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Louvre Heist Exposes Years of Security Neglect, Audit Finds

A state audit faults years of delayed upgrades, with a focus on showpiece projects leaving critical security systems outdated.

Overview

  • France’s Court of Auditors called the October theft a “deafening wake-up call,” citing a slow, inadequate modernization of the Louvre’s safety infrastructure.
  • Only 39% of museum rooms had CCTV coverage in 2024, and the Louvre does not expect full security upgrades to be completed until 2032, according to the report.
  • A 2014 cybersecurity audit reported trivial credentials on key systems — including the password “LOUVRE” for video surveillance and “THALES” on related software — alongside obsolete Windows 2000/Server 2003 machines.
  • Investigators say several suspects are in custody after DNA and other forensic leads, two have partly admitted involvement, and none of the eight stolen crown‑jewel items have been recovered.
  • Officials pledged fixes including anti‑intrusion measures and governance changes, and the museum’s leadership said it accepts most recommendations as inquiries and the criminal investigation continue.