At least 12 states report cyberattacks on water systems possibly linked to Iran-backed hackers, sources say
Cyberattacks targeting water systems in at least 12 U.S. states are suspected to be linked to Iran-backed hackers. While no drinking water has been contaminated, the attacks have disrupted remote monitoring and control capabilities at several facilities.
Why it matters
The targeting of critical infrastructure like water systems represents a major national security concern and highlights vulnerabilities in industrial control systems.
Cyberattacks on U.S. water systems that officials suspect may be linked to Iran-backed hackers have been reported in at least a dozen states, sources familiar with the matter told CBS News on Wednesday.Those states include Michigan, Minnesota, Georgia, New Jersey and South Dakota. In Minnesota specifically, more than 30 community water systems were impacted, CBS News previously learned.In Georgia, the Clayton County Water Authority, which serves 300,000 customers in the Atlanta area, said cyber activity last month caused a water pressure drop and forced the agency to issue a boil water advisory. Service was restored within hours, however.Some utilities have lost critical remote-control capabilities, forcing operators to switch to manual mode.
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