The U.S. is accelerating its investigation into cyberattacks targeting more than 30 water systems in Minnesota, following ongoing attacks since Sunday. Security agencies warn the hacker groups may have connections to Iran.
Minnesota IT Services revealed it is currently working with related agencies to investigate the cyberattacks targeting over 30 water systems in Minnesota. The perpetrators have not yet been identified, and there are no reports of direct impact on residents. However, one city requested residents to conserve water for about two hours while officials inspected system irregularities.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), which is also investigating the case, has not disclosed which group it believes is responsible. A spokesperson declined to provide further details.
Just a week earlier, the FBI, the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), and other security agencies issued warnings that Iranian hacker groups were targeting water supply systems, wastewater treatment, and critical infrastructure control systems across multiple sectors.
Experts state that cyber warfare has become part of modern conflicts, while local utilities such as water plants and healthcare facilities often have limited budgets and cybersecurity staff. This restricts their ability to update defenses or promptly patch vulnerabilities, making them easy targets for malicious actors and potentially causing widespread alarm if critical systems fail.
Minnesota IT Services added that the recent attacks share similar characteristics, including timing and the technologies used. However, officials cannot yet confirm if all attacks were carried out by the same group.
One of the affected areas is the city of Plymouth, with approximately 80,000 residents, located outside Minneapolis. The city announced via social media that its water infrastructure communication systems were restored to normal operation by Tuesday afternoon after the cyberattacks.
City officials stated that although communication systems were disrupted, personnel were able to continue operating the water system throughout the incident, ensuring that water levels and quality were unaffected.
/source:AP
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