Power hacks
We knew hackers would use computers to interrupt electric service as soon as they'd get the opportunity. Sure enough, the CIA reported this week that they've targeted computers that operate power companies and have successfully caused a "widespread" outage of service. Tom Donohue, a CIA senior analyst, noted that intrusions were made into utilities and were then followed by extortion demands, but he did not indicate where this occurred, only that the disruptions took place in several regions outside the U.S.
I'm glad that the DHS is working to develop a plan to respond to these type of attacks. Power outages have a crippling effect on all modern cities and U.S. cities are no exception. It'd be even better if they could prevent these hacker attacks, but barring that, I'd be glad to see a good response plan. After all, computers can be sidelined for any number of reasons - not just hackers - being ready to counter those effects makes good sense. Sometimes, when prevention isn't possible you need to have a cure handy.
Related Blogs and Articles:
Free Insider Guide