The Pat Kenny Show The Louvre has been heavily criticised for neglecting security
Nov 7, 2025
Elaine Cobbe, a Paris-based journalist known for her insights into the Louvre, unpacks the recent jewel heist and the museum's security failures. She reveals a court report that highlights how the Louvre prioritized showcasing artwork over safeguarding it. Cobbe details critical gaps in CCTV coverage and inadequate training for guards, focusing on visitor safety instead of artifact protection. She discusses the amateurish nature of the heist, pointing out evidence like dropped helmets, and explains the challenges in reselling the stolen crown jewels intact.
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Security Was Sacrificed For Appearance
- The Court of Auditors found the Louvre prioritised visible, attractive operations over safety between 2018 and 2024.
- CCTV coverage was patchy, with only one in three rooms monitored and uneven camera distribution.
Outdated Tech And Weak Cybersecurity
- CCTV systems were outdated and inconsistently deployed across the museum, revealing systemic neglect.
- Even basic cybersecurity was weak, with camera-server passwords like "Louvre" still in use.
Upgrade Security Before Long Renovations
- Implement security upgrades incrementally rather than postponing them until long-term restoration phases.
- Prioritise high-technology security now instead of waiting for the second phase of a renovation plan.