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Amid a ransomware attack shutting down a major US pipeline, hackers targeted a manufacturer of freight trailers for 18 wheelers.
California-based Utility Trailer Manufacturing said a ransomware gang leaked over 5 gigabytes of company data to the dark web this week.
“Upon discovery, Utility immediately responded to secure its systems and commenced an investigation into the nature and scope of the event,” Utility said in a statement. “Utility is working around the clock with assistance from third-party forensic computer specialists to investigate the full nature and scope of the attack and to bring the offline systems back online safely and securely.”
Industry publication FreightWaves said some of the data included information on employees, including payrolls and HR data.
“Ransomware gangs like Clop typically begin leaking data after victims refuse to pay them,” the outlet reported. “The group blamed for the Colonial Pipeline attack, DarkSide, uses the same tactic.”
“Clop has hit multiple major companies, including rail operator CSX and the Canadian fuel distributor Parkland.”
“Utility is the third-largest trailer producer in the United States, according to Trailer Body Builder. The company says it is the single largest manufacturer of refrigerated trailers.”
The fact these ransomware attacks have targeted freight and energy companies has led many to believe the overarching goal is to disrupt the industrial capabilities of the US – and ultimately, its economy.
It’s certainly odd – or rather revealing – that better-known corporations haven’t been targeted, but rather companies critical to keeping America’s freight moving.
The attack targeting Colonial Pipeline, for instance, did affect diesel availability in the southeast, but it’s also worth mentioning that many delivery vehicles run on regular gasoline.
Of course, fuel shortages led to increased shipping costs, which in turn lead to higher prices.