FBI Launches International Manhunt for Suspect in High-Profile Cyberattack on U.S. Energy Grid
WASHINGTON, D.C. - On Thursday, the Federal Bureau of Investigation announced the launch of an international manhunt for an unidentified suspect allegedly responsible for a sophisticated cyberattack that disrupted operations at three major U.S. electrical substations. According to an FBI press release, the incident occurred on Wednesday at approximately 6:30 p.m. Eastern Time when hackers breached the substation's control systems in Texas, Ohio, and Michigan. The attack, described as a targeted and coordinated effort, caused temporary power outages affecting an estimated 2,000 households and critical infrastructure for over four hours. FBI Deputy Director Paul Abbate stated in a press conference that the agency's Cyber Division is collaborating with the Department of Homeland Security and international partners to track the suspect, who is believed to be operating from an undisclosed location overseas. Preliminary intelligence suggests the attack may be linked to a state-sponsored group, though the FBI cautioned that no final attribution has been made. The agency urged the public to report any suspicious online activity as the investigation continues.