Late last week, federal authorities issued a stern warning saying “malicious cyber actors” were targeting water and wastewater facilities in at least seven states across the US. Minnesota appeared to be the hardest hit with 30 of its water systems hit by cyber-attacks, leading to disruptions in the state’s water supply. … The [US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security] agency highlighted the fact that critical infrastructure systems can be especially vulnerable to cyber-attacks in the digital age. Much of the problem stemmed from water facilities’ connection to the internet, which made it possible for hackers to infiltrate, change passwords and lock out operators. To mitigate continued disturbances, the agency advised utilities to take their systems offline and switch to manual mode.

Related:

• The National News Desk: Analysis: More than half of water systems lack adequate digital security
• Smart Water Magazine: FBI and EPA warn of cyberattacks on water sector PLCs after string of US incidents
• Construction Dive: 30+ water utility cyberattacks expose a vulnerability across US cities