Cyberattacks on any critical infrastructure should be alarming, but attacks on nuclear infrastructure are all the more so due to the potential consequences, including radiation leaks. A China-sponsored hacker attacked the US National Nuclear Security Administration in July. The organisation is responsible for building and managing the US nuclear stockpile as well as the nuclear power plants on US warships and submarines. Like other critical infrastructure, nuclear facilities and installations rely heavily on digital systems for a variety of functions. These include nuclear-reactor controls, safety and security systems within a nuclear facility, transportation of nuclear material, and emergency response protocols. Effective cybersecurity protocols and cyber-hygiene measures are important to prevent intentional attacks and accidents in a nuclear establishment.
Chinese cyberattack on US nuclear agency highlights importance of cyber hygiene | The Strategist
