AWWA JAW54060

This article discusses how concern regarding an intentional terrorist attack on US infrastructure, that would include water systems, has heightened considerably since the end of the Cold War. Because guns and explosives are easier to obtain than large amounts of contaminants or toxic chemicals, the most likely scenario for a terrorist attack on a water system would involve physical destruction of the system's components to disrupt the supply of water, rather than actions that would cause a contamination event. The five types of perpetrators discussed in this article are: vandals who commit crimes of opportunity; a lone wolf who selects victims for their real or imagined characteristics; insiders or former employees who are seeking revenge; activist groups or cults that want to make a statement; and, state-sponsored terrorist groups, which often have access to extensive technical and financial resources. A listing of available resources is given to help utilities improve security at their facilities. Includes 19 references.