March 23, 2009

Smart grid easily hacked

There has been a lot of media attention regarding “Smart Grid” this is digitally based electricity supply in the US, sounds crazy. Well it may just that according to security experts who believe that this type of power can easily be hacked, which could mean widespread blackouts.

Digitally based technology such as this relies on automated meters, communications and sensors; this technology is already being installed with millions of units already being connected to the system.

However, the security issue lies with the meters, certain types can be hacked with some reasonably cheap equipment. Nevertheless, from this single point could be able to take control of a good part of the network and do as they pleased with it, shutting off power or holding the power supply up for ransom.

Source [CNN]