A key to preventing cyber attacks from crippling U.S. power grids could be changing passwords on internet routers, wifi-connected thermostats and smart lawn-sprinklers.
“A significant share” of internet attacks result from unchanged factory default passwords on web-connected devices that allow hackers to break in and and install malware, according to a Jan. 18 report by the Advanced Energy Economy Institute.
The institute, which pushes to make energy systems more secure, says manufacturers should program devices them so people are forced to change default passwords when they connect to the grid. Utilities also could deter attacks by requiring and issuing software keys to protect connected device.
Related:
- Millions of Devices in Europe Remain Undefended Against Cyber Attacks: Report
- Cyber Security Specialists Warn Wi-Fi Vulnerable to Hacker Attacks
- Driver Privacy at Risk when Telematics Data Stored in the Cloud: Researchers
Was this article valuable?
Here are more articles you may enjoy.
Flood Insurance Gap Will Squeeze Local Governments and Homeowners, Moody’s Says 
Eli Lilly Wins Court Order in Fraud Allegations Against Florida, TN Pharmacy Groups 
Miami Tech Investor Revives $3 Billion Real Estate Development 
Older, Wealthier Renters Drive Changes in Insurance Needs 
