Indiana American Water, along with its parent company American Water, recently fell victim to a significant cyber attack. The incident, which was discovered on October 3, 2024, led to the shutdown of the customer service portal, affecting 1.4 million customers in Indiana.
What Caused the Cyber Security Attack
According to American Water, the largest water utility in the U.S., the attack involved unauthorized activity in their computer networks and systems. In response, the company activated its incident response protocols, involving third-party cybersecurity professionals and law enforcement to contain and investigate the breach.
Results of the Cyber Security Hack
Despite the disruption to the customer service portal and billing systems, American Water assured that their water and wastewater facilities were not impacted. The company has paused billing and waived late fees until the systems are fully restored.
This incident highlights the growing threat of cyber attacks on critical infrastructure, emphasizing the need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect essential services.
Active Steps to Prevent Further Cyber Threats
- Connect with a Cyber Security Partner: Partnering with experts like BCS Management is crucial. They can provide tailored solutions, proactive monitoring, and rapid response to threats, ensuring robust protection for your business.
- Strengthen Passwords and Access Controls: Use strong, unique passwords for all accounts and implement multi-factor authentication wherever possible. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring additional verification, like a code sent to your phone, even if someone has your password.
- Regularly Update Software and Systems: Keeping your software, operating systems, and applications up-to-date is essential. Updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities that cybercriminals could exploit.
Contact BCS Management today to be better prepared for future attacks.