Local

Power grids on frontline of ongoing cyberattacks

By Kristin Leigh
By Kristin Leigh

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Duke Energy is among the utility companies at the front lines of Russia's ongoing cyberattacks.

U.S. intelligence officials said Russia wants to disrupt Americans' lives by shutting off the lights.

Sanctions, cyberattack among possible UK moves on Russia 

Eyewitness News reporter Kristin Leigh spoke with a Duke energy representative Friday about cybersecurity.

US hits Russian firms with sanctions, citing cyberattacks

There's agreement on both sides in Washington, D.C. that more needs to be done to protect the power grid in the U.S.

“The entire economy relies on us, just like our peer utilities,” Duke Energy spokeswoman Catherine Butler said.

How vulnerable is the U.S. power grid to a cyberattack? 5 things to know

This is why cybersecurity expert Ross Bulla said Russia wants to turn off the lights.

“In Russia's case, they want to be a world leader,” Bulla said. “They want us to know they can do it. They want to have that backdoor ready in case there is a cyber war.”

South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham joined a bipartisan effort this week pressing President Donald Trump's administration to better protect the power grid.

If a widespread blackout in the U.S. is the goal, Duke Energy's large power grid makes it a perfect target.

“Duke Energy does operate one of the largest electric grids and transmission and distribution systems across the entire United States,” Butler said.

The utility has a team that monitors its systems for hackers 24/7 and there's no sign of Russian interference, so far, Butler said.

“We really focus on protecting, but also responding,” Butler said. “So, if there is an event, how will we respond and mitigate the impact to the grid?”

Bulla said nothing is totally secure.

“Quite frankly, we're behind the eight ball a lot of times,” Bulla said. “We're learning what happened after the fact.”

Butler pointed out that utility companies operate under very strict government regulations related to cybersecurity.

She also said there are planned improvement projects prepared for the next few years.

Read more top trending stories on wsoctv.com:

Cox Media Group

Most Read