Following fresh caveat Following federal intelligence that foreign hackers are targeting U.S. water systems for potential cyberattacks, two members of Congress this week introduced legislation that would further focus government attention on the threat.
Representatives Rick Crawford (R-Arkansas) and John Duarte (R-Calif.) made their debuts. Water Risk and Resilience Organization (WRRO) Establishment Act The bill would create a new governing body to oversee cybersecurity requirements and recommendations for drinking water and wastewater systems.
“Foreign adversaries like Russia and China are using cyberattacks to target critical infrastructure like water systems,” said Congressman Crawford. “This bill is a more proactive approach to protecting drinking water and wastewater from these types of attacks. These protections are essential at a time when cyber threats are ever-present and technology is rapidly evolving. ” Member of Parliament
The new WRRO will work with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to help advance cybersecurity best practices in water systems across the United States.
“With the ever-present threat of cyberattacks from adversaries, America's water infrastructure must be secured and adequately defended,” said Congressman Duarte. “I am proud to work with Congressman Crawford to help lead this important legislation to ensure that wastewater and drinking water systems are adequately prepared to deal with potential cybersecurity threats. think.”
The bill's introduction follows a March 18 warning from the White House and EPA to state governors. discovery About the steps a China-based hacker group is taking to compromise U.S. critical infrastructure and the government's plans to create a Water Sector Cybersecurity Task Force to focus on the issue.
Earlier this year, FBI Director Christopher Wray also testified about similar types of threats.
“Chinese hackers are infiltrating American infrastructure in preparation for wreaking havoc on American citizens and communities and causing real-world damage. If China decides the time is right for an attack, they will It's not just focused on political or military goals.” Said Ray. “If you look at their position across civilian infrastructure, you see that low-strike is not just a possibility in a conflict. Low-strike against civilians is part of China's plan.”
