FBI Issues Warning on Rise in Hacker-Enabled Cargo Theft Cases

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FBI Warns of Surge in Hacker-Enabled Cargo Theft

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued a warning about a significant spike in hacker-enabled cargo theft, targeting both brokers and carriers in complex attacks.

Trend Not New, But Growing Concern

This trend is not unprecedented, as cybersecurity firms have been tracking similar incidents since at least 2024. Notably, Proofpoint reported a rise in these types of attacks in late 2025, while the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) cautioned the logistics and transportation industry that traditional cargo theft was giving way to cyber-enabled heists.

Cargo Theft Costs Rising

In 2025, cargo theft resulted in over $700 million in losses, representing a 60% increase compared to the previous year. This uptick is attributed to organized crime groups targeting high-value commodities.

“According to the FBI, a typical attack scenario involves fake emails, phishing sites, malware, and remote management software used by threat actors to gain control over the targeted company’s internal systems.” – FBI Statement

Attack Methods Evolving

The attackers often send emails purporting to be routine business requests or complaints, but containing links leading to malicious websites serving malware and remote access tools. They also exploit trucking load boards by compromising broker accounts to post fake listings, luring legitimate carriers into bidding on real, high-value shipments.

Schemes and Scams

The hackers then use stolen carrier identities to bid on contracts, updating insurance information and contact details by hacking into federal databases to appear more legitimate. Once the thieves secure a contract, they engage in an illegal double-brokering scheme, hiring a separate driver to pick up the goods. The obtained loads are either cross-docked or transloaded to be sold on the black market. In some cases, the thieves hold the cargo for ransom, demanding payment from the original broker in exchange for revealing the location of the stolen goods.

Indicators of Compromise

To help identify potential targets, the FBI has shared several indicators of compromise, including unauthorized shipment notifications, suspicious addresses, and requests to access sensitive information. Companies should remain vigilant and report any unusual activity to the authorities promptly.