Federal investigators are probing a suspected cyberattack on more than 30 community water systems across Minnesota, after malicious digital activity disrupted operations and forced several utilities to switch to manual controls.

According to state officials, four cities publicly confirmed the attacks, while investigators are examining whether the hackers have links to Iranian cyber groups. The FBI has cautioned that the findings remain preliminary, and officials are also considering whether the attackers intentionally tried to appear Iran-based amid heightened U.S.-Iran tensions.

The incident has once again raised concerns over the security of America's critical infrastructure, including water, wastewater, energy, and transportation systems. Previous cyber incidents involving alleged Iran-linked hacking groups have already placed U.S. utilities on high alert.

Iran-Linked Cyberattack? FBI Probes Minnesota Water System Hack |US Critical Infrastructure Targeted

United States on Wednesday (Sep 18) revealed that Iranian hackers had attempted to interfere in the 2024 election by sending stolen material from Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump's campaign to people involved with Democratic President Joe Biden's re-election campaign.

Iranian hackers tried to tip 2024 US Election by leaking Trump campaign secrets to Biden's team: FBI and DNI

Millions of ordinary people in Iran and Israel recently found themselves caught up in the crossfire of a cyberwar between their countries. In Tehran, Iran, a dentist drove around for hours in search of gasoline, waiting in long lines at four gas stations only to come away empty.

Israel and Iran broaden cyberwar to attack civilian targets