Cyberattacks hit water facilities in seven states across the US — 2026-08-01

## Short Segments Silicon carbon batteries are reshaping smartphone energy storage, with Samsung now adopting this technology in its new Fold lineup. We'll explore how this impacts battery life. Plus, a judge halts Waymo's overnight charging in Santa Monica due to noise complaints, and Defcon's new badge doubles as a transparent security key. Coming up, cyberattacks on water facilities in seven US states raise serious infrastructure concerns. Silicon carbon batteries are making waves in the smartphone industry, promising longer battery life and greater energy density. Major Chinese smartphone makers have already embraced this technology, and now Samsung has joined the ranks with its latest Fold lineup. By replacing traditional graphite with silicon, these batteries can store more power in the same footprint, potentially extending the time between charges. This shift could address one of the most persistent issues in smartphone design: battery life. As more manufacturers consider this technology, the potential for longer-lasting devices becomes a reality. However, widespread adoption may take time due to production costs and integration challenges. For now, silicon carbon batteries represent a promising step forward in energy storage, offering a glimpse into the future of mobile technology. Waymo faces a legal setback as a judge orders the company to cease overnight charging operations in Santa Monica. The ruling comes after residents complained about noise, light pollution, and traffic congestion caused by the autonomous vehicle giant's charging facilities. The Los Angeles Superior Court's decision grants a preliminary injunction, pausing Waymo's overnight activities while the public nuisance lawsuit proceeds. This development highlights the ongoing tension between innovative mobility solutions and community impact. As the case unfolds, it underscores the need for balancing technological advancement with neighborhood harmony. The outcome could set a precedent for how cities manage the integration of autonomous vehicle infrastructure in residential areas. Defcon's latest conference badge is more than just a collector's item; it's a transparent security key designed by hardware hacker Andrew "bunnie" Huang. This year's badge features an open-source chip that aims to enhance security and trust in computing. Unlike previous years, where the focus was on intricate designs and puzzles, the 2026 badge emphasizes functionality and transparency. Attendees can see inside the hardware, offering a unique opportunity to explore the inner workings of a security device. This innovation reflects a broader trend towards open-source solutions in cybersecurity, promoting transparency and collaboration. As Defcon continues to push the boundaries of what's possible, this badge represents a significant step in advancing security technology. ## Feature Story Cyberattacks on water facilities in seven US states have prompted urgent warnings from the FBI and the Environmental Protection Agency. These attacks, which began on July 27, 2026, have disrupted critical water infrastructure, causing issues like flooding and loss of water pressure. The hackers targeted internet-facing programmable logic controllers, altering device settings and degrading operations. This coordinated assault is one of the most serious on US water systems in recent years, raising alarms about the vulnerability of essential services. Investigators are probing the possibility of a shared vulnerability in industrial controllers that made multiple utilities susceptible to attack. The incidents have led some facilities to issue boil-water notices and switch to manual operations, highlighting the potential for widespread disruption. As authorities work to identify the perpetrators and secure the systems, this situation underscores the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures in protecting vital infrastructure. The outcome of this investigation could influence future policies and strategies for safeguarding public utilities against cyber threats.