U.S. officials suspect Iranian-linked hackers may be behind breaches of systems used to monitor fuel levels at gas stations in multiple states. The intrusions involved automatic tank gauge systems, which track how much fuel is stored in underground tanks and can help station operators detect possible leaks.
People briefed on the investigation said the affected systems were connected to the internet and, in some cases, were not protected by passwords. That access allowed hackers to change displayed fuel readings, but not the actual amount of fuel inside the tanks.
No physical damage or injuries have been reported. Officials have not confirmed who was responsible, and investigators may have limited digital evidence to make a firm attribution.
The concern is less about fuel being stolen or pumps being directly controlled, and more about weak security around equipment tied to everyday infrastructure. If tank readings are manipulated, operators could miss signs of a leak or make decisions based on false information.
The incident adds to wider concerns about exposed industrial systems across the United States.
