The Biden administration seeks to secure the country’s electric system from cyberattacks through a novel 100-day initiative with the aid of federal government agencies and the private industry.
The initiative was announced on Tuesday by the Energy Department. It encourages operators of electrics utilities and power plants to enhance their capabilities for the identification of cyber threats to their networks. It also includes concrete landmarks for them to use in technology to aid them detect and respond to intrusions in real time.
The department is requesting information from electric utilities, energy companies and government agencies for recommendations on how to secure the energy system supply chain.
The initiative is a response to the growing concerns about the possibilities of cyberattacks that could disturb the power supply of the nation. Anne Neuberger, Deputy National Security Adviser for Cyber and Emerging Technology, made a statement that the administration was making efforts to assist electric utilities, water districts and other vital industries to protect them against injurious attacks.
The U.S. ‘faces a well-documented and increasing cyber threat from malicious actors seeking to disrupt the electricity Americans rely on to power our homes and businesses,’ said Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm in a statement.
By Marvellous Iwendi.
Source: CNBC