According to FBI Director James Comey, cyberattacks are beginning to represent the most serious threats to homeland security, and will likely eclipse the risk posed by traditional terror organizations in the next decade.
One of the main targets is expected to be critical infrastructure, and industry leaders are taking notice.
On Nov. 19, Kyle Wilhoit, one Trend Micro’s top threat researchers, will present “Something Wicked This Way Comes: Who’s Really Attacking Utilities?” from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the 125th Annual National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC) Meeting in Orlando.
This presentation is based on his recent white paper that focuses on his infrastructure “honeypot” research— “The SCADA That Didn’t Cry Wolf: Who’s Really Attacking Your ICS Equipment? (Part 2).”
A honeypot is a subterfuge that attracts hackers and monitors their efforts. These particular honeypots mimicked critical infrastructure devices, such as water treatment facilities, to trick hackers into attacking phony systems. His research includes revealing findings on what he uncovered, such as the fact that within a three-month period, 74 attempted hacks took place from 16 different countries.
Kyle will explain to NARUC decision makers the high level of interest cyber criminals have in attacking utility systems and the kinds of protections necessary to guard against these potential threats. NARUC is the national organization representing the state public utility commissions in all 50 states. Members of the organization are responsible for regulating essential utility services such as electricity, water, natural gas and telecommunications, and ensuring that these services are delivered safely and reliably.
Other keynote speakers at the conference include Acting Federal Communications Commission Chair Mignon Clyburn and American Wind Energy Association CEO Tom Kiernan.
