In 2011, flaws in the network infrastructure behind many of the utility systems in the United States were exposed. During 2012, these vulnerabilities will likely lead to at least one major breach, a recent CNET report predicted.

According to the news source, sophisticated malware and network hacking threats are increasingly targeting utility providers, making improved security in the sector an essential consideration.

Instances of utility breaches in the United States and Europe have exposed weaknesses in SCADA systems, showing that they need to be accompanied by other security measures, the report said.

This need for improved network protection could become even more prevalent as more utility providers turn to smart grid technology.

Using smart grid unlocks key capabilities by connecting meters to a data network, but a growing number of providers are using WLAN technology to connect meters around a municipality. As a result, organizations should be investing in robust protections, such as wireless intrusion prevention, to ensure that hackers and other criminals are not able to gain access to the smart grid.