How could foreign-made grid equipment be used to sabotage US infrastructure?

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Foreign-Made Grid Equipment Poses Sabotage Risk to US Infrastructure

Foreign-made equipment within the United States' bulk-power system presents a significant risk of sabotage, as it could be exploited by hostile governments to disrupt or disable the nation's electricity supply. The executive order issued addresses this threat by prohibiting the acquisition, importation, or installation of specific foreign-made components integral to this critical infrastructure.
Use of Digital Backdoors for Control

The primary concern highlighted is the potential for foreign-built equipment to contain hidden digital "backdoors" within its software. These are essentially secret access points that could allow another country to gain unauthorized control over the equipment, enabling them to manipulate its operation or even shut it down entirely.
Vulnerability of the Bulk-Power System

The bulk-power system, which comprises the extensive network of high-voltage transmission lines, substations, and power plants responsible for distributing electricity nationwide, is particularly vulnerable. The increasing demand for power, driven by advancements like AI data centers and other high-tech projects, has amplified the nation's dependence on a stable grid, making any potential disruption far more consequential than in previous eras.
Scope of the Executive Order

The executive order specifically targets equipment from countries subject to US arms embargoes or sanctions, as well as those determined by the administration to be acting against American interests. While China is not explicitly named, concerns regarding Chinese-made grid components have been a long-standing issue for US security officials, suggesting a potential focus on such equipment.

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How could foreign-made grid equipment be used to sabotage US infrastructure?

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