Cybersecurity experts are warning of a sharp increase in hacking attempts targeting power plants, hospitals, and water systems as the Iran conflict continues and peace talks restart in Qatar. The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency reported 340 confirmed attacks on critical infrastructure in May 2026 alone, nearly double the monthly average from last year.
During wars and international crises, hackers—some working for governments and some acting independently—try to break into computer systems to cause damage or steal information. Iran, the United States, and allied nations all have experienced cyber units that carry out attacks against each other's networks. The ongoing conflict creates pressure on both sides to act quickly, sometimes leading to more reckless hacking attempts.
Ordinary people are affected because hospitals and power grids keep hospitals running and homes lit. Small businesses that rely on the internet for sales are also at risk if hackers break into their systems and steal customer information. People who travel or work in energy and transportation fields face extra danger if these systems get hit by cyberattacks.
The U.S. Department of Defense and private cybersecurity companies are increasing patrols of vulnerable networks to catch hackers before they cause damage. President Trump's administration announced in May that it would invest an additional $200 million in cybersecurity for hospitals and emergency services over the next 12 months. The peace talks in Qatar may reduce tensions and give hackers less motivation to attack, but experts say monitoring will stay high for months.