Viruses/Worms News

Security researchers warn of cyberattacks on 'smart' electric grid

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Security researchers at the Black Hat and Defcon cybersecurity conferences last week highlighted flaws in smart grid technology that could lead to system hacking or disruption of service.

One security firm, IOActive, has been advocating against propagation of smart grid meters until security flaws are corrected.

Mike Davis, a security researcher at IOActive, presented at the cybersecurity conferences about a potential hack that could infect smart meters and spread a worm program across the grid's communication network, according to the Associated Press.

Davis' company warned members of Congress and the department of Homeland Security in March that common security vulnerabilities in the grid could cause utilities to lose momentary system control of their smart meter devices, opening them up to potential fraud or widespread system interruption.

"If security is not addressed in the design and implementation of these emerging technologies, it may prove cost prohibitive to address them once the devices are fully deployed," the company warned.

According to a study by LogLogic, two-thirds of IT security professionals from energy companies and government organizations reported at least 75 security vulnerabilities each week, with half having more than 150 attacks per week.

The report also uncovered sentiment that regulatory compliance in the energy sector is not adequate enough to keep businesses secure.