FERC approves rule to update cybersecurity standards for the electric grid

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission on Thursday approved a revised critical infrastructure protection reliability standard on cybersecurity management controls, updating various electric grid cybersecurity standards.

The rule, CIP-003-7, was originally developed by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation and approved by unanimous voice vote during FERC's open meeting on Thursday, with no debate on the measure.

The rule alters existing NERC requirements by clarifying electronic access controls, adopting mandatory requirements for securing portable devices that connect to bulk electric...