A security flaw has been uncovered in a widely used type of smart meter that could allow users to submit false readings or even cut off power supplies remotely.

BRUSSELS, BELGIUM, October 29, 2014 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Recent research in Spain has uncovered a security flaw in a widely used type of smart meter that could allow users to submit false readings, use a false ID to get someone else to pay their bill or even cut off power supplies remotely. The researchers wisely declined to name the affected company – if indeed it is only one – but with millions of these meters due to be installed across Europe in the next few years, the potential danger is obvious.

Many utility companies now use smart meters to help their customers achieve greater energy efficiency. If hackers are able to gain access to critical infrastructure such as power grids, then there is a very real danger of attack.

IT Governance Ltd, the global provider of cyber security expertise, therefore advises utility companies to implement an information security management system (ISMS) as set out in the international best-practice standard ISO27001.

Alan Calder, founder and executive chairman of IT Governance, says: “European utility companies should invest in appropriate security measures to manage the risks they face and protect critical infrastructure. An ISMS, as described by ISO27001, provides a holistic approach to information security management that addresses the whole enterprise. Accredited certification to the Standard offers globally acknowledged proof that information security best practice has been adopted, which is why certification to ISO27001 increased by 25% in Europe last year.”

ISO27001 is not only suitable for utility companies, however. Implementation of the internationally recognised information security standard is suitable for organisations of all sizes, industries or locations.

IT Governance’s ISO27001 Get A Lot Of Help package makes it easy for EU organisations to implement ISO27001. Get A Lot Of Help contains tried and tested and highly experienced consultancy support, guidance and project management. This helps organisations get the best out of an integrated set of tools and services that, between them, enable them to achieve guaranteed ISO27001-certification readiness.

Find out more: www.itgovernance.eu/p-1088.aspx.

The Get A Lot Of Help option is part of IT Governance’s ISO27001 packaged solutions. For other levels of support when implementing ISO27001, choose from Do It Yourself, Get A Little Help and We’ll Do It For You.

Alternatively, organisations can call IT Governance on 00 800 48 484 484 or email servicecentre@itgovernance.eu for more information on how IT Governance can help preserve their information security.

Melanie Watson
IT Governance
08450701750
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