vulnerability in the cybersecurity infrastructure.
Why stored data matters
Cybersecurity discussions usually focus on network protections, but the data inside the meters deserves equal attention. Information such as billing records, diagnostic logs, and configuration files can be misused if tampered with or exposed. Since smart meters often stay in use for decades, even a small compromise can quietly escalate into large-scale billing disputes, compliance failures, or inaccurate demand forecasts.
The cost of weak protection
Safeguarding these devices is not just about technology, it directly affects finances and reputation. A successful cyberattack can drain companies of thousands of dollars per minute, while also damaging customer trust and inviting regulatory penalties. At the same time, manufacturers face rising costs for secure hardware, software optimization, and the dedicated teams required to manage threats over a device’s lifetime.
New rules setting higher standards
In Europe, the upcoming Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) will set stricter requirements for digital products, including smart meters. By 2027, companies selling in the EU must ensure devices launch without known vulnerabilities, arrive with secure default settings, and receive patches throughout their lifespan. Manufacturers will also be obligated to provide transparent documentation, covering everything from software components to lifecycle support.
Building resilience into design
Experts stress that resilience must be engineered from the start. Three pillars define effective smart meter security:
1. Confidentiality: encrypting stored data and managing keys securely.
2. Integrity: ensuring information is not altered or lost during failures.
3. Authenticity: verifying updates and communications through trusted digital signatures.
Together, these measures protect the accuracy and reliability of the data on which modern energy systems depend.
Organisational readiness
Beyond technology, companies must foster a culture of security. That means maintaining software inventories (SBOMs), conducting supply chain risk assessments, preparing incident response plans, and training staff in best practices. Limiting data retention and enforcing role-based access controls reduce exposure further.
The rise of quantum computing could eventually render today’s encryption obsolete. Manufacturers are therefore urged to build cryptographic agility into devices, allowing them to adapt to stronger algorithms as standards evolve.