Heading: EPA Issues Alert on Rising Cybersecurity Threats to Water Utilities and Increases Enforcement Activities

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is ramping up its efforts to protect the nation’s water systems from cybersecurity threats, issuing a warning to water utilities about the increasing risks. The agency found that over 70% of inspected water systems do not fully comply with security requirements, leaving them vulnerable to attacks.

Recent incidents, including a hack by Russian activists targeting water systems in Texas and an attack on an Israeli firm linked to Iran, have highlighted the vulnerability of U.S. water systems to malicious hackers. The EPA is taking action to ensure that water systems are prepared to address these threats and protect public health.

The agency is increasing security-focused inspections and enforcement activities, urging water utilities to conduct risk and resilience assessments and develop emergency response plans. Failure to comply with these requirements could result in criminal sanctions.

Industry groups are advocating for a new federal regulator for the water sector, similar to the electric sector, to address cybersecurity threats. Legislation has been introduced to establish a governing body focused on cybersecurity and water systems.

The EPA and the White House have also sent a letter to governors warning about cyber threats to water systems and inviting state officials to a meeting to discuss the issue. The threats include potential attacks from Chinese-linked hacking groups targeting critical infrastructure in the event of a conflict.

As cybersecurity threats continue to rise, the EPA is taking proactive measures to protect the nation’s drinking water and ensure that water systems are prepared to defend against cyberattacks.