US adversaries’ hackers breach critical systems in multiple states, according to federal authorities
Iran-Affiliated Hackers Breach Critical Systems Across Multiple States, Feds Say
A small water authority in western Pennsylvania was among the organizations targeted by Iran-affiliated hackers in a recent breach, according to U.S. and Israeli authorities. The hackers specifically targeted an Israeli-made industrial control device, and multiple organizations across several U.S. states were affected.
“The victims span multiple U.S. states,” the FBI, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), as well as Israel’s National Cyber Directorate said in an advisory.
The exact number of hacked organizations has not been disclosed. However, Matthew Mottes, the chairman of the Municipal Water Authority of Aliquippa, revealed that four other utilities and an aquarium were also breached by the same group.
While there is no evidence linking Iran to the recent attack on Israel by Hamas, cybersecurity experts anticipated an increase in cyberattacks by state-backed Iranian hackers and pro-Palestinian hacktivists. The multiagency advisory confirmed that industries beyond water and water-treatment facilities, such as energy, food and beverage manufacturing, and healthcare, are also at risk due to the use of the same vulnerable equipment.
The hackers left a message on the compromised device, stating that all Israeli-made equipment is a “legal target.” The advisory warns that the hackers, known as “Cyber Av3ngers,” are affiliated with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps.
Key Findings:
- The breach affected multiple organizations in the U.S., including a small water authority in Pennsylvania.
- Iran-affiliated hackers targeted an Israeli-made industrial control device.
- Industries beyond water facilities, such as energy and healthcare, are also potentially vulnerable.
- The hackers left a message declaring Israeli-made equipment as a “legal target.”
- The group responsible for the breach is affiliated with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps.
The advisory emphasizes the importance of strong cybersecurity practices, including the use of unique passwords and avoiding default settings. It also highlights the need for increased attention to cybersecurity in water utilities and critical infrastructure.
In response to the breach, three Pennsylvania congressmen have requested an investigation by the U.S. Justice Department to ensure the safety of drinking water and other essential infrastructure from nation-state adversaries and terrorist organizations.
The Biden administration has been working to strengthen cybersecurity in critical infrastructure, but experts argue that more industries should be subject to regulations rather than relying on self-regulation.
The Western Journal has reviewed this Associated Press story and may have altered it prior to publication to ensure that it meets our editorial standards.
Source: The Western Journal
What steps are being taken by organizations in the healthcare sector to enhance cybersecurity measures and protect their critical systems from Iran-affiliated hackers?
Thcare, are all potential targets for Iran-affiliated hackers.
The breach of critical systems by these hackers raises significant concerns regarding the security of essential infrastructure in the United States. The fact that these hackers targeted an Israeli-made industrial control device suggests a deliberate attempt to compromise the systems that are crucial for the functioning of various industries.
In response to the breach, the FBI, the Environmental Protection Agency, CISA, and Israel’s National Cyber Directorate issued a joint advisory, urging organizations to enhance their cybersecurity measures. This emphasizes the seriousness of the situation and the need for swift action to prevent further intrusions.
The lack of disclosure regarding the exact number of hacked organizations indicates the complexity and magnitude of the breach. It is essential for affected organizations to cooperate with authorities and take immediate steps to identify and mitigate the damage caused by the cyberattack.
The Municipal Water Authority of Aliquippa, along with four other utilities and an aquarium, fell victim to the same group of hackers. This highlights the vulnerability of even small-scale organizations that may not have the robust cybersecurity infrastructure. It is crucial for all organizations, regardless of their size, to prioritize cybersecurity and implement robust measures to protect their critical systems.
Although there is no direct evidence linking Iran to the recent attack on Israel by Hamas, it is not surprising to witness an increase in cyberattacks by state-backed Iranian hackers and pro-Palestinian hacktivists. Such attacks are often seen as a means of retaliation or advancing geopolitical objectives. As tensions in the region persist, it is crucial for governments and organizations to remain vigilant and enhance their cybersecurity capabilities.
Industries beyond water and water-treatment facilities are also at risk of being targeted by Iran-affiliated hackers. Energy, food and beverage manufacturing, and healthcare sectors are all potential targets due to their critical nature. The consequences of successful cyberattacks in these industries can be devastating, leading to disruptions in essential services, compromised safety, and financial losses.
To effectively combat cyber threats and protect critical systems, collaboration between government agencies, private organizations, and international partners is crucial. Sharing information and best practices, conducting joint exercises, and developing advanced cybersecurity technologies are essential steps in fostering a secure digital environment.
In conclusion, the recent breach of critical systems across multiple states by Iran-affiliated hackers highlights the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures. Organizations must prioritize the protection of their critical systems, irrespective of their size. Governments and international partners need to collaborate closely to address the escalating cyber threats. By working together, we can fortify our defenses and mitigate the risks posed by malicious actors in the digital realm.
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