The cybersecurity of America’s dams has come under intense scrutiny, with experts warning of the potential for devastating cyberattacks. Concerns were raised during a recent hearing on cybersecurity threats to critical water infrastructure, where Senator Ron Wyden expressed fears of cyberattacks causing catastrophic floods and chaos in communities.
Current Vulnerabilities
Despite the growing cyber threat, most dams under Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) oversight have not undergone comprehensive cyber audits. With only four full-time employees overseeing 2,500 dams nationwide, experts agree that the sector is vulnerable to cyberattacks that could result in loss of human lives.
Ageing Infrastructure and Lack of Regulation
The majority of U.S. dams are privately operated, with FERC’s cybersecurity requirements for commercial dam operators last updated in 2016. Only 5% of the 91,827 dams in the United States fall under federal regulation, and many of them are ageing, with approximately 2,200 classified as “high-hazard” and in poor condition.
Industry Challenges
The water industry, including dam operators, is considered one of the least secure sectors in terms of cybersecurity. Corporate cultures centred around traditional engineering and operational technology pose challenges in adapting to the fast-paced IT and cyber world. […]
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