IT professionals cringe at the thought of a virus or other types of attacks on their system. With the introduction of Internet based information technology within many process controls, vulnerabilities to industry computer systems will exist. Just last week it was reported that hackers created a new virus targeting computers managing large-scale Siemens industrial control systems.

In the Business Week article it stated that "some have worried that this type of virus could be used to take control of those systems, to disrupt operations or trigger a major accident, but experts say an early analysis of the code suggests it was probably designed to steal secrets from manufacturing plants and other industrial facilities."

As the demand for advanced controls continues in all types of industries, the risk for IT threats also increases. Although security is not generally a strong design driver and sometimes overlooked in favor of performance, this latest attack should be a reminder when designing any new platform.

Even though it is a continuous challenge to stay ahead of those trying to infiltrate systems, Schuster is a franchised distributor for many manufacturers dedicated to ensure that your control systems not only perform well but are as secure as possible from IT threats.

Let Schuster help provide you with the solutions and services you need to be successful with your next control system project (e.g. motor starters, contactors, terminal blocks, control circuit devices, motor control centers, sensors, or programmable controllers).

Visit our website at www.SchusterUSA.com or contact your Schuster Sales Representative at 800-521-1358 or 800-877-6875.

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