[Gud]

Most(more or less all of them) grid operators can operate their network remotely from a single control room.

I suspect most grids are extremely easy to hack(never tried, don't bite the hand that feed you etc).

Info sec is just a hobby of mine. I install high voltage switch gear for a living.

[applied_heat]

A lot of utilities have their own fibre since they own poles/towers and need it for tele protection anyway so they can have secure a real private network between control room and significant power plants

[TwiztidK]

> I suspect most grids are extremely easy to hack

I’d expect the opposite. All companies controlling equipment that is part of the “Bulk Electric System” have to be NERC CIP compliant and are audited regularly with large fines for non-compliance. Doesn't guarantee perfect (or even good security) but it’s more likely to be a priority.

[ufocia]

How do fines make things better? They confiscate resources that could be used to improve.

[aerostable_slug]

It also perverts incentives such that no utility will communicate perhaps helpful information to other utilities or government when said information can leave them liable for fines.

Until there's some kind of hold-harmless agreement, the various industry & government security information sharing groups can only be of limited effectiveness.

[applied_heat]

The management at the utility doesn’t want to be recognized for being a deficient operator that doesn’t meet standards, so they hire employees to ensure they are compliant

A fine is a black eye for a utility where people pride themselves on the reliability of the service they provide