Water utility cyberattacks and boil-water notices: how to follow one safely

Atlanta News First reported on August 4, 2026 that Clayton County, Georgia, issued a boil advisory after a pump station failure. The report says unauthorized cyber activity could be the cause.

What happened

The advisory was lifted the next day after tests came back negative. Columbus Water Works was recovering from a cyberattack on its computer systems that hit on July 27, and officials said its public water supply was never in danger. Water and wastewater utilities in at least seven states have reported incidents to the FBI since July 27.

What it means for your home

The Clayton County advisory was lifted the next day, but while any boil advisory is in place, tap water may not be safe to drink or cook with. A household needs water it can trust for that period, and it needs to know which instructions to follow.

What to do this week

• Store drinking water in clean, labeled containers.
• Keep a purification method for extra water, such as tablets or a filter, and check the labels.
• Sign up for your utility's text or email alerts.
• Write down where your utility posts updates, in case the phone lines or websites are busy.
• Keep the boil-water steps from your utility with your emergency papers.

For how to make water safe to drink, read the guide on making water safe.