A report released by the U.S. Advanced Energy Economy Institute (AEE) identified the threats and challenges facing energy sector as it becomes more reliant on advanced technologies which leave it vulnerable to cyberattacks.

The report noted that 2016 witnessed the first malware program designed to target electrical grids, which was used to cause a blackout in Ukraine, and that other attacks have targeted energy systems, with the aim of gaining control over infrastructure, or access sensitive information.

AEE outlined a set of best practices for companies, which includes password maintenance, ensuring anti-virus software is up to date, building networks with isolated security enclaves, regular penetration testing and message encryption.

The report concluded that with the appropriate application of the mentioned protective measures, the risk of a major service outage resulting at the grid edge can be minimized.