March 19, 2024 at 06:04PM
U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and EPA Administrator Michael Regan sent a joint letter to governors warning about cyberattacks targeting the country’s water infrastructure. They seek governors’ support in safeguarding water systems against cyber threats and proposed a Water Sector Cybersecurity Task Force. Recent attacks by Iranian and Chinese groups highlight the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures.
Key takeaways from the meeting notes:
– National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and EPA Administrator Michael Regan sent a joint letter to governors to seek support in defending water systems against cyberattacks and to ensure the ability to recover from breaches.
– The EPA and NSC are taking cyber threats to water systems seriously and plan to collaborate with state leaders on this issue.
– A virtual meeting is scheduled for March 21 to establish a Water Sector Cybersecurity Task Force, which will work on strategies to minimize cyberattack risks.
– Recent attacks on U.S. water systems by Iranian and Chinese state-backed threat groups have prompted the call for action, with various ransomware attacks impacting water facilities over the last decade.
– CISA has also released a free security scan program to help critical infrastructure facilities like water utilities identify and address security gaps.