An Iranian hacker group has alleged that it successfully breached the water systems of three California cities—Bakersfield, Visalia, and Chico—according to a report by SJV Water. The claim, made public on June 12, 2026, raises serious concerns about the cybersecurity of critical infrastructure in the state.
The group, which has not been officially named in the initial report, stated that it gained unauthorized access to operational technology networks controlling water treatment and distribution facilities. The alleged breaches targeted systems in Kern County, specifically in Bakersfield, as well as in Tulare County (Visalia) and Butte County (Chico).
Local water agencies have not yet confirmed the intrusions, but cybersecurity experts warn that such attacks could disrupt water supply or compromise water quality. The incident underscores the growing threat of state-sponsored hacking groups targeting essential services in the United States.
Authorities are investigating the claims, and residents are advised to stay alert for any official updates from their local water providers.