U.S. officials are warning that hackers are targeting municipal water systems, raising concerns about cyberattacks on critical infrastructure. According to the FBI and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), cyber incidents have been reported in at least seven states, with effects that include degraded water service. Officials say attackers focus on operational technology used to run water systems, including devices such as programmable logic controllers, which can be used to disrupt operations if compromised.
The FBI and EPA advise utilities to take steps to reduce exposure, including securing internet-facing devices and strengthening password practices. The agencies’ warnings emphasize that water utilities should review their cybersecurity controls to protect systems that support essential services.
Across the reporting, both outlets describe the same general pattern: officials issue an alert to utilities nationwide, cite recent incidents affecting multiple states, and recommend practical defensive measures aimed at reducing the risk of further disruption to water services.
