Books like Lights out by Ted Koppel

Ted Koppel warns that a cyberattack on the U.S. electric power grid could plunge millions into weeks or months of blackout, destroying water, sewage, refrigeration, and banking services while triggering widespread looting and testing law and order. Drawing on his experience as a former chief scientist for the NSA and interviews with former President Obama’s cybersecurity advisors, Koppel explains that China, Russia, and other hostile actors already possess the capability to penetrate the grid, and that independent hackers and terrorists may seize the opportunity. He argues that the federal government’s emergency plans cover only natural disasters—not prolonged power outages—leaving communities to fend for themselves. Through practical advice and an analysis of the most likely threats, the book offers ordinary civilians and communities a roadmap for surviving and preparing for a cyber‑terror attack that could come sooner than we expect.

First publish date: 2015