U.S. Energy Grid Hacked, Says Former Federal Officials

Two former federal security officials have reported that in 2006 or 2007, harmful code was found in the in the electric grid as well as oil and gas infrastructure. The purpose of the coding, according to these officials, is to lay dormant until activated. Once activated, the code can take out electrical services across much of the United States. According to CNN, some security experts believe a foreign power -- China or Russia, for example -- could be behind this invasive action, but both countries today officially denied involvement, says the Wall St. Journal.

When you think about terrorism, violent and sudden action is usually thought of: the World Trade Center, the Oklahoma bombing, or the 1974 Munich Olympics massacre. However, cyber attacks occur every day and those targeting infrastructure are on the increase, according to the Department of Homeland Security. Taking out infrastructure such as electricity, gas, and communications would be an effective offense in a war situation.

What would happen if the majority of the United States lost power for an extended period of time? Most commerce in the country would be shut down within a week. Businesses can run on generators for one to five days depending on the tank capacity. Those manufacturing operations that can continue to produce in the short term will find that the transportation system has also ceased, as routing and administration is impossible without electricity. Goods will pile up in warehouses with no means of distribution.

Grocery stores have on average a three-day supply of food on the shelves. That supply will disappear more quickly, however, as people swarm the stores to stock up. The threat of food shortages will spur violent crime and looting. A recent example of this outcome is New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Cooking will be impossible with an electric stove immediately and with a gas stove in a short period of time as natural gas cannot be transported without electricity. Those with propane barbecues will be able to cook for 1-2 weeks before the tank runs out with no way to have it refilled. People unfortunate enough to leave their barbecues outside will likely find their propane tank stolen.

If the attack on the electricity grid happens in winter, the results could be far more dangerous. Those with electric heat will find themselves cold quickly. Natural gas heat will shut down shortly thereafter when the transportation system fails. Those with no alternative sources of heat such as a wood or pellet stove will risk death by freezing in their own homes.

Although the malicious coding found in the electrical grid has been removed, it is likely there will be further hacking attempts in the future. A cold, hungry population is more docile in the event of war. Homeland Security will have to work hard to stay one step ahead of the enemy.

Sources:
http://www.cnn.com/2009/TECH/04/08/grid.threat/index.html
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123914805204099085.html
http://www.grinningplanet.com/articles/energy/fuel-shortages-and-power-outages-article.htm