Ransomware Attack Targets Minot Water Treatment Plant, Water Supply Remains Safe
Severity: Medium (Score: 51.0)
Sources: Kfyrtv, Statescoop
Summary
In March 2026, the Minot Water Treatment Plant in North Dakota experienced a ransomware attack that compromised its SCADA system. The attack was detected on March 14, prompting staff to revert to manual gauge readings for approximately 16 hours until a replacement server could be installed. City officials confirmed that the water supply remained safe throughout the incident, affecting around 80,000 residents. The ransomware did not include a ransom demand, and the city did not pay any amount. The incident has led to opportunities for improved training and system design. City Manager Tom Joyce expressed a desire for better crisis management coordination during the event. The FBI has been notified, and recovery efforts are underway. The attack highlights ongoing vulnerabilities in water utilities, which have been targeted by cyber campaigns from state actors. Key Points: • Minot Water Treatment Plant suffered a ransomware attack on March 14, 2026. • The attack forced manual operations for 16 hours, but water safety was maintained. • No ransom was demanded, and the city is focusing on recovery and system improvements.
Key Entities
- Ransomware (attack_type)
- City Of Minot (company)
- Minot Water Treatment Plant (company)
- China (country)
- Iran (country)
- Israel (country)
- United States (country)
- Government (industry)
- Scada (platform)