US agencies warn hackers targeting fuel tank monitoring systems
CISA and interagency partners alert that internet-exposed automatic tank gauges across critical infrastructure are under active cyberattack.
A coalition of US federal agencies—including CISA, the FBI, the NSA, and the Department of Energy—has issued a joint advisory warning that threat actors are actively targeting automatic tank gauge systems used to monitor fuel and liquid storage across critical infrastructure.
ATG systems track inventory levels, temperatures, and leak detection in storage tanks at facilities ranging from fuel depots to chemical plants. Many of these devices remain connected to the internet without adequate security controls, creating an accessible attack surface for adversaries seeking to disrupt operations or gather intelligence on supply chains. The advisory comes amid broader concerns about the vulnerability of operational technology in energy and industrial sectors. Compromised tank monitoring systems could enable attackers to manipulate readings, trigger false alarms, or mask genuine leaks—each carrying operational and safety consequences.
- 01Energy sector operators must audit internet-facing ATG systems for exposure and weak authentication.
- 02Supply chain managers face potential disruption if tank monitoring integrity is compromised.
- 03Industrial facility owners should segment operational technology networks from corporate IT infrastructure.
- 04Insurers may scrutinize OT security posture in critical infrastructure underwriting.