Pipeline Cybersecurity: Federal Policy

Citation
Congressional Research Service, Pipeline Cybersecurity: Federal Policy (CRS Report R42660) (Aug. 16, 2012) (full-text).

Overview
Over 500,000 miles of high-volume pipeline gather and transport natural gas, oil, and other hazardous liquids across the United States. In addition, nearly 900,000 miles of smaller distribution pipeline deliver natural gas to businesses and homes. This vast pipeline network is integral to U.S. energy supply and has links to power plants, refineries, airports, and other critical infrastructure. Cyber infiltration of supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems could allow "hackers" to disrupt pipeline service and cause spills, explosions, or fires &mdash; all from remote locations via the Internet or other communication pathways.

This report reviews federal programs specifically addressing pipeline cybersecurity, as well as related private sector initiatives and key policy concerns.