House Subcommittee Questions Cybersecurity at Power Networks

While new computer technology has made power grids more effective, systems designed to secure those networks from cyberattacks continue to lag, Government Accountability Office officials told a House subcommittee on Tuesday.

"Cybersecurity and industry experts have expressed concern that, if not implemented securely, smart-grid systems will be vulnerable to attacks that could result in widespread loss of electrical services essential to maintaining our national economy and security," the GAO's Gregory Wilshusen and David Trimble said in joint testimony at a hearing of the House Energy and Commerce Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee.

Officials have had difficulty securing power grids because they are usually operated by private companies, and government efforts are often dogged by concerns over privacy and intrusion. Another complication -- there is disagreement over the extent of the threat. In 2008 intelligence officials reported that cyberattacks had disrupted electric power in several different areas overseas, but it is unclear if such targeted cyberattacks have occurred in the United States...