Cyberattacks targeting water supply systems across the United States have widened to affect at least seven states, according to a report by The New York Times. Federal officials and cybersecurity experts confirmed that multiple incidents caused operational disruptions at affected facilities.

Authorities reassured the public that there is no evidence drinking water has been contaminated or rendered unsafe.

Several water facilities were compelled to issue boil-water notices or switch to manual operations following the intrusions. In Michigan, state officials acknowledged suspicious activity in a small number of communities, consistent with federal warnings. Despite this, they emphasised that the water systems continued to operate safely.

Federal officials told The New York Times that breaches have impacted infrastructure in at least seven states.

They reiterated that there are no indications any water supply has been altered or made unsafe for consumption. The incidents have raised concerns about vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure.

Investigators are examining whether Iranian state-backed hackers were responsible for the attacks. CBS News reported that federal officials consider Iran the leading suspect, though they stressed the inquiry remains preliminary. No definitive forensic evidence has yet been established linking Iran to the intrusions.

The investigation comes amid a broader Middle East security crisis now entering its sixth month. Cyber operations targeting infrastructure have increasingly been viewed as extensions of geopolitical conflict. Analysts note that water systems, often reliant on outdated digital controls, present attractive targets for hostile actors.

US President Donald Trump dismissed suggestions that Iran was behind the disruptions. Speaking on Friday, he said, “I don’t think there was an Iranian cyberattack.” His remarks contrasted with ongoing federal inquiries into possible Iranian involvement. Trump’s statement also reflected his administration’s cautious approach to attributing cyber incidents without conclusive evidence.

Authorities reassured utility consumers that, despite operational disruptions, there is no evidence drinking water has been contaminated. Officials emphasised that public water supplies remain safe. The reassurance was intended to prevent panic and maintain confidence in essential services.

The widening scope of the attacks underscores the vulnerability of US critical infrastructure. Cybersecurity experts have long warned that water systems, power grids, and transportation networks are susceptible to foreign intrusion. The suspected involvement of Iranian-backed hackers highlights the intersection of cyber warfare and traditional geopolitical tensions.

ANI