Like any other systems, critical infrastructure systems can be broken into or exploited for public detriment or private profit. Luckily SCADA systems function as one one of the most important roadblocks for hackers and criminals on the path to controlling infrastructure systems. 

  In short, SCADA systems are the systems in charge of controlling the previously stated systems of critical infrastructure. Everything from Hardware to human interaction is a part of these systems and helps in the management of vital systems. 

  Most SCADA systems are not connected to the internet. While that may seem like it reduces potential attack vectors, it creates a false sense of security that often leads to more lax security and more opportunities for unwanted entry into a system. 

  Things like social engineering and physical security are two of the largest problems to SCADA systems. With enough research and acting skills, an attacker could successfully infiltrate and disrupt most if not all SCADA systems currently in the world. SCADA systems often overlook this specific issue in favor of addressing more physical and cybersecurity concerns. Hand in hand with social engineering protections also comes a need for physical security. Say that same social engineer gains access to the building a system is being hosted from, they would likely be able to plug in a flash drive with malware or a virus and jeopardize an entire system. These avenues of attack are ones that SCADA systems do not properly address and can lead to disastrous events if not checked by other systems put into play. 

  Where SCADA systems thrive however, is in digital defense. Most SCADA systems opt to divert their attention towards improved firewalls and VPNs to secure data and processes being transmitted over their networks. Additionally, whitelisting measures have improved to be an additional viable method of defense within a system.