Waco’s experience shows that critical utility networks often include far more than plant controls, and that unsecured devices connected through public cellular networks can expose water and wastewater systems to intrusions. The article argues that fixing accountability and using existing funding mechanisms for microsegmentation are the fastest ways to protect infrastructure, with support from initiatives like Project Watershed 250 and state water cybersecurity programs. #Waco #ProjectWatershed250 #TexasCyberCommand #CISA #FBI #EPA
Keypoints
- Waco discovered that its utility network included unexpected systems such as a library and golf course register.
- July intrusions affected water and wastewater equipment reachable through public cellular modems.
- Many utilities lack full inventory visibility because cellular-connected controllers are often absent from asset lists and scans.
- Microsegmentation can isolate critical plant systems without replacing existing infrastructure.
- Texas launched Project Watershed 250 to provide water utilities with testing, assessments, and hardening support.
Read More: https://cyberscoop.com/water-utility-cybersecurity-network-segmentation-op-ed/