Turbulent Waters: When Cyberattacks Target Water Systems
Securing water systems from cyberattacks is vital for preserving critical infrastructure and ensuring continuous clean water supply.
The escalating cyber threats to critical infrastructure have been highlighted recently, particularly in a letter from Jake Sullivan, President Joe Biden’s national security adviser, to U.S. state governors. This letter emphasized the continuous threats from nation-state actors to the country’s water and wastewater systems.
Water systems, essential for everyday life, supply clean water for drinking, sanitation, and industrial operations. Yet, their susceptibility to cyber threats is on the rise. Recent attacks on water facilities have served as a wake-up call, underlining the immediate necessity to tackle cybersecurity vulnerabilities.
Water systems have become an increasing target for nation-state threat actors looking to exploit vulnerabilities. A notable example is the Iranian-linked group, CyberAv3ngers, which has specifically targeted operational technology in U.S. water facilities. They attacked the Municipal Water Authority of Aliquippa recently using a default manufacturer password.
The activities of Volt Typhoon, a Chinese state-backed cyber group, are equally alarming. Volt Typhoon has successfully breached information technology systems, including those belonging to water suppliers, suggesting a strategic positioning for potential disruption amidst rising geopolitical tensions.
In a brief but alarming incident in February 2021, hackers targeted a water treatment facility in Oldsmar, Florida, attempting to dangerously increase sodium hydroxide levels. Thanks to a vigilant operator who quickly reversed the unauthorized changes, no harm was done. This incident underscored the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to cyber threats and highlighted the pressing need for improved cybersecurity in critical infrastructure.
Cyberattacks present a grave risk to water supply networks, with the potential for causing disruptions, contaminations, or even total shutdowns. Perpetrators can tamper with control systems, modify water treatment procedures, or undermine distribution mechanisms. The possibility of entire communities deprived of safe drinking water due to a cyberattack is frightening.
The meddling of cybercriminals with water quality measures can result in serious health consequences. Changes in chlorine concentrations, pH levels, or chemical dosages can make water unfit for drinking. Such contamination can trigger the spread of waterborne illnesses, impacting vast populations. Especially susceptible are groups like children and the elderly.
Water infrastructure, which includes reservoirs, treatment facilities, pipelines, and pump stations, is susceptible to cyberattacks. A successful attack could inflict physical damage, leading to expensive repairs and extended service interruptions. For example, a breached pump station could malfunction, resulting in floods, property destruction, and environmental contamination.
Cyberattacks on water systems present significant economic consequences. These attacks can put a strain on local budgets due to the costs of repairs, lost revenue, and emergency responses. Furthermore, disruptions in water supply chains can have a detrimental impact on industries that rely heavily on water, such as agriculture, manufacturing, and energy production.
The intricate interconnectedness of water systems with other critical infrastructures such as energy, transportation, and communication networks creates a complex web of interdependencies. A successful cyberattack on water systems could potentially trigger cascading effects, leading to broader disruptions across multiple sectors.
This potential has not gone unnoticed by nation-states and threat actors seeking to exploit such interdependencies for geopolitical motives. Water systems, therefore, become attractive targets for those with malicious intent, as a breach could potentially cripple not just the water supply but also paralyze other vital services that rely on its uninterrupted operation.
In response to cyber threats targeting water systems, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and other government agencies have outlined practical actions to enhance cybersecurity and improve resilience against malicious cyber activity. The key guidelines emphasize reducing exposure to the public-facing internet by limiting access points and implementing robust access controls with strong authentication mechanisms.
Safeguarding water systems from cyberattacks is a pressing issue that requires a comprehensive strategy. Conducting routine cybersecurity evaluations and vulnerability assessments are key to identifying flaws in control systems and infrastructure. Implementing role-specific access limitations and network segmentation can deter unauthorized entry and limit the potential impact of a cyber event.
Continuous monitoring, intrusion detection systems, and promptly applying software updates and patches can address known vulnerabilities and alert operators to suspicious activities, enabling timely response and mitigation efforts. Employee cybersecurity training programs foster a culture of awareness, empowering individuals to be vigilant against threats and act as an additional layer of human defense.
Furthermore, developing, and exercising cybersecurity incident response and recovery plans ensure swift restoration of system functionality in the event of a breach. Regular backups protect data integrity, while keeping an inventory of operational and information technology assets facilitates efficient monitoring and protection of crucial components.
Securing our water systems from the ever-evolving cyber threat landscape is a collective responsibility that demands a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy. This strategy must incorporate defense-in-depth principles and foster collaboration with relevant stakeholders. As we navigate these turbulent waters, let’s recognize the importance of implementing robust cybersecurity as we ensure the uninterrupted flow of life’s most precious resource – water.