Potential Vulnerabilities of U.S. Drinking Water and Wastewater Treatment Facilities to Insider Terrorism
Created: Friday, October 15, 2004 - 15:52
Categories: US Utilities Only
Although DHS and FBI have no information that identifies a current credible threat to U.S. drinking water and wastewater treatment facilities, owners and operators should be aware of potential vulnerabilities to insider terrorist threats that could be both physical and cyber in nature. This Information Bulletin looks at vulnerabilities that could be exploited by individuals who have access to water treatment process controls and treatment chemicals. It also identifies protective measures necessary to ensure the safety and integrity of the finished drinking water or wastewater systems. While DHS and FBI possess no information indicating specific targeting of the U.S. drinking water and wastewater infrastructure, such targeting would be consistent with Al-Qaeda’s stated objective to cause mass casualties and to disrupt and undermine vital economic interests in this country.