Fortunately many critical infrastructure system and life safety systems have on-site backup energy generation capability, as long as diesel is available. At lea

Fortunately many critical infrastructure system and life safety systems have on-site backup energy generation capability, as long as diesel is available. At least in the USA, our internet, payment, and phone systems have all withstood significant medium-term regional power outages. A major infrastructure cyberattack seems effective either as an opening salvo in a traditional military war or to multiply the chaos after a terrorist attack. Taking out the power grid would worsen traffic congestion and create increased demand on emergency services in the short term, and have major economic impacts and high visibility in the long term.