Cybersecurity in Energy Transmission: Why Penetration Testing Can't Be Optional
In an age where cyber threats grow more sophisticated by the day, the energy sector remains one of the most critical—and vulnerable—parts of our infrastructure. Secondary systems in energy transmission (such as protection relays, substation automation, and communication networks) are often overlooked when it comes to security testing. But these systems are essential for reliability, safety, and operational continuity.
As a cybersecurity professional, I've seen firsthand how even small vulnerabilities in these secondary systems can serve as gateways for larger-scale disruptions. This is why penetration testing is not just a best practice—it's a necessity.
SCADA and IEC 61850-based communication protocols
Substation automation systems
Remote access configurations
Role-based access and identity management systems
With the increasing integration of IT and OT, and the rise of nation-state level threats, securing energy infrastructure isn't about compliance—it's about resilience.
Let's open up the conversation: How often are secondary systems included in your cybersecurity testing plans? Are we doing enough to protect the backbone of our energy grid?
#Cybersecurity #PenetrationTesting #EnergySector #CriticalInfrastructure #OTSecurity #IEC61850 #CyberResilience #SCADA #Infosec