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Hackers Targeting Industrial Control Systems Poses Threat to Water Supplies, Warns US Cyberdefense Agency

HARRISBURG, Pa. – Water and sewage-treatment utilities are being targeted by hackers, potentially endangering water supplies, according to the top U.S. cyberdefense agency. The alert was issued by the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency following a recent cyberattack on the Municipal Water Authority of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania.

The attack, carried out by hacktivists, resulted in the shutdown of a critical piece of equipment at the water authority, which regulates water pressure for customers in two nearby towns. To mitigate the situation, manual backup systems were activated by the utility’s crews. The incident underscores the vulnerability of industrial control systems to cyber threats.

U.S. officials investigating the incident revealed that the attackers exploited cybersecurity weaknesses, including poor password security and exposure to the internet, to gain unauthorized access to the targeted device. The water authority in Aliquippa has yet to respond to inquiries regarding the incident.

The equipment identified as vulnerable is widely used across various industries, including electric utilities and oil and gas producers. It plays a crucial role in regulating processes such as pressure, temperature, and fluid flow, as stated by the manufacturer.

Although there is no known risk to the drinking water or water supply in the affected Pennsylvania towns, the U.S. cyberdefense agency has called upon water and wastewater utilities across the entire country to implement measures to safeguard their facilities from potential cyberattacks.

The manufacturer of the compromised equipment, Unitronics, based in Israel, has not provided immediate responses regarding other potentially compromised facilities or any vulnerabilities that may exist. Unitronics’ website states that the controllers in question are designed for use in a wide range of industries.

Recognizing the criticality of cybersecurity in U.S. critical infrastructure, the Biden administration has been actively working towards strengthening the nation’s defenses. With over 80% of critical infrastructure privately owned, regulations have been imposed on sectors including electric utilities, gas pipelines, and nuclear facilities. However, many experts argue that self-regulation within vital industries remains a concern, prompting administration officials to push for greater responsibility on the part of software providers in ensuring safety.

As the threat landscape continues to evolve, it is imperative for all stakeholders to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to protect critical systems and infrastructure from cyber threats.

The Associated Press

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