"Threat From Cyber Hackers Is Growing, U.S. Grid Regulator Says"

"Hackers increasingly threaten sites in the U.S. ranging from nuclear power plants to water processing systems, according to a member of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, adding his voice to warnings from several agencies and officials in recent weeks.

"Cyberattacks have the potential to cause significant, widespread impacts on energy infrastructure," Commissioner Neil Chatterjee said Friday in an emailed response to questions. "Sophisticated hacking tools are becoming more widely available, and cyber threats are constantly evolving, making such attacks more versatile."

Chatterjee’s remarks underscore the alarm growing after the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security issued a report earlier this month saying that Russian hackers have been attacking the electric grid, power plants, air transportation facilities and targets in the commercial and manufacturing sectors -- attempting to gain remote access or install malware or make spear phishing attempts."

Ari Natter reports for Bloomberg March 23, 2018.

SEE ALSO:

"Feds: Iranian Hackers Hit FERC With 'Brazen Cyber Assault'" (Greenwire)

"Russian Attacks On Energy Grid Spark Alarm" (The Hill)