The FBI and EPA are warning that malicious cyber actors are targeting internet-facing programmable logic controllers used by water and wastewater utilities. Since July 27, utility companies in at least seven states have reported incidents to the FBI, with some activity degrading water operations. The attackers remotely accessed exposed devices, changed IP addresses and passwords, and caused utilities to lose monitoring and control functionality. Reported operational effects have included loss of pressure and flooding, raising concern about how cyberattacks can quickly move from digital systems into real-world water disruptions.
Why This Matters:
Water systems depend on equipment most households never see, but when that equipment is exposed or compromised, the effects can reach communities fast. A cyberattack on water infrastructure can affect pressure, monitoring, treatment, flooding, and the ability of utilities to keep systems running safely. For households, it is another reminder that safe water should not depend on the grid, the internet, or a utility system working perfectly. Having backup water and reliable filtration in place gives families an added layer of protection when the systems they rely on are disrupted.
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Source: FBI
By: FBI National Press Office
