Survey Reveals Widespread Security Breaches of Critical Infrastructure Systems

A new study reveals that over half the entities operating power plants and other “critical infrastructure” like water and sewage systems have been infiltrated by hackers.

Prepared by security software company McAfee Inc. and Washington’s Center for Strategic and International Studies, the report surveyed 600 executives and technology managers in 14 countries.

Fifty-four percent reported “stealthy infiltration” of their networks—events that could involve the planting of software designed to steal information or even remotely control equipment.

Respondents also reported significant denial-of-service attacks, some of which led to service interruptions and even damage.

According to the Associated Press, specifics about the attacks were not included in the report, which surveyed infrastructure operators in the power, oil and gas sectors as well as other critical sectors like water and sewage.

As computer attacks tend to cover up attackers’ origins, it can be difficult to identify their sources. But many of those attacked indicated they believed some attacks were the work of operators working for foreign governments.

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