U.S. investigators are increasingly looking at Iran as a possible behind-the-scenes actor in a series of cyberattacks targeting water systems across the country, according to The New York Times. Federal and state authorities have confirmed attempted hacks at water facilities in at least seven states, and some of the incidents affected water system operations.
The FBI and the Environmental Protection Agency said the attacks were directed at drinking water facilities, though the bureau did not identify the affected locations. Michigan separately reported hacking activity at nine facilities, while Minnesota previously said about 30 facilities had been targeted.
So far, there is no indication that water quality changed or that drinking water safety was directly threatened. Still, state and local governments across the U.S. are stepping up their alert levels in case cyberattacks disrupt computer systems that monitor and control water quality, chemical treatment levels and water pressure.
The investigation remains ongoing, and officials have not publicly confirmed who is responsible. The heightened concern reflects broader worries about attacks on critical infrastructure, especially systems that support public health and daily life.
