US says hackers are targeting vulnerable water systems with the help of AI
U.S. security agencies have warned that hackers are using AI to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in Siemens programmable logic controllers used in critical water infrastructure. These attacks target systems that are often poorly secured or connected to the internet.
Why it matters
The use of AI to automate cyberattacks on critical infrastructure poses a significant threat to public safety and essential utility services.
Amidst a spate of ongoing cyberattacks targeting water systems across the country, the U.S. government’s security agencies are warning that hackers are actively breaking into Siemens devices used in critical infrastructure.
U.S. cybersecurity agency CISA, the FBI, and the National Security Agency, among others, said on Wednesday that hackers are targeting “all” Siemens S7 programmable logic controllers, which are devices used for controlling automated physical processes in energy, water systems, manufacturing, and agriculture.
CISA said the attacks are part of broader activity targeting water supply and wastewater systems around the United States. The agency said that the disruption could result in downtime, safety incidents, or equipment damage to critical infrastructure that relies on these devices.
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