Hackers linked to Iran target U.S. water systems with basic security gaps

Hackers tied to Iran have hit water utilities in about a dozen U.S. states since late July 2026, targeting internet-connected equipment controls. The government warned about this risk in April. The U.S. has over 150,000 public water systems, mostly small towns without security staff. Fixes are simple; the barrier is organizational, and has persisted for years.