Fact Check: "Cyberattacks can target critical infrastructure and commercial networks."
What We Know
Cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure and commercial networks are a significant concern for national security and economic stability. According to the Homeland Threat Assessment 2025, disruptive and destructive cyberattacks are increasingly directed at critical infrastructure, which includes sectors such as energy, water, and transportation. The assessment highlights that malicious cyber actors exploit vulnerabilities in these sectors, often employing tactics like ransomware to compromise systems.
Additionally, a report from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) states that cyber actors continue to target critical infrastructure through various means, indicating a persistent threat landscape. This is further corroborated by recent findings that Iranian-affiliated cyber actors are specifically targeting U.S. networks, including critical infrastructure, as noted in a report by the Internet Crime Complaint Center.
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim that cyberattacks can target critical infrastructure and commercial networks is robust. The sources cited are credible and come from reputable organizations, including government assessments and cybersecurity agencies. The Homeland Threat Assessment 2025 is a comprehensive document prepared by the Department of Homeland Security, which provides insights into current threats and vulnerabilities. Similarly, the CISA report emphasizes the ongoing exploitation of vulnerabilities in critical sectors, reinforcing the idea that these networks are prime targets for cyberattacks.
Moreover, the report on Iranian cyber actors indicates a specific geopolitical dimension to these threats, highlighting that state-sponsored groups are actively seeking to disrupt U.S. infrastructure. This adds a layer of urgency to the claim, as it suggests that not only are these attacks possible, but they are also being actively pursued by hostile entities.
While the sources used in this analysis are credible, it is important to note that the landscape of cyber threats is constantly evolving. The effectiveness of cybersecurity measures can vary, and new vulnerabilities can emerge, which may change the dynamics of these threats over time. However, the current evidence strongly supports the assertion that cyberattacks can and do target critical infrastructure and commercial networks.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that cyberattacks can target critical infrastructure and commercial networks is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The ongoing threats highlighted in government assessments and reports from cybersecurity agencies confirm that these sectors are indeed vulnerable to cyberattacks, which can have significant implications for national security and public safety.
