Michigan Water Systems Hit by Cyberattacks; FBI Investigates Potential Iranian Link

Michigan has reported cyberattacks targeting nine of its water systems, mirroring recent breaches in Minnesota. The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) confirmed it is investigating both sets of attacks, which occurred shortly after federal agencies issued a warning about potential Iranian cyber threats targeting water and wastewater facilities.

While no culprit has been identified, the FBI and other agencies had previously alerted states to Iranian hackers potentially targeting critical infrastructure. "The FBI is aware of recent public reporting around Water and Wastewater (WWS) sectors," the agency stated. "The FBI and our interagency partners are fully engaged to protect critical infrastructure, and we remain well-equipped to protect against cyber threats of all varieties."

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The FBI is aware of recent public reporting around Water and Wastewater (WWS) sectors. The FBI and our interagency partners are fully engaged to protect critical infrastructure, and we remain well-equipped to protect against cyber threats of all varieties.

Dale George, communications director for Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, assured that "all systems continued to operate safely" despite the attacks. Michigan received a federal cyber alert about attempts to tamper with operational technology in water systems, followed by a small number of reports from communities experiencing activity consistent with the federal description.

Minnesota had reported attacks on 30 sites earlier in the week, primarily involving technology used for remote monitoring and control of equipment. Officials noted that these breaches did not necessarily equate to water service disruptions, and as of Thursday, no water usage modifications had been requested by residents.

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all systems continued to operate safely