Advanced cybersecurity measures keep intruders out with layers of security and constant monitoring of new threats. As technology and cyberthreats evolve, so do our protections. Nuclear power plants stand among the most secure facilities in the country.

Is Nuclear Energy Safe From Hackers?

• One of the many cyber protections unique to nuclear plants is the fact that they are designed as islands of operation. Every plant’s safety and security systems have hardware to prevent direct or indirect access to the internet. Through hardware isolation, data in the plant only goes one way: out.
• Nuclear facilities have strict controls over the use of thumb drives, laptops or other portable media. Among other controls, these devices are regularly and thoroughly scanned for malware.
• Plant workers undergo extensive security screenings and training. Those who work with digital plant equipment are under increased observation to monitor for suspicious behavior.

Our Cyber Experts Are Seasoned

Nuclear plants have been addressing cyberthreats nearly two decades. The nuclear industry created a cybersecurity task force in 2002 to continuously monitor threats and upgrade protections. In 2008, the industry also completed implementing the first cybersecurity program in the energy sector designed to protect control systems.

Working with the Intelligence Community

The nuclear industry coordinates with the U.S. government to stay apprised of the latest tactics and tools of cyberattackers. Every plant’s program is inspected regularly by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. The industry has an active partnership with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Department of Energy to prevent cyber intrusions.