Electric Grid Cyberattacks
Utility companies and grids are becoming increasingly vulnerable to cyber attacks. The Manhattan Institute recently released a report warning that although greater grid-Internet connectivity results in greener, smarter grids, these grids are also more likely to be the targets of hackers. The frequency of cyberattacks has increased by 60% annually within the last twelve years, and electric utility companies are a common target of such breaches. Policymakers and industry professionals must develop security technologies to respond to the threat of cyberattacks. Mark Mills, senior fellow at the Institute, writes: “While the government needs to improve its vital role in helping with cyber ‘situational awareness,’ the private sector must lead the way in defending against cyberphysical threats that evolve and move at tech-sector—not bureaucratic—velocities.” Mills recommends that utility companies collaborate with federal cybersecurity programs and urges the reallocation of federal budgets to increase funding for cybersecurity measures.
