UK’s museums and galleries left vulnerable to cyber-attack and theft, MPs warn
Report by Commons committee says government has failed to make concrete changes after recent security failures
TL;DR
- MPs warn that UK museums and galleries are vulnerable to thefts and cyber-attacks, putting collections at risk.
- A report by the public accounts committee (PAC) criticizes the government for failing to take a strategic approach to preventing security incidents.
- Recent major breaches include thousands of artefacts stolen from the British Museum and a severe cyber-attack on the British Library.
- There are calls for stronger oversight of both physical and digital security across the sector.
- Museums face challenges including visitor numbers not fully recovering to pre-pandemic levels, rising staffing and energy costs, and a reduction in government funding.
- Concerns exist about governance, with a significant percentage of trustee positions vacant and long appointment times.
- Museum security consultant Vernon Rapley notes the increasing vulnerability due to high-value items, global fame, and public access, leading to heightened concern among directors.