California Water Service (Cal Water), the state’s largest regulated water utility, has confirmed that its operational technology (OT) systems were not compromised in the recent Iranian Handala cyberattack. The announcement comes as a relief to customers and industry experts who were concerned about the potential impact on critical water infrastructure.
Cal Water Assures No OT Systems Breached
In a statement issued on June 24, 2026, Cal Water stated that its investigation found no evidence of any unauthorized access or disruption to its OT systems. The company emphasized that its water treatment and distribution operations remained unaffected by the Handala attack, which targeted industrial control systems in several countries.
Handala Hackers Targeted Critical Infrastructure
The Handala cyberattack, attributed to the Iranian hacking group MuddyWater, is believed to have compromised systems in the United States, United Kingdom, and several other nations. The group is known for its sophisticated tactics, including the use of malware and credential theft, to infiltrate and disrupt critical infrastructure providers.
Cal Water’s Reliable Cybersecurity Measures
Cal Water credited its reliable cybersecurity protocols and continuous monitoring for the successful defense against the Handala attack. The company stated that it has used advanced security measures, including network segmentation, multi-factor authentication, and regular vulnerability assessments, to protect its OT systems from emerging threats.
Importance of Water Infrastructure Security
The Handala incident underscores the critical importance of safeguarding water infrastructure against cyber threats. Water utilities like Cal Water play a important role in ensuring the reliable supply of clean, safe water to communities, and any disruption to their operations could have far-reaching consequences. Industry experts have long emphasized the need for complete cybersecurity strategies to protect these essential services.
Collaboration with Authorities and Peers
Cal Water also noted that it has been working closely with local and federal authorities, as well as other water utilities, to share information and best practices in the fight against cybercrime. The company stated that it remains vigilant and committed to continuously enhancing its security measures to protect its systems and customers.
