Cargo theft gets a boost from hackers using remote monitoring tools

Cargo theft gets a boost from hackers using remote monitoring tools

Summary

Researchers at Proofpoint have identified cybercriminals working with organised crime to target trucking and logistics firms by abusing legitimate remote monitoring and management tools. Attackers infiltrate load boards, send malicious links or compromise email accounts, then install tools such as ScreenConnect, PDQ Connect and Fleetdeck to perform reconnaissance and harvest credentials. The theft of goods in transit is already rising sharply — the National Insurance Crime Bureau recorded a 27% increase in 2024 and expects another 22% increase in 2025 — and industry losses are estimated at around $35 billion a year. Proofpoint has tracked an active threat cluster since at least June and recommends restricting remote tool installations, deploying network detections and avoiding executable downloads from email.

Key Points

Cybercriminals are collaborating with organised crime to target freight and trucking companies, exploiting the digitised supply chain. Attackers use compromised load boards and legitimate-looking emails to trick carriers into installing remote monitoring tools (examples: ScreenConnect, PDQ Connect, Fleetdeck). Once inside, they conduct system and network reconnaissance and deploy credential-harvesting tools to identify lucrative loads to steal. Cargo theft is surging: NICB reported a 27% rise in 2024 and expected a further 22% increase in 2025, with industry losses estimated at $35bn annually. Proofpoint has observed nearly two dozen active campaigns since June, indicating a sustained, informed threat cluster. Mitigations recommended include restricting installation of remote access tools, implementing network detection, and avoiding downloading executables from email. The issue is attracting policy attention — Congress and the Department of Transportation are seeking unified responses and stakeholder input on cyber-enabled cargo theft.

Content summary

The article explains how attackers leverage legitimate remote monitoring and management software to gain persistent access to carriers’ systems. They start by posting fraudulent loads on load boards or using compromised email accounts to deliver malicious links. After the remote tools are installed, attackers map networks, steal credentials and use industry knowledge to bid on and hijack valuable shipments. Proofpoint’s research highlights a well-informed campaign active since at least June, while industry data shows cargo theft growing rapidly. Practical defences and regulatory interest are both increasing.

Context and relevance

This story matters because the logistics sector has become highly digitised — and that creates fresh attack surfaces. For security teams, transport operators and insurers, the piece underscores a shift: criminals are combining cyber techniques with traditional organised theft. It ties into broader trends of supply-chain risk, cyber-enabled physical crime and rising regulatory scrutiny. If you manage fleets, broker loads or secure supply chains, the tactics described are directly relevant to your operational risk.

Why should I read this?

Short answer: because bad actors are using perfectly legitimate remote tools to nick entire shipments. If you work in logistics, run load boards, or do cybersecurity for freight firms — this is the exact scam that could cost you millions. It’s quick, practical and shows how digital weak points turn into real-world thefts.

Author style

Punchy — this is a timely alert. The findings are not just interesting headlines: they point to active campaigns with real financial impact. Read the detail if you need to act or advise others.

Source

Source: https://therecord.media/cargo-theft-hackers-remote-monitoring-tools