AI tools helped hackers attack U.S. water systems, officials say

CISA confirmed attackers used AI tools to build hacking code targeting Siemens controllers — computers that run industrial equipment — during July 2026 attacks on over 100 U.S. water systems. U.S. intelligence assesses Iran is likely responsible. In this author's view, AI-assisted hacking has moved from research demo to real state campaign, a meaningful threshold.