Nuclear power reactors are facing new cybersecurity requirements to guard against 21st century terrorist attacks.
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) issued a new round of security requirements Friday to confront the growing threat of cyber intrusions from terrorists and foreign countries.
“These additions are necessary because cybersecurity event notification requirements were not included in” previous rulemakings, the agency noted.
The cybersecurity requirements build on security advisories the agency has previously issued and ensure the safety of computer networks and communication systems at nuclear power reactors.
Nuclear reactors will be required to notify the agency of certain security events.
This will be factored into the NRC’s evaluation of the “reliability and effectiveness” of nuclear reactors’ cybersecurity systems, the agency said.
The rules go into effect in 30 days.