Real cases of cyberattacks in the logistics sector

Cyberattacks on the logistics sector: Real Cases

CMA CGM cyberattack: Data Breach and Booking Disruption

In 2020, CMA CGM, one of the world’s largest shipping companies, suffered a cyberattack that affected its online booking systems and led to a customer data breach.

The incident temporarily disrupted digital operations and impacted communication with the company’s branches. Although services were restored within a few days, the attack highlighted the sector’s vulnerability to threats that aim not only to disrupt operations but also to steal sensitive information.

Expeditors international cyberattack: Complete operational shutdown

In February 2022, U.S.-based Expeditors International, a global logistics management company, suffered a ransomware attack that forced the temporary suspension of all operations.

For several days, systems were offline, affecting shipment management and causing significant delays across multiple clients’ supply chains. The company reported that the financial impact was “significant” and that full recovery and restoration took several weeks.

Cybersecurity recommendations to prevent ransomware attacks:

• Implement a robust cybersecurity strategy.
• Perform regular backups to ensure data integrity and fast recovery.
• Train staff on cybersecurity awareness and conduct phishing simulations.
• Monitor systems continuously for security breaches and vulnerabilities, and establish incident response policies.
• Deploy anti-phishing solutions.

DNV GL Cyberattack: Fleet management systems compromised

In January 2023, DNV GL, a provider of maritime fleet management software, was hit by ransomware that forced the shutdown of its ShipManager platform, used by over 7,000 ships worldwide.

Although no data was lost, the temporary outage caused delays in maritime operations and demonstrated how an attack on a technology provider can affect the entire global logistics chain.

Toll Group Cyberattacks: Repeated ransomware incidents

Australian logistics and transport company Toll Group suffered two consecutive ransomware attacks in 2020.

The impact was severe: the company lost access to critical systems for billing, container tracking, and port logistics. The total cost of the incidents was estimated at over $300 million.

Port of Los Angeles Cyberattack: Attempted sabotage of critical infrastructure

In 2022, the Port of Los Angeles, one of the world’s busiest ports, faced over 40 million cyberattack attempts per month. Authorities reported that many of these attacks targeted the sabotage of port operations and cargo flows.

Although most attempts were thwarted by advanced cybersecurity infrastructure, the case highlighted the sheer number of threats facing logistics and port systems.

These cases demonstrate a clear reality: the logistics sector is not immune to cyberattacks. Heavy reliance on technology, interconnection with multiple providers, and the need for uninterrupted operations make any security breach a critical business risk.

A cyberattack can not only halt shipments but also block systems, compromise customer data, or even threaten the survival of a company.

This is why prevention is essential. Logistics companies must adopt cybersecurity solutions capable of detecting, responding to, and neutralizing threats before they impact operations, with automatic 24/7 monitoring.

Undoubtedly, moving toward proactive cybersecurity is the key to comprehensive protection.