AWWA partners to let utilities try security software.
Press Release Summary:
In partnership with WaterISAC, AWWA will provide U.S. member utilities, serving fewer than 50,000 people, with a chance to test-drive the WaterISAC Pro Internet-based security information system. The software provides threat alerts and resources on emergency preparedness and management to drinking water and wastewater utilities. Interested organizations can subscribe at www.waterisac.org, where they can find a webinar sign-up and brochure download.
Original Press Release:
AWWA and WaterISAC Partner to Boost Utility Security
Free trial offered to AWWA utilities serving under 50,000
(Washington, DC) - The American Water Works Association (AWWA), in partnership with the WaterISAC, today announced that it will provide U.S. member utilities serving fewer than 50,000 people with an opportunity to test-drive the WaterISAC Pro Internet-based security information system.
WaterISAC is a private, not-for-profit organization authorized by U.S. Congress and supported by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. It was established in 2002 by utilities to provide information necessary to secure water systems and ensure continuous utility operations in the face of all hazards. ISAC stands for Information Sharing and Analysis Centers.
Through e-mail and a secure Internet portal, WaterISAC provides drinking water and wastewater utilities with threat alerts, resources on emergency preparedness and management, and other information to support utility infrastructure protection efforts. Today, hundreds of drinking water and wastewater systems in the United States, Canada and Australia have made WaterISAC Pro an integral part of their security programs.
"Infrastructure security is critical to protecting public health and local economies," said AWWA Executive Director Gary Zimmerman. "AWWA remains active in providing resources and guidance to help utilities protect their systems and prepare for emergency responses. The utilities that experience WaterISAC will find it useful in identifying potential threats and as a clearinghouse for information to address risks and analyze security protocols."
Benefits of the system include:
An e-mail alert system providing notice to subscribers about natural disasters, terrorism threats and cyber security vulnerabilities;
Online tools to network directly with colleagues in the U.S., Australia and Canada to share knowledge on infrastructure protection;
A searchable online library of more than 2,000 documents on security and emergency preparedness, best practices, guidance and threats;
Searchable chemical/biological contaminant databases created by subject-matter experts;
The ability to collaborate securely on special projects with colleagues.
Utilities interested in participating in the free should visit www.waterisac.org and click on "Subscribe." There they can also sign up for a free webinar and download a brochure about WaterISAC Pro. Questions can be emailed to info@waterisac.org.
AWWA is the authoritative resource for knowledge, information, and advocacy to improve the quality and supply of water in North America and beyond. AWWA is the largest organization of water professionals in the world. AWWA advances public health, safety and welfare by uniting the efforts of the full spectrum of the entire water community. Through our collective strength we become better stewards of water for the greatest good of the people and the environment.
Contacts:
Greg Kail, AWWA
303-734-3410
gkail@awwa.org
