RWAU ADVISORY | Elevated Cyber Risk

With the recent military action between the United States and Iran, tensions are high. When situations like this happen overseas, cyber activity often follows here at home. Water and wastewater systems have been targeted before because we provide critical public services.

Right now is a good time to stay sharp.

What this means for you:

We are not saying something will happen. But we need everyone paying attention to anything that looks off, especially in plant controls, SCADA systems, remote access, or office computers.

Please do the following:

• Watch for anything unusual in your control systems such as values changing unexpectedly, pumps starting or stopping on their own, or alarms that do not make sense.
• Be cautious with emails. Do not click unknown links or attachments.
• Make sure remote access is locked down and only approved users are connected.
• Review your emergency procedures so you are ready if systems need to be run manually.

If something does happen:

• Report strange computer behavior right away, including slow systems, locked accounts, or unknown login attempts.
• Report the incident to Utah Division of Drinking Water.
• Contact your SCADA or software supplier.
• Ask for help from your Rural Water Association.

If something feels wrong, report it immediately. Do not assume someone else already has.

Water and wastewater operators are the backbone of community safety. Staying alert protects your system and your town.

We will share updates if anything changes.

Stay safe and stay sharp,

RWAU