On July 26 and 27, 2026, more than 30 water systems in Minnesota were hit by cyberattacks. A few days later, matching exploits were lodged in other US states. By August, it was recorded that water systems in 12 states had been impacted. In some regions, workers failed to maintain control of parts of their systems and had to handle them manually. The attacks did not contaminate the water or cause significant damage to anyone, but they made it evident how a problem that starts on a machine can reach something as basic as the water we drink.

This incident may seem like something remote from our daily lives. But consider what happens when we turn on a tap. We expect water to come out without any reconsideration. Beneath that seemingly simple action, however, there are pumps, machines, and computer systems operating collectively. If someone gains control of these systems, even for a while, standard operations can instantly become complicated issues.

The hackers in these attacks did not need to breach some impossible computer systems. They hit small devices called programmable logic controllers, or PLCs. These devices help control pumps, pressures, and other parts of water systems. Some of these devices are connected to the internet and have poor security. In some scenarios, hackers changed passwords and settings, making it difficult for the people administering the water systems to manage them. Workers then had to take over manually.

This is what makes this whole event worrisome. It was not........

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