Regulators Must Ensure Integrity of Global Supply Chains

摘要

In pursuit of economies of scale, convenience, and other efficiencies, utility operations across all sectors are becoming more connected. Some estimates put the total number of Internet-addressable devices within the next decade at a hundred billion, with a large percentage of the grid becoming networked with integrated communications. As a result, greater vigilance by utilities, their vendors, and regulators will be required to limit the risk of threats originating from all parts of the supply chain. The rapid expansion of the Internet of Things, including utility infrastructure combined with the international procurement of components and software, creates new challenges for ensuring the cybersecurity of equipment and systems. Regulators need to understand the vulnerabilities associated with global supply chains for mission-critical information and operational technologies, and ensure that utilities enforce risk mitigation practices throughout their operations.