Oldsmarâs water supply attack is a warning, experts say. It couldâve been worse.
Instead of causing widespread injury or loss of life, the attack could stand as a huge red flag marking quietly pervasive flaws in national security.
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The Bruce T. Haddock Water Treatment Plant is seen Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2021 in Oldsmar. Local and federal authorities are investigating after an attempt Friday to poison the city of Oldsmarâs water supply, Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri said Monday. [ CHRIS URSO | Times ]
Updated Feb. 10
An attack on Oldsmarâs water supply last week highlighted cybersecurity expertsâ longstanding concerns about the security of the countryâs critical infrastructure.
Sodium hydroxide, also known as lye, is the main ingredient in liquid drain cleaners, explained Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri, during a news conference CBS reported. “It’s dangerous stuff,” said Gualtieri.