Cyber intrusions targeting water and wastewater utilities have been reported in at least a dozen states across the U.S., multiple sources have informed ABC News. While the full scope of the attacks is still being assessed, Iran is considered the prime suspect, though its direct involvement has not been officially confirmed by authorities.

These potential cyberattacks come at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions, making the targeting of critical infrastructure like water systems a significant concern for national security. Such attacks can disrupt operations by altering passwords or disabling crucial alarms, potentially affecting the monitoring and control of water treatment and distribution processes.

Sources indicate that despite the reported intrusions, there have been no widespread disruptions to public water supplies or wastewater treatment services to date. Local operators have reportedly addressed the issues encountered, and no impacts posing a public health concern have been identified.

The FBI is actively investigating these incidents and has issued guidance to water utilities. The bureau is urging these facilities to disconnect systems from the internet whenever feasible, utilize systems with circuit breakers, and ensure personnel are trained to revert to manual controls if automated systems are compromised.

In Michigan, one of the affected states, state police confirmed they are monitoring the situation. They are coordinating with federal partners and working with the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy to communicate with municipal water systems. The Michigan State Police stated that all systems continued to operate safely and that any issues were addressed by local operators without posing a public health concern.

The FBI is leading the investigation into these cyber intrusions, and further inquiries have been referred to the bureau. The nature of the cyberattacks, which can blind operators by altering passwords or disabling alarms, highlights the vulnerability of modern utility infrastructure to sophisticated cyber threats.

Cybersecurity experts have previously warned about the increasing threat of state-sponsored cyberattacks against critical infrastructure. Water systems, in particular, are seen as attractive targets due to their essential nature and the potential for widespread panic and disruption.

While no widespread impacts have been reported so far, the ongoing investigation aims to determine the origin and extent of these attacks and to implement measures to prevent future occurrences. The incident underscores the importance of robust cybersecurity practices for all public utilities.