AWWA JAW54060

This article discusses how concern regarding an intentional terrorist attack onUS infrastructure, that would include water systems, has heightened considerablysince the end of the Cold War. Because guns and explosives are easier to obtainthan large amounts of contaminants or toxic chemicals, the most likely scenariofor a terrorist attack on a water system would involve physical destruction ofthe system's components to disrupt the supply of water, rather than actions thatwould cause a contamination event. The five types of perpetrators discussed inthis article are: vandals who commit crimes of opportunity; a lone wolf whoselects victims for their real or imagined characteristics; insiders or formeremployees who are seeking revenge; activist groups or cults that want to make astatement; and, state-sponsored terrorist groups, which often have access toextensive technical and financial resources. A listing of available resources isgiven to help utilities improve security at their facilities. Includes 19 references.

Product Details

Edition:

Vol. 93 - No. 5

Published:

05/01/2001

Number of Pages:

8

File Size:

1 file , 440 KB