As cybersecurity threats continue to rise, the private sector is making moves to protect sensitive information.

Analysts predict the cybersecurity market will grow from $138B in 2017 to $232B in 2022. As a result, companies handling highly sensitive information are seeking increasingly secure and private accommodations, boosting demand for Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIF), JLL reports.

The concept of SCIFs was first established during World War II as a way to prevent eavesdropping on highly classified military plans. Now, these facilities are being used to protect sensitive information and innovative ideas from potential threats. 

SCIF rooms are being used for everything from proposal writing and strategy sessions, to hands-on R&D and product testing.

These facilities are often equipped with walls that have electromagnetic shielding and filtered power, which prevents electronic devices from penetrating the walls. In addition, ductwork is barred used to prevent anyone from squeezing through. In order to qualify for an SCIF designation, rooms must also be fully engineered to prevent remote hackers from breaking in from anywhere. 

With innovation being a key measure of success, maintaining privacy is of the utmost concern.