INTERIM. Power Grid Security. 3 Key Factors.

  • A cyber security researcher in California discovered that Cyberattackers had opened a pathway into the networks running the United States power grid.
    • Digital clues show hackers tied to Iran have possession of passwords and engineering drawings of dozens of power plants
    • In 2012 and 2013 Russian hackers sent encrypted commands to points on the US power grid
  • Why is the power grid so vulnerable? An aging, outdated power system
  • Just like other hacks, vulnerabilities occur in 3rd party providers
    • Hundreds of contractors sell software and equipment to energy companies

Sacramento Bee | AP Investigation: US power grid vulnerable to foreign hacks